Strategic Plan Goal 3 in Action - Academic Growth and Excellence
Articles and videos that offer a look into how Goal 3 is being put into practice
Goal 3 - Vision in Action
In Fairfax County Public Schools, we focus on academic knowledge and success, while also nurturing curiosity and creativity in our students. Our vision is outlined in Goal 3 of the Strategic Plan: "Every student will acquire critical and creative thinking skills, meet/exceed high academic standards, and achieve their highest academic potential. "
This webpage features a collection of articles and videos that offer a look into how Goal 3 of our strategic plan—Academic Growth and Excellence—is being actively put into practice. Through these stories, you'll discover the inspiring initiatives, dedicated educators, and engaged students who are turning this vision into a reality.
Videos Showing Goal 3 in Action
Why Eighth Grade Algebra Matters
Taking algebra in the eighth grade can have a tremendous impact on student success. It's not just about solving equations, but about opening doors to a world of opportunities that can redefine a student's academic path.
Unlocking Reading Skills
Discover how an elementary school employs a science-based approach, including phonics, to supercharge students' reading. Strategic Plan Goal 3 (Academic Growth and Excellence) includes "students reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade."
School Innovation and Improvement (SIIP)
Every year, each school creates and follows a School Innovation and Improvement Plan (SIIP). These plans act as guides to help schools strive for excellence and continuous improvement. SIIP plans are located on individual school websites. Find a school website.
Student Mentors Share Their Love of Music
On Tuesdays after school, a group of middle and high school students volunteer their time and share their passion for classical music and art, while mentoring elementary students. Read story.
Coming Together to Help Those in Need
Students are using their ethical and global citizen Portrait of a Graduate skills to aid those who were affected by a recent devastating earthquake overseas. Students talked about how they were helping those in need, and why they should.
Articles Showing Goal 3 in Action
School Welcomes Honor Flight Veterans on 79th Anniversary of D-Day
On June 6, the 79th anniversary of D-Day, students from an FCPS middle school had the privilege of welcoming 95 Honor Flight veterans to the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. They presented the veterans with personalized cards, signs, and blankets. Read story.
Goal #3 Description - Academic Growth and Excellence
Goal 3 states "Every student will acquire critical and creative thinking skills, meet/exceed high academic standards, and achieve their highest academic potential."
Goal 3 is one of five goals in the strategic plan. The five goals are designed to drive positive change throughout our district. These goals indicate where we should focus our attention and help us align our efforts. Each goal includes an equity commitment and a set of measures that will be used to evaluate success.
Equity Commitment
We will utilize available evidence to provide access to challenging academic programs and necessary supports that celebrate each student’s humanity, growth, and attainment of high levels of academic performance.
Measures
A. Growth and performance in coursework (e.g., course grades, grade point average [GPA], meeting Individualized Education Program [IEP] goals, and language acquisition goals) (including students with 504s)
B. Growth and performance on state/national/international assessments in reading, math, social studies, and science
C. Successful completion of Algebra 1 by 8th Grade
D. Evidence of progression towards or successful completion of advanced coursework (e.g., Honors, Advanced Placement [AP], International Baccalaureate [IB], dual enrollment, Career and Technical Education [CTE], etc.)
E. Growth with evidence in at least one/two self-identified Portrait of a Graduate skills, annually
F. Students reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade
Questions?
Email us at [email protected].
