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The
Cavalier Chronicles
Editor: Teresa Barry May 2008
woodsonnews@yahoo.com 2007-2008 Issue 7
The W.T. Woodson mission is to create an environment where all students achieve and maintain high levels of academic performance,
value learning, appreciate diversity, and demonstrate responsible citizenship. This newsletter is published monthly by the PTSA.
Jeff Yost, Principal Catherine Potter, PTSA President Carol Mallory, Director/Student Services www.fcps.edu/woodsonhs
From the Principal
A Message from PTSA PRESIDENT,
Your children continued to do well as we ended the third quarter of
Catherine Potter this school year. As the end-of-school-year approaches, our calendars
become filled with award programs, drama and musical performances,
IT’S TIME TO BUY A BRICK FOR WOODSON and athletic competitions. Consider yourselves invited to attend any of
our events – the staff and students appreciate your support.
The Woodson Renovation project is more than halfway
Listed on our webpage are dates and times for the final exams. To
completed, and we are finally seeing a light at the end of the
view our exam schedule or any event, log on to the Woodson website at
rubble! While the Renovation does improve the main
http://www.fcps.edu/woodsonhs. Also, parents can view the Student
building, there will still be some projects that will be left
Rights & Responsibilities, Regulation 2601, online. As we near the end
unfunded, such as landscaping the front grounds, cleaning and
of school, a review of the policies and procedures is a good reminder to
refurbishing the interior courtyards, purchasing benches, and
both parents and students of behavioral expectations.
various other items. To raise money to assist in purchasing
these items, the PTSA is starting a “buy a brick” campaign. Thank you for your continuing support to our students in so many ways.
There will be a brick plaza built in between the auditorium and
the front office entrance that will landscaped with small trees,
planters, and a sculpture/center piece. This project will not Jeff Yost
start until after the Renovation is completely finished, in the
Summer of 2010, but we are starting now to raise the money.
The bricks will be sold individually for $100 each, and will WOODSON SUPPORTS EFFORTS OF
include up to three lines of engraving. If you have a student FAIRGRADE TO CHANGE THE FCPS
graduating this year, what a great present a brick could be!
For example, I am buying one for my son so mine might read: GRADING SYSTEM
“Charlie Waltrip
At the May PTSA meeting, Megan McLaughlin, a founding
Class of 2008”
member of FAIRGRADE and a former Georgetown
Attached to this Newsletter is a “Buy A Brick” purchase sheet
Admissions officer, gave a presentation advocating a change
that will give you more details.
in the FCPS grading system to be more in line with other
nationally ranked school systems. Specifically, FCPS students
PTSA ELECTION RESULTS: are at a disadvantage compared to students from other school
Elections were held at the May 13 PTSA meeting, and the districts with respect to college admissions, impacting our
following officers were elected: students’ opportunities for merit scholarships, Honors
programs, NCAA athletic eligibility, and car insurance “good-
PTSA EXECTUTIVE OFFICERS FOR driver” discounts.
2008-2009 SCHOOL YEAR
In the last three years, 15 other school districts, which
President Catherine Potter 703-385-5088 clpotter@cox.net previously used a tougher grading scale similar to ours, have
determined that it hurt their students and have switched to the
Vice President Ed Hackett 703-978-4480 e_hackett@verizon.net standard 10 Point Grading Scale. Adopting a 10 Point Grading
Treasurer Sandy Barron 703-426-5320 CEBarron@aol.com Scale and increasing the weight for Honors and AP courses
will benefit FCPS students. It will encourage students to take
Recording Sec. Vicki Chamlee 703-426-0185 VChamlee@verizon.net
more challenging courses, and it will allow students to receive
Corresp. Sec. Susan Crawford 703-764-2719 spcrawford@hotmail.com
continued on page 2
Cavalier Chronicles 1
From the PTSA President, continued FCPS BUDGET ISSUES
the fair grades they deserve. After the presentation, the TIME FOR PARENTS TO LOBBY!
Woodson PTSA unanimously voted and approved the
following motion: It is official—Fairfax County raised the real property taxes by
3 cents, but the amount allocated to FCPS schools was less
“Woodson PTSA strongly endorses the efforts of than the amount needed to meet Superintendent Dale’s
FAIRGRADE, and urges the FCPS School Board to revise the budget. Therefore, Superintendent Dale has made many
existing FCPS grading scale to be more in line with other modifications to the budget to reduce this deficit, including:
nationally recognized public high schools, including but not
limited to returning to a 10 point grading scale, and to address • Reducing employees’ market adjustment increase to
its weighting policies for Honors and AP courses as well. In 2 percent, rather than the 3 percent in the School
addition, to avoid having another class of eligible college Board’s advertised budget, a reduction of $17.5
applicants be penalized, Woodson urges that the Board vote to million.
make this change as soon as possible, to be implemented in
the Fall of 2009, and to make such change retroactive to • Eliminating expansion of full-day kindergarten to an
ensure that all existing students will have a report card that additional 21 elementary schools for a savings of
reflects the revised grading system.” $5.7 million.
I know I said this before, but it is worth repeating. Until this • Eliminating expansion of the Foreign Language in
year, I was not aware of the negative impact our 94-100 the Elementary School program to an additional 16
grading scale had on college admission decisions, but I can schools, saving $1 million.
assure you from personal experience that this is indeed the
case. As everyone is aware, college admissions have become • Increasing class size by 0.5 student, cutting $11
much more competitive these past few years, and a student’s million and 158 school positions.
