Upper School Newsletter – August 26, 2026

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August 26, 2026

Letter From the Division Director

Upper School Families,

Last week brought an incredible surge of energy to campus as we welcomed our new faculty and staff alongside the football team for preseason. That momentum has only grown this week with all employees reporting back to campus while the rest of our preseason athletes joined the football team on our fields and courts. It is awesome to hear the noise of voices echoing through the hallways once again!

The ramp-up to a new year always brings questions, so if you have any, please email me. I am happy to help or point you in the right direction.

Husky Hub is a primary communication tool for families. To stay connected and ensure you never miss an update, please check out the guide in the Announcements section below to customize your Husky Hub notification settings.

Also, please take a moment to look over the Upper School Academic Handbook section. Reviewing the Handbook ensures your family understands key school policies, graduation requirements, and academic expectations so you can best support your student’s success throughout the year.

We are so excited to get things going! The beginning of a new academic year is filled with immense promise, and our faculty and staff are excited and grateful to partner with you in supporting your student's growth. We look forward to seeing you at Back-to-School Night on Thursday, September 3, and we wish your families a year rich in academic discovery, lasting connections, and transformative achievements!

Go Huskies!

Chris Tennyson
Director of the Upper School

Announcements

New Visitor Sign-in System

As we shared by email on Monday, Flint Hill moved to Raptor Safe for all campus check-ins to enhance safety and streamline visits. Whether you are a returning family or new to Flint Hill, please download the Raptor Safe app and create your digital Raptor Passport prior to your next campus visit to ensure seamless entry.

This new process allows for faster entry during school events and provides thorough automated ID verification to keep our community secure. Please feel free to reach out to Director of Security Kevin Plourde with any questions.

Student Device Information for All Students

We will be issuing new MacBook Air laptops to all Upper School students during the first week of school.

New Students: No preparation needed because you will be receiving laptops for the first time.

Returning Students: Prepare for the exchange by:

Logging out of your Apple ID and Find My Mac.
Verifying backup of important files.
Bringing your laptop, charging cable, and charging plug on the first day of school/
Reading detailed information here.

Explore the 2026-27 Upper School Academic Handbook

As you prepare for the upcoming school year, we invite you to review the newly updated 2026-27 Academic Handbook, now available on the Resource Board. Reflecting our ongoing dedication to educational excellence, this comprehensive guide contains essential information on academic policies, diploma requirements, and detailed course selection guidance. It serves as a valuable tool to support your child’s entire journey through the Upper School. Additionally, please be sure to review the updated missing work section, as we have made the decision to return to our previous policy.

What’s for Lunch? Daily Options with Fairfax Food Service

In collaboration with Fairfax Food Service, we are pleased to provide a nutritious, buffet-style lunch every day, fully included in your tuition. Students can enjoy a fresh salad bar and varied sandwich options daily, ensuring there is always something delicious for everyone. Monthly menus and nutritional/allergen information are readily available to help your family plan ahead.

Sign Up to Volunteer in the Igloo and Den!

One of the most frequent and fun volunteer opportunities is selling concessions in the Igloo or Den. It’s a great way to meet other parents, get a glimpse of life in the Upper School, or get the best view of a game on Peterson Family Field.

The Igloo (Upper School): Opens Wednesday, September 2, for break and after-school shifts. Sign up for a shift in the Igloo.

The Den (John M. Thomas Terrace): Opens Tuesday, September 8, for select home games on Peterson Family Field. Sign up for a shift in the Den.

All proceeds support the Parents’ Association Endowment for Financial Aid, assisting current families facing unexpected financial hardship. We are excited to open both concession stands for the school year and need many volunteers to operate!

Order a Homecoming T-Shirt by Friday, September 4

Homecoming Under the Lights Week celebration will be from Monday, September 28 to Friday, October 2!

One of the ways we show our Husky spirit is by sporting a Homecoming T-shirt. This year’s Homecoming design was imagined by the Upper School student members of the Athletic Advisory Council and is available in youth and adult sizes.

