Upper School Newsletter – October 1, 2025
October 1, 2025
Letter From the Division Director
It’s amazing that today ushers in the month of October. This week, we find ourselves in the midst of a fantastic Spirit Week, leading up to the Homecoming Dance on Saturday. This, coupled with the Club Fair, athletic contests, Senior Breakfast, and upcoming Pep Rally, has led to an awesome energy on campus!
Saturday's Homecoming Dance is meant to be fun and safe, and we appreciate your partnership in helping and encouraging our students to make good decisions, especially avoiding actions that would otherwise put their standing at Flint Hill in jeopardy. Please be sure to read the blurb in the announcements section for more details.
Only sophomores and juniors need to come to campus on Tuesday, October 14 for PSAT Day. Athletic practices and games will still be held after school. For students who will be on campus, please note that lunch is not provided for those taking the standard time test, as it will conclude around 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided for students taking the bus later in the afternoon and any student taking the test with extended time, as long as their test ends between 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m. Regardless, we recommend packing a snack to eat during the test-administered breaks.
To proactively support student success, we are rolling out a more structured progress report check-in system for our advisees.This year, we are asking advisors to check in more periodically with their advisees. This involves the students doing some self-reflection on their progress, having advisors perform grade checks, and then advisors meeting with their advisees about their grades. This will happen by Tuesday, October 14, and some families may receive academic concern notes directly from teachers on that date. That said, as parents and guardians, you can always check your child’s progress in Husky Hub and reach out to your child’s advisor, teacher, or a member of the Upper School Office with any question.
We hope to see many of you Under the Lights this week, cheering on our students. Go Huskies!
Best,
Chris Tennyson
Director of the Upper School
Announcements
Celebrate Homecoming Week Under the Lights!
Cheer on the Huskies this week as they play under the lights on the Peterson Family Field. Then, join us on Friday, October 3 for traditional Homecoming festivities, including the bonfire and activities for all ages. Visit the FH Homecoming webpage for the schedule of games and events Under the Lights!
Volunteer — Help pull the sled and sign up to volunteer. It’s a great way to make a difference and meet more Huskies! Upper School students can volunteer in the Den and receive service hours.
Friday Upper School Dismissal Details
- Normal dismissal and carpool.
- If students leave campus and plan to return after 5:00 p.m., the Upper School parking lot will likely be full. Plan to park at the Lower School and take the shuttle.
Upper School Homecoming Dance: Masquerade Night!
All Upper School students are invited to the Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 4, from 8:30-10:00 p.m. in the Upper School Commons.
This year's theme is Masquerade!
- Dress Code: Semi-formal (e.g., cocktail dresses, blazers, collared shirts, tie-optional).
- Arrival/Departure: All students must arrive by 9:00 p.m. and stay until 10:00 p.m.
- Outside Guests: Flint Hill students may bring one outside guest. Guest forms were due on Tuesday.
We look forward to a fun and safe evening, and thank you for encouraging your students to make good decisions as they enjoy this event!
Pre-HoCo Social for 9th Grade Dance Attendees
The Upper School is launching a new tradition: the 9th Grade Pre-HoCo Dance Social.This student-only social, featuring pizza and Klondike Bars, is a relaxed prelude to the Homecoming Dance on Saturday, October 4. 9th graders and their guests should plan to arrive to the Middle School Commons at 7:00 p.m. Those attending must RSVP by tomorrow, Thursday, October 2.
PCW Webinar: Finding the College That's Right for You
The Parents Council of Washington (PCW) invites you to a fall webinar on Wednesday, October 8, 7:00-8:00 p.m., with New York Times bestselling author and national college expert Jeff Selingo. He'll share insights from his new book, Dream School, offering families a clear playbook to reduce stress and think more broadly about finding the perfect college fit. Register here and submit questions for the Q&A in advance to administration@parentscouncil.org by Friday, October 3.
FAQs Regarding Upper School Assessment Policy
Director of Academics Aaron Proctor shared insights into our academic assessment philosophies and practices at last week’s Parent Education Series (PES) event. In response to the thoughtful questions we received, we've created this Upper School Assessment Policy FAQ to provide more information.
Parents: Share Your Professional Knowledge With Our Students!
From time to time, teachers would like to bring in a presenter to enhance the classroom curriculum. Given the extensive levels of expertise within the parent and alumni community, we’d like to make these opportunities more broadly accessible.
If you are willing to present, or have a connection you might be willing to facilitate, please contact Assistant Head of Institutional Advancement Meredith VanDuyne to learn more (no obligations). Note: These presenting opportunities are not compensated.