GPA is a crucial element of the application. The same is true
when applying for scholarships, particularly for merit • Redesigning summer school, Project Excel, QUEST,
scholarships. FCPS students are at a definite disadvantage the Student Accountability program, the Summit
because the difficulty of our grading system makes earning a program, and the Young Scholars program to save
good GPA harder, not so much for the exceptional students, $8.6 million.
but for the good to excellent students. For example, a student
who earns a 93 in each of his classes in Montgomery County, Please check out the fcps website at
Maryland, will have a 4.0 GPA, as Montgomery County uses a http://www.fcps.edu/suptapps/newsreleases
traditional 90-100 grading scale. In contrast, a student from for more information. The School Board will be voting on the
Fairfax County will earn a 3.5 GPA (both school systems have reduced budget on May 22nd, so don’t delay in getting your
IB and AP credit, but I am leaving it out of my example). If comments to the Board members!
we assume each student has the same SAT test scores and took
the same classes and activities, which applicant do you think a The email address for the Board of Supervisors is
prestigious private college would take? Even if they took the ClerktotheBOS@fairfaxcounty.gov (the clerk will then
FCPS student, I can tell you that this student probably would distribute your email to each Supervisor).
not be eligible for a merit scholarship, while the Montgomery
County student would, as the cutoff for many merit
scholarships is either 3.7 or 3.8.
Please do not let another class of Woodson students suffer Thanks…
because FCPS has institutionalized a grading policy that
no longer is in the best interest of our children. Act now
from the PTSA Hospitality Committee
and share your stories with the FCPS Board members. It is
The WTW PTSA Hospitality Committee would like to send a
as easy as sending an email. Here is the address to reach all
sincere "Thank you" to all the Woodson parents who helped
the Board members: put on a great Teacher/Staff Appreciation Luncheon on May
6! It received rave reviews from everyone who joined us! We
The email address for the Board of Supervisors is could not have done it without all the great foods that were
ClerktotheBOS@fairfaxcounty.gov (the clerk will then donated and the wonderful group of parents who came that
distribute your email to each Supervisor). day to lend a hand. The luncheon caters to 250 Woodson
teachers and staff, so this is a huge event. It was truly a
Also, make sure you go to Fairgrade’s website group effort! Thanks again – Maureen Burt and Chris Mavity
(http://www.fairgrade.org/)and sign the petition at:
www.ipetitions.com/petition/fairgrade.
Cavalier Chronicles 2
W.T. WOODSON HIGH SCHOOL PTSA
The Woodson PTSA is raising money to help fund various beautification projects around the school. We are
building a brick gathering plaza in front of the School, between the new main entrance and the auditorium. The brick
plaza will contain benches, sculptures and planters. Each individual brick costs $100, and will be engraved as you specify
below. The plaza will be built once the Woodson Renovation Project is fully completed. It is a great graduation present
for your senior!
Yes, we’d like to reserve the permanent bricks below. I understand that up to 3 lines may be used for engraving.
ANY SYMBOL IS CONSIDERED ONE SPACE (PERIOD, COMMA, DASH)
ALL TEXT IS CENTERED AND CAPITALIZED UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED. PLEASE PRINT NEATLY!
4 x 8 Brick
4 x 8 Brick
EXAMPLE
C H A R L I E W A L T R I P
C L A S S O F 2 0 0 8
PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM AND YOUR CHECK PAYABLE TO:
Woodson High School PTSA
9525 Main Street
Fairfax, VA 22031
Name: ________________________________________ Phone: (_______) _________________________
Address: _______________________________________________________________________________
City: ____________________________________ State: __________________ Zip: __________________
Email Address: ___________________________________________ Amount Paid: ___________________
If you have any questions, please contact Catherine Potter at clpotter@cox.net.
Cavalier Chronicles 3
Spotlight on the PTSA:
Volunteer Opportunities W.T Woodson Class of 2008
By Eileen Nelson
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ BACCALAUREATE
Become a Part of the PTSA
We Need You, We Want You, We Welcome You Sunday, June 8, 2008
Over this year we have highlighted volunteer opportunities
inside the PTSA. We hope that you will consider becoming an
active member of our community. Those of us who have taken
the plunge have found the experience to be rewarding and a lot
W.T. Woodson
of fun. It’s a chance to learn more about the Woodson
community, meet new people, and become part of the place Bedinger Auditorium
where your children spend a significant amount of their time.
If you are interested in getting involved, please contact
Catherine Potter at clpotter@cox.net or at 703-385-5088. A prelude to graduation, Baccalaureate is
a multi-faith, inspirational farewell service
sponsored by the PTSA.
Spring Fundraiser Final Talley
The ceremony provides seniors a time to reflect
Woodson Rocks on the past years and to be encouraged
as they move forward.
Thanks, Woodson, for bringing the total this year for the
PTSA Spring Fundraiser over $11,500. Teacher, organization,
and team requests were honored, and more will be done in the Student speakers and musical presentations
fall. Because of you, ESOL students were able to experience are highlighted, and the Senior Class Photo
theater productions at George Mason. We helped students Montage DVD will be viewed.
participate in a robotics competition. We assisted with the
registration and travel costs for state and national DECA
competitions. We funded Girl’s State, and we helped to FEATURED SPEAKER:
renovate some of the Woodson courtyards.
Ashley Rhodes-Courter
Your donations are much needed and well used. We hope that Author, Three Little Words: A Memoir
next year you will continue your generosity and remember to
www.rhodes-courter.com
give again to the PTSA Spring Fundraiser.
A reception honoring the graduates
PTSA Family Members will follow in the cafeteria, and
a professional photographer will be available.
A Note of Thanks Family and friends are invited.
Thanks to all of our family members: those who get
volunteered by those of us who volunteer! Thanks for helping THIS IS THE ONLY OPPORTUNITY
to stuff envelopes, blow up balloons, and pick up messages
from other kids whose volunteer parents are using you both as FOR SENIORS TO WEAR
go-betweens. Thanks for keeping dinner warm after meetings. THEIR CAPS & GOWNS AT
Thanks for listening when we gripe about taking on more than
we meant to, and then for not shaking your heads when we
WOODSON!!
continue to take on more. Mostly, thanks for your support and *** DON’T MISS IT! ***
love. Woodson really is worth all the time and effort.
Cavalier Chronicles 4
W.T. Woodson High School Baccalaureate
Sunday, June 8, 2008
*****
Professional Cap & Gown Portraits Taken at Baccalaureate!
(Cafeteria B between 12:30-1:30 or 3:30-4:30)
Danny Chu of DigiPixArt, Inc. (www.digipixart.com) will have professional studio equipment on location to take
individual and group portraits and candid shots of your graduate, family, and friends!
