The Wildcat Weekly - August 2, 2026

Centreville Students, Families, and Community,

I hope everyone has been enjoying a wonderful and restful summer! It is hard to believe, but we are just about three weeks away from the start of another exciting school year. We cannot wait to welcome our Wildcats back to Centreville High School, and we are especially excited to welcome the Class of 2030 as the newest members of the Wildcat Nation.

Welcome to the first edition of the Wildcat Weekly for the 2026–2027 school year! Whether you are a returning subscriber or reading for the first time, this newsletter is designed to be your one-stop resource for important announcements, upcoming events, reminders, and celebrations happening throughout our school community. Over the next several weeks, I will share key information to help students and families prepare for a successful start to the school year and ensure everyone is ready for an outstanding year ahead.

One of the most significant changes this school year is the implementation of Virginia's new statewide cell phone law (SB108). As a result, all FCPS high schools will operate as bell-to-bell phone-free learning environments. During the instructional day, including lunch, students may not use cell phones, smart watches, earbuds, headphones, or other personal smart devices. These devices must remain stored in a locker or backpack throughout the school day and may not be carried in pockets or otherwise be accessible.

To ensure consistency across our school community, students who are observed with a cell phone or other prohibited smart device out during the school day, even if it is not actively being used, will have the device confiscated. Progressive consequences will continue to apply for repeated violations including after-school detention, behavior contracts, parent conferences, and the loss of school privileges. Additional information regarding these expectations is included later in this newsletter.

At Centreville High School, one of our core priorities is cultivating a positive school climate where every student feels connected, supported, and ready to learn. Establishing clear expectations and consistently following school procedures are important parts of creating that environment. More importantly, I encourage our students to view this change not simply as a new rule, but as an opportunity. An opportunity to engage more fully with classmates, build stronger relationships, participate in conversations, and be present in the experiences that make high school memorable.

Last year, our students demonstrated tremendous adaptability as we introduced several new expectations and procedures, and I have every confidence they will rise to this challenge as well. I also ask our families to partner with us by having conversations with your students before the school year begins about these expectations and the importance of supporting a distraction-free learning environment. Together, we can continue making Centreville High School a place where every student can learn, grow, and thrive.

Thank you for your continued partnership and support. We look forward to seeing everyone very soon and beginning another incredible year together.

Go Wildcats!

Dr. Erik Healey, Principal


Upcoming Events

August 3-14 -  Marching Band Camp

August 3 - Fall Sports Tryouts Begin

August 20 - Freshmen & New Student Orientation, Centreville High School, 8:30-10:30AM

August 20 - WildCat B Open House, Centreville High School, 9:00-10:00AM

August 20 - Wildcat Welcome, Centreville High School, 5:00-7:00PM

August 22 - Marching Band Carwash Fundraiser, Colonnade Shell Station, 9:00AM-1:00PM

August 24 - First Day of School

September 2 - Back to School Night, Centreville High School, 7:00-8:30PM

 

August 20 - Freshmen and New Student Orientation - 8:30AM-10:30AM: Centreville High School will welcome the Class of 2030 and newly enrolled students at orientation on Thursday, August 20th. Students will learn about CVHS routines, walk their schedule to meet their teachers, and hear from Wildcat Ambassadors about what to expect from high school. The program will run from 8:30-10:30 at CVHS. Transportation will be provided from Bull Run, Centre Ridge, Centreville, Colin Powell and Union Mill elementary schools. Buses will depart at 8:00 am and return at 10:45 to the elementary schools.

August 20 - Wildcat Welcome - 5:00PM-7:00PM: Join us for Centreville High School’s annual back-to-school kick-off!   We invite students, families, and the Wildcat community to come out to enjoy performances provided by the marching band, cheerleaders, dance team, and more student groups. Learn all about athletic teams, clubs, and student organizations here at CVHS, purchase spirit wear, and grab a bite at the food trucks. This is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect as a community and kick off the 2026–27 school year together!

August 24 - First Day of School: We are excited to welcome our students back on Monday, August 24. Students will begin their day in ROAR, which is our Advisory Period. Students will be provided a paper copy of their schedule, since they will not be allowed to access their cell phones, and will be provided critical information about school operations and expectations. 

