Middle School Newsletter – April 24, 2024
APRIL 24, 2024
Letter From The Division Director
Our final full day of field trips takes place next week on Friday, May 3. Both grades will spend the day in Washington, D.C. Please review the information below and note that regular arrival and dismissal times apply.
7th Grade Museum Trip
As part of our current theme in U.S. History, students will visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture to better appreciate and understand the ongoing journey of African Americans from slavery to equity. Students will be prepared for the trip through the use of various in-class activities, readings, videos, and discussions.
- Regular 8:00 a.m. arrival and 3:25 p.m. dismissal times.
- There are no academic classes or athletic practices.
- Students should be in regular school dress with comfortable walking shoes.
- Students should leave MacBooks at home.
- Students will need a daypack, water bottle, bag lunch, an additional snack, and a hat/sunscreen as needed.
- Please contact your child’s history teacher if you have questions.
8th Grade Advisory Day
With the goals of connecting with each other and exploring key areas of our nation’s capital, advisory groups will travel by Metro to Washington, D.C., and participate in a photography scavenger hunt.
- Regular 8:00 a.m. arrival and 3:25 p.m. dismissal times.
- There are no academic classes or athletic practices.
- Students should be in regular school dress with comfortable walking shoes.
- Students should leave MacBooks at home.
- Students will need a daypack, water bottle, money for lunch (~$20), an additional snack, and a hat/sunscreen as needed.
- Students will travel by Metro and participate in activities throughout the city.
- Please contact your child’s advisor if you have questions.
Brian Lamont
Director of the Middle School
Announcements
Middle School Spring Concerts in May
Join us for a series of concerts, in May, when our Middle School musicians join forces with students from 5th and 6th grade to showcase the musical skills they have learned through the year.
Grades 5-8 Spring Orchestra Concert
Tuesday, May 7
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Grades 5-8 Spring Band Concert
Thursday, May 9
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Grades 5-8 Spring Percussion Concert
Tuesday, May 14
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Grades 5-8 Spring Choral Concert
Thursday, May 16
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Serve as a Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador for 2024-2025 — Sign Up by Monday, May 13
You are invited to serve as a Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador next year. The sign-up form is open through Monday, May 13.
Virtual Q&A
If you have any questions or want to learn more about the Divisional Ambassador role, the Parents’ Association will be hosting Q&A sessions with Assistant Head of School for Institutional Advancement Meredith VanDuyne.
You can also contact one of this year’s Divisional Ambassadors to hear about their experience. Please see below for more information:
Grade 8 Dance — Thursday, May 30
We will celebrate our 8th graders with a festive evening in the Middle School Commons on Thursday, May 30, 6:30-9:30 p.m. We hope that all members of the Class of 2028 will attend and enjoy the evening as a group. Recommended dress — a dress; or a suit jacket, dress pants, and a tie. Please keep it simple and avoid homecoming and prom-style attire and transportation.
Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony — Friday, May 31
We look forward to celebrating the Class of 2028 at the Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony on Friday, May 31, 10:30-11:30 a.m., at the Upper School Gym. Recommended dress for students — a collared shirt or blouse with khaki-style or dress pants; skirt with a blouse; or sundress. Family members and relatives are invited to attend. A brief reception for families will immediately follow the ceremony in the Upper School Commons.
Bus Service Updates for 2024-25
In preparation for the 2024-25 school year, all current bus routes have been reviewed. Updates have been made to expand service and stop options for families, for the next school year. We are excited to announce two new stops: Dulles Town Center and Sully Place Shopping Center on the Blue Route.
To sign up for bus service, please visit the Bus Service tile on the Resource Board.
Presentation Slides from Parent Education Series 'Rethinking Parenting Anxious Kids'
Slides from the Parent Education Series presentation given by Jennifer Weaver, LCSW, and Amy Killy, LCSW, at the Upper School on Wednesday, April 17, and Middle School on Thursday, April 18, are now available.
Enroll for the Summer 2025 Europe Leadership Conference Trip
Thanks to all who attended the meeting about our upcoming trip to the EF Leadership Conference in Europe in Summer 2025. In the summer of 2025, we will be participating with EF Educational Tours to offer a student trip to Europe that has a leadership component for current 8th, 9th, and 10th graders at Flint Hill. When students travel, they expand their knowledge of the world around them, discover more about themselves, and grow more confident. These skills are critical for creating the global citizens of tomorrow, and we would love to have your student join us on this adventure.
