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SibTeen: Tuesday April 1, 2025 1-4 pm Jim Scott Community Center (3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax, VA)

A unique community-building group for siblings of children with disabilities in grades 6-9 to share about their lives and sibling experiences, receive peer support and engage in fun recreational and art-based activities.

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

 

Register here

Sibshops: Tuesday, April 1, 2025 1-4 pm Jim Scott Community Center (3001 Vaden Dr. Fairfax, VA)

For children in grades 2-6 who have a sibling with a disability to participate in fun community building games and discussion activities with other children who share in their sibling and family experiences.

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services

 

Register here

FCPS Family Resource Center
Web | Email: [email protected] | Phone: 703-204-3941

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Spring 2025

 

FCPS Wellness Newsletter Measles: It Isn't Just a Little Rash

What IS measles? 

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. In the past few months, more than 378 people in the United States have become ill with measles and two people have died. This includes a large and growing outbreak in Texas and New Mexico. In this outbreak, more than 19 of every 20 people who got measles were unvaccinated or did not know their vaccine status. Measles outbreaks also are common in other parts of the world.

How contagious is measles?

Measles is so contagious that if one person becomes infected, 9 out of 10 people close to that person who are unvaccinated or not immune will also become infected. It is spread easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. This can include on airplanes, in classrooms, stores, or other areas where people share space.

Is measles serious?

Measles can cause serious health issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that about 1 in 5 people who get measles end up in the hospital. Measles can cause severe complications like a lung infection (pneumonia), brain inflammation (encephalitis), and possibly death, even with medical care.

What are symptoms of measles?

Symptoms of measles typically include:

• High fever (may spike up to 104°F)

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Red, watery eyes

• A rash that appears around 3-5 days after other symptoms begin. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads down the body.

How can I prevent measles?

The best way to protect a child from measles is by getting the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective at preventing measles. The first dose of MMR is routinely given between 12-15 months of age, and the second dose is given at 4 to 6 years.

Can getting measles vaccine also protect my community?

The MMR vaccine not only protects you or your child, but it also helps protect others who cannot be vaccinated. If the measles virus comes into a community where 95% or more of people are vaccinated against it, it is unable to spread. This is called “community immunity” and helps protect infants who are too young to be vaccinated or people with weakened immune systems due to illness or medications.

International travel plans?

If you plan to travel abroad or to an area with a measles outbreak, check with your healthcare provider before leaving for your trip to ensure all travelers who are able to be vaccinated have been vaccinated. Infants 6 to 11 months old should receive 1 dose of measles vaccine before traveling. Children 12 months and older should receive 2 doses before traveling.

Am I fully vaccinated?

If you and/or your family members are unsure of your vaccination status, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if you or your loved ones need additional doses, including adults who may have been vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 with a vaccine that was not as effective as the current one. If you are from Virginia, you can also request your Virginia immunization records through the VDH Immunization Record Request form.

Does Your Child Have All Their Required Immunizations?

Students are required to have certain immunizations to attend school in Virginia. The General Registration Immunizations webpage has a list of the required immunizations. Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization are at risk of exclusion from school. 

Does your child have all of their required immunizations? Select an answer below and click the link to identify next steps and available supports.

• I don’t know
• Yes, and I DO have their immunization record 
• Yes, but I do NOT have their immunization record
• No, and I do NOT have an appointment scheduled to get them 
• No, but I DO have an appointment scheduled to get them
• No, but my child has a MEDICAL exemption
• No, but my child has a RELIGIOUS exemption 

Call your child’s school today if you need help completing the immunization requirements.

Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and Rising 12th Graders

Additional immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grade. 

• All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. 
• To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
• To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
• As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.
• All students entering 12th grade are to receive one dose of Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school. 

• To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 16 or older.  Note: a dose given prior to the age of 16 will not fulfill this requirement.

Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall.  Summer is a busy time for families and healthcare providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.

Eating Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and Support

What are eating disorders?

According to the American Psychiatric Association, eating disorders are behavioral conditions characterized by severe and persistent disturbance in eating behaviors and associated distressing thoughts and emotions.

Although there is no one cause for the disorder, several factors such as biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors can converge to develop a person’s predisposed vulnerability. Frequently, an eating disorder co-exists with an additional diagnosis such as, anxiety disorder, mood disorder, depression and/or substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, intensifying the eating disorder and impacting treatment.

Eating disorders can have a serious effect on health and affect every aspect of the person’s life. They are not identified based on weight changes as much as behaviors and attitudes.

Types of Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa: Characterized by self-starvation and weight loss resulting in low weight for height and age. Dieting behavior in anorexia nervosa is driven by an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat. This form of eating disorder has the highest mortality rate than any psychosis other than opioid addiction.

Bulimia Nervosa: Characterized by alternating dieting, or eating only low calorie “safe foods” with binge eating on “forbidden” high calorie foods. Binge behavior is usually secretive and associated with feelings of shame or embarrassment. 

Binge Eating Disorder: Characterized by episodes of binge eating in which the individual consumes large quantities of food in a brief period, experiences a sense of loss of control over their eating and are distressed by the binge behavior. Unlike bulimia nervosa however, they do not regularly use compensatory behaviors to get rid of the food by inducing vomiting, fasting, exercising or laxative misuse. 

Avoidant-Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): Characterized by a disturbance in eating, resulting in persistent failure to meet nutritional needs and extreme picky eating. 

Unspecified feeding or eating disorder: Characterized by eating disorders or disturbances of eating behavior that cause distress and impair family, social or work function but do not fit the other categories. The frequency of the behavior does not meet the diagnostic threshold or the weight criteria for the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa are not met.

For additional types of eating disorders, check the American Psychiatric Association.

Signs and Symptoms

Emotional/Behavioral:

• Preoccupied with weight, calories, fat grams, dieting, shape and appearance 
• Weight loss, dieting, body checking
• Hiding food or finding large amount of food gone, control of food 
• Food rituals/rules- eats only particular food groups, cuts food into small pieces, spreads food on plate
• Social withdrawal,  limits regular activities
• Extreme mood swings
• Uses mouthwash, mints or gum
• Frequent bathroom use after meals
• Frequently not hungry, skipping meals or avoiding mealtime

Physical:  

• Noticeable weight fluctuations
• Gastrointestinal complaints
• Dizziness 
• Difficulty concentrating, sleeping
• Issues with dental, skin, hair, and nail health
• Exercises excessively despite of energy level, weather conditions or illness

There are many health consequences resulting from eating disorders to include but not limited to: muscle loss, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, reflux, sore throat, tooth decay, type 2 diabetes, obesity, malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance, difficulty concentrating, and impairments in relationships.

Support

If you think your child is showing signs of a possible eating disorder, please contact your child’s healthcare provider.

Parents can also find additional information and resources below:

FCPS Eating Disorders webpage

Grace Holland Cozine Resource Center- NEDA

Home - F.E.A.S.T.

Eating Disorders - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information | Fairfax County Public Schools

Academy for Eating Disorders (AED)

Families Empowered and Supporting Treatment of Eating Disorders (F.E.A.S.T.)

National Eating Disorders Association, Toll free, confidential Helpline, 1-800-931-2237

Beyond the Gym: How FCPS Physical Education Shapes a Healthy Community

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, and it's the perfect chance to highlight how important physical activity, fitness, and sports are in our lives and community. Regular exercise plays a key role in keeping us healthy and feeling good. People of all ages are encouraged to adopt active lifestyles that bring them joy. This is a great opportunity to shine a light on the Fairfax County Public Schools K-12 Health and Physical Education programs (HPE), which guides our students and families to make lifelong healthy choices and grow into active adults and community members.

Fairfax County Public Schools recognizes that a well-rounded education extends beyond academics. HPE plays a crucial role in shaping the physical, mental, and social well-being of its students, laying the foundation for a healthy community.

FCPS's HPE curriculum is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead active and healthy lives. From elementary school fundamentals to high school fitness and wellness courses, the program emphasizes:

• Skill Development: Students learn fundamental movement skills, team sports, individual fitness activities, and lifelong physical activities.
• Health Literacy: The curriculum covers essential health topics, including nutrition, mental health, substance abuse prevention, and personal safety.
• Social and Emotional Learning: Students develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills through cooperative activities and team sports.

FCPS is committed to providing accessible and inclusive physical education for all students. Adapted physical education programs ensure that every student has the opportunity to participate and thrive. Many schools have implemented wellness initiatives that promote healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management. These initiatives often involve partnerships with community organizations and health professionals and families. By fostering a culture of health and wellness, FCPS is empowering individuals to lead active, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

*This article was written in collaboration with Gemini

Springtime Safety Tips

Spring is here! With warmer weather and longer days, it’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities. However, staying safe is just as important as having fun. Keep these essential safety tips in mind as you embrace the season.

Beware of Insects

With spring’s arrival, insects become more active. If you plan to spend time outdoors, wear appropriate insect repellent and protective clothing. Be cautious of stinging insects such as yellow jackets, wasps, hornets, honey bees, and fire ants. While these insects are not usually aggressive, they may sting if they feel threatened.

If you are stung:

• Leave the area immediately to avoid multiple stings.

• Remove the stinger by scraping it off with a fingernail or the edge of a credit card.

• Wash the affected area with soap and water and apply a cold compress.

• Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as chest tightness, difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, hoarseness, dizziness, nausea, or loss of consciousness.

• If you have a known insect allergy and are prescribed epinephrine, always carry your epinephrine device like an EpiPen® with you.

Stay Safe While Playing Sports

Springtime means outdoor sports are back in full swing. Protect yourself from injuries by wearing appropriate safety gear. Be aware of concussion symptoms, as they can result from head impacts.

Symptoms of a concussion include:

• Temporary loss of consciousness

• Headache or pressure in the head

• Confusion or feeling foggy

• Amnesia surrounding the event

• Dizziness

Some symptoms appear immediately, while others may be delayed. If you suspect a concussion, seek medical attention right away.

Bicycle Safety

Biking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but safety comes first:

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet.

• Parents should set an example by wearing helmets as well.

• Avoid biking at night for better visibility.

• Ride in the same direction as traffic and obey all traffic signs.

• Ensure your bicycle is in good working condition before heading out.

Hiking Safety

Hiking is a fantastic way to explore nature, but proper preparation is key:

• Wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

• Bring plenty of water and a small first-aid kit.

• Stick to marked trails to avoid getting lost.

Spring Cleaning Precautions

Spring brings blooming flowers and fresh grass, but it also means outdoor cleanup. When using tools or machinery, take the following precautions:

• Wear gloves, goggles, sturdy shoes, and long pants.

• Use hearing protection when operating loud equipment.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a fun and injury-free spring season. Stay safe and make the most of the great outdoors!

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/make-this-spring-a-safe-one

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/get-healthy-stay-safe-outside-in-spring

FCPS Wellness Reporting Begins

Beginning Tuesday, April 1, FCPS will implement annual wellness reporting, as required by FCPS Regulation 2100. Previous wellness reporting results for each school are available to the public and may be accessed on the FCPS Wellness Reporting Webpage.

On April 1, school principals will be asked to complete their wellness reporting tool for SY 24-25. The required reporting window will open on April 1 and close April 11, 2025.

Each school has identified a Wellness Committee, including a staff wellness liaison and two additional wellness team members. Wellness committee members may be asked by administrators to support wellness reporting in their school communities. Thank you, in advance, for your support of FCPS wellness reporting.

Every Kid Healthy Week — April 21-25

Every Kid Healthy Week is an annual observance to spread awareness regarding the health of children through nutrition, mental health, physical activity, and learning. Children who are healthy and active from a young age, grow up into healthy adults. Healthy kids are able to learn better and be more successful.

Daily health focus this year are highlighted below:

Whether at school or at home, events and activities should promote and reinforce healthy habits, good nutrition, emotional health, and physical activity.  For fun ideas and resources, please visit Action for Healthy Kids.

May 11-17 is Food Allergy Awareness Week

More than 33 million Americans live with food allergies, and nearly 6 million of those are under the age of 18. That’s 1 in every 13 children.  

A food allergy is an abnormal response by the immune system to a food protein. A food allergy is serious and can be life-threatening. The only way to prevent a food allergy is to avoid the food.

Ninety percent of all reactions are caused by the following foods: peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, fish, shellfish, sesame, and soy. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include hives, swelling, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and loss of consciousness. Symptoms can be severe and lead to an anaphylactic reaction which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

The following links provide tips and resources for managing food allergies and preventing life threatening emergencies:

• FARE- Food Allergy Research & Education
• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
• Allergic Living
• AAAAI- Just for Kids     

Understanding Cancer and Reducing Your Risk

Cancer develops when damaged cells multiply uncontrollably. Right now, your immune system is quietly eliminating potentially cancerous cells, protecting you without you even realizing it. Since nearly every cell in the body can become cancerous, there are hundreds of different types of cancer. In Virginia, the most common cancers include female breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer, according to the Virginia Department of Health.  

The good news is you can cut your cancer risk in half by making simple lifestyle changes and avoiding harmful environmental factors. Since cancer takes years to develop after exposure to risk factors, making healthier choices now can help prevent cancer later in life.

• Avoid tobacco smoke: Tobacco smoke contains more than 69 cancer causing chemicals. Once inhaled, these toxins spread through the bloodstream, damaging vital organs like the brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, bladder, colon, and more. Quitting tobacco smoke and avoiding exposure can dramatically reduce your risk.

• Limit alcohol consumption: When alcohol (ethanol) is broken down in the body, it produces acetaldehyde, a toxic cancer-causing chemical. Reducing alcohol intake or switching to lower-strength drinks can help lower your risk.

• Eat a plant-based diet: What you eat plays a major role in cancer prevention. Diets high in processed foods, saturated fats, and sugary beverages increase cancer risk. In contrast, a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and fish can help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases.

• Protect yourself from the sun: Nearly half of all diagnosed cancers are skin cancers. While moderate sun exposure helps produce vitamin D, excessive exposure increases skin cancer risk. Wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, and limit sun exposure to stay safe.

• Stay physically active: Regular movement is one of the best ways to lower cancer risk and improve overall health. Whether it’s walking, biking, dancing, or playing with family, every bit of physical activity counts.

• Prevent HPV-related cancers: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to several cancers, including cervical, anal, penile, vaginal, and head and neck cancers. Since HPV is sexually transmitted, practicing safer sex and avoiding high-risk behaviors can reduce your risk. HPV vaccination protects against some types of HPV infection. It is strongly recommended for young people to get vaccinated before becoming sexually active to achieve optimal immunity and lower the risk of HPV-related infections.

By making these small but powerful changes, you can take control of your health and significantly lower your chances of developing cancer. Start today — your future self will thank you.

Dr. Bernard Kwabi-Addo

Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology/Howard University College of Medicine

Secure Gun Storage: Protecting Our Children

A recent report, Guns Remain the Leading Cause of Death for Children and Teens from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, reveals a concerning reality: gun deaths are the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 17. Limiting access to firearms is a critical step in preventing these tragic deaths.

While gun ownership is a personal choice, secure firearm storage is a matter of public safety. Open conversations about safe storage with friends, family, and caregivers can enhance child safety. Be SMART provides valuable resources for navigating these important discussions.

Lock and Talk Virginia, a suicide prevention initiative, promotes conversations around mental wellness and the safe handling of lethal means, including firearms and medications. The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) offers locking medication boxes and trigger locks to community members. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or harm to others, help is available. Contact emergency services by visiting the nearest emergency room or calling the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health, emergency services at 703-573-5679, available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. You can also access free, 24/7 support through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling, texting, or chatting.  