September 2 - Back to School Night: We’re excited to invite you to Centreville’s Back to School Night on Wednesday, September 2 starting at 7:00PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet your child’s teachers, learn about classroom expectations, and see how we can work together for a successful school year.


Important Information from FCPS

Updated Cellphone Policy: No Phones or Devices During Lunch for High School Students: Senate Bill 108 is a new Virginia law that went into effect on July 1. It requires that all schools in the state follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy and prohibit cellphone possession and use for the entire school day. The updated FCPS Cellphone Policy aligns with this law, which means high school students are no longer able to use cellphones, cellphone accessories, or smart devices (like smart glasses, earbuds, headsets, and other items connected to the phone) during lunchtime.

Across all grade levels, cellphones, cellphone accessories, and all smart devices must be off and personally stored for the duration of the school day. Watches that serve a dual purpose (like a smartwatch) must be off and personally stored for the duration of the school day, too. Personal devices that connect to a cellphone or cellphone accessory or operate as a smart device must also follow the FCPS Cellphone Policy.

This policy does not apply to school-issued devices. However, school-issued devices must be used in accordance with FCPS Regulation 6410, Acceptable Use Policy, which allows the use of school-issued devices for educational purposes. More details are available on the FCPS Cellphone Policy webpage.

Apply Today for Free and Reduced-Price Meals!: According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Studies show that students who eat both school breakfast and lunch tend to have healthier diets than those who don't participate in school meals. Families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost or at a reduced cost. This includes more than one-third of FCPS students. Families must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM) application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits. The application for FRM is now available for the 2026-27 school year. Students who were approved for FRM last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should reapply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost. Access the application and view criteria and up-to-date information on the FRM webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.

New ParentVUE Mobile App Launching July 28: On Tuesday, July 28, a new ParentVUE mobile app will become available in the Apple and Google app stores. This new app provides parents and caregivers with a more secure sign-in. The current “classic” app will remain active for about six months. Families must download the new app by December 2026 to ensure they have continued mobile access to their child’s school data. In the new app, families can enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) for FCPS Single Sign-On. While enrollment is optional, we strongly recommend that everyone enable this security feature. Learn more about installing the new ParentVUE app. Parents needing assistance should submit a Parent Support Request.

New Student ID Cards Coming This Fall: This fall, every FCPS student will receive a student identification (ID) card as part of a divisionwide effort to modernize school transportation, improve communication with families, and strengthen student safety while traveling to and from school. Every student who rides the school bus will need to tap on and tap off the bus every day using their new student ID card. Families can help by reinforcing this new habit with their child. All students at our school will need to wear their student ID cards throughout the school day. We will be handing out the new student ID cards the first few weeks of school. More details will be shared soon. Learn more about the new transportation system and student ID cards.

Back-to-School Immunization Requirements: Make sure your child has all of their required immunizations before the first day of school. Check their immunization records to see what they might be missing. You can:

  1. Request immunization records online through the Virginia Immunization Information System (a free service).
  2. If your child was immunized outside of Virginia, get records from those states’ systems.
  3. Request records from your health care provider. Some may charge for copies.

Review school-required immunizations to verify that your child is up to date. 

Required Immunizations for Rising 12th Graders: Several immunizations are required for students entering 2th grades. 

  • All students entering 12th grade are to receive two doses of Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school. 
    • To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, one dose must be administered at age 16 or older.

As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time. 

Where to Receive Immunizations: If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your family’s healthcare provider or one of the following immunization events. 

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, with no out-of-pocket costs. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations. Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary.

If you do not have a healthcare provider, visit a Health Department clinic. Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) clinics offer immunizations to all Fairfax County students, as well as those who are behind on their scheduled immunizations or need a booster. 

Summer back-to-school immunization clinics are also available. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome. FCHD offers limited walk-in hours for immunization services on a first-come, first-served basis. Immunizations are also available by appointment.

Inova Cares Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs provide children ages 5 and up with free school physicals and immunizations. Weekend clinics are available in July and August. These health fairs are for VA Medicaid or Uninsured Inova registered patients only. Appointments are required. Call 703-698-2550 to make an appointment. Bring vaccine records to the appointment.

Local immunization clinics and additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and from the FCHD.


