October 9, 2026
Happy Friday, Panthers!
This spring, we learned that Langston Hughes Middle School earned full accreditation by meeting Virginia’s operational and compliance standards.
Now, I’m elated to share even bigger news: The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has recognized LHMS as DISTINGUISHED—the highest category in the School Performance and Support Framework!
This recognition means our school is exceeding the state’s expectations in areas such as student achievement, growth, and readiness. It reflects the hard work and dedication of our students and staff, along with the unwavering support of you, our amazing families and community. We could not have done it without you. Thank you, Panther Families! We are proud of what we’ve accomplished together!
Our Fall Festival is just around the corner! Join us Wednesday, October 21, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. for Trunk or Treat, food, games, and a costume contest. Host a trunk with your family and friends by completing the Trunk or Treat Sign-Up. You can also support the event by donating through our Langston Hughes SCA Wishlist. Food and drinks are free! Come join the fun!
A reminder: There is no school for students on Monday, October 12. It is a teacher workday.
Have a GREAT weekend; you deserve it!
Principal Mizell
IMPORTANT DATES
Monday, October 12: Indigenous Peoples’ Day (student holiday)
Monday, October 19 to Friday, October 23: Book Fair in the LHMS Library
Wednesday, October 21: Fall Festival 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Wednesday, October 28 & Thursday, October 29: Picture Day
Friday, October 30: Last Day of the 1st Quarter (two-hour early release for students)
Monday, November 2 & Tuesday, November 3: No school for students
STUDENT SERVICES
October is National Bullying Prevention Month
This week, our LHMS counseling team facilitated bullying prevention lessons for all students. Panthers discussed the important role bystanders play and how each student’s choices can help prevent bullying. Through thoughtful conversations about real-life scenarios, students committed to taking action to build a safer, more welcoming school community.
We will continue celebrating unity on National Unity Day, Wednesday, October 21. We invite all students to wear orange as a symbol of our shared commitment: When Panthers unite, we all shine bright!
IMMUNIZATION EVETS FOR FCPS STUDENTS
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. Additional immunization resources are available.
TJHSST APPLICATIONS OPEN OCTOBER 5
 Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) Information
Applications for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology open Monday, October 5. Eighth graders who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2031 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST). The application will be available Monday, October 5, at 4 p.m. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, with a submission deadline of 4 p.m. Friday, October 30. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information, including a schedule of upcoming information sessions at middle schools. Please contact Karen Bach, TJHSST Liaison Counselor, with questions.
THE BOOK FAIR IS COMING SOON!
The LHMS Book Fair is back! The fair runs October 19 to October 23 from 7:30am to 3:00pm in the LHMS library. Hours will be extended until 7:00pm on October 21, during our Fall Fest. You will find a wide variety of middle grade and YA books, perfect for readers in grades 6-9. Please come enjoy and shop!
ADVANCED ACADEMIC PROGRAM REFERRALS
Fall Full-Time AAP Referral Window for Students New to FCPS Closes on October 15
The fall referral window is only for students in Grades 3-8 who are new to FCPS since January 1, 2026. Parents and guardians who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time Advanced Academic Program (AAP) services must submit the Full-Time AAP Referral Form to Liz Glynn, Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, at eglynn@fcps.edu by October 15, 2026. Late referrals will not be accepted.
For students who are not new to FCPS and have been enrolled, the spring Full-Time AAP identification window is open to students in Grades 2-7. Families interested in referring their student for consideration during the spring window must submit a referral by December 15, 2026.
Once a referral is received, our school will compile information related to the student. Then, a committee of trained professionals from across the county will review materials to determine eligibility for Full-Time AAP services.
AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM
HUGHES MIDDLE SCHOOL AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS: QUICK CHEAT SHEET
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