Order this year’s Homecoming T-shirt, and be sure to enter your student’s homeroom teacher or advisor. Shirts will be delivered to those classrooms the week before Homecoming. Huskies are encouraged to wear their t-shirts during the bonfire and football game on Friday evening. The deadline to order is Friday, September 4, at 3:00 p.m. No late orders will be accepted after this date.

Stay tuned for more information about Homecoming. Details to come about the game schedule, bonfire, Spirit Alley activities, school store hours, Upper School dance, and more.

Navigating Standardized Testing: 11th Grade Family Webinar

11th grade families are invited to a special Virtual Parent Engagement Series session on Tuesday, September 15, from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. Standardized testing experts from Compass Education Group will share crucial insights on current trends shaping the testing landscape, alongside actionable strategies for planning and preparing for upcoming exams. Use this link to register and secure your spot for this informative session.

Parents’ Association Tennis Social: Join the Waitlist!

Registration filled up quickly for the PA Tennis Social on Friday, September 18, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., but there are always last-minute cancellations! Join the waitlist to be contacted when a space opens up.

Fall Athletics Notes

As the school year approaches, excitement fills the air with the anticipation of the upcoming season openers! Get ready for an action-packed week, starting on Tuesday, September 1, as teams gear up for a series of engaging scrimmages and thrilling official games. For a comprehensive view of the schedule, make sure to explore the Athletics webpage. Simply click the calendar icon on the right-hand side for details on upcoming games! Fall sports students and families should keep an eye on Husky Hub, your go-to resource for real-time updates on practice times, venues, game schedules, and pertinent information from coaches.

Meet the Coaches Night on Friday, August 28

Join us for the Upper School Meet the Coaches Night on Friday, August 28, 5:45 p.m., in the Upper School Gym. This event is a great opportunity for student-athletes and their families to connect with our fall coaching staff and prepare for the upcoming school year. The evening will begin with remarks from Director of Athletics Dewayne Robinson and members of the Athletics Department, who will review important season information, policies, and procedures. Afterward, families will meet with their respective coaches to learn more about team expectations and the exciting season ahead.

Calling All Announcers: Interested in being more connected to FH Athletics?

We’re looking for enthusiastic announcers for all sports seasons! Announcing is a great way to get involved, support our student-athletes, and be part of the excitement at our games. If you're interested in joining the team, please reach out to Frances Wolf for more information.

Game Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather

With the fall season comes the possibility of rain, leading to the potential for cancellations or delays. In the case of inclement weather, the Athletics Department will determine by 1:30 p.m. whether a home game/meet will be canceled. If there is an away game/meet, the decision to play lies with the opposing school and their field conditions. Once a home game/meet is canceled, Flint Hill coaches will notify parents and students. Husky Hub will also be updated and be the source for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Streaming Games via Hudl Fan

All games held on the Flint Hill Upper School campus will be streamed via Hudl TV. You can also access the livestream by typing fan.hudl.com into your browser or downloading the Hudl Fan app. After downloading the app or navigating to fan.hudl.com, search for “Flint Hill School.” You will now have access to all games that are being streamed. Please check Husky Hub and/or the school website for the Middle School and Upper School athletic schedules.

Follow FH Athletics on Social Media

As part of our commitment to keeping you informed and engaged in your child’s Flint Hill journey, we are excited to invite you to explore FH Athletics’ social media platforms. Our social media channels provide a unique opportunity to connect with the school community, stay up to date on important events in athletics, and get a glimpse of all the sports. Social media allows us to share exciting moments and important announcements in real-time.

Instagram: @FlintHillAthletics
Twitter: @Athletics_FHS

Parent Meetup: Mahjong Lesson and Open Play

Looking to learn a new game or connect with fellow parents over a friendly match? All parents are invited to join AJ Andreas P'29, '31 for a relaxed afternoon of Mahjong on Wednesday, September 23, 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Beginners will receive guided lessons from an instructor, while experienced players can jump right into games together. Use this link to register and contact Olivia Landrum with any questions.