Complete and return this form, with payment, to reserve your studio session time(s). Payment and forms must be
received by Thursday, June 5th to qualify for the advance schedule pricing.
**ONE FREE 5x7 WITH EACH SITTING! **
Additional prints and candid shots will be available by Tuesday, June 10th at www.wtwoodsonptsa.org.
Order early for best pricing!
Proceeds go to the WT Woodson PTSA.
Questions? Contact Cindy Wilson at pwilson4@cox.net or (703) 764-2798.
Baccalaureate Photo Reservation Form
Student/Parent Name: __________________________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________________
City/State: ________________________________________ Zip: ______________________
Phone: ( ) __________________________________________________________________
Email: _______________________________________________________________________
SITTING FEE: $20 - in advance; $25 - day of
*ONE FREE 5x7 PER SITTING*
Individual ____ Family ____ Add’l Group____
(one sitting fee required for each)
Total: _____ @ $20 each advance reservation.
(Price will be $25 each the day of.)
Make check payable to WT Woodson PTSA.
Return form by Thursday, June 5th to the Baccalaureate Box in the Main Office or mail to:
W.T.Woodson High School PTSA
ATT: Baccalaureate Photography
9525 Main Street
Fairfax, VA 22031
Cavalier Chronicles 5
Important announcements for
SENIORS and THEIR PARENTS
Notes from the Senior Parent Meeting, April 2, 2008
(Repeated from previous edition)
Scholarships and Correct Student Email Addresses:
Mrs. Ishii needs information on all scholarships offered to
WTW seniors. Please send your information to: Order your Graduation DVD!
Kathleen.Ishii@fcps.edu She also needs the correct email Seniors, would you like to have a full-color video chronicle of
address for your son/daughter. Your senior should Enter your graduation? Parents, would you like to enjoy your
Blackboard; Click Personal Information (found in the son/daughter’s graduation without the hassle of videotaping?
Toolbox); Click Edit Personal Information; Type the email Well, we have the solution!! A professional filmmaker will be
address he/she actually uses; Click Submit; Click OK; Click recording the Graduation Ceremony. Copies will be available
OK; Click Family Connection to migrate the email address to for only $18 and will be mailed to you in early July.
the Family Connection System.
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO:
DATES TO REMEMBER: W.T. WOODSON HIGH SCHOOL
Senior Awards Friday, May 30, 7:30 a.m., the Joan Bedinger ~~The copies will be sent via mail in early July.
Auditorium ~~Please send in your order form ASAP to:
Senior Exams Barbara Clark @
Wednesday 6/4 6th & 7th periods 9525 Main St. Fairfax, VA 22030
Thursday 6/5 3rd & 5th periods (depart after 5th) (You can also just drop it by the main office)
Friday 6/6 2nd & 4th periods (depart after 4th) Order deadline: June 15th
Monday 6/9 1st period ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Prom Friday, June 6, 8 p.m. to midnight, at The Waterford at
Fair Oaks. Tickets TBA. _____# of DVD’s ordered. ($18 each)
Senior Dinner/Picnic TBA
Baccalaureate Sunday, June 8, 2:00 p.m. The Joan Bedinger Please print clearly ☺
Auditorium
GRADUATION Thursday, June 12, 2:30 p.m., at Student Name:
Robinson Secondary School __________________________________________________
Cavalier Cruise All-Night Graduation Party Check # _________/______________
Thursday, June 12, 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., at Cash ___________________
Oak Marr Recreation Center. Parent Volunteers are Home Phone Number: _______________________________
needed! Contact Lisa Rampino at 703-426-0179 or Your Name: _______________________________________
Mandlr@cox.net or Shobha Gadamsetty at 703-503-9525 Address: __________________________________________
or Shobhag@gmail.com. Or go to __________________________________________________
http://www.wtwoodsonptsa.org/cavaliercruise.htm
Graduation rehearsal details TBA
SENIOR EXAM SCHEDULE 2008
Senior Contract Letter: Should have arrived in the mail
around May 1st (on blue paper). Read it carefully, sign and Exam Day 1 - 6th period, 7th period June 4 (Wednesday, Red Day)
return the Senior Contract to Mrs. De Frees in the Main Exam Day 2 - 3rd period, 5th period June 5 (Thursday, Blue Day)
Exam Day 3 - 2nd period, 4th period June 6 (Friday, Red Day, Prom)
Office no later than the end of the school day on Friday, May
Exam Day 4 - 1st period, Grad Rehearsal June 9 (Monday, Blue Day)
30, 2008. Senior Activity Days June 10, 11
Graduation June 12
Senior Fee: Be sure you have paid the “Senior Fee” ($50) and
that your son/daughter has paid any outstanding financial UNDERCLASS EXAM SCHEDULE 2008
obligations by 3:00 p.m., Monday, June 9. See Mrs. De Frees
Exam Day 1 - 1st period June 11 (Wednesday, Blue Day, FULL day)
in the Main Office. Exam Day 2 - 2nd period, 4th period June 12 (Thursday, Red, ½ day)
Exam Day 3 - 3rd period, 5th period June 13 (Friday, Blue, ½ day)
Graduation caps & gowns will be distributed tentatively on Exam Day 4 - 6th period, 7th period June 16 (Monday, Red, ½ day
May 30 and June 2 during all lunches. Any questions
regarding graduation announcements should be directed to the
Herff-Jones representative for Woodson at 703-594-3982.
Cavalier Chronicles 6
Woodson Community Coalition of Fairfax County Public Schools Safe and Drug Free Youth supports
Project Hospitality
Project Hospitality is an initiative of the Safe Community unite the whole community in promoting common sense
Coalition, supported by all Fairfax County School Community and safety for our area youth on prom night.
Coalitions and a key component of the “Parents Who Host”
campaign in Fairfax County. Through this community-wide County law enforcement, business, and community leaders
education program, we urge parents to plan alcohol-free support this program of uniting our community to keep our
post-prom parties for their graduating seniors. seniors’ special night free from accidents and tragedy.