We have the following specific upcoming need:
- Service Fair, Tuesday, October 21: The Middle School team would like to hold a Service Fair for students. We'll include 4-6 local organizations that can give a series of 10-15 minute presentations to small groups of students. The purpose is to broaden students' understanding of the needs in our community and beyond, foster empathy and compassion for those in need, and inspire students as they consider opportunities to serve. If you have a connection to an organization making a difference in our community and would be willing to make an introduction, or if you’re able to represent an organization, please email Meredith VanDuyne.
Religious Observances
Flint Hill is aware that our students observe several religious holidays from various faiths throughout the year. We are also aware that some students hesitate to take time off to observe significant holy days or religious holidays with their families because they do not want to fall behind on the days they are out of school. Please note that Flint Hill teachers will be accommodating when students approach them to discuss planned absences or the need to reschedule an assessment.
Our Student Newspaper’s First Issue
The Back-to-School Issue of your official student newspaper, The View, is now published and ready to read!
Have You Scrolled Through FlintTok Yet?
FlintTok is this year’s Annual Report on Your Philanthropy showcasing the impact of support at Flint Hill — no TikTok account needed! You'll find information in a way that is fun and easy to navigate. Become a FlintTok influencer by "liking" the posts you enjoy the most while learning about the impact of giving back to Flint Hill. Happy scrolling!
Financial Aid Application Now Open
Flint Hill’s need-based financial aid application is now open. Monday, December 1, is the new deadline for financial aid applications. Below is the updated timeline. Please contact admission@flinthill.org or 703.584.2314 with any questions.
- Monday, December 1 — Deadline to submit your financial aid application
- Wednesday, January 28 — 2026-27 Enrollment Contracts are issued to current students, including financial aid decisions.
- Thursday, February 5 — Deadline for current families to submit 2026-27 Enrollment Contracts
- Friday, February 27 — 2026-27 Enrollment Contracts are issued to new students, including financial aid decisions.
How to Access the Financial Aid Application
- Log in to Husky Hub and go to the Resource Board.
- On the Resource Board, click the Financial Aid Application tile.
- Follow the prompts to begin your application.
Reminders
Virtual Event: Blaze the Trail — Tomorrow
Join us as our students and parents share powerful stories of the trails they’ve blazed and how these journeys have transformed their lives. Come to Blaze the Trail, a virtual event on Thursday, October 2, 12:00-12:45 p.m. While this event is designed for prospective families, current families are more than welcome to attend! Send to a friend or register today.
Parent Meetup: Walking Group — Fridays, October 3 and October 24
Enjoy different trails and neighborhoods near campus while connecting with fellow parents! Register here for Friday, October 3, and Friday, October 24. Questions? Contact Divisional Ambassador Molisa Meholic P’29.
Virtual PES: College Financial Aid Workshop
Parents are invited to join our virtual workshop on Monday, October 6, 7:00-8:00 p.m., with a local financial aid officer who will talk about the need-based financial aid process, distinct from merit scholarship opportunities. While open to families of all grade levels, this program may be especially helpful for junior and senior families. Google Meet link: meet.google.com/gqe-gvaw-edv
PES: Navigating the Interactions of Mental Health & Technology
On Thursday, October 9, 8:30-9:30 a.m., parents of US students are invited to the Upper School Multipurpose Room for a discussion on Technology and Mental Health with local experts Dr. Laura Gray and Cate Riihimaki. This session will cover brain science, intervention techniques, teen insights, and practical parenting advice to help you support your developing children.
PSAT Day — Tuesday, October 14
The PSAT is a national test that is used as a preparation tool for the SAT and also to determine the recipients for the various National Merit programs. All 10th and 11th graders are required to take the test on Tuesday, October 14.
Because of the number of students missing throughout the day as a result of the administration of the test, there are no classes for 9th and 12th grades on that day. Please note that this day follows the Professional Development Day for faculty/staff on Friday, October 10, and the long three-day weekend of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. The College Advising Office sent specific testing information for 10th and 11th graders last week.
Upcoming Deadlines — Early Admission for Siblings
We’re pleased to offer Husky families an early admission process for siblings applying for the 2026-27 school year. The application form is due Friday, November 7.
Middle and Upper School Student Trip Opportunities
We're excited to announce a new Student Travel Opportunities webpage, your comprehensive guide to all upcoming trips. These experiences are a wonderful way for students to build strong bonds with their peers while expanding their world.
To help with your family's planning, the webpage provides details on all options, dates, and financial commitments. Please take a moment to review the information and consider joining us for upcoming interest meetings, which begin this week. Indicate your interest in learning more about one or more of our trip offerings using this form.
Interested in Hosting a French Student?
French students from Lycée Rocroy will once again be visiting Flint Hill and the Washington, DC Metro area next year! They will likely be arriving February 17 or 18 for approximately nine or ten days. Hosting a student provides an enriching experience to practice or learn French, learn about another culture, and, ultimately, make a lifelong friend. It has always been one of the highlights of the year for our Flint Hill students, regardless of whether or not they take French.