Información importante

Política actualizada sobre teléfonos celulares: Prohibición de teléfonos o dispositivos durante el almuerzo para estudiantes de secundaria (high school): El Proyecto de Ley del Senado 108 es una nueva ley de Virginia que entró en vigor el 1 de julio. Esta ley exige que todas las escuelas del estado adopten una política de prohibición de teléfonos durante toda la jornada escolar (desde el primer hasta el último timbre) y prohíba la posesión y el uso de teléfonos celulares durante dicho horario. La política actualizada de FCPS sobre teléfonos celulares se ajusta a esta ley; esto significa que los estudiantes de secundaria ya no pueden utilizar teléfonos celulares, accesorios para teléfonos o dispositivos inteligentes (como gafas inteligentes, auriculares, cascos y otros artículos conectados al teléfono) durante la hora del almuerzo.

En todos los niveles escolares, los teléfonos celulares, los accesorios para teléfonos y todos los dispositivos inteligentes deben estar apagados y guardados personalmente por el estudiante durante toda la jornada escolar. Los relojes que cumplen una doble función (como los relojes inteligentes o *smartwatches*) también deben estar apagados y guardados personalmente durante la jornada escolar. Los dispositivos personales que se conectan a un teléfono celular o a un accesorio telefónico, o que funcionan como dispositivos inteligentes, también deben cumplir con la política de FCPS sobre teléfonos celulares.

Esta política no se aplica a los dispositivos proporcionados por la escuela. Sin embargo, dichos dispositivos deben utilizarse de conformidad con el Reglamento 6410 de FCPS (Política de Uso Aceptable), el cual permite su uso con fines educativos. Encontrará más detalles en la página web de la política de FCPS sobre teléfonos celulares.

¡Solicite hoy mismo las comidas escolares gratuitas o a precio reducido!: Según los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC), desayunar en la escuela se asocia con mejores tasas de asistencia, menos ausencias escolares y mejores resultados en los exámenes. Los estudios demuestran que los estudiantes que consumen tanto el desayuno como el almuerzo escolar tienden a llevar una alimentación más saludable que aquellos que no participan en los programas de comidas escolares. Las familias que reúnen los requisitos para el programa de comidas escolares gratuitas o a precio reducido pueden obtener el desayuno y el almuerzo para sus estudiantes sin costo alguno o a un precio rebajado. Esto abarca a más de un tercio de los estudiantes de FCPS. Las familias deben completar la solicitud para el programa de comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido (FRM, por sus siglas en inglés) antes del inicio de cada año escolar. Las solicitudes aprobadas también pueden hacer que los estudiantes sean elegibles para recibir beneficios adicionales. La solicitud para el programa FRM ya está disponible para el año escolar 2026-27. Los estudiantes que fueron aprobados para el programa FRM el año pasado mantienen su elegibilidad durante los primeros 30 días de clases de este año (o hasta que se procese una nueva solicitud). Se recomienda a las familias que vuelvan a solicitar el programa lo antes posible para que los estudiantes elegibles sigan recibiendo las comidas sin costo. Puede acceder a la solicitud, así como consultar los criterios y la información actualizada, en la página web del programa FRM. Las familias deben comunicarse con sus escuelas si tienen preguntas o necesitan ayuda.

Lanzamiento de la nueva aplicación móvil ParentVUE el 28 de julio: El martes 28 de julio, estará disponible una nueva aplicación móvil ParentVUE en las tiendas de aplicaciones de Apple y Google. Esta nueva aplicación ofrece a los padres y cuidadores un inicio de sesión más seguro. La aplicación "clásica" actual permanecerá activa durante unos seis meses. Las familias deben descargar la nueva aplicación antes de diciembre de 2026 para garantizar el acceso móvil continuo a los datos escolares de sus hijos. En la nueva aplicación, las familias pueden activar la autenticación de múltiples factores (MFA) para el inicio de sesión único (Single Sign-On) de FCPS. Aunque la activación es opcional, recomendamos encarecidamente que todos habiliten esta función de seguridad. Obtenga más información sobre cómo instalar la nueva aplicación ParentVUE. Los padres que necesiten ayuda deben enviar una solicitud de asistencia para padres (Parent Support Request).