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Town Hall with Fairfax County School Board Member Melanie Meren Monday, April 7, 7:00 – 8:30pm Louise Archer Elementary School 324 Nutley St NW, Vienna, VA 22180  

Join Melanie Meren for a conversation about the funding and status of your public schools, and the economic future of Fairfax County in these uncertain times.

 

Please register here.

 

A virtual option may be offered - please stay tuned.

Contact Staff Aide, Jacob Harrer, at [email protected], with any questions or difficulties registering.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Melanie K. Meren |  Phone: 571-423-1082 | Facebook

Staff Aide: Jacob Harrer | 571-310-9539

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Members of the Science Fair team — (from left) Brian Schwenk, Leigh Kelly, Liz Keyes, Michelle Gilligan, Lauren Keninitz, and Ann Wong — pose for a photo during registration at Robinson Secondary School. The 70th Annual Regional Science and Engineering Fair was held March 21-23.

⏰ Coming Soon: School Start Times Survey for All Staff and Families

Last year, FCPS held community forums and surveyed middle school families regarding middle school start times

Now, we would like to hear from all staff and families on the possibility of adjusting school start times across the division! The goal remains to begin middle school at 8 a.m. or later at the start of the 2026-27 school year.

On April 1, a survey link will be sent by email to staff, parents/caregivers and students in grades 5-12. The confidential survey will be open for two weeks and will be available in multiple languages.

☎️ Add Your Emergency Contacts in UConnect

Emergency contacts are often kept on file at local worksites, but we encourage staff to add their emergency contacts in UConnect as a way to centrally access this information in an emergency.

Simply log in, then in the sidebar click Personal Information > Emergency Contact > Add. Complete the form with required fields, then click update. Visit the FCPS UConnect info page for help logging in.

Voluntary Transfer Window for Instructional Staff Closes April 4

The voluntary transfer window opened on February 10 and will close on Friday, April 4. Instructional staff may continue to schedule interviews with other FCPS schools and accept transfer offers to a different work location until that date. 

Find additional details about the Instructional Employees’ Voluntary Transfer Window on the Hub.

🌞 Summer Learning Employment Opportunities

Instructional Services is excited to announce the 2025 Summer Learning programs. Employees are invited to apply for positions of interest. Opportunities are available for both special education and general education teachers at all levels. 

Updated employment opportunities are being posted this week on the Summer Learning Employment Opportunities page.

☀️ Save the Date for the FCPS Summer Extravaganza

Discover summer learning and activities available in Fairfax County! 

Attend the FCPS Summer Extravaganza on Saturday, May 10, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School and get a jump on summer learning. At this free event, participants can engage in educational and enrichment activities designed to inspire curiosity and growth. 

Activities will include student performances, story time, a moon bounce, and face painting. An FCPS Student Program Marketplace will feature student-made goods for sale. Proceeds will support the students’ programs. 

For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.

Family Services Specialist Gives Voice to Children and Families

Alyce Pope has been involved with FCPS’ Head Start program for more than 40 years. At first she was a parent of a student in the Higher Horizons Head Start program. Then she worked as a classroom assistant and administrative assistant. Now she works with families to encourage them to enroll in the program. 

As a result of her dedication to her job, Alyce was named a finalist for the National Education Association (NEA) Education Support Professional (ESP) of the Year award. The award honors an NEA member who demonstrates outstanding accomplishments and whose achievements reflect the vital role ESPs play in public education.

Read more about Alyce and how advocating for public education runs in her DNA.

🌍 Justice Teacher Named Global Educator of the Year

Kirsten Salonga was named the 2025 AFS-USA Global Educator of the Year. Kirsten is a biology and environmental science for multilingual learners teacher and science department chair at Justice High School.

The Global Educator Award recognizes educators who have demonstrated excellence in integrating cultural diversity, global competence, and internationalized concepts into their instruction with the aim of cultivating active global citizens. Read more about Kirsten's award.

Virginia Finalists for Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Kirsten Salonga and John Mika (pictured), a mathematics teacher at Hayfield Secondary School, have been named Virginia’s finalists for the 2025 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The award — regarded as the nation’s top honor for K-12 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teachers — recognizes educators who have both deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas. 

🏆 Twain Teacher Awarded FCPS CARES of the Quarter

In her Weekly Reflections, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid shared her experience bestowing the latest FCPS CARES of the Quarter award at Twain Middle School. This recognition, which highlights the contributions of an especially impactful FCPS CARES recipient, is made possible by a partnership between Educate Fairfax and our employee recognition team. 

Vivian Beck, crisis resource teacher for Twain Middle School and its Comprehensive Services Site program, was nominated for FCPS CARES for “caring for all students and the extra love and care for those who have not yet experienced success.”

Vivian directs Twain’s student mentoring program and instructs a life skills class she created that’s tailored to students with emotional disabilities. She also created the Hype Cafe, a student-run business that sells hot beverages and baked goods to staff and faculty twice weekly, in order to help teach students management and service skills.

Read more about Dr. Reid’s activities across the division in her Weekly Reflections.

Celebrating our Athletic Trainers

March is National Athletic Training Month. FCPS athletic trainers are nationally certified and state licensed medical professionals. They dedicate themselves to promoting the health and safety of our athletes before, during, and after practices and competitions. 

In the 2023-24 school year, FCPS athletic trainers: 

• documented 22,648 injuries (includes sprains, strains, fractures, cuts/scrapes, bumps, and bruises).
• had 88,756 encounters with 9,808 individual students.
• provided 197,229 therapeutic treatments (e.g. strengthening/conditioning, range of motion, therapeutic modalities, and wound care). 

Read more about some of our athletic trainers who were recognized at the local and national level this year, including Heather Murphy from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, featured in this video.

📚 Learn About Tech Tools for Reading

Learn more about the connection between universal design for learning (UDL), inclusive practices, technology, and accessibility in Part 2 of a lunch and learn series called Easy Tech, Big Impact. Three sessions are being offered on Friday, April 4, and Monday, April 7.  

Join one of these virtual sessions while you enjoy your lunch for a bite-sized learning experience. Explore simple yet powerful tech tools educators can use to build customized supports to enhance inclusive reading opportunities for all learners. 

Featured tools include Gemini AI and TextHelp Read&Write. Educators can add the Read&Write extension and get a free educator account prior to the session using their FCPS Google account.

Register now in MyPDE. Rachel Connelly, assistive technology coach, and Mollie Kropp, educational specialist, accessibility, will present the session.

Learn How to Become a Fully Licensed Special Education Teacher during an FCPS/GMU Virtual Info Session

Whether you’re a teacher trainee working toward your special education provisional license or a recently provisionally licensed teacher, FCPS has an exciting opportunity for you!

Join a virtual information session on Tuesday, April 1, at 1 p.m., to learn about the Special Education Cohorts offered in partnership with George Mason University. Mason has special education programs available for those looking to become fully licensed in the following areas: 

• Students Accessing the General Curriculum
• Adapted Curriculum
• Special Education Early Childhood

Also, learn about cost saving options such as the Grow Your Own program, which provides a supportive and affordable path to completing a master’s degree and special education licensure.  

Register to receive the session link and discover how the FCPS Grow Your Own Pathway can help you achieve your professional goals. Contact the FCPS Teacher Pathways Program with any questions at [email protected].

Great Beginnings Quarterly Learning Series Registration Open 

The Great Beginnings Quarterly Learning Series for quarters 3 and 4 will be offered Monday, March 24, to Thursday, April 10. While it is designed for new educators, it is open to any interested educator.  

Session topics include:

• FCPS AI Tools: Your Thought Partner for Efficiency and Instructional Planning
• Navigating Special Education Resources on the Employee Hub
• Performance Matters: The Critical Guide to Ensuring Your Test Will Work
• Tackling Time Management
• UDL: Utilizing Traditional Schoology Tools to Support Action and Expression

All sessions will be presented on Zoom from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m.

View the session catalogue, which includes session titles, intended audiences, Zoom links, and registration links. Participants can register for one session each day. Contact Jenna Reeder, educational specialist, with any questions.

FCPS Retirement Ceremony Scheduled for April 30

After years of hard work and dedication, FCPS celebrates our retirees’ careers, legacies, and accomplishments at our annual retirement ceremony, We Honor You — Celebrating Your Service to FCPS. This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, April 30, at 5:30 p.m., at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. 

Those planning to retire should submit their Notification of Resignation-Retirement form (HR-2) as soon as possible. Invitations are being sent to those retiring before December 31, 2025. The deadline to RSVP for the ceremony is April 7. Please email questions to [email protected].

🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Quarter End, Eid al-Fitr, and Teacher Workday

Friday, March 28, is the last day of the third quarter. It is a full day of school. 

All FCPS schools and offices are closed on Monday, March 31, for Eid al-Fitr. Tuesday, April 1, is a student holiday and teacher workday.

Remaining Professional Workdays

As a reminder, Tuesday, April 1, is a designated teacher workday. Please note that this is not a work-from-alternate-location day. All scheduled staff who work that day are expected to report to their assigned work locations.

We encourage everyone to review the employee calendar for the designations of all remaining professional workdays. Here's a quick overview:

• Thursday, June 12: Staff Development Day
• Friday, June 13: School Planning Day
• Monday, June 16, and Tuesday, June 17*: teacher workdays (option to work from an alternate location.)

*195-day teacher-scale personnel had the option to work from an alternate location on August 9, 2024, in lieu of working on Tuesday, June 17. For those teachers who exercised that option and worked on August 9, 2024, their final contract day would be Monday, June 16. For those that did not work on August 9, 2024, they will work on Tuesday, June 17.

🌷 Spring Break

Monday, April 14, to Friday, April 18, is spring break. Schools and school offices will be closed. 

See the complete school year calendar or the employee calendar.

School Board Meeting Thursday, March 27, at 7 p.m.

The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Thursday, March 27, at 7 p.m., at Jackson Middle School. Topics on the agenda include:

• Updated Policy 2625, Physical Restraint and Seclusion
• Security Vestibules Project – Phase 2
• Awarding of Contracts

View the complete agenda. Find out how to watch and participate in School Board meetings.

Nominate a Colleague for the County’s Highest Honor

Nominate an FCPS employee or a Fairfax County employee for the A. Heath Onthank Award. Nominations are due Friday, April 4. Visit the A. Heath Onthank Award webpage for the nomination form and more information.

Staff Staples

• Calendars
• Classifieds
• Employee Wellness Program
• FCPS CARES
• Human Resources
• Job Openings
• People on the Move
• Savings for Staff

Note: Some links in this email require a connection to the FCPS network. If you have any questions, please visit the FCPS Tech Support Portal to search for self help articles or submit a ticket.

Submit an Employee News request. Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Thank you! 

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Please join me for a town hall with Delegate Laura Jane Cohen (HD-15), Delegate Mark Sickles (HD-17), and Vice Chair and Springfield District School Board Representative Sandy Anderson today, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. in Irving Middle School’s Barker Hall/auditorium. The delegates will discuss the 2025 General Assembly Session and their upcoming reconvene session. As the Vice-Chair of Appropriations, Delegate Sickles will give an update on the legislative budget negotiations. Hope to see you there!

Yours very truly,

 

Rachna Sizemore Heizer

Braddock District School Board Member

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Rachna Sizemore Heizer  |  Phone: 571-423-1088

Staff Aide: Bill Farrar, 571-423-1076

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English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Please join me for a town hall with Delegate Laura Jane Cohen (HD-15), Delegate Mark Sickles (HD-17), and Vice Chair and Springfield District School Board Representative Sandy Anderson tomorrow, Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. in Irving Middle School’s Barker Hall/auditorium. The delegates will discuss the 2025 General Assembly Session and their upcoming reconvene session. As the Vice-Chair of Appropriations, Delegate Sickles will give an update on the legislative budget negotiations. Hope to see you there!

Yours very truly,

 

Rachna Sizemore Heizer

Braddock District School Board Member

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Rachna Sizemore Heizer  |  Phone: 571-423-1088

Staff Aide: Bill Farrar, 571-423-1076

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية  | فارسی | اردو

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Dear Dranesville Families:

I am so appreciative of our families’ and community’s ongoing support and dedication to our public schools. Over the last several weeks, we have celebrated many of our staff with appreciation days and weeks: social workers, custodians, food and nutrition staff, bus drivers and attendants, SROs, and crossing guards. I am so grateful for the work they all do every day for our students and families!

Given the number of changes and current uncertainty in the DMV, especially for government workers, please keep in mind that FCPS has a plethora of resources to support students. We have free counseling for high schoolers through Hazel Health, and each of our schools have family liaisons, counselors, social workers, and psychologists to help your students and family. The FCPS Family Resource Center also provides counseling and other resources. The Fairfax County Community Services Board Fairfax provides mental health services and resources, for crises and ongoing stresses. Finally, the county’s Public Assistance and Employment Services Office provides assistance for food, medical, childcare, employment, pet, and other financial services.

Thank you to those of you who have reached out regarding the FY 26 Fairfax County Public Schools Advertised budget. Most of your inquiries, comments, and concerns have been related to the Middle School Afterschool Specialist Positions. I am very grateful for your continued advocacy for these essential personnel. I also need you to know that this position sits in the Fairfax County budget and not in the FCPS budget. At present, Fairfax County is planning to cut this position along with a few other essential positions that support our schools. If you have not already done so, please share your advocacy on the importance of the middle school after school programs with the BOS. The Budget Town Halls are a good opportunity for you to share your advocacy on the budget including saving MS after school programs, HS crossing guards, school nurses, and other Fairfax County budget cuts that affect our students. The Dranesville Budget Town Halls with Supervisor Bierman are on March 28 and April 2.

Hope to see you at a Dranesville school theater production, concert, or enjoying the spring weather at a middle school or high school sporting event.

Regards,

Robyn

In this newsletter,

• Updates
• School and Student News
• Opportunities
• Events

My visit to McLean HS's AP Capstone Presntations

Calendar Reminders

March 28: End of 3rd Quarter

March 31: Eid al-Fitr, FCPS holiday

April 1: Teacher Workday, Student holiday

April 14-18: Spring Break, No School

FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar

FCPS 2025-2026 School Year Calendar

Updates School Board Updates FY26 Budget Information

Developing a Strong Academic Foundation, Curiosity, and Joy for Learning

The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. A strong start for every student is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan. Pre-K classrooms are making a difference in our community. In this video, we explore the importance of bringing children under the age of five together, regardless of abilities.

Share Your Input on the FCPS and County Budget

Dranesville Budget Town Halls with Supervisor Bierman:

• March 28, 6pm at McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean)
• April 2, 7pm at Herndon High (700 Bennett St., Herndon)

Here are a few ways to share your direct advocacy with the BOS:

• Email [email protected].
• Take the FY26 Budget Survey 
• BOS Budget Public Hearings on April 22- 24

Share your advocacy with the School Board:

• FY26 Budget Public Hearing May 13, 6 p.m. at Luther Jackson MS
  • I'll share the sign up in my next newsletter

FY26 Budget Timeline:

April 22: FCPS Budget Presentation to Board of Supervisors

April 22 – 24: BOS Conducts Public Hearings on Budget

May 2: BOS Budget Pre-Markup

May 6: BOS Budget Markup, Determine Budget Package, and Tax Rates

May 8: Approved BOS Budget Presented to School Board

May 13: BOS Adopts Budget, Tax Rates, and Transfer to FCPS

May 13: School Board Budget Public Hearing (May 14 if needed)

May 20: School Board Budget Work Session 

May 22: School Board Adopts FCPS Approved Budget

July 1: Fiscal Year  2026 Begins

March 13- Key Regular Meeting Votes

Coates Elementary School Boundary Study Scope

The School Board voted to approve the scope for the boundary study to include the following schools: Coates ES, Aldrin ES, Armstrong ES, Clearview ES, Dranesville ES, Dogwood ES, Fox Mill ES, Herndon ES, Hutchison ES, Lake Anne ES, Lees Corner ES, McNair ES, McNair Upper ES, Oak Hill ES, Terraset ES, and the AAP boundaries for Clearview ES, Forest Edge ES, Hunters Woods ES, McNair ES, Oak Hill ES, and Sunrise Valley ES.

Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study Scope

The School Board voted to approve the scope for the boundary study to include the following schools: Parklawn ES, Annandale Terrace ES, Bailey’s ES, Bailey’s Upper ES, Beech Tree ES, Belvedere ES, Braddock ES, Bren Mar Park ES, Columbia ES, Glen Forest ES, Mason Crest ES, Sleepy Hollow ES, North Springfield ES, Weyanoke ES, and the AAP boundaries for Canterbury Woods ES and Belvedere ES.

Strategic Governance Manual Edits

The School Board voted to approve the edits to the Community Advisory Committee Operating Manual, Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710.

Watch the full meeting.

McLean HS Stadium Sports Lighting Replacement

The School Board approved a $371,749.00 contract for stadium sports lighting replacement for the track and field at McLean High School.

March 13- Academic Matters: Equipping Students for Success After High School

In the Academic Matters section of the meeting, Dr. Reid spoke about Career and Transition Services, which support students who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as they prepare for life after high school. In addition to learning about workplace and life readiness skills in the classroom, FCPS students can gain experience through real-world and work-based learning experiences with more than 50 business and community partners.

March 13- Strategic Plan update

During the Strategic Plan update portion of the meeting, Dr. Reid discussed Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity. She focused on the consistent availability of and accessibility to electives, extracurricular, co-curricular, and enrichment activities. 

Participation in out-of-classroom activities is linked to a number of positive outcomes, such as consistent attendance, academic achievement, and attending college. Outcomes also include increased self-esteem, mental health, and feelings of belonging; and decreased likelihood of risky behavior. 

Watch our video to learn about two new sports this year: girls wrestling and boys volleyball. All 25 FCPS high schools were able to add these sports, with 440 boys and 239 girls participating! These sports are in addition to high school winter cheer and middle school cross country and track and field.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

• Thursday, March 27, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
• Tuesday, April 8, 10:30 a.m. - All Day Work Session
• Thursday, April 10, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting

All times and topics subject to change.

How to watch meetings and sign up to speak

• Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99.
• Work Sessions and Regular Meetings are recorded and available here after the meeting on the School Board YouTube channel. 
• Watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, at FCPS en Español YouTube channel.
• Information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting or at Public Hearings.
• Latest schedule of School Board Meetings

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español

Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.

March Audit Buzz

In the March issue of the Audit Buzz, we provide an update on current engagements and an article on Understanding and Preventing Time Fraud in the Workplace; and our celebration the May Internal Audit Awareness Month. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on the OAG website.

FCPS Updates Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

• A 30-day warning period will begin on Wednesday, April 9.
• Citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

Necessary Immunizations

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia.

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

Comprehensive Boundary Review

The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Do you want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. 

Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting- 2/21

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met on February 21. As part of our commitment to transparency, we will continue to provide an update on the committee's work following each meeting. 

Key takeaways include:

• Welcome: Dr. Reid welcomed the group and reminded the committee that at the next meetings, the first two scenarios will be reviewed, including the evaluation of 6th grade in middle school, and a scenario that assumes all students attend the school that they are zoned to attend based on the current boundary.  
• Education Session: The committee received presentations from FCPS staff related to school programs, the student transfer policy, and student membership projections. 
• Community Feedback Data Review: Thru Consulting shared that summaries from virtual community meetings are available and reviewed how the summaries are organized.
• Closing

Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received. You may also learn about the Comprehensive Boundary Review and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter. 

FCPS Tipline

Fairfax County Public Schools' main goal is to keep students and staff safe at school.

As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tipline is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community.

If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is needed, please dial 911.

School administrators encourage students, staff, and community members to report school safety issues, such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft,  gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tipline users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

Kinder Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…

There’s an easy five-step process to register your child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events your school may host.   For additional information or to set up an appointment, please contact your school registrar.

Try Online Registration for New Students and Kindergarten Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process.  When registering, parents or caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account.

Apply for 2025-26 SY FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start TODAY

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.”

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30, 2025. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042. If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

Multilingual Parent Information Line in Eight Languages

Parents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.

FCPS Family Resource Center

A Supportive Hub for Families

The Fairfax County Public Schools Family Resource Center offers a variety of resources to help all families support their children's success in school. They provide free webinars and events, confidential consultations with professionals, and a lending library with over 10,000 resources. There are even resources specifically designed to help families of children with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Visit their website or call 703-204-3941 to learn more and get the support you need!

Family Resource Center Webinars- March and April

The Family Resource Center offers a variety of free webinars to help children and families succeed. Speakers are academic and FCPS experts.  

• 3/19- Supporting Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Teens

• 3/25- Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice – Exceptional (2e) Students

• 4/1- SIB Shops and Sib Teen
• 4/4- Understanding Executive Function Milestones, Challenges, & Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Adolescents in HS
• 4/11- Math Strategies for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities
• 4/22- Empowering Twice-exceptional (2e) Students to Understand the Role of Accommodations in Accessing Learning
• 4/25- The Role of Boundaries in Teen Development 

Hazel Health: Free Virtual Therapy for HS Students

Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.

Become Unskippable: Share the Facts

This week is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week. Talking with teens about the facts of fentanyl is a conversation you can’t skip. Learning about fentanyl gives teens a better understanding of the risks and effects of the drug.

Share these important facts with your child:

• Even half a fentanyl-laced pill can be fatal. Just a few salt-sized grains of fentanyl are enough to cause an overdose.
• More than half of local street pills contain a deadly dose of fentanyl. As of 2023, seven in 10 counterfeit pills in the U.S. contain enough fentanyl to cause a fatal overdose.
• Fentanyl is usually taken accidentally. Many people have no idea they’ve taken it until they overdose because you can’t see, smell, or taste it in pills and powders.
• Overdoses can happen in an instant. In as little as four minutes, the lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage and even death.

Learn more about how to have conversations with your child in a way that will make you Become Unskippable.

Opioid Awareness

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

• What can families do?
  • Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse.
    • More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
  • Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
  • Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs.
  • Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
  • Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use.
    • Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

My visit to Marshall HS vs. McLean HS Boys Varsity Basketball Game

Community Updates Fairfax County Health Department Measles Update

International travel plans for Spring Break?

If you plan to travel abroad or to an area with a measles outbreak, check with your healthcare provider before leaving for your trip to ensure all travelers who are able to be vaccinated have been vaccinated. Infants 6 to 11 months old should receive 1 dose of measles vaccine before traveling. Children 12 months and older should receive 2 doses before traveling.

Watch your health for 3 weeks after you return. Measles is highly contagious and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing.

Input on The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities’ Next State Plan

The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities is developing their next strategic plan. The plan will guide their work for five years. Your input, through attending town halls or taking a survey, will help them identify what to work on. They welcome input from people with developmental disabilities, their family members, and the people who serve them.  

Scott's Run Temporarily Closed

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is temporarily closed for emergency wastewater repairs to prevent potential overflows into the Potomac River. Closure includes all trails & parking areas. Work may take up to 8 weeks.

"Lights Out for Birds" Help Through May 31

Twice a year, billions of birds travel hundreds of miles between their winter and summer homes, mostly at night, using the stars to navigate. In Northern Virginia alone, an estimated 100 to 160 million birds migrate through our skies each spring and fall. As birds begin their migration this spring, the county is supporting the "Lights Out for Birds" campaign led by the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance. The alliance encourages residents and businesses to reduce excessive outdoor nighttime lighting from 11 p.m. through 6 a.m., March 15 to May 31 — the peak of spring bird migration.

Sign up for Your Elected Officials' Newsletters

You can find your elected officials by visiting My Neighborhood. Federal elected officials, such as Representative Connolly, Representative Beyer, Senator Kaine, and Senator Warner, offer newsletters and communications with up-to-date information.

Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter

Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.

Virginia Delegate Rip Sullivan

Please sign up for Delegate Rip Sullivan's informative newsletter to receive Virginia and Northern Virginia updates and information.

School and Student News Herndon HS Students Win Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge

Herndon HS Culinary Team winning 1st place with their lunch meal “Creamy Dreamy” Gnocchi Stew (Photos courtesy of Real Food for Kids)

Four Herndon High School students won the Real Food for Kids Culinary challenge — a competition where area students create delicious, healthy meals they would like to eat in their school lunchrooms. As part of the Herndon team’s prize, FCPS’ Office of Food and Nutrition Services will adapt and serve their recipe in lunchrooms across the division! 

Congratulations to our amazing students- Winnie O’Hanlon, Clarissa Dante, Syeda Fazeen Rizvi and Sidney Ide for their dedication and success. Let's celebrate their achievement and continue to support their culinary journey. Watch the team on Fox 5’s LION Lunch Hour.

2025 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County

Students from 27 Fairfax County public schools have been named recipients of the 2025 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, designed to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. The Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County began in 2006 as a way to encourage people to think more about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. Every year, the high schools in Fairfax County are asked to select one junior or senior, or a group of students, whose work has promoted peace. 

Congratulations to these Dranesville Students’ Schools:

• Herndon HS: Clarissa Dantes, Senior
• Langley HS: Anniyah Rizvi, Senior
• Marshall HS: Ghalia Sakly, Senior
• McLean HS: Bushra Ehikhamenor, Senior
• Mountain View HS: Julia Devera, Senior 
• Thomas Jefferson HSST: Send a Smile Club
• Yusra Wahidi, Claire Guo, Hasset Bekele, Maria Peralta, Marla Wisniewski, and Sahra Abrar
• Westfield HS: Westfield Unified Sports
• Caroline Elson, Lilly Wilson, Charlie Ewell, Blake Sanders, and Joey Wyatt

Winter 2024-25 VHSL Sports Champions

Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2024-25 winter sports season. This year, five teams and 36 individuals won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 championship in their respective sports, and five teams and 35 individuals were the state runners up. 

Congratulations to Langley HS and these Dranesville students:

• Champion:
  • Langley High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 200 Yard Medley Relay.
• Runners Up:
  • Langley High School, Boys Swim and Dive.
  • Hunter Zipperer, Langley High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 50 Yard Freestyle.  
  • Aaron Jia, McLean High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 500 Yard Freestyle.     

2025 First-Class Awards

My visit to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit

First-Class Awards are presented, at the 2025 FCPS Family Summit, each year to recognize and celebrate the efforts of educators, administrators, support staff, and students who demonstrate excellence in all facets of education related to disability.

Congratulations to the awardees who support Dranesville students:

• Elementary School
  • Kimberly O'Hara, Teacher Trainee, Coates ES
• Specialist
  • Sarah Espanol, Speech Language Pathologist, Marshall HS
• Specialty Program Staff
  • Theresa Piccolo, Special Education Teacher, Davis Career Center

2024-25 Fairfax County Reflections Winners

Congratulations to the following Dranesville students who earned Reflections Outstanding Interpretation Award (OI), Award of Excellence (AE) and Award of Merit (AM) at Fairfax County Council PTA! These awardees go on to the Virginia PTA level. View all the Reflections winners here.

• Dance Choreography:
  • Intermediate- Natasha Nesterova, Churchill Road ES PTA
  • Middle School-  Anna Qi, Longfellow MS PTA
  • High School- Kayla Chen, McLean HS PTSA
• Film Production:
  • Middle School- Erya Chai, Longfellow MS PTA
  • High School-  Luke Caldwell, TJHSST PTSA
• Literature:
  • High School- Verity Oh, McLean HS PTSA
• Music Composition:
  • Intermediate- Knox Kupets, Dranesville ES PTA
  • High School- Chloe Stuckey, Langley HS PTSA
• Photography:
  • Middle School- Dominick Choi, Great Falls ES
  • PTSA High School- Alyssa Sun, Langley HS PTSA
• Visual Arts:
  • High School- Chloe Jeong, McLean HS PTSA

VA Science Olympiad State Tournament- 3/29

Many Dranesville schools' Science Olympiad teams qualified for the March 29th Virginia Science Olympiad State Tournament at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville. Congratulations for qualifying and good luck!

Herndon High School

10 Reasons on What Makes Herndon HS Special

10. Herndon Students Shine on National Stage! "Brewing Independence" Impresses at Career Development Conference- Our Work Awareness and Transition (WAT) program's "Brewing Independence" coffee shop made a significant impact at the Division on Career Development and Transition Conference.

9. A Choral Collaboration: HHS Hosts Successful Pyramid Event- Herndon HS's choir fostered a vibrant musical community on Monday, October 28th, by hosting a pyramid event for choral students from Dranesville, Armstrong, Aldrin, and Herndon Elementary schools, and Herndon Middle School.

8. Herndon High Celebrates National Merit Semi-finalist and Commended Students- Herndon HS celebrated the academic achievements of Harold Kim, named a National Merit Semi-finalist, and Commended Students Maitlyn B., Ellen L., John R., Andrew T., and Sean W. 

7. Herndon High: Achieving Excellence, Building Futures- Herndon HS is proud to announce that we are fully accredited by the Virginia Department of Education, with scores in the GREEN for English, Math, and Science for the 2023-2024 school year. 

6. Beyond the Classroom: Stephanie Stewart's Excellence Recognized by FCPS- Herndon HS's Stephanie Stewart has been awarded the FCPS Excellence Award for her exceptional dedication to career mentoring.

5. FCPS Honors Herndon High Custodial Team as Staff of the Year-Custodial Staff of the Year was presented to Herndon HS in recognition for their hard work and dedication to the wellbeing of our students and faculty.

4. Herndon High is recognized as an AP Honor Roll school- The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. 

3. Herndon Band Program - Winter Concert- For those who might not have seen our winter band concert, it brings with it some wonderful traditions.

2. Herndon High's Theatre Arts, "MacBeth Apocalypse" Incredible Performance- The play Macbeth is riddled with superstition, witchcraft, supernatural occurrences, and premonitions. 

1. Herndon High Homecoming Brings Together Community, Staff, Students and Alumni for an Unforgettable Celebration- Herndon's Homecoming includes a week of spirit days and activities. Activities include a pep rally, powderpuff game, bonfire, parade, football game and dance, which culminates the week of activities.

Virginia History Region 5 Competition- Congratulations to Zain and Isaac for taking 1st place in the Group Exhibit at the Virginia History Day Region 5 competition! The title of their exhibit is "The Truman Doctrine and the Responsibility of the U.S.A. to Defend Global Democracy." They will represent HHS and region 5 at the Virginia History Day on April 27th in Richmond.

All- Virginia Choir- Congrats to students Henry Waldrop and Cara Ethington! Henry was chosen as first chair representative to All-Virginia Choir representing District XII. Cara was chosen as 2nd alternate. Go Hornets!!

McLean HS

Students Excel in North American Computational Linguistics Open Competition- Congratulations to sophomores Sarah Li and Allegra O'Grady for their performance in this year’s North American Computational Linguistics Open Competition. They ranked first and second place in Virginia in the open round and advanced to the invitational round.