Senior Portrait Makeup Day

Thursday, September 24, is the makeup date for seniors who could not attend the August 24-25 dates. The location is the Upper School Building. Any senior who misses this date as well must make an appointment with Freed directly at their studio.

Reminders

Preparing for the 2026-27 School Year on Husky Hub

A reminder that you may find answers to several of your back-to-school questions on the Preparing for the 2026-27 School Year tile on the Husky Hub Resource Board.

Tomorrow: Medication Drop-Off

For students requiring medication on campus, medication drop-off day is Thursday, August 27, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., at the Upper School Circle. Pull into the circle, and a health team member will collect the medication and forms directly from your car.

Prescription Medication

Requires a physician's order on the Medication Authorization Form, signed by the prescribing physician. All medication must have the pharmacy label.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medication

Requires the Medication Authorization Form completed and signed by a parent/guardian. OTC medication must be in its original packaging and administered according to package instructions (including time and route).

Unable to Drop Off on August 27?

Please call your division's nurse to schedule an appointment before school starts. For medication refills during the school year, please call to schedule an appointment with your division's nurse: Upper School, 703.584.2396; Middle School, 703.584.2397; Lower School, 703.584.2399.

Review the 2026-27 Flint Hill Family Handbook

All families are required to review the Flint Hill Family Handbook for the 2026-27 school year. The Family Handbook outlines community standards and policies for all Flint Hill students and family members and is organized into three sections: “Respect for Self,” “Respect for Others,” and “Respect for Shared Environment.” The Flint Hill Family Handbook will live on the Resource Board for ease of reference. No other action is required, as enrollment at Flint Hill requires awareness and respect of these policies throughout the school year.

Important Grade Level Orientation Information

Note that the first two days of school — Monday, August 31, and Tuesday, September 1 — are considered regular school days and attendance will be taken. All students will be attending school both days, with off-campus grade-specific orientation activities occurring on one of those two days as specified below.

9th Grade
On Tuesday, September 1, 9th graders will travel by bus to the Madeira School, 8328 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA, to participate in bonding and community-building activities through Calleva. Buses will return to campus by approximately 4:00 p.m.

10th Grade
On Monday, August 31, 10th graders will travel by bus to Camp Fraser, 101 Springvale Rd., Great Falls, VA 22066, to participate in bonding and community-building activities through Calleva, an innovative outdoor education and adventure program. Buses will return to campus by approximately 3:30 p.m.

11th Grade
On Monday, August 31, 11th graders will be going to Dave & Buster’s in Fairfax to kick off the 2026-27 school year with fun and games. Buses will return to campus by approximately 2:30 p.m.

12th Grade
On Tuesday, September 1, seniors are heading to Washington, D.C., for a full day of activities! Students will travel by bus and explore the city, so comfortable clothing and walking shoes or sneakers are suggested. Lunch money will be provided by the school. Seniors are scheduled to return to campus by 3:15 p.m.

Upper School Student Leadership Orientation

All Upper School Student Leadership Council members are required to attend this mandatory orientation and training session on Friday, August 28, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., at the Upper School.

Grade 9 and New Upper School Parent Reception

On Thursday, September 3, 5:30-6:30 p.m., in the Peterson Middle School Commons, parents of 9th graders and new Upper School students are invited to a social reception featuring remarks from school leadership at 5:40 p.m., followed by time to socialize and build parent connections. RSVP here..

Upper School Back-to-School Night

On Thursday, September 3, 6:45-9:00 p.m., Upper School parents/guardians are invited to the Upper School to walk their student’s schedules, meet their student’s advisor, and learn more about the student experience.

Parents' Association Divisional Ambassador Kickoff Meeting

Divisional Ambassadors are invited to a kickoff meeting on Friday, September 4, 8:45-11:45 a.m., at the International Country Club, 13200 Lee Jackson Highway in Fairfax. Register here.

