Stone Hill Middle School stands out as a vibrant learning community focused on student achievement, character growth, and inclusive educational opportunities. With a strong commitment to academic rigor and whole-child development, the 2024–2025 school year promises a well-balanced experience for both students and families. This comprehensive guide includes everything from academic dates and holidays to extracurriculars, policies, and parent engagement opportunities—all designed to ensure a smooth and enriching school year.
Academic Calendar Highlights for 2024–2025
First Day of School
The 2024–2025 academic year begins in late August, bringing together returning and new students eager to learn. Teachers use this day to establish routines, go over classroom expectations, and help students feel welcomed in their new environment.
Last Day of School
The year will conclude in mid-June, marking the end of the school journey with celebrations, recognitions, and emotional goodbyes. It’s a time for reflection and pride in accomplishments achieved throughout the year.
Grading Periods and Reports
Stone Hill Middle School follows a quarterly grading system. Students and parents receive:
- Mid-quarter progress reports
- Quarterly report cards
These updates provide essential feedback on academic performance and effort.
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Held in the fall and spring, these conferences encourage collaboration between families and educators. They offer a space to review grades, discuss strengths and weaknesses, and set goals for success.
Scheduled Breaks and Observed Holidays
Stone Hill Middle School follows the Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) calendar, which includes essential breaks and holidays.
Key Holidays Observed
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Break
- Winter Break (spanning Christmas and New Year’s)
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Presidents’ Day
- Spring Break
- Memorial Day
Purpose of Breaks
These breaks help prevent burnout, allow for quality family time and give educators periods for planning. They’re essential for maintaining both academic and emotional well-being.
Teacher Workdays and Planning Time
What Are Teacher Workdays?
On these days, students stay home while staff members engage in:
- Professional development
- Curriculum planning
- Grade-level collaboration
What Should Parents Know?
It’s important to arrange childcare on these non-instructional days. Workdays are announced well in advance through school communications.
Early Dismissal Days
Why Early Release Days Are Scheduled
These days give teachers valuable time for training, departmental meetings, or report card preparation. Students are released a few hours earlier than usual.
Family Planning Tip
Parents should arrange for earlier pickup or confirm after-school care. Advance reminders are provided by the school via email and weekly newsletters.
Student Activities and Enrichment Programs
Stone Hill Middle School believes learning extends beyond the classroom. A wide range of clubs, sports, and special programs are offered to support student development.
Extracurricular Clubs and Sports
- Robotics and STEM Clubs
- Art Club
- Music Ensembles and Band
- Student Council
- Drama/Theatre Group
- Interscholastic Sports Teams (track, basketball, soccer)
Annual School Events
- Back-to-School Bash
- Science and Technology Fair
- Talent Show
- Book Fair
- Career Exploration Day
These events build community, highlight student creativity, and make school life more enjoyable and memorable.
Technology and Digital Learning Tools
Stone Hill is a digitally-forward school, integrating technology to support and enhance instruction.
Technology in Use
- Interactive Smartboards
- Chromebooks for all students
- Schoology or Google Classroom
- Educational apps for math, reading, and writing
Digital Citizenship Training
Students are taught how to:
- Saely navigate online environments
- Use technology responsibly
- Avoid cyberbullying and protect personal data
Emergency Closures and Make-Up Days
Inclement Weather Policies
In cases of snow or emergencies, Stone Hill follows LCPS protocols. Notifications are issued via:
- School Messenger alerts (email/text)
- District and school websites
- Local news stations
Make-Up Days
If school is canceled, make-up days may be scheduled at the end of the year or on pre-assigned contingency dates to ensure compliance with instructional hour requirements.
Parental Engagement and School Communication
Parent Involvement Opportunities
Stone Hill actively promotes parent engagement through:
- PTSO (Parent Teacher Student Organization)
- Classroom volunteers
- Event support
- Chaperoning field trips
- Community nights and school forums
How the School Communicates
- Weekly email newsletters
- PTSO Facebook page
- Remind app for direct teacher messages
- School website updates
Business and Community Partnerships
Local organizations support school events, provide student incentives, and host guest speaker sessions to enrich learning.
School Policies and Expectations
Attendance Expectations
Consistent attendance is linked to student success. Parents must report absences promptly. Students are responsible for catching up on missed work.
Dress Code Guidelines
Clothing must be appropriate, free from offensive language or symbols, and suitable for classroom activities and PE participation.
Behavioral Standards
Stone Hill Middle School enforces high standards of behavior, emphasizing:
- Respect for peers and adults
- Academic integrity
- Positive decision-making
- A zero-tolerance policy for bullying or harassment
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2024–2025 school year begin?
Classes begin in late August. The official start date can be found on the Loudoun County Public Schools calendar.
Where can I find the full school calendar?
The complete calendar is posted on the Stone Hill Middle School and LCPS websites.
Are after-school programs offered?
Yes, a variety of enrichment programs and clubs are offered, ranging from STEM to drama and music. Some require registration at the beginning of the school year.
What is the school’s policy on emergency closures?
Parents will receive automatic alerts, and makeup days are built into the school calendar.
How can I get involved as a parent?
Join the PTSO, volunteer in events, attend parent forums, or help in school activities throughout the year.