USAMO Qualifiers- Congratulations to Kalan Warusa and Jeffrey Yin for qualifying for the USAMO competition. Both Kalan and Jeffrey excelled in the AMC 12 and AIME tests. Only approximately 250 students nationwide qualify to take this proof-based, 9-hour assessment based on their AMC 12 and AIME test scores.

Teams Excel at District & Regional Championships- Congratulations to our Gymnastics, Swim & Dive, Boys Basketball, and Quiz Bowl teams for their championship wins! Gymnastics, Boys Basketball, and Swim & Dive brought home District titles, and Quiz Bowl rocked it at Regionals! 

Quiz Bowl Takes 2nd in the State!- McLean's Quiz Bowl team finished second in the state! Congratulations on an outstanding season!

VHSL State Theatre Competition- Congratulations to the cast of At the Bottom of Lake Missoula for a great final performance at the VHSL State Competition. Special congratulations to Sam Carey for winning Outstanding Actor! Thank you to Director Phil Reid and Amber Smith for leading this production.

Longfellow MS

"Women in STEM" essay contest- Two students received recognition from the AAUW McLean Branch for the 2025 STEM Essay Contest:

• Claire Broderdorf, 7th Grade - Honorable Mention
• Yonatan Nikolich, 7th Grade - Honorable Mention

Colvin Run ES

Mr. Noel, a PE teacher, recently joined over 140 PE Professionals on Capitol Hill for SHAPE America’s SPEAK Out! Day. During this day, Mr. Noel met with members of Congress and their staff to advocate for the educational funding that helps to support Health and Physical Education programs across the state and country. Over the 15 years, these efforts have helped health and physical education be included in the definition of a well-rounded education, opening the door to receiving funds that support low income schools, professional development for all school employees and academic enrichment grants

Haycock ES

Congratulations to our many 6th grade students who will be progressing to the state competition for National History Day, and many thanks to the 6th grade team for their hard work in support of all our 6th grade students as they completed their amazing NHD research projects.

Herndon ES

Annual Career Day April 23rd- Each year we host an annual career day to present information for our future workforce! We always have a variety of participants representing all walks of life.  This is a school wide event with school, parent, and community participation. We are currently working on securing participants.  We’d LOVE to have you join us and represent your chosen career area. If you are interested in sharing your career, please email Ms. Bryant at [email protected] as soon as possible.

Kent Gardens ES

Chess Club Represents at Tournament- Kent Gardens ES represented and won first place in the K-5 State Champions and placed second in the K-8 Championship!  There were individual winners as well! 

Opportunities

Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

Attend a Spring FCPS Theater Production

• Herndon MS- Mathilda Jr.
• 3/27 7pm; 3/28 7pm; 3/29 2pm and 7pm
• Langley HS- Mouse Trap
• 4/24 7pm; 4/25 7pm; 4/26 7pm; 4/27 2:30pm
• TJHSST- Big Fish
• 4/25 7pm; 4/26 2pm, 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7:30pm
• Cooper MS- Curtains
• 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2 pm and 7pm
• McLean HS- Amelie
• 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 2pm
• Westfield HS- Sound of Music
• 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 1pm and 7pm; 5/4 1pm
• Herndon HS- Footloose
• 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 7pm
• Marshall HS- Anything Goes
• 5/2 7:30pm; 5/8 7:30pm; 5/9 7:30pm; 5/10 2pm and 7:30pm
• Longfellow MS- Cinderella
• 5/15 7pm; 5/16 7pm; 5/17 1pm and 7pm

1st Stage Theater- YES Pass

The Youth Engagement Subscription (YES Pass) is a FREE season subscription for all Fairfax County HS students- freshman year to one year after graduation.

The YES Pass includes:

• A free ticket to every show in our season!
• Invitations to all opening night parties
• Invitations to free professional workshops (such as Slice It Up)
• No-fee priority rescheduling

1st Stage Theater is a not-for-profit professional theatre located at 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, VA. Follow their directions on their website as they share they’re pretty sure that 1st Stage would win the award for most difficult-to-find theater.

Review Potential K-12 Mathematics Instructional Resources- ends March 21

FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources for middle and high school students in the 2025-26 school year and for elementary school students in the 2026-27 school year. The community is invited to review materials and provide comments. Access resources on the FCPS Mathematics webpage.

You may view hard copies of instructional materials on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., ending Friday, March 21, at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100. All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and the School Board before the board votes on the new curriculum in spring 2025.

Spring Great Falls Oak Grove Student Workdays

From the Great Falls Citizens Association- Do you enjoy being outside mulching and planting in a lovely mature oak grove in Great Falls while earning community service hours too? Then the Great Falls Oak Grove Workday is for you. Come and join fellow students and young folks to preserve this stately old oak grove and our all important pollinators too.

The dates and times are on the Fairfax County Volunteer Website. Use the "Volunteer Search" to find "Great Falls Grange Park Habitat Restoration" and sign up for the below dates: 

• Saturday, March 29, 9- 11:30 a.m.
• Saturday, April 26, 9- 11:30 a.m.
• Saturday, May 10, 9- 11:30 a.m.

Once volunteers sign up, our Grange IMA coordinator will send more details on what we will be doing, what they should bring with them, weather forecast, etc. 

2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest

The 2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest is open for submissions through March 23, 2025. Choose from nine categories, including the Young Nature Photographers category - open to ages 13-17!

Dr. Reid Community Conversations

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! A series of Community Conversations is being held across the school division. These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:

• Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School
• Tuesday, April 1, Lorton Station Elementary School
• Monday, April 7, Greenbriar West Elementary School
• Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School
• Wednesday, April 23, Mason Crest Elementary School

Events are open to all. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Click on the date to register for that event. Visit our webpage for other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Virginia Board for People with Disabilities YLA

The Youth Leadership Academy (YLA), is one of the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities flagship training programs. This year's YLA will be held at Virginia State University Monday, July 14 - Thursday, July 17, 2025. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, March 28, 2025. Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in becoming leaders in their school communities are strongly encouraged to apply as YLA delegates. Refer to the YLA Application - Virginia Board for People with Disabilities for additional details and to apply.

FC Redevelopment and Housing Authority Scholarship- due March 31

Apply for up to 10 scholarships for postsecondary education, including technical training. You must be a member of a household currently receiving assistance from the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority. 

NVSWCD College Scholarship- due April 1

Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from NVSWCD. This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. Apply by Tuesday, April 1.

FCCPTA Student Scholarship Applications - due April 1

FCCPTA Scholarships Applications are due by April 1st. The scholarships  are open to High School Seniors who were members (by Dec. 1, 2024) of PTSAs that are currently in “Good Standing” with FCCPTA/VAPTA. Scholarships are $500 for students continuing their education through an Academic, Technical, Fine Arts, or Special Education program.

Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools, Hunters Woods ES, Bailey’s Primary ES, and Bailey’s Upper ES, provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open through Friday, April 4. 

FCPS Prom Dress Shop Open Through April 6

Students from Centreville High School and the Fair Oaks Classroom on the Mall program has opened their annual Prom Dress Shop to help economically challenged students celebrate in style. The shop, which operates out of Centreville HS (6001 Union Mill Road, Clifton) has helped hundreds of area student, not just those from FCPS, students attend prom each spring by providing hundreds of dresses donated by Macy’s and community members and accessories at no cost to students.  

Youth Conservation Camp for HS Students

Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, a week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach 9th-12th graders more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals. NVSWCD offers financial assistance and nominates campers in this selective program. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply. Applications are due Sunday, April 20. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp and contact NVSWCD with questions.

2025 VSBA Essay Contest

The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education on July 25th. Submissions are open to FCPS high school students (grades 9-12) and closes May 5, 2025.  This year’s topic is: Champions for Impact. 

Earn Credit Toward Graduation This Summer

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 6. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. This is a self-directed course where students work independently. The course is available between Monday, June 23, and Friday, July 25. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, May 23. For more information, visit this Summer Learning page.

Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration is now open for FCPS summer camps and learning opportunities. Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration is open and ends Friday, June 6.

• Tech Adventure Camp is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM, culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas.

• CTE Summer Academy is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. 

• IFTA is a two- or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, Health and Physical Education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater.
• E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art.

Volunteer at Your local High School to Proctor

Our high schools are asking for parents/guardians to volunteer their time to help proctor so AP testing can run effectively and smoothly. Volunteers are not allowed to assist with an exam for an AP class their student(s) is currently taking. Read your high school's newsletter to learn how to volunteer.

Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge

Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and see how your everyday actions can make a big difference on the environment and your community’s well-being. During the challenge, you can track your efforts to make changes and invite friends, groups and other communities to join you in adopting changes. The app lists various climate solutions and shows how adopting simple actions in your daily life can positively affect the environment. 

Events

Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

2025 MPA Youth Art Show- Langley Pyramid

Join the McLean Project for the Arts' second part of our annual FCPS Youth Art Shows. Stop in for our Langley Pyramid exhibition (Opening Reception is March 20, 4:30-6 p.m.).Our galleries will be open for extended hours on March 23 from 1-4 p.m. MPA's galleries are open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with the Atrium Gallery open during all MCC open hours. 

Herndon HS 2nd Annual Yard Show- March 21

Get ready Herndon! SHADES of You is back! Join us for the 2nd Annual YARD SHOW. Last year was amazing, and we are doing it even bigger this year! 

• March 21, 7 - 9 p.m.
• Herndon HS Main Gym (700 Bennett St., Herndon)

FCPS Instructional Job Fair- March 22

We are looking for educators with a strong academic background and a passion for making a difference. To meet hiring needs in instructional areas, we are hosting a virtual job fair on Saturday, March 22, 2025, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. Networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from various FCPS schools will be available. 

Gen Z Navigators' College Hacks Workshop-  March 22

The College Hacks workshop will cover FAFSA Walkthrough: Do’s and Don’ts, Lesser-known Scholarship Programs, College Planning “Reality Check” Checklist, Alternative Pathways. Interested? Saturday, March 22, 9:30 am-12 p.m. In-person, Vienna Community Center (120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna)

23rd Annual Diva Central Dress Giveaway- 3/22

Diva Central is the Reston Community Center’s (RCC) annual prom and formal dress giveaway boutique event. This one-day shopping opportunity is open to all current middle and high school students in need of a formal dress, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. Everything is absolutely FREE! Each student may receive up to two dresses, one set of accessories, and one pair of shoes.

Fashion illustrator Theresa Kelly will be on-site offering free self-portraits from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There will also be free make & take crafts, door prizes and more! 

• Saturday, March 22: 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. 

• RCC Lake Anne (1609 Washington Plaza, Reston)

McLean Community Players: James and the Giant Peach

March 22, 23, 29 and 30 at Great Falls Grange (9818 VA-193, Great Falls). The performances run 75 minutes, with no intermission, and is for all ages. Visit the McLean Community Players website for more information.

Fiesta del Sol- March 22

Latin American and Caribbean Festival produced by the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., Mclean)- March 22, 5- 10 p.m. Taste sumptuous tapas, enjoy great live music and hear the sounds of Latin America and the Caribbean right here in McLean with renowned live bands, top notch chefs, and quality artisan exhibitors. Learn how to dance the salsa, meringue or cumbia from the best of dance instructors, free throughout the evening. 

70th Annual Regional Science Fair- March 23

The 70th Annual Regional Science Fair will take place at Robinson Secondary School (5035 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax) the weekend of March 21-23. The fair is open to the public on Sunday, March 23, 1-3 p.m., during the Open House. Community members are invited to see the project displays and congratulate our high school student participants. 

Fairfax County Spelling Bee- March 23

Root on Dranesville and FCPS student spelling bee champions competing to represent Fairfax County at the 100th Scripts National Spelling Bee May 6- 10.

• Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2- 6 p.m.
• Lake Braddock SS (9200 Burke Lake Rd., Burke)- Little Theatre, Entrance 14

Herndon's Kid's Trout Fishing Derby- March 29

March 28, 8 a.m.- 12 p.m.: Children age 2-15 and their families learn about fishing and experience a relaxing and successful day catching fish. Trout Unlimited will help clean and store your catch. Volunteers will be on hand to teach you how to bait, cast, hook, and cook your freshly caught dinner.

McLean Central Park Reopening- March 29

The Fairfax County Park Authority is celebrating the reopening of the McLean Central Park Playground, and you're invited! 

• Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.

  • McLean Central Park Pavillion-1468 Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean

Puzzle Palooza- March 30

Puzzle enthusiasts, get ready to shine! Puzzle-Palooza is back and better than ever. Form a team of up to 4 and compete to be the first to complete a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle. It's a race against time and other teams, with exciting prizes on the line! March 30, 2 - 4:30 p.m. at the Herndon Community Center

Spring Fest- April 5

Celebrate the changing of seasons with spring-themed arts and crafts, and entertainment. A free family event for all ages at the MCC (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) April 5, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.

"Stuart Little" The Alden's 2025 Youth Production- April 5 & 6

It’s the 80th anniversary of E.B. White’s beloved classic about a mouse named Stuart Little (Alden Theatre 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) who is born into an ordinary New York family. This one-hour version will see Stuart though adventures, life lessons and funny moments.

The Alden's yearly youth production features actors age 10-16 who live in McLean and are supported by theatre professionals including a director, stage manager, designers and technical staff.

Bands on the Run 5K- April 6

Join us for the 6th Annual Bands on the Run 5K & Fun Walk on April 6th, 8 a.m. at Langley High School (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean). Proceeds benefit the Cooper MS and Langley HS band programs. Bring the entire family to enjoy fitness, music, and fun!  

Northern Virginia Regional College Fair- April 9

Spring 2025 NVRCF – Admissions Events

• Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Eagle Bank Arena (4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax)

Author Michelle Icard- Turning Setbacks Into Success- April 23

Join the Safe Community Coalition on April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) for Turning Setbacks into Success: Helping Kids Thrive Through Challenges with author Michelle Icard. Based on her recent book, 8 Setbacks That Can Make a Child a Success, the talk helps parents know when to step in or step back as kids navigate challenges like friendship struggles, rule-breaking, and self-doubt.

Senator Warner's Service Academy Day- 4/26

Senator Mark Warner invites HS and MS students, their parents or caregivers, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025. The event will include a seated program that will provide a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes. Information will also be shared regarding application procedures for congressional nominations, medical requirements for the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and other military-related options that exist at higher education institutions in Virginia.

• April 26, 2025: 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
• Dodd Auditorium (1301 College Ave Fredericksburg, VA 22401)

See the Service Academy Day flyer for registration details We eagerly anticipate welcoming you and your families to an evening filled with inspiration and information!

Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2025 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Robyn Lady  |  Phone: 571-423-1087

Staff Aide: Wendy Biliter | Phone: 571-423-1068

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Greetings Braddock friends & neighbors!

As we finally head into spring, I hope to see you Out & About at community events, school plays, concerts, games, and fun spring festivals, farmers markets, and any place where live music might be heard!

I had the pleasure of attending opportunities to learn and connect with experts about ways to continually improve our schools. Along with my colleagues, I attended the South by Southwest Education (SXSW EDU)  conference and the FCPS Family Summit at South Lakes High School. SXSW EDU had a plethora of learning opportunities, with seminars about the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and how to encourage and support students to overcome a fear of failure in order to learn new things. Too often, the fear of failure stifles the ability to experiment and explore paths in order to embrace new ideas, try new things, and learn from failure as well as celebrate success. We learned about how to equip our students with the skills and knowledge to be successful in a world where many of their jobs do not yet exist. 