Nuevas tarjetas de identificación estudiantil este otoño: Este otoño, todos los estudiantes de FCPS recibirán una tarjeta de identificación estudiantil como parte de una iniciativa a nivel de distrito para modernizar el transporte escolar, mejorar la comunicación con las familias y reforzar la seguridad de los estudiantes durante sus desplazamientos hacia y desde la escuela. Todos los estudiantes que utilicen el autobús escolar deberán registrar su entrada y salida del autobús cada día usando su nueva tarjeta de identificación. Las familias pueden colaborar reforzando este nuevo hábito con sus hijos. Todos los estudiantes de nuestra escuela deberán llevar puesta su tarjeta de identificación durante la jornada escolar. Distribuiremos las nuevas tarjetas de identificación durante las primeras semanas de clases. Pronto compartiremos más detalles. Obtenga más información sobre el nuevo sistema de transporte y las tarjetas de identificación estudiantil.

Requisitos de vacunación para el regreso a clases: Asegúrese de que su hijo tenga todas las vacunas requeridas antes del primer día de clases. Revise sus registros de vacunación para ver cuáles le podrían faltar. Usted puede:

Revise las vacunas requeridas por la escuela para verificar que su hijo esté al día.

Vacunas requeridas para estudiantes que pasarán a 12th grado: Se requieren varias vacunas para los estudiantes que ingresan a 12.º grado.

  • Todos los estudiantes que ingresan a 12.º grado deben recibir dos dosis de la vacuna contra el meningococo (MenACWY) antes del inicio de clases.
    • Para cumplir con el requisito de la vacuna MenACWY para 12.º grado, una de las dosis debe administrarse a los 16 años de edad o más.

Siempre que su hijo cumpla con los requisitos de edad indicados anteriormente, puede recibir las vacunas en cualquier momento.

Dónde vacunarse: Si su hijo necesita una vacuna, programe una cita con su proveedor de atención médica habitual o acuda a una de las siguientes jornadas de vacunación.

FCPS, en colaboración con Inspire Health Alliance, ofrecerá las vacunas requeridas por la escuela y vacunas opcionales contra la gripe para todos los estudiantes de FCPS de 18 años o menos, sin costo alguno para las familias. Se llevarán a cabo varias jornadas en sedes designadas de FCPS. Se anunciarán fechas adicionales a lo largo del año escolar. Los padres o tutores pueden consultar las próximas fechas y programar una cita para su estudiante. La participación es voluntaria.

Si no cuenta con un proveedor de atención médica, puede acudir a una clínica del Departamento de Salud. Las clínicas del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Fairfax (FCHD, por sus siglas en inglés) ofrecen vacunas a todos los estudiantes del condado de Fairfax, así como a aquellos que tengan vacunas pendientes del calendario oficial o necesiten una dosis de refuerzo.

También hay clínicas de vacunación disponibles durante el verano para la preparación del regreso a clases. Se recomienda programar cita, aunque también se atiende a personas sin cita previa. FCHD ofrece un horario limitado para la atención sin cita previa, atendiendo por orden de llegada. También es posible vacunarse mediante cita previa.

Las ferias de salud pediátrica "Back to School" (Regreso a clases) de Inova Cares ofrecen exámenes físicos escolares y vacunas gratuitos para niños a partir de los 5 años. Hay clínicas disponibles los fines de semana durante los meses de julio y agosto. Estas ferias de salud están dirigidas exclusivamente a pacientes registrados en Inova que cuentan con Medicaid de Virginia o que no tienen seguro médico. Es necesario programar cita; llame al 703-698-2550 para hacerlo. Recuerde llevar el registro de vacunación a la cita.

Puede encontrar información sobre clínicas de vacunación locales y recursos adicionales en la página web de recursos de vacunación de FCPS y a través del FCHD.


News from Student Services


Request PSAT and SAT School Day Testing Accommodations and Multilingual Support: FCPS high schools will give the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) to 10th and 11th graders on Wednesday, October 7. That same day, 12th graders will participate in SAT School Day. Because these exams are operated by the College Board, students do not automatically receive testing accommodations or multilingual support. Families can view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about College Board accommodations on the FCPS website. If you have a student with disabilities in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade this school year, please review the accommodations request process and return forms to the high school by Monday, August 3. If you have a multilingual learner (ML) in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade this school year, please review the ML support request process and return forms by Thursday, August 27, if you wish to request ML support for the October 2026 PSAT/NMSQT or SAT School Day. Find out more about SAT and