Department of Student Services

Upcoming Events

    The presentation slides from the April 18 Advanced High School Options information session are now available for viewing or download — AP programs, IB program, and TJHSST. High School contact information is within the presentations. Please contact your student’s counselor with any questions.

    Counselors will again be available to meet with parents and guardians after school hours as our next counselor late day will be Monday, May 7. Ms. Coling (8th grade) and Ms. Close (7th grade) will be available to meet with parents and guardians from 4:30-7 p.m. regardless of team.

    7th Grade parents and students are invited to attend a presentation on advanced high school programs for the Class of 2017 on Wednesday, April 18, from 2:45-4:15 in the LJMS Auditorium. Discussion will be about:

    • Advanced placement and honors courses at Falls Church, Oakton and Madison High Schools
    • The International Baccalaureate Program at Marshall High School
    • And Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
    A Panel Discussion will follow the presentations, allowing time for questions.

2011-2012 Staff

Ms. Linda Washco, Director of Student Services, 703.204.8122 (LDWashco@fcps.edu)
Ms. Christy Close, Phoenix, Superstars, Olympians, 703.204.8137 (CIClose@fcps.edu)
Ms. Shirley Coling, Griffins, Dynamos, LJ United, 703.204.8145 (SCColing@fcps.edu)
Ms. Melissa Johnson, Quasars, Galaxy, 703.204.8136 (MLJohnson1@fcps.edu)
Mr. Brian Tickle, Seekers, Survivors, 703.204.8124 (BRTickle@fcps.edu)
Ms. Ukindra Johnson, Psychologist, 703.204.8209 (ULJohnson@fcps.edu)
Mr. Michael McRae, Social Worker, 703.204.8144 (MBMcRae@fcps.edu)

Counselors are assigned to teams of students. The counselor is part of the instructional support staff for the students on each team. The primary goal of the student services program is to promote the academic, personal and social growth of all students. The program also provides career exploration opportunities for students. Counselors help build a foundation for learning by assisting students in the development of self awareness and respect, positive relationships with others, and skills to promote positive learning experiences. They meet with students individually or in small groups and present classroom guidance units. A recent classroom unit covered sexual harassment and bullying.

Counselors are available to schedule and facilitate parent conferences with the team of teachers and/or administrators. When requested or indicated, counselors will assist parents in making referrals within the school system or to community agencies. We are fortunate to have the services of a part-time psychologist and social worker.



Middle School Grading and Reporting 2011-2012

Fairfax County middle schools report student achievement regularly through parent contacts, the interim progress report and the quarterly progress report. Mailing dates for interim and progress reports are posted below. There might be minor adjustments during the year if schools are closed due to inclement weather.

  • Oct. 4: 1st quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Oct. 7: 1st quarter interims sent home with students.
  • Oct. 18: 1st quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Nov. 11: 1st quarter report cards mailed.
  • Nov. 29: 2nd quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Dec. 13: 2nd quarter interim electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Jan. 18: 2nd quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Feb. 3: 2nd quarter report cards mailed.
  • Feb. 22: 3rd quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Mar. 6: 3rd quarter interim electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Mar. 21: 3rd quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Apr. 13: 3rd quarter report cards mailed.
  • May 1: 4th quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • May 15: 4th quarter electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Jun. 5: 4th quarter interim electronic progress reports e-mailed.
  • Jun. 27: Final report card mailed.

Please be sure to note these dates so you can monitor your student’s progress throughout the year.



Mission Statement

The mission of the Luther Jackson Middle School counseling program is to support and encourage all students in a safe and nurturing environment. Professional school counselors will provide a data-driven comprehensive academic, personal/social and career counseling program that prepares students to become productive members of our global society. In collaboration with students, parents, staff and community members; school counselors will advocate for equity and access by empowering our diverse students to become lifelong learners.



Vision Statement

The Luther Jackson Middle School Counseling Program will empower all students to reach their full academic potential and successfully transition to high school while acquiring skills and knowledge to become productive citizens in a global society.