For many years, I have been a proponent of inclusive education - the research is clear on the benefits for all students, from better academic performance, long term outcomes, and a sense of wellbeing and belonging.  Meaningful inclusion - inclusion done right - was the focus of the conferences and the central message from the keynote speakers, Dr. Julie Causton and Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak. Dr. Causton and Dr. Pretti-Frontczak provided a thought-provoking, engaging, and humorous presentation and left us with many resources, including their slides. Please check their website and its many resources!  The “keynote” dropdown in the middle of the page links to the resources shared during the Family Summit  presentation. 

We are in the middle of the budget process - and it looks to be a tough budget year given the uncertain economic times. I appreciate the partnership with the board of supervisors as we work to fund important programs for our county. You can see below for more information on the budget timeline and process.

Many of you have reached out concerned about the proposed cuts to the middle school after school programs. The proposed Fairfax County budget for Fiscal Year 2025-26 could eliminate funding for the Middle School After-School (MSAS) program in all 27 Fairfax County middle schools, as well as all middle school Value In Prevention (VIP) Summer camp programs. The program is funded by Fairfax County, not Fairfax County Public Schools. The MSAS program is funded by the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) and administered by FCPS. FCPS provides late bus transportation four days a week to support this program.

These vital programs provide a safe, supervised learning environment for our children after the school day ends as well as for five weeks every summer. While Fairfax County is facing some tough budget choices amidst uncertain economic times, I hope they will find a path forward to continue to fund this program as it offers invaluable support to students.The MSAS provides a structured and enriching alternative to unsupervised time. Studies consistently demonstrate that students who participate in after-school programs like the MSAS experience numerous benefits, including:

• Improved Academic Performance:  After-school programs include academic support and enrichment opportunities, leading to better grades and test scores.
• Increased School Attendance:  Students involved in after-school activities are more likely to attend school regularly.
• Improved Behavior:  Structured after-school programs contribute to improved behavior.

We are also moving forward with the boundary review work. Thank you to all of those who participated in the community events and/or sent emails or filled out the survey. The consultant is working with the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee on the first set of draft scenarios, which will then be shared with the board and the public for feedback. See below for more information on the boundary review process. 

Finally, I know many families are hurting right now due to cuts in federal funding and loss of government, contracting or other related positions. Fairfax County is providing resources to those who need help so please take a look or forward the link below to someone you know who may need help.

The Fairfax County government has compiled resources for former federal employees, contractors, and anyone else affected by job loss. Services include tips on searching and preparing for a new job. Also, financial help is available for many Health and Human Service programs, taxes, and pet-related expenses

Thank you for everything you do to support FCPS students, teachers and staff, schools and communities, and please let me know how I can assist you at any time.

Yours very truly,

Rachna Sizemore Heizer
Braddock District School Board Member

Have something nice to say about an FCPS teacher or other staff? Share it with FCPS CARES.
he FCPS Family Resource Center offers a wealth of free resources including webinars and other events. Learn more.

IN THIS ISSUE …

• Focus on Braddock
• Music & Arts
• Neurodiversity News
• From the School Board
• FCPS News
• Out & About 
• Coming Up
• More Stuff Families Should Know

Focus on Braddock The Secret Garden: The Musical!

Come out to support local live theatre and Fairfax Villa Elementary School’s very own Shane Siegel in Prince William Little Theatre’s production of The Secret Garden: The Musical! Shane, a 6th grade student at the Villa, is playing the role of Colin Craven. The show runs through March 23 at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. Tickets and more info are available here.

 

 

Happy 20th Anniversary to RSS Choral Director

The Robinson Secondary School Chorus hosted a Gala Performance on Feb. 9 in honor of Choral Director Mike Horanski’s 20th anniversary. The Robinson Choir was joined by the Robinson Philharmonic to perform Carmina Burana in collaboration with the Vienna Choral Society at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The performance was attended by a packed house of parents, students, alums and friends of Robinson’s music department. The event was a "labor of love” led by Mike Horanski and Anne Rupert, Robinson Orchestra & Philharmonic Director. Congratulations, Mike, and thanks for all you do! More photos are here, and you can watch the full concert here.

Bruins Gymnasts Pull Off a FOURPEAT!

Congratulations to the Lake Braddock High School Gymnastics Team for an incredible accomplishment - a FOURPEAT of wins in this year's district, region and state championships! Senior Madi Bell, the reigning All-Met Gymnast of the Year, earned first place in all-around, beam and uneven bars. Go Bruins!

 Additionally, Josh Howat won the VHSL Boys Swim and Dive 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle! Way to go!

Lake Braddock’s High School Concert Bands received their 42nd consecutive Virginia Honor Band Award at the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director Association State Concert Band Assessment! They are the only band in the Commonwealth to earn this award every year since its inception. Way to go!

West Springfield’s Boys Indoor Track Team won the VHSL state championship in the 4x400 and 4x800 meter relays and Michael Murray won in pole vault! Congratulations!

Woodson High School Boys Basketball Team won the Occoquan Region title! In addition, the Science Olympiad Team won first place in the Nationals-Ready Regional tournament! Congratulations!

Music & Arts

As always, I urge you to support Braddock District high school music and drama programs. Here are links to upcoming shows and tickets.

• April 25, 26 and Mary 1-3: Hadestown Teen Edition at Fairfax High School. Tickets go on sale April 1.
• May 1-3: The Trojan Women at Lake Braddock High School.
• May 8-10: Into the Woods at West Springfield High School.
• May (dates TBA): The Little Prince at Lake Braddock Middle School.
• May (dates TBA): Everlasting at Robinson Secondary School.

Neurodiversity News

Sadly, neurodiverse kids hear much more about the challenges they experience than the good things they bring to the table. Learning to explore strengths with your child is a healthy activity for everyone involved. I love this mental health professional’s blog post about how to do that, and I especially loved this tip which speaks to me personally:

Some neurodivergent children have an exceptional eye for detail and a knack for spotting patterns others might overlook. These abilities often shine in areas like math, science, music, or even visual puzzles, where precision and insight are vital.

From the School Board Joint Budget Committee Meeting With Board of Supervisors and School Board

On Feb. 25 the School Board held a joint Budget Committee meeting with the Board of Supervisors in which the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Fairfax County and Fairfax County Public Schools Advertised Budgets were discussed. View the FY 2026 Fairfax County Advertised Budget presentation and the FY 2026 FCPS Advertised Budget presentation.

Watch the meeting.

Strategic Governance Manual Edits

The School Board voted to approve the edits to the Community Advisory Committee Operating Manual, Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710 at the March 13 regular meeting.

Watch the full meeting.

Proclamations

I was pleased to sponsor the Neurodiversity Affirmation Proclamation and also support these proclamations at the Board’s February 20 and March 13 regular meetings. 

• Custodian and Food and Nutrition Services Appreciation
• School Bus Driver, Bus Attendants, and Crossing Guard Appreciation
• Women’s History Month
• Disability Acceptance Month
• Bailey’s Upper Elementary 10th Anniversary
• Neurodiversity Affirmation Week
• Honoring Gerald W. (Gerry) Hyland

Upcoming Meeting Dates

• March 27, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
• April 1, 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee
• April 1, 3 p.m. - Governance Committee
• April 8, 10:30 a.m. - All Day Work Session
• April 10, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
• April 24, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting

How to Follow the Work of the School Board

• View this link for a comprehensive list of upcoming meetings and associated information.
• Click here for meeting logistics, agendas and handouts (to view the slides and materials, click on the particular agenda item, and scroll down to the bottom of the page).
• Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting or public hearing.

All Board and Committee meetings are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99, and are available to view later at the FCPS School Board YouTube page.

FCPS News Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

Warnings for drivers will begin on Wednesday, April 9. After a 30-day warning period, citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

CPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best

More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree. 

Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers. An excellent education requires excellent teachers. 

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

Key Takeaways from the Superintendent’s 2/21 Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met on Friday, February 21, at the Gatehouse Administration Center. As part of our commitment to transparency, we will continue to provide an update on the committee's work following each meeting. 

Key takeaways from Friday’s meeting include:

• Welcome: Dr. Reid welcomed the group and reminded the committee that at the next meetings, the first two scenarios will be reviewed, including the evaluation of 6th grade in middle school, and a scenario that assumes all students attend the school that they are zoned to attend based on the current boundary.  
• Education Session: The committee received presentations from FCPS staff related to school programs, the student transfer policy, and student membership projections. 
• Community Feedback Data Review: Thru Consulting shared that summaries from virtual community meetings are available and reviewed how the summaries are organized.
• Closing

Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received. You may also learn about the Comprehensive Boundary Review and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! This spring, a series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:

• Thursday, March 20, Cunningham Park Elementary School
• Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School
• Tuesday, April 1, Lorton Station Elementary School
• Monday, April 7, Greenbriar West Elementary School
• Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School
• Wednesday, April 23, Freedom Hill Elementary School

Events are open to all. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Click on the date to register for that event. Additional registration links will be shared in the near future and will be posted to our webpage along with other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

Review Potential K-12 Mathematics Instructional Resources

FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources for the 2025-26 (secondary) and 2026-27 (elementary) school years. The community is invited to review materials and provide comments. Access resources on the FCPS Mathematics webpage.

You may view hard copies of instructional materials on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, March 21, at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100.

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with the Fairfax County School Board members before the board votes in spring 2025.

Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042. If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

✨ The availability of pre-K programs to meet community need is part of FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 1: Strong Start.

Collective Bargaining in FCPS Benefits the Entire Community

Fairfax County Public Schools has engaged with employees in collective bargaining in pursuit of balance and fairness, which has always been a core driver of success at FCPS. 

Collective bargaining benefits the entire Fairfax community by reducing teacher turnover, improving the quality of education, and fostering strong school communities. High teacher turnover is expensive for school districts due to the costs of recruitment, hiring, and training new staff.

While fair compensation is a priority, unions also advocate for smaller class sizes, better resources, and policies that directly benefit students and families.

Collective bargaining will not result in the inability to address employee performance or to enact appropriate disciplinary action. Also, under state law, FCPS employees are not permitted to strike. 

Learn more about FCPS unions and collective bargaining. 

70th Annual Regional Science Fair

The 70th Annual Regional Science Fair will take place at Robinson Secondary School the weekend of March 21-23. 

The fair is open to the public on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 1-3 p.m., during the Open House. Community members are invited to see the project displays and congratulate our high school student participants.

Visit the science fair webpage for more information.

Out & About

In February I travelled to Austin, Texas, with some of my colleagues for the one-of-a-kind South-by-Southwest.EDU conference!

At the FCPS 2025 Family Summit on March 15 with School Board colleagues (l-r) Ilryong Moon (at-large), Robyn Lady (Dranesville), Marcia St. John-Cunning (Franconia).

With Mr. Moon at the Virginia State Championship for girls gymnastics! Congratulations to The Lake Braddock girls for a FOUR-peat and to Maddie Bell for winning the all around title!

Finally, here are some highlights from my recent visits to Frost Middle School, Kings Park Elementary School, Laurel Ridge Elementary School and Woodson High School. I enjoyed seeing the thoughtful presentations on the walls, including a touching memorial to the lost figure skaters who tragically died when American Airlines flight 5342 crashed with a U.S. Army helicopter at Reagan National Airport. I loved watching the learning in action and the enthusiasm of students and teachers alike.

Supporting physical activity as part of learning at Laurel Ridge elementary school.

The entryway to Carter G. Woodson high school, with the gorgeous mural of Carter G. Woodson.

I love this student’s ideas of what she would do if she was President of the United States. The ending is my favorite part.

A touching memorial to the victims of DC Flight 5342 and the Black Hawk helicopter crash.

Coming Up Hazel Health: Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.

More Stuff Families Should Know Become Unskippable: Practical Guidance for Talking With Teens About Fentanyl

Teens skip things that don't interest them, including lectures from their parents. But young people die from fentanyl overdoses in Fairfax County each year — so it's important to have short, impactful talks with your teen, whether or not you think they’re at risk.

As a parent or caregiver, you have the power to become “unskippable” and talk with your teen in a way they will listen. 

See our tips for talking with your teen about fentanyl and other difficult subjects. Watch this video to learn more about becoming unskippable. 

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

Fairfax County is experiencing very high levels of influenza (flu) illness. The Fairfax County Health Department reports that visits to emergency departments and urgent care centers for flu-like illness have increased, especially among children, and multiple flu outbreaks have occurred in our community and school settings. Read a letter from the health department. 

The health department suggests taking the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and other germs:    

• Cover coughs and sneezes. If you must be around others while ill, wearing a mask can help reduce spread.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available (with supervision for younger children).
• Clean frequently touched surfaces.

According to the health department, to help prevent or reduce the spread of illness it is important for individuals who are sick to stay home and away from others until symptoms improve and until they have been free of fever for at least 24 hours. Visit this Attendance webpage for guidance on when your child should go to school.

Learn More About How Your Child Feels at School

The Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener will be administered to students in grades 3-12 in March. Students use the SEL Screener twice a year to share their perspectives on how well their school and community help them develop the skills they need to succeed. The screener works by asking questions or presenting statements that students can think about and respond to. This gives students a way to share how well their school community makes them feel valued, included, and supported.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who do not have a ParentVUE account. For more information, including SEL Screener questions and opt-out information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage. 

Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation All Year

All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and City of Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and view the middle school, high school, and alternative learning center bus routes.

Complete the application and return it to your school office. Parent/guardian consent is required.

Information for Caregivers on Eating Disorders

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information annually to parents/caregivers of students in grades 5-12. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023):

• Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
• There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a webpage with detailed information and resources about eating disorders. In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll-free, confidential Helpline: 1-800-931-2237.

Building and Maintaining Effective Communication with Your Children

Many families struggle with communication. It's rarely about big arguments, but often, it's the general daily interactions where connection falters. It is those missed cues, unsaid feelings, and misunderstood intentions that create barriers. Effective communication builds trust and understanding. It is greater than simply talking more to your children, and it definitely takes some thought and work on the part of parents to make it happen. Practical strategies to improve communication with your children to build strong, lasting relationships include 

1. Adjusting Communication to Your Child's Age and Development
2. Creating a Safe Space for Open Communication
3. Putting Away Distractions and Setting Aside Time for Communication 
4. Listening Actively and Validating Feelings
5. Shifting the Focus from "What" to "How" 
6. Making Use of "I" Statements
7. Making Use of Open-Ended Questions
8. Tapping into Their Interests
9. Remaining Patient and Persistent

Read more online.

Healthy Minds News shares information related to youth mental health and wellness for an audience of parents, educators, and community-based providers. Articles include tips and strategies for increasing wellness and resiliency, as well as fostering success at home, at school, and in the community.

Financial Aid Information for Military Families

College Access Fairfax will hold a virtual presentation on financial aid information for military families. Join them on Saturday, March 22, at 10 a.m. for a presentation by the lead financial educator and military benefits liaison from the Navy Mutual.

Topics covered will include:

• Residency requirements
• Using the GI Bill
• The Yellow Ribbon Program
• Using Chapter 35 (DEA benefits)
• Military scholarships and grants
• Virginia education programs

Join the session.

NOVA VISION 2025

FCPS and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), are offering an opportunity for students with disabilities interested in attending NOVA to learn about available options. The orientation will include presentations from Accommodations and Accessibility Services and Counseling Services, a mock NOVA classroom experience for students, and a NOVA student panel with a question and answer session. The event will take place at the NOVA Annandale Campus on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Register in advance.

Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Health Care

The Pacer Center is offering a virtual workshop to assist parents and guardians of children with disabilities in transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers. When your young adult with special health care needs turns 18, they must transition from pediatric to adult health care providers. It is a complex process, and early planning is critical to achieving a successful change in care. This workshop will help parents and guardians understand what is involved with the transition, prepare for the move, and learn the differences between adult and pediatric health care services. It will also provide tips on how to find an effective provider that meets your young adult’s needs.

The workshop will take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. Register in advance.

Safety Resource Fair and Practice Event

Join a resource fair and practice event with Arlington first responders and community partners to learn about and practice navigating emergency and crisis resources.  You'll be able to work on the creation of DD identification cards to hand to first responders to identify a disability in the event of an emergency.  You can also work with first responders to role-play a variety of situations and ask questions about how you can navigate emergencies safely.  Learn about setting up your own Emergency Health Profile. This team will also discuss 988 and options to call during a behavioral/mental health emergency and what you can expect.

The Arc of Northern Virginia's award-winning Tech for Independent Living team will be present to talk about free customized apps to grow skills, independence, and safety.

The event will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gunston Middle School.

Learn more and register.  Admission is free.

Parent Tech Talk

Use these discussion starters to talk about using social media safely with every age group.

Reinforce Expectations

• It’s safest to only add people you know offline to your online circles. Ask kids to check their “friends” and “followers” lists to see who has access to their accounts. Encourage them to remove anyone they don’t know or trust. Children should also block or “unfriend” anyone bothering them.
• Privacy settings are there to help make the experience safe! Teach kids and teens to use privacy settings. While they don’t guarantee complete privacy, they can help children control who sees what they share.
• Today, one’s online reputation counts offline, too. Help children remove any personal or inappropriate images from social media and other accounts.
• If it wouldn’t be OK to do or so offline, it’s not OK online, either. Help children and teens report any criminal behavior to the police and report inappropriate posts to the website or app -- most have a system in place to handle these complaints.
• If anyone sends them an inappropriate sexual request, they should report it to https://report.cybertip.org.

Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Summer Camps

Registration for Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) summer camps has opened. NCS offers a variety of summer camps for youth and teens throughout Fairfax County. Register early and secure your spot!

NCS camps are offered from June 16 through August 15, 2025. Camps include

• Camp Fairfax
• Teens in Action
• Therapeutic Recreation Camps
• Sully Summer Sports Camps
• Culmore Summer Soccer Camp
• Fairfax County 4-H Camp

Find more information on the NCS website.

Lake Braddock Secondary School Spring Wrestling Camps

Lake Braddock Secondary School is offering spring wrestling camps for 6th - 12th-grade students with at least 1 year of wrestling experience.

• Sessions 1 and 2 will focus on Freestyle wrestling, helping experienced wrestlers sharpen their skills ahead of the Freestyle season.
• Session 3 is dedicated to Folkstyle wrestling, emphasizing both fundamental and advanced techniques.
• Each session runs for a month, with workouts held on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Lake Braddock Wrestling Room.

Find more information and register.

2025 Asian Leadership Alliance Scholarship Application

Students may now apply for the Asian Leadership Alliance (ALA) Scholarship made possible by the support of ALA members and community partners. It is open to FCPS seniors planning to enroll full-time in a 2-year or 4-year accredited college or university. The scholarships will range from $1,000 to $1,500. The deadline to apply is March 21, 2025. 

West Springfield High School Teacher Workday Cheer Camp

The West Springfield High School Cheerleading Team is holding a Spartan Cheer Camp on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, which is a teacher workday. The camp is for students in grades K-8 and will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Find more information on the West Springfield Sports Camps webpage.

Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District Scholarship

Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD). This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the VASWCD Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships.

Apply by Tuesday, April 1. Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.

Youth Conservation Camp for High School Students

Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, a week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. This year’s camp will be held July 13-19, 2025, on the Virginia Tech campus. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach youth more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals. NVSWCD offers financial assistance and nominates campers in this selective program. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply.

Applications are due Sunday, April 20, 2025. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp, including how to obtain an application. Contact the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District with questions.

Academy Day 2025

Senator Mark Warner invites high school and middle school students, their parents or guardians, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025 on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Mary Washington, Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall, 1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA  22401. 

The event will include a seated program that will provide a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes. Information will also be shared regarding application procedures for congressional nominations, medical requirements for the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and other military-related options that exist at higher education institutions in Virginia. Following the program, attendees will be able to meet with officials from all five academies as well as representatives from DoDMERB, Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Richmond, ROTC programs at the University of Virginia, the United States Marine Corps, the Virginia Military Institute, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership at Mary Baldwin University, and the University of Mary Washington at their resource tables. Staff from Virginia congressional offices will also be available to answer questions.

As the event concludes, the University of Mary Washington will be offering campus tours. To participate, please meet at their resource table at 1:30 p.m.

Register in advance. Questions may be directed to [email protected]. 

Lake Braddock Secondary School Summer Sports Camps

Lake Braddock Secondary School is offering summer sports camps for students for rising 3rd - 12th graders. Camps include baseball, boys and girls basketball, dance, field hockey, boys and girls lacrosse, soccer, softball, girls volleyball, and wrestling. Find more information and register on the Bruins Sports Camps 2025 website.

West Springfield High School Boys Volleyball Summer Camp

West Springfield High School is holding a Spartan Boys Volleyball Summer Camp July 14-18, 2025. The camp is split into two sessions. Session 1 is for rising 6-8 graders, and Session 2 is for rising 9-12 graders. Find more information on the West Springfield Sports Camps webpage. Questions may be directed to Coach Aubrey Eaton at [email protected].

2025 Virginia School Boards Association Student Essay Contest

The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA), of which the Fairfax County School Board is a member, is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education held at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump on July 25, 2025. Additionally, the first-place winner will have the opportunity to present at the 2025 Student School Board Representative Workshop at the Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia, on November 19, 2025. 

This year’s topic is Champions for Impact. The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. The deadline for submissions is Monday, May 5, 2025.  View the essay contest guidelines and the entry form.

High School Summer Study Abroad Program

Are you interested in a summer study abroad in high school? The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has international programs for language and culture, STEM, social change, and arts and culture in 35 different countries around the world.  

Students are invited to choose 3-4 week-long experiential learning programs that run in over 30 study centers worldwide in the Summer of 2025! All Language and Culture (L&C) programs are educationally aligned with the ACTFL standard of language learning in secondary school. Students participating in L&C programs can opt in for 4 college credits for only $150.00. CIEE School of Record is fully accredited by Tulane University.

Merit and need scholarships are available for students. For more information, please visit the CIEE website. 

Registration is open or will be available soon for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration for these programs ends on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Career and Technical Education

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Visit the TAC webpage to register. 

CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Visit the CSA webpage to register.

Institute for the Arts Camps

IFTA is a two- or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater. Visit the IFTA webpage to register. 

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. During the self-directed course, students work independently to complete the requirements. The course is available between Monday, June 23, and Friday, July 25. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, May 23, 2025. For more information, see the Summer Learning information page.

Summer Online Campus

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 6, 2025. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.

Inova Announces Annual Community Health Opportunities Grant Program 

Inova is now accepting Community Health Opportunities applications. This grant program supports local non-profit healthcare community partners that make a difference in the quality of life, health, and welfare of our communities.

A list of full eligibility criteria is available on Inova’s application site. Among other things, applicants must be tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations and serve Northern Virginia residents and families with a focus on health access, behavioral health, and/or economic stability.

Inova encourages applicants to consider partnering with other eligible community nonprofits to maximize their applications and ability to support the community they serve. Awards, which average approximately $25,000, will be announced in June. Last year, Inova awarded more than $1 million to community partners.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2025 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Rachna Sizemore Heizer  |  Phone: 571-423-1088

Staff Aide: Bill Farrar, 571-423-1076

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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Join the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) School Board Advisory Committee!

Dear Neighbor,

As your School Board member, I am responsible for appointing one Providence District resident to represent our community on several School Board Advisory Committees, which increase community input to our Board on various important issues.

Providence District now has an opening on the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC), which I must fill for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year (APPLY HERE).

• Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC): Advocates for minority student achievement by identifying, reviewing, and assessing issues affecting minority student academic achievement. Meets monthly.

If you are interested in applying but are unsure if you live in Providence District, you can use this district look-up tool. 

School Board Advisory Committees are essential to our work, meeting throughout the year, advising our Board, and submitting an annual report of recommendations. Please help spread the word about this exciting volunteer opportunity.

Please consider applying by the deadline on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 5:00 pm. Following interviews with select applicants, the committee member will likely be approved at the School Board meeting on March 27.

In service,

Karl Frisch
Chair and Providence Representative
Fairfax County School Board

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Karl Frisch  |  Phone: 571-423-1084 

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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Update on the FCPS Budget Process

As we move further into the FY 26 budget process, I wanted to give you an update about where we are in this current fiscal climate. You may have seen newspaper headlines highlighting the instability that possible cutbacks expected from the federal government may cause to the county. I want to reassure you that FCPS staff is indeed preparing for whatever comes next, and our budget planning reflects that. We have been in conversation with the Board of Supervisors to try and plan for resources at the county level no matter what else happens. I also know that this community supports the values we’ve chosen to fund and will continue to do so, but I encourage you to always reach out and give us your feedback. To that end, we are holding a Budget Town Hall in Springfield district, hosted by myself and Sandy Anderson, with Chairman Jeff McKay as a special guest. You will find details below, but I hope you'll join us on April 2nd and ask questions and give feedback on the FCPS budget.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Web | Phone: 571-423-1090
Laura Stokes, Staff Aide, 571-279-4490

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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Update on the FCPS Budget Process

As we move further into the FY 26 budget process, I wanted to give you an update about where we are in this current fiscal climate. You may have seen newspaper headlines highlighting the instability that possible cutbacks expected from the federal government may cause to the county. I want to reassure you that FCPS staff is indeed preparing for whatever comes next, and our budget planning reflects that. We have been in conversation with the Board of Supervisors to try and plan for resources at the county level no matter what else happens. I also know that this community supports the values we’ve chosen to fund and will continue to do so, but I encourage you to always reach out and give us your feedback. To that end, we are holding a Budget Town Hall in Springfield district, hosted by myself and Sandy Anderson, with Chairman Jeff McKay as a special guest. You will find details below, but I hope you'll join us on April 2nd and ask questions and give feedback on the FCPS budget.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Web | Phone: 571-423-1090
Laura Stokes, Staff Aide, 571-279-4490

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Hello, Springfield District,

Last weekend, I attended an FCPS event that I am still thinking about. Along with several of my colleagues, I attended the FCPS Family Summit at South Lakes High School. I hope it was a wonderful experience for all our special education families that were able to participate. I particularly enjoyed our keynote speakers, Dr. Julie Causton and Dr. Kristie Pretti-Frontczak. We spent several hours together talking about how to do inclusion “right” in Fairfax County. It was a riveting and, surprisingly, funny morning together. 

One of the best parts of what Dr. Causton and Dr. Pretti-Frontczak provided, beyond the laughs, was a dashboard full of resources including all the slides they shared during the talk. I wanted to make sure that I could get it all to you! Please visit their website and check it out for yourself. Heading to the “keynote” dropdown in the middle of the page will get you all the resources they discussed during their presentation. 

As a parent, I have a lot of questions and a lot to learn about what I can do to help support inclusion in our schools from that perspective. This was a great opportunity to hear more about what inclusion can look like in a real classroom and the fact that our kids can usually figure out what inclusion means and how to do it far faster than we can as adults. I am so excited to see where we can go from here in Fairfax County! 

I will be in touch soon! 

Sandy Anderson

P.S. There is a ton of really awesome information in this month’s newsletter as we head towards summer! I hope to see everyone out and about over the next few months!

Left to right: Dranesville District School Board Representative Robyn Lady, Franconia District School Board Representative Marcia St. John-Cunning, Braddock District School Board Representative Rachna Sizemore Heizer, me, Student Representative Megan Sawant, and Hunter Mill School Board Representative Melanie Meren.

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

• Town Halls
• Upcoming School Board Meetings
• School Board Work
• Superintendent Updates
• Springfield District Scene
• Student Opportunities
• Community News
• Family and Student Resources
• In Case you Missed It
• Quick Links

Town Halls

Please join me for two upcoming town halls! First, Delegate Laura Jane Cohen (HD-15) and Delegate Mark Sickles (HD-17) will join Braddock District School Board Representative Rachna Sizemore Heizer and me on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at 6 p.m. in the Irving Middle School auditorium. The delegates will discuss the 2025 General Assembly Session and their upcoming reconvene session. As the Vice-Chair of Appropriations, Delegate Sickles will give an update on the legislative budget negotiations.

 

Second, Jeff McKay, Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, will join Member At-Large Kyle McDaniel and me for a Springfield District Budget Town Hall on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the West Springfield High School auditorium.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Meeting information and materials will be posted to BoardDocs.

• March 20 at 7 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee Meeting
• March 27 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Strategic Plan Goal 4 Report, etc.
• April 1 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting
• April 1 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting
• April 8 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Strategic Plan Goal 5 Report and Student Rights & Responsibilities
• April 10 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Fiscal Year 2025 3rd Quarter Budget Review, etc.
• April 22 at 5 p.m. - Work Session: Will only occur if needed
• April 24 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Strategic Plan Goal 5 Report, etc.

Please note that times and topics are subject to change.

The work sessions and meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.

For Spanish speakers, to watch recorded School Board meetings, or live during regular meetings, visit the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the QR code below.

Visit the Community Participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.

Are you interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.

Please contact the board clerk if you need language interpretation or American Sign Language support for any School Board meeting. Find your School Board members and how to contact them on the School Board Members webpage.

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español

Para ver las reuniones de Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las Reuniones Ordinarias en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español .

School Board Work Fiscal Year 2026 Advertised Budget

At the February 20 regular meeting, the School Board unanimously adopted the FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The budget demonstrates the school division's commitment to providing an excellent education to every student while serving as a responsible steward of Fairfax County taxpayer dollars. 

Today's students require — and families expect — a broader range of educational opportunities that equip them for future careers and challenges, including expanded access to modern science laboratories, qualified educators to teach advanced courses, and enhanced STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) learning opportunities. 

Meeting families’ expectations and students’ evolving needs is why competitive compensation is a critical component of the FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The budget includes $240.8 million for collective bargaining, providing a 7% salary increase for all employees with a goal of attracting and retaining the best educators. As school districts across the country, including FCPS, continue to navigate an ongoing teacher shortage, competitive pay is necessary to ensure that Fairfax County children are in high-quality schools with high-quality teachers.

Read more online. Watch the full meeting.

 

Joint Budget Committee Meeting With Board of Supervisors and School Board

On February 25 the School Board held a joint Budget Committee meeting with the Board of Supervisors in which the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Fairfax County and Fairfax County Public Schools Advertised Budgets were discussed. View the FY 2026 Fairfax County Advertised Budget presentation and the FY 2026 FCPS Advertised Budget presentation.

Watch the meeting.

 

Strategic Governance Manual Edits

The School Board voted to approve the edits to the Community Advisory Committee Operating Manual, Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710 at the March 13 regular meeting.

Watch the full meeting.

 

Proclamations

I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s February 20 and March 13 regular meetings.