Grades 9-11 Student Portrait Day — Wednesday, September 9

Middle School students will have yearbook portraits taken on Wednesday, September 9, at Peterson Middle School and must follow dress expectations. Details about ordering photos will be emailed to parents when images are ready to view.

You’re Invited to a Parent Mixer

This Parent Mixer is an informal social for JK-12 parents to get together on campus after morning carpool and is a great way to meet parents across divisions. Join us at Peterson Middle School, on the John M. Thomas Terrace, for coffee and conversation on Thursday, September 10, 8:30-9:30 a.m. Rain location: Mitchell Commons

Parents: Get Involved and Share Your Volunteer Interest!

Looking for ways to get involved in our school community? Learn about some of the many volunteer opportunities and share your interest by completing this form. We will contact you as opportunities arise, and volunteer sign-up forms will be shared in the newsletter throughout the year.

Upcoming Events

Click on the plus sign to add the event to your Google Calendar. Important note: changes made to the original calendar event won't populate on your Google calendar, so please be sure to look out for changes announced in the newsletter.

Medication Drop-Off
Thursday, August 27
10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Upper School Front Circle

Husky Head Starts for Seniors
Thursday, August 27
5:30-7:30 p.m., Upper School Commons
Register

September SAT Registration Deadline
Friday, August 28

Upper School Student Leadership Orientation
Friday, August 28
8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Upper School Building

Upper School Meet the Coaches Night
Friday, August 28
5:45-6:15 p.m., Upper School Gym
This event is for fall student-athletes and families.

First Day of School for Upper School
Monday, August 31
8:25 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Grade 9 and New Upper School Parent Reception
Thursday, September 3
5:30-6:30 p.m.
Peterson Middle School, Mitchell Commons

Upper School Back-to-School Night
Thursday, September 3
6:45-9:00 p.m.

Parents' Association Divisional Ambassador Kickoff Meeting
Friday, September 4
8:45-11:45 a.m.
International Country Club, 13200 Lee Jackson Highway, Fairfax, VA
Register

Labor Day — Grades JK-12, No Classes
Monday, September 7

Senior Family College Night
Tuesday, September 8
7:00-8:15 p.m.
Students: Upper School Gym
Parents: Peterson Middle School Mitchell Commons

Grades 9-11 Student Portrait Day
Wednesday, September 9
Upper School Building

Athletics: Fall Conditioning Begins
Wednesday, September 9

Parent Mixer
Thursday, September 10
8:30-9:30 a.m.
Peterson Middle School, John M. Thomas Terrace

Upper School Fall Athletics Picture Day
Thursday, September 10
2:30-5:00 p.m.
Upper School Gym

October ACT Registration Deadline
Friday, September 11

SAT National Test Date
Saturday, September 12

Virtual Parent Engagement Series: Standardized Testing Insights and Overview for 11th Grade Families
Tuesday, September 15
7:00-8:00 p.m.
Register

All-School Gathering
Wednesday, September 16
1:15-2:15 p.m., Upper School Gym

October SAT Registration Deadline
Friday, September 18

Parents' Association Tennis Social
Friday, September 18
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Middle and Upper School Campus Tennis Courts
Join the Waitlist

ACT National Test Date
Saturday, September 19

Flint Hill Volleyball Invitational
Saturday, September 19
8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Upper School Gym

Senior Breakfast
Tuesday, September 22
7:45 - 8:25 a.m., Upper School Commons

Upper School Student Letter Jacket Fitting
Tuesday, September 22
11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Upper School Cafeteria
Upper School students interested in purchasing a letter jacket are invited to a fitting managed by the Neff company.

Parent Meetup: Mahjong Lesson and Guided Play
Wednesday, September 23
11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Andreas Enterprises, 43670 Trade Center Place, Suite 145, Dulles, VA 20166
Register

Senior Portrait Makeup Day
Thursday, September 24
Upper School Building

Parent Meetup: Tennis Open Play
Friday, September 25
9:00-10:30 a.m., Middle and Upper School Campus Tennis Courts

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