Upper School Newsletter – October 15, 2025
October 15, 2025
Letter From the Division Director
Good afternoon, and I hope everyone had a relaxing and fun long weekend! With cooler mornings and shorter days, it definitely feels like fall is upon us. October on independent school campuses always seems to bring a shift in energy — workloads are increasing; schedules are filling up; and, for many seniors, college application deadlines are right around the corner.
It’s completely normal for your children to feel a bit overwhelmed during this time of year. That’s why it’s also so important to make space for the things that bring them joy. Whether it's joining a club, attending a school game, or simply spending time with friends, those small moments can make a big difference. Please encourage them to do that! Finding balance between responsibilities and relaxation is key for them to remain grounded and motivated.
Let’s remember to take a break, get outside, and breathe in the crisp fall air. Let’s also make the most of this season by supporting one another and staying connected, both to our goals and to the things that make us happy.
Enjoy reading through this newsletter, which provides a lot of information about things on our horizon, including Parent-Teacher Conferences at the end of this month. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please let me know.
In partnership,
Chris Tennyson
Director of the Upper School
Announcements
Upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences
Our annual Flint Hill School conference days will be held on Thursday, October 30, and Friday, October 31. At the Upper School, we offer 8-minute conference slots with 2-minute passing time throughout those two days. Parents are encouraged to set up conferences with as few or as many of their students' teachers as they deem appropriate. Some parents also choose to set up a conference with their student’s advisor. The School will notify families on Thursday, October 16, by 10:00 a.m. when registration for time slots becomes available. These conferences can be held in-person or virtually, and you will be able to select your preferred option when signing up via Calendly.
Tomorrow’s PES Event: Signature Programs in MS/US Science
Join us in the Upper School Multipurpose Room tomorrow, Thursday, October 16, 8:30-9:30 a.m., to hear from Director of Academics Aaron Proctor and MS and US Science Department Chair Zack Krug as they share the exciting work happening in our MS/US Science Department, highlighting two major initiatives: the Science Research Scholars Program in the Upper School and the new Middle School Science Exhibition.
Introducing the the College Advising Program for Grades 9 & 10
Parents of 9th and 10th graders are invited to our Virtual PES (Parent Education Series) Event: Introducing the Flint Hill College Advising Program on Thursday, October 23, 12:00-1:00 p.m. As Flint Hill transitions to a four-year college advising program, parents of 9th and 10th grade students are invited to join Susan Chiarolanzio, Director of College Advising, for an overview of what to expect.
Join virtually via this link: meet.google.com/vrg-svud-imj. A recording will be available in the October 29 newsletter.
10th Grade Counseling Workshop: I Have the Right To
The Counseling Department has organized a workshop for the 10th grade students led by the organization I Have the Right To. They will be presenting on and discussing the topic of “Hearing and Saying ‘No.’” The workshop will take place during the Flex period on Monday, October 27. This is a student-only workshop.
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club — The Return of Banned Books
This year, we’re highlighting banned books with a twist: every selection is a graphic novel! These titles combine compelling visuals and immersive storytelling to create a thought-provoking reading experience. The comic format allows readers to deeply engage with diverse characters and challenging, real-life themes, including racial identity, religious faith, healthy relationships, gender identity, and immigration. Our selected texts explore the real-life issues and themes that matter to today’s middle-grade and young adult readers. From healthy relationships to racial identity, religious faith, gender identity, and immigration, these stories open doors to understanding, reflection, and meaningful conversations.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of graphic novels or discovering them for the first time, you are welcome to join us monthly (Mondays, 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the Peterson Middle School Conference Room) for conversation and connection or drop in as your schedule permits. Please complete this interest form to receive additional information and to indicate your interest in upcoming sessions:
November 10: “New Kid” by Jerry Craft
December 8: “Hey Kiddo” by Jarrett Krosoczka
February 2: “They Called Us Enemy” by George Takei
March 2: “Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy” by Rey Terciero
April 6: “Shirley Jackson's ‘The Lottery’: The Authorized Graphic Adaptation” by Miles Hyman
May 4: “Blankets” by Craig Thompson
Junior Family College Night: Required Attendance on November 12
The Junior Family College Night on Wednesday, November 12, 7:00-8:30 p.m., in the Upper School Gym, is an opportunity for our college advisors to share helpful guidance and advice with junior families. This program will provide an overview of the individual advising process, how to evaluate colleges for admission accessibility, and the support services that the college advisors will provide throughout the college search and application process. The College Planner will also be distributed. Please note that attendance is required by each junior and at least one parent/guardian.