The Woodson Community Coalition, along with Fairfax Colonel David M. Rohrer, Fairfax County Chief of Police, has
County leaders, join the Acting Surgeon General of the United endorsed the initiative, stating, “During the 2008 Prom
States, Rear Admiral Steven Galson, MD, MPH, in calling on Season, the Fairfax County Police Department has reaffirmed
all citizens to reduce underage drinking and to restrict our partnership with Project Hospitality. It is through
teenagers’ access to alcohol. Rear Admiral Galson states community partnerships like this one that we can have a
recent research demonstrates that alcohol harms developing positive effect on underage drinking and promote a safe and
adolescent brains and that young people who start drinking memorable prom experience.”
before the age of fifteen are five times more likely to have
alcohol-related problems later in life. Fairfax County Board of Jim Wordsworth, Virginia Director Emeritus of the National
Supervisors Chairman Gerald Connolly, Police Chief David Restaurant Association and Chairman of the Small Business
Rohrer, and School Board Chairman Daniel Storck strongly Council of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, remarks: “This
support the Countywide Initiative to Reduce Underage program has two measurable goals – the immediacy of further
Drinking and the “Parents Who Host, Lose the Most” (PWH) reducing the incidents of underage drinking and bringing the
public awareness campaign to educate parents about the Hospitality Industry, local law enforcement and parents
dangers of providing alcohol to those under 21 years old. This together on this life threatening issue with our young people.”
campaign was initiated by the nineteen school-community
coalitions under the Safe and Drug-Free Youth Section of Paul Giovanini, General Manager of the Sheraton National
Fairfax County Public Schools and implemented by the Hotel in Arlington, agreed and stated, "Our hotel, like many in
Countywide Initiative to Reduce Underage Drinking task force the Northern Virginia area, will be host to a number of local
consisting of over 35 organizations including the school- High School Proms. Under no circumstances will prom
community coalitions, county agencies, the police, the school attendees or non- prom party crashers be allowed to rent
system, faith leaders, and community organizations. The guestrooms or suites without full-time parental attendance and
objectives of “Parents Who Host, Lose the Most” are: supervision. We will also screen all reservations prior to the
event and monitor check-in registration for absentee parents."
-- to inform parents about the health and safety risks of serving
alcohol to teens. As Project Hospitality founder Margaret Vanderhye notes, “In
-- to increase awareness of and compliance with the 2006 the happy and expectant atmosphere surrounding prom season,
revised Virginia underage drinking laws. students may easily blur the distinction between adult settings
and privileges that accompany prom night with adulthood
Founded 13 years ago by Margi Vanderhye, a McLean parent itself. Parents should communicate clearly that the
and member of the Virginia House of Delegates, Project consumption of alcohol, the use of hotel party rooms, or the
Hospitality each spring brings together area hotels, motels, total suspension of rules and expectations are not acceptable.
restaurants, public and private schools of Fairfax, Our goal is that students and their parents remember Prom
Arlington, and Alexandria, and the police to promote safe 2008 as a special highlight of the school year.”
prom nights for high school seniors. Through this initiative
we hope to persuade parents to chaperone the parties they For Further Information, Contact Sherry Wells, SCC Project
host and discourage un-chaperoned post-prom parties in Hospitality Committee Chair sbwells@cox.net; 703-241-0335.
hotels. Because many parents are unaware that the legal age For information on “Parents Who Host, Lose the Most”
for drinking is 21, we inform parents that there are legal contact Sara Freund, co-chair of the Countywide Initiative to
consequences for them and their teens if they permit Reduce Underage Drinking at sara.freund@verizon.net
underage drinking. We let parents know that if they rent a
hotel room for a post-prom party, the hotels require them Note: the Va. Dept of Motor Vehicles Carrier Section will provide
verification that limousine companies available for prom night hire
to be there chaperoning the party the whole time. If there have proper operating authority. Call toll free 1-866-878-2582.
is an accident, the adult signing for the room is legally
liable. We warn parents about the dangers of teens driving More resources to help keep our youth safe this prom season:
under the influence of alcohol that night, and therefore we
urge parents to offer their own teens and their friends a www.buzzfreeprom.com
ride out of any risky situation with no questions asked. In
circulating the dates and places of the proms to area hotels, www.sadd.org: Students Against Destructive Decisions
restaurants, and the Arlington and Fairfax County police, we (SADD) has a Contract for Life.
Cavalier Chronicles 7
Cavalier Cruise News
This ship’s about to sail!
AHOY NIGHT OWLS! Would you like
Senior parents, we need you. Cavalier Cruise (the all-night
graduation party) sets sail on June 12 at Oak Marr Recreation
Center, but right now we don’t have a full second crew. Yeah,
GREAT SEATS
we know…who wants to be up that late? Wait a minute –
OUR KIDS! And since they’re up, we need to be too. Please
contact Pam Herbert pkherbert@verizon.net or call 703-503-
for graduation?
5068 and agree to work the 2 to 6 a.m. shift. (By the way, we
know you have family in town for graduation -- we ALL do --
but they’ll be sleeping so they’ll never know you’re gone!)
Enter the raffle to benefit Cav Cruise.
Not sure if your name is on the volunteer list? Go to:
http://www.wtwoodsonptsa.org/cavaliercruise.htm#Volunteers Take as many chances as you like; they are $5 each!
SENIOR PARENTS ASK: First prize wins 4 front row seats
* “HAVE WE MISSED THE BOAT??” Second prize – 4 second row seats
If your student has not been registered for Cav Cruise, it is not Third prize – 4 third row seats
too late. In fact, we’ve sent out registration forms to the
seniors who are not yet on the list. Please return these as soon BY June 5th, send in your name, phone number, email
as possible. We want as many of the Class of 2008 together on address, home address, number of chances you wish to
June 12 to celebrate their graduation safely and happily purchase, and your check made payable to WTW
together. ALL ABOARD! Join the fun! Cavalier Cruise.
* “HOW DO I KNOW IF MY SENIOR IS ALREADY SEND TO:
REGISTERED??”