Space is limited, and is first-come, first-served! Lock in one of the remaining 9 of 15 guaranteed spots available with a $95 Enrollment Fee by Friday, April 26. By enrolling now, you will also receive a $300 tour scholarship and qualify for your risk-free enrollment period! Enroll now with this link: www.eftours.com/2760863BB
View the Parent Guide to Travel from EF Educational Tours. This guide covers all the details about EF, including options for academic credit, payments plans and what to expect on tour. Additionally, once you enroll, you will have access to your individual fundraising page and will be able to apply for EF’s Global Citizen Scholarship.
*Please note the price on the enrollment page is not correct as it does not include the mandatory upgrade to double occupancy rooms per Flint Hill School policy. Due to the setup of the EF systems, that will be applied after enrollment, and will be an additional $1,200.
Still have questions? EF's Traveler Support Team can help through their online chat at https://www.eftours.com/contact-us or by phone at 800-665-5364.
Enter a Raffle to Win a Trip to Paradise While Supporting Flint Hill!
Escape for a 7-night adventurous yet romantic getaway at Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort in Belize! Your stay includes accommodation in a run-of-house room, including daily breakfast, welcome drink, and free use of kayaks and bikes in the local area.
Proceeds benefit the Parents’ Association Endowment for Financial Aid in Honor of Sally Hazel. Since 2012, the endowment has supported financial aid for students whose families experienced unexpected financial hardship.
HOW TO ENTER
- By Wednesday, May 22, at 8:00 p.m., purchase raffle tickets online and arrange to pick up your stubs, or contact Tiffany Parry to arrange a visit to the Miller House, on the Lower School campus, to purchase tickets in person.
THE DRAWING
- The drawing will be held and recorded on Thursday, May 23, 2:30 p.m., at the Westfields Golf Club.
- Winner need not be present to win.
- The winning raffle ticket will be announced on Thursday, May 23, via email to all ticket-holders who provided their email address.
- The winning raffle ticket number will also be posted on the landing page.
The raffle is open to anyone over the age of 18. Parents, faculty, staff, friends, and neighbors may purchase too. Visit flinthill.org/raffle to buy tickets and learn more! Contact Tiffany Parry with any questions.
Reminders
Final Reminder: Parent Survey Closes Tonight
On April 10, parents received an email from surveys@isminc.com with a unique link to complete the 2023-24 Flint Hill Parent Survey. Please send in your feedback by 12:00 a.m. tonight, Wednesday, April 24. The survey is being administered by Independent School Management and all individual survey responses are confidential. The purpose of this survey is to gauge perceptions, experiences, and satisfaction levels regarding various aspects of the School.
How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions — Tonight
Flint Hill is a member of the Parents Council of Washington (PCW), which hosts programming for member schools throughout the school year. All PCW member school parents, administrators, faculty, and staff are invited to register for PCW’s free Spring Speaker Series webinar, “How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions” on Wednesday, April 24, 7:00-8:30 p.m. Register here.
See You at Night on the Hill — Friday, April 26
We are excited for a fun evening this Friday, April 26, 8:00-10:00 p.m. at the Upper School, and encourage you to participate in the activities throughout the building. Cocktails, food, and music will be in the Commons. Those who prefer a quieter space can visit the study-break lounge in the Learning Commons. Those attending should have received an email from Meredith VanDuyne this afternoon with helpful information about the event.
Wondering what to wear? Check out these ideas from Klondike. Contact Olivia Landrum if you have questions or if your plans changed.
Reserve Tickets for the Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde” — May 3-5
The online box office for the Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde,” is now open. An amazing cast of Upper School performers will bring this exciting show to life. There are three performances: Friday, May 3, 7:00-9:30 p.m.; Saturday, May 4, 7:00-9:30 p.m.; Sunday, May 5, 2:00-4:30 p.m. Location: Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater. Tickets are free, but reservations are recommended. Reserve your tickets today!
Note: While all are invited, we recommend this musical for grades 5 and up; it is rated PG and contains suggestive themes and language. Use your best judgment as to whether it's appropriate for your student.
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club — Monday, May 6
Our final meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 6, 8:30-9:30 a.m., in the Peterson Middle School conference room. We will meet to discuss “The Sun Is Also a Star” by Nicola Yoon. Our book club provides a safe and engaging space for parents to read, discuss, and reflect on thought-provoking narratives that have been deemed too controversial. We've curated a diverse selection of banned books from various genres and eras that have sparked debates and provoked change. RSVP here for the meeting. If you have any questions, please email All-School Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator Miles Henderson.
Clinic or 18-Holes: There’s Still Time to Sign Up for the Flint Hill Golf Invitational & Skills Social — Thursday, May 23
Whether you want to play in the tournament or learn the basics, the Flint Hill Golf Invitational & Skills Social is a fun day of community building, and all abilities are welcome. Join Head of School Patrick McHonett and his wife, Jessica, at the Skills Social — clubs included — to learn from the pros. Spend the day with fellow Huskies, enjoy lunch, and try your luck at many fun contests and prizes. Spots are filling up quickly, but we want to see you! Grab your spot here.