• Custodian and Food and Nutrition Services Appreciation
• School Bus Driver, Bus Attendants, and Crossing Guard Appreciation
• Women’s History Month
• Disability Acceptance Month
• Bailey’s Upper Elementary 10th Anniversary
• Neurodiversity Affirmation Week
• Honoring Gerald W. (Gerry) Hyland

Superintendent Updates 📢 FCPS to Host Instructional Job Fair on March 22

FCPS wants you to join our team! We are looking for educators with a strong academic background and a passion for making a difference. To meet hiring needs in instructional areas, we are hosting a virtual job fair on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from various FCPS schools will be available. 

Registration is required to attend. 

 

📍 The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

 

Key Takeaways from the Superintendent’s 2/21 Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met on Friday, February 21, at the Gatehouse Administration Center. As part of our commitment to transparency, we will continue to provide an update on the committee's work following each meeting. 

Key takeaways from Friday’s meeting include:

• Welcome: Dr. Reid welcomed the group and reminded the committee that at the next meetings, the first two scenarios will be reviewed, including the evaluation of 6th grade in middle school, and a scenario that assumes all students attend the school that they are zoned to attend based on the current boundary.  
• Education Session: The committee received presentations from FCPS staff related to school programs, the student transfer policy, and student membership projections. 
• Community Feedback Data Review: Thru Consulting shared that summaries from virtual community meetings are available and reviewed how the summaries are organized.
• Closing

Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received. You may also learn about the Comprehensive Boundary Review and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter. 

 

🎤 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! This spring, a series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:

• Thursday, March 20, Cunningham Park Elementary School
• Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School
• Tuesday, April 1, Lorton Station Elementary School
• Monday, April 7, Greenbriar West Elementary School
• Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School
• Wednesday, April 23, Freedom Hill Elementary School

Events are open to all. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Click on the date to register for that event. Additional registration links will be shared in the near future and will be posted to our webpage along with other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

📐 Review Potential K-12 Mathematics Instructional Resources

FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources for the 2025-26 (secondary) and 2026-27 (elementary) school years. The community is invited to review materials and provide comments. Access resources on the FCPS Mathematics webpage.

You may view hard copies of instructional materials on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Friday, March 21, at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100.

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with the Fairfax County School Board members before the board votes in spring 2025.

 

🧸 Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs

FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. 

Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.

Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042. If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

✨ The availability of pre-K programs to meet community need is part of FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 1: Strong Start.

 

🤝 Collective Bargaining in FCPS Benefits the Entire Community

Fairfax County Public Schools has engaged with employees in collective bargaining in pursuit of balance and fairness, which has always been a core driver of success at FCPS. 

Collective bargaining benefits the entire Fairfax community by reducing teacher turnover, improving the quality of education, and fostering strong school communities. High teacher turnover is expensive for school districts due to the costs of recruitment, hiring, and training new staff.

While fair compensation is a priority, unions also advocate for smaller class sizes, better resources, and policies that directly benefit students and families.

Collective bargaining will not result in the inability to address employee performance or to enact appropriate disciplinary action. Also, under state law, FCPS employees are not permitted to strike. 

Learn more about FCPS unions and collective bargaining. 

 

🔬 70th Annual Regional Science Fair

The 70th Annual Regional Science Fair will take place at Robinson Secondary School the weekend of March 21-23. 

The fair is open to the public on Sunday, March 23, 2025, from 1-3 p.m., during the Open House. Community members are invited to see the project displays and congratulate our high school student participants.

Visit the science fair webpage for more information.

 

🩹 Avoid the Summer Rush: Schedule Required Seventh-Grade Vaccinations Today!

As required by the Code of Virginia, parents or legal guardians need to provide proof of immunizations for their child to attend public school. All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations: 

• Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap) given at age 7 or older.
• Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) given at age 10 or older.
• A complete series of two doses of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. After reviewing educational materials approved by the Board of Health, the parent/guardian, at the parent’s/guardian’s sole discretion, may elect for the child not to receive the HPV vaccine.

Parents/guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with their child’s health care provider now to avoid the rush this summer. If your child does not have a health care provider, please visit the FCPS Immunizations Resource page to find out where to get an immunization.

Please review the Virginia Department of Health information packet for more information on rising seventh-grade immunization requirements.

Springfield District Scene

Centreville High School’s Bella Voce Advanced Choir and Symphonic Choir attended a live-streamed performance of the opera Aida by Giuseppe Verdi! The opera was streamed as part of the Metropolitan Opera’s Met Live in HD program at the Springfield Mall movie theatre. Students felt like they were there in New York as they clapped for the orchestra director, heard the orchestra tune, and applauded along with the live audience! Singers learned about the synopsis and roles in advance and did some activities to become even more familiar with the storyline. The rumor is there are some new opera fans at Centreville! 

Centreville’s Concert Bands for winning a Virginia Honor Band Award at the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director Association State Concert Band Assessment! Fantastic!

The excitement at Centreville continues as Danny McGlynn and Chris Siriwardene won the Region title as part of the Boys Indoor Track 4 x 800-meter Relay Team, and James Mahoney won the Region title for Boys Wrestling in the 157b lb. weight class! Congratulations!

 

Congratulations to the Chantilly High School Gymnastics and Boys Swim and Dive Teams for winning the Northern Region Championship! The winning Boys 200 Medley Relay and 400 Freestyle Relay included Ben Clabeaux, while the winning 200 Freestyle Relay included Nate Murphy.

The winning continues with Chantilly’s Boys Swim and Dive Team winning the VHSL state championship title and Ben Clabeaux winning as a member of record-breaking VHSL Boys Swim and Dive 200-yard and 400-yard freestyle relay state championship teams!  Additionally, Michael Santos took the VHSL Boys Wrestling state championship title in the 106 lb. weight class! Way to go!

 

Will Breslin, a former Chantilly Academy Auto Tech student, came to speak about his experience as a Motorsports Engineering major at the University of North Carolina (UNC), Charlotte. Will took Auto Tech 1, 2, and 3 during his time at Chantilly and has since discovered a major that allows him to combine his passion for automobiles and engineering. Will is also part of UNC Charlotte's Formula Society of Automotive Engineers team, 49ers Racing. So cool!

Chantilly Academy Carpentry 2 students took a field trip to visit local business partners, The Tailored Closet and Premier Garage of Greater Washington DC. For the second year in a row, owners Todd and Juliana Carter opened their showroom and warehouse doors to show Carpentry students how their business operates from start to finish, including their design, manufacturing, and installation processes.  

Director of Operations Dylan Orr and Production Director Mitchell Rickard are both former Chantilly Academy Carpentry students and were able to share their journeys from the classroom to the workplace. A highlight of the field trip was learning about The Tailored Closet's design process with Dylan and then touring the warehouse with Mitchell to see how the manufacturing process is applied to make those design blueprints come to life.

The learning continues at Chantilly Academy with their Air Force JROTC program taking an orientation flight on a C-17 Globemaster III at the 167th Airlift Wing in Martinsburg, West Virginia. Before their flight, cadets had the opportunity to hear from Brigadier General David Cochran about his career in the Air Force and the mission of the 167th Airlift Wing. 

Shout out to Fairfax High School’s Harry Maltese for winning the VHSL Boys Wrestling state championship title in the 215 lb. weight class!

Franklin Middle School 8th grade Civics students recently toured the Fairfax County Courthouse, during which they met judges from all three Fairfax County courts, spoke with court personnel including attorneys and bailiffs, participated in a mock train, and observed trials live. This was a great opportunity for students to see their curriculum in action!

 

Irving Middle School hosted award-winning author Neal Shusterman. Mr. Shusterman spent an hour answering student and staff questions via Zoom and shared the inspirations for his characters, his writing process, his current work, and more!

 

Congratulations to Katherine Johnson Middle School’s Science Olympiad Team for winning the Region Championship! The team won first place in seven events and won 25 total medals!

Katherine Johnson’s Nicolaus Maloney won Individual first place in the 2025 Northern Virginia Regional MATHCOUNTS Competition for the Fairfax Chapter! Outstanding!

Katherine Johnson’s Sauren Kwatra won first place in the 2025 Washington, D.C. Middle School History Bowl Championships as a member of the Quiz Bowl Team! Congrats!

The winning continues with Katherine Johnson’s Boys Futsal Team winning the Wester Fairfax Futsal League Championship! Way to go!

 

Key Middle School hosted its 3rd Annual STEM Event in which students worked collaboratively with staff and engineers from the American Council of Engineering Companies of Metropolitan Washington. Students worked collaboratively to design and build a popsicle stick bridge.

 

Congratulations to Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Holland Hasle for winning the Washington, D.C. Branch Championship for the ESU National Shakespeare Competition! Holland will now compete at the National level competition this spring in New York City!

Shout out to Lake Braddock’s Kasey Stafsudd and Victoria Shea for taking first place in the Region 5 National History Day Competition!

Lake Braddock’s former band director, Roy Holder, was inducted into the National Band Association Hall of Fame. This prestigious honor recognizes his lifelong dedication to music education, his unwavering commitment to excellence, and his profound impact on students, colleagues, and the band community.

Roy dedicated 24 years to the Lake Braddock band program, shaping it into one of the most respected music programs in the nation. His passion for music and leadership and his ability to inspire generations of young musicians have left an enduring legacy.

With his induction, Roy became one of only 64 members to receive this honor since the Hall of Fame’s inception in 1978. 

Lake Braddock’s High School Concert Bands received their 42nd consecutive Virginia Honor Band Award at the Virginia Band and Orchestra Director Association State Concert Band Assessment! They are the only band in the Commonwealth to earn this award every year since its inception. Way to go!

Lake Braddock’s JROTC was recently featured on the news network WJLA. The story highlights the beneficial leadership skills and discipline of the program, whether or not students choose to serve in the military upon graduation.

The accolades continue with Lake Braddock Gymnastics Team winning its 4th consecutive VHSL state championship! Madi Bell won her 3rd consecutive All Around state title and the Uneven Parallel Bars and Balance Beam titles! Additionally, Josh Howat won the VHSL Boys Swim and Dive 50-yard and 100-yard freestyle! Way to go!

 

Oakton High School’s Vishal Manikanden, Malek Swilam, and friends bonded as members of the Robotics Team and are now taking on a challenge they hope will save lives!

The friends have dedicated months to developing an app that may help spot signs of oral cancer. This type of cancer is often only discovered in advanced stages when the chances of survival are diminished.

According to their website, “OCRadar is an innovative solution designed to revolutionize the detection of oral cancer. Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning, OCRadar offers a sophisticated tool for both medical professionals and the general public, facilitating early detection and improving the chances of successful treatment.”

The students, all 16 years old, are now seeking approval from the US Food and Drug Administration and the Apple Store for the application to be marketed as a wellness tool. They hope that the invention will eventually be accessible to billions globally and revolutionize cancer detection. Outstanding!

Their work illustrates Goal 5 of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation.

Read more online.

 

Congratulations to Robinson Secondary School’s Lilla Wilbur for winning the VHSL Girls Swim and Dive 100-yard breaststroke!

Robinson hosted a Gala Performance in honor of Choral Director Mike Horanski’s 20th anniversary. The Robinson Philharmonic joined the Robinson Choir to perform Carmina Burana in collaboration with the Vienna Choral Society at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. The event was a "labor of love” led by Mr. Horanski and Anne Rupert, Robinson Orchestra & Philharmonic Director. It was said, “If you closed your eyes, you felt like you were at the Kennedy Center listening to the National Symphony Orchestra!” Congratulations, Mr. Horanski!

 

Shout out to the Rocky Run Middle School Girls Futsal Team for winning the Western Fairfax Middle School League championship!

 

Congrats to Sangster Elementary School’s Damian Anderle, Aaron Hunde, Eren Ogut, and Vanya Voloshin for taking first place in Teams in the 2025 Northern Virginia Regional MATHCOUNTS Competition for the George Washington Chapter! Additionally, Damian won first place in Individuals! 

2024 Outstanding Elementary School New Teacher Finalist and Sangster’s art teacher Angela Ah Ryoung Sung was featured in FCPS News as March is National Art in Our Schools Month. Angela’s passion for the arts and her commitment to fostering creativity in students make her a vital part of Sangster’s school community!

 

Four South County High School juniors attended the West Point Leadership and Ethics Conference joined by 200 local students in thought-provoking discussions on ethical decision-making, teamwork, and leadership. Shout out to William Corner for being nominated for a prestigious scholarship opportunity based on exceptional leadership!

Congratulations to South County’s Girls Indoor Track Team for winning the Occoquan Region Championship!

South County excelled in the VHSL state championships as well, with the Girls Indoor Track and Field Team winning the 4x200 and 4x400 meter relay races and the state title! Additionally, the Boys Indoor Track and Field Team won the 4x200 meter relay state title!

 

The Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology Rocketry NASA Student Launch Team completed its vehicle demonstration flight. The team launched an 8 ft. tall, 5.5 inches in diameter, high-power rocket to an altitude of around 4800 ft.

Members of the team worked hard yearlong to put this together, from writing the proposal, developing preliminary and critical design reports, and constructing the actual high-power rocket vehicle. The team will now prepare for the flight readiness report and will have the final NASA presentation and interview. TJ Rocket will be showcased at the Rocket Fair at the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. 

 

Shout out to West Springfield High School’s Ryan Coffey, Grace Kihoro, and Zach Kurry for taking first place in the Region 5 National History Day Competition!

The winning continues with West Springfield’s Boys Indoor Track Team winning the VHSL state championship in the 4x400 and 4x800 meter relays and Michael Murray winning in pole vault!

 

Congratulations to the Woodson High School Boys Basketball Team for winning the Occoquan Region title! In addition, the Science Olympiad Team won first place in the Nationals-Ready Regional tournament! Way to go!

  🕊️ FCPS Students Honored With 2025 Student Peace Awards

Students from 27 Fairfax County public schools have been named recipients of the 2025 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, designed to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. 

The Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County began in 2006 as a way to encourage people to think more about peace as both a means and an end and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. Every year, the high schools in Fairfax County are asked to select one junior or senior, or a group of students, whose work has promoted peace. The project is organized by volunteers and funded by donations from 15 secular and religious sponsoring organizations.

Congratulations to Springfield District’s Kiran Ashok of Fairfax High School, Ghazi “Zizo” Hanania of South County High School, and Simeon Samuel of West Springfield High School.

Read more about their projects and see the full list of recipients.

 

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

Don’t miss the many upcoming school performances featuring our outstanding Springfield District students! Among them are

South County Middle School

Wendy in Wonderland

March 21

Buy tickets

Rocky Run Middle School

Rocky Run Advanced Theatre Arts Devised Show

April 3 and 4

Buy tickets

Fairfax High School

Hadestown: Teen Edition

April 25 and 26

Buy tickets

Thomas Jefferson HSST

Big Fish: School Edition

April 25 and 26

Buy tickets

Student Opportunities

Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools not assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parents or guardians before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity. Families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

 

Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services Summer Camps

Registration for Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) summer camps has opened. NCS offers a variety of summer camps for youth and teens throughout Fairfax County. Register early and secure your spot!

NCS camps are offered from June 16 through August 15, 2025. Camps include

• Camp Fairfax
• Teens in Action
• Therapeutic Recreation Camps
• Sully Summer Sports Camps
• Culmore Summer Soccer Camp
• Fairfax County 4-H Camp

Find more information on the NCS website.

 

🤼 Lake Braddock Secondary School Spring Wrestling Camps

Lake Braddock Secondary School is offering spring wrestling camps for 6th - 12th-grade students with at least 1 year of wrestling experience.