A list of already registered seniors is posted at
W. T. Woodson
http://www.wtwoodsonptsa.org/cavcruise/ccregistered.htm. Attn: GRAD SEATS Raffle
9525 Main Street
For further questions, contact Chip Gertzog at Fairfax, VA 22031
cgertzog@cox.net or call (703) 280-9742.
* “CAN MY SENIOR REGISTER AT THE DOOR THE
NIGHT OF THE PARTY?”
Thank you to our donors…
th
While we would encourage registration before June 12 , if a
student is in good standing at Woodson, he/she can register at On the following page, we acknowledge and thank all
the door with picture ID, consent form signed by the parents, staff members, organizations, local
parent/guardian and $75 check (made out to WTW Cavalier businesses, and community leaders who have supported
Cruise) or cash. Without the signed form, a parent/guardian the 2008 Cavalier Cruise – the all-night, alcohol-free,
must accompany the student and sign the form at the door. drug-free graduation party for our very special seniors.
It is not too late to support this special event. Please
*”WHERE CAN I GET MY OTHER QUESTIONS
send your tax-deductible donation to the school, ATTN:
ANSWERED ABOUT CAV CRUISE?”
Cavalier Cruise.
A list of answers to Frequently Asked Questions can be found
at http://www.wtwoodsonptsa.org/ccFAQs.htm. For further
help, contact Susan DiMaina at sdimaina@yahoo.com or call
703-323-6098.
Cavalier Chronicles 8
Jim & Donna Garfield Ron & Ann Marlow Hoot & Carol Thompson
Parents & Staff Daniel & Doris Gearing Mark & Kate Martins Mary Tousignant
Chip & Barbara Gertzog Paul & Amy Masschelin Evan & Jody Trebing
Georgina Abban Rita & Allen Gina John & Kaye Matusik Tom & Mary Ann Troyano
Roy & Andrea Ahrens Lew Goldberg The McCoy Family Greg & Kay Tubbs
Mohammed & Martha Alami Ken & Rhonda Goldstein Chris & Laurie McManus Alan & Kathleen Tye
Matt & Ann Ames Mike & Bev Gray John & Parvin Meyer Susan Tyson
Maria Ardaya Mark & Donna Greer Jadz Janucik Meyer Jim and Sandy Tyson
Cynthia Atiyeh Stephen Hackman Steve & Jenny Michalak Peri and Scott Ulrey
Wally & Vivian Bacon Mark & Karen Hamilton John & Polly Miller Homayoon & Rana Valian
Nina & Stephen Ballard Sharon Harrison Kevin & Leslie Moore Tami & John Verheul
Sandy & Claude Barron Bill & Jan Harrod Hugh & Lori Mueller Katrina Wei Wang
Lisa Becklund Paul & Pam Herbert Bob & Merri Mukai Jennifer Webb
Robin Nelbach Behunik Bill & Loretta Herrold Janet Muldoon Bob & Nancy Webb
Leo & Carol Belovitch Harry & Barb Hink Mike & Erica Mullins Gary & Marilyn
Paul Bethke Debra & Everett Hoeg Edward & Donna Naybor Welschenbach
Lauri & JerryBeyer Robin & Tom Hoffman Maurie & Artie Negrin Richard & Doneen Whitaker
Mark & Nancy Bidus Douglas & Nancy Holl Jeff & Eileen Nelson Jay & Sheryl White
John & Shelly Bond David Honey Georgette Nelson Clark & Patty Whitman
Ben & Jocelyn Breeland Bob & Linda Hooks O'Brien Family David & Linda Williamson
Meg & Bob Brennis John & Chris Hoover Jose & Donna Olivero Laura Williamson
David & Cindy Brent Gary & Christine Horne Ellen & Josh Oppenheim Jeff & Evy Willis
Larry & Judith Brooks Michael & Ellen Horwath Thomas & Renee Ostebo Robert & Donna Wilson
John & Chris Buchanan Byron & Carole Howe Lisa and Bob Pafe James Winchester & Kathy
Rob & Janet Burns Jeff & Nancy Hubbard John & Susan Patton Macleod
Beth & Jerry Burroughs William Hwang Matt and Liz Train Peters Martin & Susan Woodward
Maureen Burt Nicole Jabaley Phil & Cindi Phillips Carla & Bill Yaglou
Reginald & Diane Butler John & Debbie Jacobs Debra Pickus
Anne & Frank Cahill Brenda & Larry Kahan Catherine Potter & Carl
Allan & Ivy Capar Daniel & Sara Kallick Waltrip
Faye Carroll Mark & Diane Kaplon Mike & Carolyn Pravlik Business &
Susan Cheney Brian Kelly Mary & Ty Prettyman
Bob & Glenda Coleman Pat & Ellen Kerrigan Joe & Margaret Procaccino Organization
Joe & Lois Conway Bok & Sung Kim Annette Pugnetti Donations
Chris & Jan Coogan Jim & Peggy King R Quesada
John & Kelly Cooper Sam & Chery King John & Judy Regan
Steve & Kelly Coppinger Dennis Koeppel & Gordon & Nancy Rice Area Landscaping, Inc
Tyler & Carmela Corey Janet Bartelmay Marleen & Richard Richlak Buffa's Dance Studio, Ltd
Robert & Colleen Cramer Greg & Dona Koerner Nick & Helen Rothery Canterbury Woods
Gerard & Kathy Dache Greg Kohlhaas John & Lisa Rzepka Elementary School PTA
Joel & Carol Dahnke Howard & Sherri Kohr Eric & Debra Scheider Comfort & Joy Wellness Spa
James & Gail Dalberg A. Komendantor John & Adrienne Dr. Laurence Murphy
Francisco Dallmeier & Donna & Jim Konigsberg Schumacher Dr. Paul Olenym
Joy Parton Howard Krawitz Bill & Cynthia Schutt Drs. Wallert & Bagden
Greg & Lilia Darroca Daniel & Lisa Kubiske Jim & Kathie Scutt Fairfax Auto Parts
James & Cindy Davidson Deborah Larson Al & Helen Selgas Frost Middle School PTA
Debbie & Dave Dexter Tammy & Jim Laurent Charles & Jane Seong Glory Days Grill
Bryan & Michelle Dierkes John Leggat Rick & Chloe Shelby Hooters of Fairfax
John & Susan DiMaina Dan & Jean Leonard Yutao Shen Hopsfrog Tavern
John DiTieri Frank & Linda Leonard Marilyn & Tim Sitts Judith Wonus
Martey Dodoo Paul & Julia Leslie N. Shaw & JoMarie Main Street Shell
Patrick & Carol Driscoll Leo & Kitsie Letalik Griesgraber Med-First
David & Lucy Dube George & Margaret Lidster John Sollosi Oak View PTA
Paul Duvall Peter & Helene Longden Adrian & Dawn Stanton Potomac Nationals