Concessions Volunteers Needed
We need many volunteers to keep both the Igloo and the Den running until the end of the school year! It’s a great way to meet other parents while supporting our community. Sign up for as many shifts as you'd like, and invite a friend to join you.
Game Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
With the spring season comes a lot of rain and the potential for cancellations. 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. 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.
Space Available! Summer on the Hill Athletic Camps
Summer on the Hill Athletic Camps are designed to provide campers with the opportunity to work with our exceptional coaches, their star staff, and members of their teams. Check out our offerings below and register now!
Girls’ Basketball
Dates: July 15-19
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 3-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join the 2023 Conference Champion Flint Hill Huskies and Head Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach Sedrick Winston for camp this summer! The camp will provide an opportunity for young girls to learn the fundamentals of basketball, improve their skills, and have fun in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Boys’ Basketball
Dates: July 8-12, July 22-26
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 3-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Rico Reed, longtime Flint Hill Boys' Varsity basketball coach, his staff, and players for a week of skills and fundamentals, full-court games, and group activities to improve your campers’ individual and team skills.
Co-ed Flag Football
Dates: June 24-28
Price: $450
Grades: Rising 5-9
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill’s Head Varsity Football Coach Kirk Peterson and his staff for the first annual Flint Hill Flag Football Camp emphasizing good sportsmanship, the importance of teamwork, and a focus on basic football skills, games, agility, and position training.
Boys’ Lacrosse
Dates: June 17-21 (closed June 19)
Price: $360
Grades: Rising 4-8
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill Head Lacrosse Coach Adam Rice and his staff, including current Flint Hill players, for a week of learning fundamentals, skill development, and thrilling matches!
Girls’ Volleyball
Dates: June 24-28
Price: $225
Grades: Rising 5-8, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Grades: Rising 9-12, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Register Now!
Join Flint Hill coach and former professional volleyball player Rhamat Alhassan for this half-day volleyball camp! Campers will learn the knowledge, discipline, work ethic, leadership, and competitive edge needed to take them to the next level!
Upcoming Events
Upper School Visual Arts Show Opening Reception
Wednesday, April 24
Upper School Commons, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Webinar: How Families Can Navigate the New World of College Admissions
Wednesday, April 24
7:00-8:30 p.m.
Register
Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador Q&A Virtual Session
Thursday, April 25
12:00-12:30 p.m.
Google Meet Link
Night on the Hill
Friday, April 26
Upper School Campus, 8:00-10:00 p.m.
RSVP
Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador Q&A Virtual Session
Tuesday, April 30
7:30-8:00 p.m.
Google Meet Link
Grades 7 and 8 Field Trips to Washington, D.C.
Friday, May 3, 8:00 a.m. - 3:20 p.m.
All Middle School students will be off-campus for grade-level trips. No change to school arrival and dismissal times.
Upper School Musical, “Legally Blonde”
Friday and Saturday, May 3-4, 7:00-9:30 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, 2:00-4:30 p.m.
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater
Reserve Tickets
Kaleidoscope Parent Book Club
Monday, May 6
Peterson Middle School Conference Room, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
RSVP
Grades 5-8 Spring Orchestra Concert
Tuesday, May 7
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Grades 5-8 Spring Band Concert
Thursday, May 9
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Deadline to Sign Up for Parents’ Association Divisional Ambassador
Monday, May 13
Sign-up Form
Grades 5-8 Spring Percussion Concert
Tuesday, May 14
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Grades 5-8 Spring Choral Concert
Thursday, May 16
Hazel Lower School, Olson Theater, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Volunteer Appreciation Reception
Friday, May 17
Peterson Middle School Terrace, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
Middle School Music Festival
Saturday, May 18
Music students participate in clinics, performances, and a trip to Kings Dominion.
Deadline to Enter Belize Trip Raffle
Wednesday, May 22
8:00 p.m.
Enter to Win!
Flint Hill Golf Invitational
Thursday, May 23
Westfields Golf Club, 10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Register
Middle School Huskyfest
Friday, May 24
Peterson Middle School, 1:15-3:15 p.m
Memorial Day
Monday, May 27
Grades JK-12 No Classes
Uniform and Spirit Wear Drop Off
May 28 - June 3
Lower School Campus, Miller House
Grade 8 Dance
Thursday, May 30
Peterson Middle School Commons, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
End of Fourth Quarter/Second Semester
Thursday, May 30
Lower, Middle, and Upper School Last Day of School
Thursday, May 30
Grade 8 Promotion Ceremony
Friday, May 31
Upper School Gym, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
