Friday 5 for February 10, 2023

1. Talking to Students About Opioids

APS is providing additional resources to raise awareness about opioids and specifically fentanyl, as this epidemic continues to affect youth in Arlington and nationwide. Many students do not realize that fentanyl is often hidden in other substances, and even a small amount, the size of a pencil tip, can cause a fatal overdose. Learn more about how APS is addressing this issue and the steps families can take to help educate students about the dangers of opioids and prevent substance use.

2. Visit Germany This Summer with the Arlington-Aachen High School Exchange

Calling APS high school students! Apply by Fri, Feb. 17 to participate in the Arlington-Aachen High School Exchange in summer 2023. The trip includes a two-week homestay in Arlington’s sister city of Aachen plus three days in Berlin. Knowledge of the German language is not required, but if you already speak some German, you will improve your language skills on this trip. Learn more online or email AachenArlingtonExchange@gmail.com. 

3. Swanson Student Presents at National Conference

Swanson Middle School seventh-grader, LJ Sieff, presented Making Mathematics Accessible for Disabled Students Who Use AAC (Augmentative Assistive Communication) at the National Assistive Technology Industry Association conference in Orlando. His session highlighted the importance of universal design for learning, self-advocacy, and engagement of the AAC community to meet the needs of students in academically rigorous settings. Sieff’s presentation was skillful, engaging and interactive. We are proud of you, LJ!

4. Thank You, School Counselors!

As we close out National School Counseling Week 2023, we’d like to thank all 127 hardworking and dedicated counselors across APS. This year’s theme, School Counselors: Helping Students Dream Big, showcases how each student has access to a professional school counselor and a comprehensive program to support their academic, career and social-emotional needs. Thank a counselor the next time you see them!

5. Northern Virginia Regional Science and Engineering Fair Judges NeededAre you interested in judging science fair projects? Do you work in the chemistry or social science fields? Then we need you! We are seeking judges for the Northern Virginia Regional Science and Engineering Fair on Sat, March 4 at Wakefield High School. Judges will be needed from 7:30-11:30 a.m. If you are interested, please complete this short form with your contact information and subject area of interest.

Other News & Notes

Registration is Open for the 2023-24 School Year

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Next Week: Virginia Kindness Week!