Jim & Clare Evans Pam & Glenn Lorenz Lynn Stanton-Hoyle Sisterhood of Olam Tikvah
TA & Pam Fischer Yue Kong & Yuk Mui Louie Meg & Mark Stofko St Matthew's Methodist
Don & Dana Fitzgerald Jim & Dottie Lydon Ravi Subramanyam Church
Dave & Debbie Fogg Jane Mack Richard & Jane Taylor Subway
Carole & John Fredrickson Dave & Margie Madsen Brent & Susan Thalacker Supervisor Sharon Bulova
Nagesh & Shobha Beth Mailand Dick & Margaret Thaxton Tessie Wilson
Gadamsetty Julia Margulies Hank Thomassan The Carol Greco Group
Cavalier Chronicles 9
Student Services Watch
Student Services Director – Carol Mallory
Ms. Shelly Buckingham A - CHAM Ms. Camille Morrone HOH – LEA Ms. Amy Hubbard RI – THA
Ms. Earline Wilson CHAN – FAN Ms. Tish Marshall LEB – MOY Ms. Nancy Morris THE – Z
Mr. Grady Ford FAO – HOG Ms. Denise Park MOZ – RH Ms. Beverly Chestnutt Center Students
Congratulations to the students selected to attend the please make requests for course changes in writing to Carol
Governor’s Schools. These are residential summer programs Mallory, director of Student Services. Mrs. Mallory will make
held on college campuses throughout the Commonwealth to course changes only for exceptional reasons after June 24.
provide outstanding students the opportunity to enrich their
“remarkable talents in diverse and meaningful ways.” Students As you plan for the end of the school year, please be aware
were chosen via a competitive application process. We that in high school the first day a student may take a pre-
congratulate the following students on their selection. arranged absence to end his/her school year early is May
28, 2008. Pre-arranged absences will not be approved for
Priscila Borba, French vacations. Please submit a parent-signed letter to Carol
Katherine Bruner, Spanish Mallory, Director of Student Services, at least two weeks
Nicole DiAntonio, Russian before the requested last day of school, clearly stating the
Ariel Gibberman, Humanities reason for the request. Final exams may have to be arranged
Marta Hansen, Humanities during the summer for students ending the school year early.
Agnes Kim, Spanish
Diana Kim, Agriculture and Life Sciences Family Connections is now available on the parent
Olga Korostelina, Humanities blackboard site. This is a very helpful tool when researching
So Eun Lee, Visual and Performing Arts colleges with your student. Summer is also a time to explore
Crystal Lu, Agriculture and Life Sciences some college possibilities. Family Connections provides an
Jane Miller, French invaluable tool when trying to match a student’s profile with
Brendan Rice, Visual and Performing Arts the profile of the college. Please have your student help you
Tae Hoon Yoon, Latin navigate to some of the scattergrams to help you get an up to
date picture of the GPA and SAT scores of WTW students
who have been accepted or denied admission to college.
Encore, the Summer School Booklet, is available online and
by hard copy in the counseling office. Registration begins The College Planning Packet is being handed out in eleventh
May 12 and ends June 24. There is no late or on-site grade English classes during the week of May 16. There are
registration this year. Personal checks are not accepted and all three parts to this packet: your student’s self assessment, your
students must have their counselor sign the registration parent responses, and your student’s activity record
form. Students can qualify for reduced tuition only by (resume). Seniors will be meeting their counselors in
qualifying for free or reduced lunch. Classes fill quickly and September to clarify the application process. Counselors
courses will close when they reach capacity. Please register would appreciate packets back by the end of this school year if
early and remember to have your student’s counselor sign the possible so that they can get a head start on writing college
registration form. recommendations. If that is not possible, early September
would be a great second choice date.
Students who plan to take a summer course for WTW
credit at a site other than through FCPS must complete a Many of you have asked about the NCAA Clearinghouse. This
Request Form for Transfer Credit before the end of the school is an online application that the student completes and then
year. The form is available in the counseling office (E33). brings to the counselor’s office the two forms which the
NCAA Clearinghouse provides to be printed and sent in with
The last day to request a change in your student’s course the transcripts.
selection for the 2008-2009 school year is June 24, the last
contract day for counselors. Please do not leave an email or Summer is almost here, and those of you with students who
phone message for counselors after June 24. Please review don’t have plans for the summer should consider encouraging
with your students the schedule that will come home the end your student to volunteer. Volunteering can be fun, and we
of May. If you find an error, or your student needs to make a encourage the students to pick some interest and volunteer in
change, please have the student contact the counselor. that area. Mrs. Ishii has a list of volunteer activities and
Remember: June 24 is the last day for changes. During July, numbers to call.