Save the Date: Upper School Fall Play, 'The Game's Afoot'
Join us in the Olson Theater for the Upper School’s fall production of “The Game's Afoot” by Ken Ludwig. The play tells the story of Broadway star William Gillette, who has invited his fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend of revelry. But when one of the guests is stabbed to death, the festivities in this isolated house of tricks and mirrors quickly turn dangerous. Then it’s up to Gillette himself, who just happens to think he’s Sherlock Holmes, to track down the killer before the next victim appears. The danger and laughter are nonstop in this glittering whodunit set during the Christmas holidays. This play is PG-13. Ticket information coming soon.
Friday, November 14, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 15, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 16, 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Be Part of FH’s Community Festival — Saturday, November 15
This interactive festival on Saturday, November 15, 12:00-2:00 p.m., in the Upper School Commons, showcases lively traditions, delicious foods, and stunning performances from across the globe. All members of the Flint Hill community are invited to join us for an afternoon of connection, learning, and celebration as we come together to honor the rich diversity that makes our community truly special. If you would like to participate as a table host, performer, or volunteer, please contact Ban Hameed.
Flint Hill Math Competitions
The Flint Hill Upper School Mathematics Department will once again be offering the AMC 10 and AMC 12 competitions this year. Students who enjoy problem-solving, mathematical puzzles, and critical thinking are encouraged to sign up to participate. We look forward to seeing students take a meaningful risk and represent Flint Hill Mathematics in November! Here are details and registration information.
Managing Your Directory Visibility in Husky Hub
As parents and guardians, you can customize what information is visible to other families in the Husky Hub Directory.
To update your visibility preferences, navigate to your Profile (top right corner) and select Settings. From there, choose the Privacy tab on the left to customize what information appears in the Directory. This action removes data from the Directory view and does not delete your information. Changes may take up to 24 hours to update.
Reminders
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.
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.
Financial Aid Deadline — Monday, December 1
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.
Sign Up for a Shift in the Igloo or 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
Parent Education Series: Signature Programs in MS/US Science
Thursday, October 16
Upper School Multipurpose Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Guatemala Service Trip Interest Meeting, Virtual
Thursday, October 16
7:30-8:30 p.m.
meet.google.com/dxa-iswv-fem
Join by phone
(US) +1 662-540-5366 PIN: 149 603 862#
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
Upper School Winter Athletics Begin
Wednesday, November 5
December ACT Registration Deadline
Friday, November 7
Early Admission for Siblings Application Form Deadline
Friday, November 7
Application Form
SAT National Test Date
Saturday, November 8
Local National Testing Centers
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club
Monday, November 10
Peterson Middle School Conference Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Junior Family College Night
Wednesday, November 12
Upper School Gym, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Upper School Student National Letter of Intent Early Signing Ceremony
Thursday, November 13
Upper School Learning Commons, 2:30-3:15 p.m.
Cyberpatriot Competition
Friday, November 14
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Upper School Fall Athletics Awards Ceremony
Friday, November 14
Upper School Gym, 1:15-2:30 p.m.
Upper School Fall Play
Friday, November 14, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 15, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 16, 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Hazel Lower School Olson Theater
Community Festival
Saturday, November 15
Upper School Commons, 12:00-2:00 p.m.
