Our Program
Our Graduates
Next Steps Beyond FCS
At FCS, we focus not just on where our students attend high school, but also the people they’ve become throughout their time with us. We hear from area schools that our students are strong writers, engaged discussion leaders, effective self-advocates, and thoughtful and positive community members. They bring enthusiasm and joy not just to their classrooms but also to their communities, and above all, they demonstrate a genuine curiosity about learning and school, and they care about their impact upon the world around them.
An Intentional High School Placement Process
FCS students and families benefit from our dedicated High School Placement Coordinator, who guides families towards the right-match schools while also facilitating the outplacement process, which begins in the spring of 7th grade. Our Placement Coordinator meets with every family to discuss desires and parameters and to provide deep insight into the tapestry of schools in the DC area and beyond. FCS’s placement office also manages the logistics of the application process, such as helping families track deadlines and submit materials, and prepares students for shadow days and interviews. The leadership and placement team advocate for students, writing letters on their behalf that share each individual’s unique attributes and skills, and Admissions Directors at area schools visit FCS for information sessions each fall.
FCS Alum, Class of 2025
I am very grateful for how much FCS has improved my public speaking and advocacy skills. These will be keys to my success and prosperity throughout high school.
A Glimpse into HS Placement
List of 7 items.
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Spring of 7th grade
Families participate in HS Information Night led by HS Placement Coordinator. -
Summer before 8th grade
Each family has a one-on-one meeting with our HS Placement Coordinator to begin developing a preliminary list of schools. -
Early Fall of 8th grade
Students meet one-on-one with HS placement and begin exploring prospective schools through Open Houses and admissions information sessions held at FCS. Students may also participate in a test prep course at FCS (optional), and receive coaching on their essay writing.
All 8th graders take a class called High School Seminar, the theme of which is "reflection": reflecting on themselves as individuals, envisioning their high school years, and thinking back on their time at FCS. -
Late fall and early winter
Students finalize their list of schools and submit their applications. During their HS Seminar, they identify and learn how to talk about their strengths, and practice interviews. -
Early spring of 8th grade
FCS provides guidance throughout the decision process, as students and families make their choice. Decisions are typically communicated to families in mid-to-late February, with enrollment deadlines in March. -
Late spring of 8th grade
During HS Seminar, students prepare for the transition to their next steps and craft their graduation "offerings," a written reflection upon a learning moment that is emblematic of their FCS experience. -
8th Grade Graduation
A celebration of growth and opportunity! Each graduate presents an "offering," a brief speech, to the community, during a thoughtful ceremony designed to honor the voice of each individual 8th grader.
Meet the Class of 2025
FCS graduates were accepted at the following high schools
and will attend those schools in bold:
*indicates 2 or more students accepted to Honors, STEM, or specialty pre-career programs
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