Cavalier Chronicles 10
Woodson Athletics
Sports Physicals offered W. T. Woodson Athletic Boosters:
at Woodson on June 10 CAPITAL CAMPAIGN program
In conjunction with the Renovation, the Athletic Boosters
The Sports Medicine staff will conduct physicals at Woodson
have launched a three-year Capital Campaign program to raise
on Tuesday, June 10, 5pm to 8pm. Physicals will be
comprehensive, will complete the requirement for the VHSL $1.5 million. The funds will support WTW athletic programs
physical required for participation in athletics in Virginia, and so that they may keep pace with the latest technology and
are good for the entire 2008-2009 school year. The cost is $40 promote the highest level of competition by further enhancing
per student; checks can be made payable to WT Woodson our athletic facilities, equipment, and programs. This will not
Boosters. Athletes must bring their VHSL physical forms with only benefit Woodson students, but also those in the Woodson
pages 1, 2 & 4 completed and signed by a parent/guardian. community who utilize many of the athletic facilities. The
These forms can be picked up in the Activities Office or found program has already purchased and installed mats for the
online at www.vhsl.org. Students will also need to wear athletic cheer/gymnastic/dance room, a new softball scoreboard,
clothing and running shoes. Please pre-register at
equipment for the new weight room scheduled to open in
www.fcps.edu/supt/activities/atp/ppeschedule.htm. Select “click
to pre-register.” You will receive a confirmation email within 24 September, and an indoor batting cage for the softball and
hours. Walk-ins also accepted and all are welcome, so please baseball teams. Among the major purchases we intend to
spread the word. Use entrance #2. All money raised goes make with the proceeds from the Capital Campaign are new
directly to support the Woodson Athletic Training Program. scoreboards (stadium, main gym, baseball); Bermuda grass,
Contact Kelly Fickes, kelly.fickes@fcps.edu. land grading, and sprinkler systems for baseball and softball
fields; synthetic turf field for the main stadium; and a certified
CREW: outdoor track. Here are some of the ways you can help:
At the Ted Phoenix Regatta on May 3, the Woodson Crew
Freshmen Boy’s Eight won the Gold and qualified for the 1) Participate in the Matching Contribution Campaign. A
SRAA National Championships. Freshmen Girls came in 5th in family whose children participated in Woodson athletic
their finals, and our novice Men’s boat 4th in their heat. programs has donated $25,000 to the Capital Campaign
effort. Because of their belief in this program the family has
At the VSRC Championships on May 10, Woodson entered
seven boats. In our events, all our boats proceeded through
also pledged to match dollar for dollar all donations which are
heats to either Finals or Petites, an accomplishment we believe made to the Capital Campaign by parents and alumni through
few other teams can boast. This is a remarkable achievement October 2008 up to an additional $25,000 donation.
in that in some events there were as many as 24 competitors. Information regarding this program is available on the Booster
Regrettably, however, only one boat medaled. The Men’s section of the wtwoodsonsports.org web site, and it will be
Lightweight Eight won the Silver medal placing second in updated throughout the year. You can make your (tax
Finals. That brings our “medal count” for the 2008 deductible) check out to: W.T. Woodson Athletic Boosters
Championship Series to 18 with one championship trophy. and send to : 9525 Main Street , Fairfax , Va. 22031-4099.
Four boats qualified for the SRA National Championships:
Boy’s Lightweight Eight; Girl’s Junior Eight; Boy’s Senior Four;
2) Buy Services from Contributing Companies. Verizon has
and the Boy’s Junior Four. That makes five boats (including the offered to help support this Capital Campaign program by
Boy’s Freshmen Eight) that will be going to Oakridge, TN, a making a contribution for each item ordered of a Verizon
significant accomplishment for your team. broadband or entertainment service (also known as
FIOS). This program has already resulted in Verizon donating
over $1,700 in recent months. All you need to do is call 1-
Cavalier Charge Golf Tournament 888-695-5299 and provide the Booster's tracking code which
is: 1089. HB Services (764-0498) a long time booster
After careful consideration it has been decided to move
sponsor, has offered to help support this Capital Campaign
the annual Cavalier Charge Golf Tournament to a Fall 2008
program by making a contribution of $50 for each new order
date. It was felt a June date might create too many conflicts
of four or more windows placed by a Woodson family.
(e.g., Cavalier cruise, graduation, etc.) for those who would
normally wish to participate in, or donate items to, the The Campaign would like to acknowledge and thank the
tournament. Therefore, the golf tournament will be held in late companies and families that have contributed so far, including
September or early October at a facility in Northern Virginia. but not limited to Case Design and Donald Strehle on behalf
Information regarding the tournament will be provided in of BB&T Bank. BB&T has donated $5,000 and pledged an
the Cavalier Chronicles, the WEmail, and online in the additional $5,000 in each of the next two school years.
Booster section of the www.wtwoodsonsports.org Web site
Thank you in advance for your support! For any questions
once it becomes available.
or offers of support, please contact the Capital Campaign
Chair, Sam King, at samking03@hotmail.com
Cavalier Chronicles 11
THE OLD vs. THE NEW:
W.T. Woodson Renovation
End of the School Year Report
In each Newsletter this year, we are keeping you updated as to the progress being made with the Renovation, as well as letting you
know of any changes in the expected Renovation schedule. As we close the 2007-2008 school year, I thought it would be a good time
to give you a glimpse of where we are and where we are headed through the summer and into the fall as school opens in September.
UPDATE!!!!! …… UPDATE!!!! ………… UPDATE!!!!
NO CAMPS WILL BE HELD AT WOODSON THIS SUMMER.
REMINDER: We will loose the Auditorium and the Main Gym during the 2008-2009 school year.
WHERE ARE WE TODAY? Everyone had high expectations as we began this school year; we were all anxious to see what the new
Woodson would offer. The School Administration and the Renovation team worked very hard this year to keep us informed, stay on
schedule, and showcase the finished product.
Milestones Achieved: The following milestone were met by the renovation team and were turned over to the Administration at
various times throughout this school year:
Hallways A & B 100 and 200: They were completed 5 months early and are now in use. New classrooms for Math, English, Social
Studies, Special Education, Language Arts, Students with Physical Disabilities and the WTW TV Station are housed in these
hallways. A partial move took place on April 4 & 5, and the remaining classrooms were to be turned over in mid-April.
Woodson and Frost Bus Lane: Now open, turned over to the school 5 months earlier than expected. Please follow all signage
carefully. This traffic lane is one-way. Please do not try and enter the Woodson Campus from Pickett Rd.
New Science Wing: One of the highlights of the year, it has been in use by students and teachers since Nov. 2007.