If you would like to host a student, kindly fill out the interest form. Upper School French Teacher Robin Goldstein will follow up with you once the dates are confirmed. You may also reach out to her with any questions. Please note that hosting a student does not give priority toward the trip to Paris, which is only open to students taking French courses. Merci beaucoup!
Important Reminder to Student-Athletes: Lock Your Lockers
All in-season student athletes have been assigned a locker with a code. Please lock your items in your lockers to keep your belongings safe. If you don’t know how to use a combination lock, a member of the Athletics department can help you.
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.
Volunteer in the Igloo and Den!
One of the most popular ways to get involved is selling concessions in the Igloo or Den — a fun spot to meet parents, catch Upper School life in action, and enjoy the best view of Peterson Family Field. Upper School students can volunteer, too, and earn service hours. There’s always an opportunity, so sign up and invite a friend to join you!
Upcoming Events
Homecoming Week Under the Lights
Through October 3
Schedule of Games and Events
Financial Aid Application Opens
Wednesday, October 1
Upper School Office Drop-In
Wednesday, October 1
10:20-10:45 a.m. (during Break)
Upper School Multipurpose Room
Junior And Senior Flag Football Game
Wednesday, October 1
Middle and Upper School Campus, Peterson Family Field, 6:00-7:15 p.m.
Virtual Event: Blaze the Trail
Thursday, October 2
12:00-12:45 p.m.
Register
Parent Meetup: Walking Group
Friday, October 3
Location will be shared with the group before the walk, 8:15 a.m.
Register
Homecoming Pep Rally — Student-Only Event
Friday, October 3
Upper School Gym, 1:15-2:30 p.m.
Homecoming Spirit Alley
Friday, October 3
4:00-6:00 p.m.
Homecoming Bonfire
Friday, October 3
6:00-6:30 p.m.
SAT National Test Date
Saturday, October 4
Local National Testing Centers
Upper School Homecoming Dance: Masquerade Ball
Saturday, October 4
8:30-10:00 p.m.
Students must arrive by 9:00 p.m. and stay until the dance is over at 10:00 p.m. This year’s theme is Masquerade Ball. Masks may only cover the eyes and nose. The dress code is semi-formal.
Virtual Parent Education Series: College Financial Aid Workshop
Monday, October 6
7:00-8:00 p.m.
meet.google.com/gqe-gvaw-edv
Join by phone: (US) +1 530-738-1382 PIN: 151 976 827#
A local financial aid officer will talk about the need-based financial aid process, distinct from merit scholarship opportunities. While open to families of all grade levels, this program may be especially helpful for junior and senior families.
PCW Webinar: Finding the College That's Right for You
Wednesday, October 8
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Register
Parent Education Series: Navigating the Interactions of Mental Health and Technology — Upper School Edition
Thursday, October 9
Upper School Multipurpose Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Grades JK-12 No Classes / Faculty Professional Development
Friday, October 10
Grades JK-12 No Classes / Indigenous Peoples' Day
Monday, October 13
Grades 9 and 12 No Classes
Tuesday, October 14
Grades 10 and 11 Required PSAT Testing
Tuesday, October 14
Grades 9-11 Picture Make-Up Day
Wednesday, October 15
Parent Meetup: Women Giving Back
Wednesday, October 15
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Women Giving Back, 20 Export Drive, Sterling, VA 20164
Parent Education Series: Understanding Flint Hill's Academic Program
Thursday, October 16
Upper School Multipurpose Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Parent Education Series: Coffee and Conversation with the Learning Center Team
Friday, October 17
Cafeteria in the Miller House, 8:15-9:15 a.m.
An opportunity to connect with other parents of students who use the Learning Center and discuss topics of interest with the Learning Center team.
ACT National Test Date
Saturday, October 18
Local National Testing Centers
Virtual Parent Education Series: Introducing the FH College Advising Program for Grades 9 and 10
Thursday, October 23
12:00-1:00 p.m.
https://meet.google.com/vrg-svud-imj
Join by phone: (US) +1 515-599-7417 PIN: 673 757 833#
November SAT Registration Deadline
Friday, October 24
Cyberpatriot Competition
Friday, October 24
Upper School Building, 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Parent Meetup: Walking Group
Friday, October 24
Location will be shared with the group before the walk, 8:15 a.m.
Register
Major Minors Fall Tour
October 24-26
Virtual: Balancing Student Technology at Flint Hill
Friday, October 24
12:00-12:45 p.m.
Register
Grades JK-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences
Grades JK-12 No Classes
Thursday, October 30 - Friday, October 31