Bathrooms: Many new bathrooms have been opened in the new wings; additionally the bathrooms across from the main gym have
been completed and are now in use.
Auxiliary Gym: The gym was completed and turned over to the school in November 2007
Home and Visitor Bleachers: Both the home and visitor bleachers were completed this year.
Concession Stand/Ticket Booth: This new structure is fully operational and has been used during various sports events.
Baseball Field Lighting/Softball Press Box: Have been installed.
Parking Lot lighting: Has been installed in the lots off of Whitacre.
Dance/Cheer/Gymnastics Room: Completed and in use by sports teams.
New Locker Rooms and Showers: The new locker rooms and showers have been installed and are now operational.
Athletic Trainers and Director of Student Affairs Offices: New offices are now in use by both departments.
Lecture Hall: Is now open and is the temporary home of the Woodson library.
FUTURE DELIVERABLES in 2008:
Fine Arts Wing: Will be completed in June.
New Administrative Offices/Student Services: Will be completed by the end of June.
Weight Room/Driver Ed Classroom: Will be completed in September.
Cavalier Chronicles 12
Entrance Tower: Will be completed at the end of June.
Main Stadium Lighting and Press Box: Will be completed by September.
Cafeteria A & B: Will be completed by the end of August.
Library: Is almost completed and will be opened in September.
Auditorium: We will turn the auditorium over to the renovation team at the end of this school year. The expected date of return to the
Fine Arts Department is in late spring of 2009.
Main Gym: We will loose the use of the Main Gym in spring 2009, with expected return date of Sept. 2009.
KISS AND RIDE DROPOFFS:
In May, after the opening of the Fine Arts Wing, Whitacre Road entrance #1 will be closed for curb and gutter installation. Parents
who persist in dropping their students behind the trailers rather than use the Kiss and Ride will not be able to exit onto Whitacre Road
or be allowed in the bus lane to exit onto Pickett Road. Vehicles attempting to drop off students in these and other areas will be
directed to the Kiss and Ride.
Please become familiar with the Kiss and Ride entrance, located beside the DIT fenced parking area from Whitacre Road that leads to
the new tennis courts. The safety of students, rather than the convenience of quick yet often risky drop-offs in random areas around the
parking lots and streets, should be everyone's main consideration. Please use Kiss and Ride for dropping off students in the morning.
Suggestion Box. Don’t forget to let us know what’s working and what’s not as we begin to transition over into the many newly
completed areas of the school. If you have a question or concern about renovations, drop a note into the PTSA Renovation Suggestion
Box just inside the Administration Office. We will work with Principal Yost and the FCPS Renovation Team to answer these concerns
in a timely fashion.
Finally, please do not hesitate to email either of us if you have any questions or concerns about the renovation.
Catherine Potter Jim Scutt
PTSA President Renovation Liaison
clpotter@cox.net jscutt@cox.net
Student Achievements Musical Events
The English Department announces the results of this year's The Woodson Orchestra will perform their last concert of
English Department Writing Awards competition. From over the year on Tuesday, May 27, at 7pm in the auditorium.
40 entries, the winners are: Ji Min Lee, Freshman class; Selections will include “Polivitsian Dances,” Leroy Anderson
Kelly Webster, Sophomore class; Katie Mayfield and Maria favorites, and the “Berceuse and Finale” by Stravinsky.
Straight, Junior class; and Tory Jarvis, Senior class. Refreshments will be served prior to the concert. It’s free and
Congratulations to these fine young writers! open to the public, and no tickets are required. Please come
and bring a friend. Contact: Melodie Simms,
DECA International Career Development Conference:
Melodie.Simms@fcps.edu
Congratulations to the W.T. Woodson DECA members who
competed at this year’s DECA ICDC in Atlanta,
The Woodson Band program will present their spring
Georgia! With thousands of high school competitors, our
concert on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at 7:30 pm. in the
chapter had three students recognized on the national stage:
auditorium. Among other works, the Concert Band will
Joe Choi, Jon Conway, and Neil Moynahan. From these
perform “Where Never Lark Nor Eagle Flew” by James
three, Joe Choi placed in the second-tier finalist round and is
Curnow. The Symphonic Band’s presentation will include
one of fifty Fairfax County competitors holding such a
“Gershwin” arranged by Warren Barker.
title! The advisors would like to congratulate all Woodson
DECA members for an extremely successful DECA year!
The Woodson Chorus will perform on Wednesday, June 4, at
7 pm, also in the auditorium.
To submit information to this newsletter, please send articles and
announcements to woodsonnews@yahoo.com. The first issue of Come out and enjoy the talents of Woodson’s award-winning
school year 2008-2009 will be published in early August. Please singers and instrumentalists!
welcome the incoming Cavalier Chronicles editor, Carole Post.
Cavalier Chronicles 13
DATES TO REMEMBER
5/26 Memorial Day holiday, no school 6/08 Baccalaureate, 2 pm, auditorium
5/27 Woodson Orchestra Performance, 7 pm, 6/10 Sports Physicals, WTW Entrance #2, 5-8 pm
auditorium 6/11-16 Underclass exams
5/28 Woodson Band Performance, 7:30 pm, 6/12 Graduation, Robinson, 2:30 pm
auditorium 6/12 Cavalier Cruise All-Night Graduation Party,
5/29-30 SOL make-ups and re-takes Oak Marr Rec Center, 11 pm-5 am
5/30 Senior Awards, 7:30 am, auditorium 6/17 Last day of school!
6/04-09 Senior exams
6/04 Woodson Chorus Concert, 7 pm, auditorium
6/06 Prom, The Waterford at Fair Oaks, 8 pm Woodson Sports: For competition schedules and other
6/07 SAT testing (not at Woodson) information, go to www.fcps.edu/woodsonhs and click
“Athletics.”
W.T. Woodson High School PTSA
9525 Main Street NON PROFIT ORG
Fairfax, VA 22031 US Postage
Paid
Fairfax, VA 22030
Permit No. 75
CONTENTS ARE TIME SENSITIVE
Cavalier Chronicles 14