• Sessions 1 and 2 will focus on Freestyle wrestling, helping experienced wrestlers sharpen their skills ahead of the Freestyle season.
• Session 3 is dedicated to Folkstyle wrestling, emphasizing both fundamental and advanced techniques.
• Each session runs for a month, with workouts held on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Lake Braddock Wrestling Room.

Find more information and register.

 

2025 Asian Leadership Alliance Scholarship Application

Students may now apply for the Asian Leadership Alliance (ALA) Scholarship made possible by the support of ALA members and community partners. It is open to FCPS seniors planning to enroll full-time in a 2-year or 4-year accredited college or university. The scholarships will range from $1,000 to $1,500. The deadline to apply is March 21, 2025. 

 

📣 West Springfield High School Teacher Workday Cheer Camp

The West Springfield High School Cheerleading Team is holding a Spartan Cheer Camp on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, which is a teacher workday. The camp is for students in grades K-8 and will be held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Find more information on the West Springfield Sports Camps webpage.

 

💧 Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District Scholarship

Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD). This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the VASWCD Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships.

Apply by Tuesday, April 1, 2025. Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.

 

🌎 Youth Conservation Camp for High School Students

Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, a week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. This year’s camp will be held July 13-19, 2025, on the Virginia Tech campus. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach youth more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals. NVSWCD offers financial assistance and nominates campers in this selective program. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply.

Applications are due Sunday, April 20, 2025. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp, including how to obtain an application. Contact the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District with questions.

 

🎖️ Academy Day 2025

Senator Mark Warner invites high school and middle school students, their parents or guardians, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025 on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the University of Mary Washington, Dodd Auditorium in George Washington Hall, 1301 College Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA  22401. 

The event will include a seated program that will provide a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes. Information will also be shared regarding application procedures for congressional nominations, medical requirements for the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and other military-related options that exist at higher education institutions in Virginia. Following the program, attendees will be able to meet with officials from all five academies as well as representatives from DoDMERB, Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Richmond, ROTC programs at the University of Virginia, the United States Marine Corps, the Virginia Military Institute, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, the Virginia Women's Institute for Leadership at Mary Baldwin University, and the University of Mary Washington at their resource tables. Staff from Virginia congressional offices will also be available to answer questions.

As the event concludes, the University of Mary Washington will be offering campus tours. To participate, please meet at their resource table at 1:30 p.m.

Register in advance. Questions may be directed to [email protected]. 

 

😎 Summer Learning and Fun for Students

Registration is open or will be available soon for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration for these programs ends on Friday, June 6, 2025.

Career and Technical Education

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Visit the TAC webpage to register. 

CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Visit the CSA webpage to register.

Institute for the Arts Camps

IFTA is a two- or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater. Visit the IFTA webpage to register. 

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. During the self-directed course, students work independently to complete the requirements. The course is available between Monday, June 23, and Friday, July 25. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, May 23, 2025. For more information, see the Summer Learning information page.

Summer Online Campus

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 6, 2025. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.

 

⚾ Springfield Challenger Baseball

Springfield Challenger Baseball, Little League Baseball for kids, teens, and adults with special needs, will open its 32nd season starting April 6th.  They are looking for and have plenty of opportunities for new players.

The 2025 Spring Season will run from April 6 to June 15, 2025.

Beginning in 1993 with only nine players, they have grown to become one of the largest Challenger programs in the world, fielding over one hundred players annually in three age-appropriate divisions. The program is geared to all ages: Little Challengers (ages 4-12), Majors (ages 13-18), and a young adult league (ages 19 and up).

All games are on Sunday afternoons at West Springfield Little League Byron Avenue Fields. Games are non-competitive and adapt to each player’s individual needs.

For more information, contact either Eddie Garretson ([email protected], 703-304-2330) or Logan Bruno ([email protected], 571-331-1167).

 

🏀 Chantilly High School Boys Basketball Summer Camp

Chantilly High School is offering a Boys Basketball Summer Camp June 16-25, 2025 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $165 per camper. Registration is required.

 

🏀 Chantilly High School Girls Basketball Summer Camps

Chantilly High School is offering two Girls Basketball Summer Camp sessions. The first session will take place June 16-20, 2025, from 12 to 5 p.m. with the second session taking place July 21-25, 2025 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. One session is $200 per camper. Both sessions is $360 per camper. Find more information and register.

 

⚽ Lake Braddock Secondary School Summer Sports Camps

Lake Braddock Secondary School is offering summer sports camps for students for rising 3rd - 12th graders. Camps include baseball, boys and girls basketball, dance, field hockey, boys and girls lacrosse, soccer, softball, girls volleyball, and wrestling. Find more information and register on the Bruins Sports Camps 2025 website.

 

🥍 Oakton High School Summer Sports Camps

Many Oakton High School coaches are hosting summer camps. Camps include baseball, boys and girls basketball, field hockey, football, and girls lacrosse. Find more information and register on the Oakton High School Summer Camps website.

 

🏀 Lewis High School Girls Basketball Summer Camp

Lewis High School is holding a Girls Basketball Camp July 7-11, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp is geared toward rising 1st-10th graders. Find more information and register online. Questions may be directed to Coach Sam at [email protected]. 

 

🏐 West Springfield High School Boys Volleyball Summer Camp

West Springfield High School is holding a Spartan Boys Volleyball Summer Camp July 14-18, 2025. The camp is split into two sessions. Session 1 is for rising 6-8 graders, and Session 2 is for rising 9-12 graders. Find more information on the West Springfield Sports Camps webpage. Questions may be directed to Coach Aubrey Eaton at [email protected].

 

✍️ 2025 Virginia School Boards Association Student Essay Contest

The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA), of which the Fairfax County School Board is a member, is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education held at the Hilton Richmond Hotel & Spa at Short Pump on July 25, 2025. Additionally, the first-place winner will have the opportunity to present at the 2025 Student School Board Representative Workshop at the Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia, on November 19, 2025. 

This year’s topic is Champions for Impact. The first-place winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship. The deadline for submissions is Monday, May 5, 2025.  View the essay contest guidelines and the entry form.

 

🗺️ High School Summer Study Abroad Program

Are you interested in a summer study abroad in high school? The Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) has international programs for language and culture, STEM, social change, and arts and culture in 35 different countries around the world.  

Students are invited to choose 3-4 week-long experiential learning programs that run in over 30 study centers worldwide in the Summer of 2025! All Language and Culture (L&C) programs are educationally aligned with the ACTFL standard of language learning in secondary school. Students participating in L&C programs can opt in for 4 college credits for only $150.00. CIEE School of Record is fully accredited by Tulane University.

Merit and need scholarships are available for students. For more information, please visit the CIEE website. 

Community News Help for Residents Affected by Downsized Federal Workforce

The Fairfax County government has compiled resources for former federal employees, contractors, and anyone else affected by job loss. Services include tips on searching and preparing for a new job. Also, financial help is available for many Health and Human Service programs, taxes, and pet-related expenses.

 

🚍 Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation All Year

All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and City of Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and view the middle school, high school, and alternative learning center bus routes.

Complete the application and return it to your school office. Parent/guardian consent is required.

Family and Student Resources Become Unskippable: Practical Guidance for Talking With Teens About Fentanyl

Teens skip things that don’t interest them, including lectures from their parents. But young people die from fentanyl overdoses in Fairfax County each year — so it’s important to have short, impactful talks with your teen, whether or not you think they’re at risk.

As a parent or caregiver, you have the power to become “unskippable” and talk with your teen in a way they will listen. 

See our tips for talking with your teen about fentanyl and other difficult subjects. Watch this video to learn more about becoming unskippable. 

 

Information for Caregivers on Eating Disorders

In 2013, Virginia passed a law requiring every school system to provide information annually to parents/caregivers of students in grades 5-12. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA 2023):

• Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental and physical illnesses that can affect people of all genders, ages, races, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations, body shapes, and weights. In the United States, 28.8 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
• There is no single cause of an eating disorder. Rather, it is a complex combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors that converge and set off an individual’s predisposed genetic vulnerability.

In collaboration with the Fairfax County Health Department, FCPS has developed a webpage with detailed information and resources about eating disorders. In addition to the information on the FCPS website, the National Eating Disorders Association has a toll-free, confidential Helpline: 1-800-931-2237.

 

🗣️ Building and Maintaining Effective Communication with Your Children

Many families struggle with communication. It's rarely about big arguments, but often, it's the general daily interactions where connection falters. It is those missed cues, unsaid feelings, and misunderstood intentions that create barriers. Effective communication builds trust and understanding. It is greater than simply talking more to your children, and it definitely takes some thought and work on the part of parents to make it happen. Practical strategies to improve communication with your children to build strong, lasting relationships include 

1. Adjusting Communication to Your Child's Age and Development
2. Creating a Safe Space for Open Communication
3. Putting Away Distractions and Setting Aside Time for Communication 
4. Listening Actively and Validating Feelings
5. Shifting the Focus from "What" to "How" 
6. Making Use of "I" Statements
7. Making Use of Open-Ended Questions
8. Tapping into Their Interests
9. Remaining Patient and Persistent

Read more online.

Healthy Minds News shares information related to youth mental health and wellness for an audience of parents, educators, and community-based providers. Articles include tips and strategies for increasing wellness and resiliency, as well as fostering success at home, at school, and in the community. 

 

💲Financial Aid Information for Military Families

College Access Fairfax will hold a virtual presentation on financial aid information for military families. Join them on Saturday, March 22, 2025. at 10 a.m. for a presentation by the lead financial educator and military benefits liaison from the Navy Mutual.

Topics covered will include:

• Residency requirements
• Using the GI Bill
• The Yellow Ribbon Program
• Using Chapter 35 (DEA benefits)
• Military scholarships and grants
• Virginia education programs

Join the session.

 

NOVA VISION 2025

FCPS and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), are offering an opportunity for students with disabilities interested in attending NOVA to learn about available options. The orientation will include presentations from Accommodations and Accessibility Services and Counseling Services, a mock NOVA classroom experience for students, and a NOVA student panel with a question and answer session. The event will take place at the NOVA Annandale Campus on Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Register in advance.

 

Transitioning from Pediatric to Adult Health Care

The Pacer Center is offering a virtual workshop to assist parents and guardians of children with disabilities in transitioning from pediatric to adult health care providers. When your young adult with special health care needs turns 18, they must transition from pediatric to adult health care providers. It is a complex process, and early planning is critical to achieving a successful change in care. This workshop will help parents and guardians understand what is involved with the transition, prepare for the move, and learn the differences between adult and pediatric health care services. It will also provide tips on how to find an effective provider that meets your young adult’s needs.

The workshop will take place on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. Register in advance.

 

🚨 Safety Resource Fair and Practice Event

Join a resource fair and practice event with Arlington first responders and community partners to learn about and practice navigating emergency and crisis resources.  You'll be able to work on the creation of DD identification cards to hand to first responders to identify a disability in the event of an emergency.  You can also work with first responders to role-play a variety of situations and ask questions about how you can navigate emergencies safely.  Learn about setting up your own Emergency Health Profile. This team will also discuss 988 and options to call during a behavioral/mental health emergency and what you can expect.

The Arc of Northern Virginia's award-winning Tech for Independent Living team will be present to talk about free customized apps to grow skills, independence, and safety.

The event will take place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Gunston Middle School.

Learn more and register.  Admission is free.

 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

FCPS partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra learning resources. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.

 

💻 Hazel Health: Virtual Therapy for High School Students

Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.

✨Student access to the necessary emotional, behavioral, and mental health services to support their successful engagement in school is part of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

 

📱 Parent Tech Talk

Use these discussion starters to talk about using social media safely with every age group.

Ask Questions

• What’s your favorite website or app? What do you like to do there?
• Have you ever seen something online you didn’t want to see?
• Do you ever talk to people you don’t know online? What are you talking about?
• Can you show me which sites and apps you’re using?
• Would you feel comfortable if I checked your accounts?
• What kinds of things do you post?
• How do you decide who to add as a friend?
• How much personal information do you share online?

Use these discussion starters to talk about using social media safely with every age group.

Reinforce Expectations

• It’s safest to only add people you know offline to your online circles. Ask kids to check their “friends” and “followers” lists to see who has access to their accounts. Encourage them to remove anyone they don’t know or trust. Children should also block or “unfriend” anyone bothering them.
• Privacy settings are there to help make the experience safe! Teach kids and teens to use privacy settings. While they don’t guarantee complete privacy, they can help children control who sees what they share.
• Today, one’s online reputation counts offline, too. Help children remove any personal or inappropriate images from social media and other accounts.
• If it wouldn’t be OK to do offline, it’s not OK online, either. Help children and teens report any criminal behavior to the police and report inappropriate posts to the website or app -- most have a system in place to handle these complaints.

If anyone sends them an inappropriate sexual request, they should report it to https://report.cybertip.org.

 

Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center and Family Academy

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC). Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

The Family Academy is a one-stop shop for resources, tools, and learning opportunities for families. The Family Academy offers in-person and virtual classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families in our learning catalog. Sign up for the Family and School Partnerships newsletter or visit the Family Academy catalog for classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families.

March and April offerings include:

• March 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m. - ABA Family Training: Teaching Self-Help and Independent Skills
• March 19, 7-8:30 p.m. - ABA Family Training: Teaching Self-Help and Independent Skills

• March 25, 10-11:30 a.m. - Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice-Exceptional (2e) Students

• April 1, 1-4 p.m. - SIB Shops

• April 1, 1-4 p.m. - SIB Teen

• April 4, 10-11:30 a.m. - Understand Executive Function Milestones and Challenges and Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Adolescents in High School

• April 11, 10-11:30 a.m. - Math Strategies for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities

• April 22, 10-11:30 a.m. - Empowering Twice-Exceptional Students to Understand the Role of Accommodations in Accessing Learning
• April 25, 10-11:30 a.m. - The Role of Boundaries in Teen Development

In Case you Missed It

• February 19 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Supporting Academic Growth and Algebra by Eighth Grade
• Review Possible K-12 Math Resources
• Springing Into New Lunch Menu Options
• Students Attend Instruction 2 Industry Conference
• February 26 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Supporting Academic Growth and Reading on Level by Third Grade
• Budget Status and Next Steps
• Jumpstarting Their Future - CTE Programs
• Black History Month Celebration at Carter G. Woodson High School
• March 5 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Inclusive Learning
• Share Your Input on the County Budget
• 2025 Family Summit
• New School Breakfast Options
• March 12 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Fiscal Year 2026 Advertised Budget Invests in Excellence
• Next Step in the Budget Process
• Collective Bargaining Benefits the Entire Community
• FCPS Hosts Second Annual Food Show
• February Audit Buzz Newsletter
• March Audit Buzz Newsletter
• Special Education and 504 Newsletter: Spring Issue

Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, sign up today.

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• 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | 2026-27

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

Executive Administrative Assistant: Stephanie Sheridan | 571-423-1065 

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Kindergarten teacher Catherine Lannon receives a hug from a student during arrival at Woodburn Elementary School.

🎤 Save the Date: Employee Conversations With Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! This spring, a series of Employee Conversations with Dr. Reid will be held across the school division. Events are planned for the following dates:

• Tuesday, April 29, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Providence Elementary School
• Thursday, May 1, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Burke School
• Wednesday, May 7, 5-6 p.m., Weyanoke Elementary School

Click on the date to register. Registration is not required but is encouraged for planning purposes.

These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions. You may reach out to Dr. Reid anytime by submitting a question via the superintendent’s webpage or emailing [email protected].

✨ A diverse, adaptive, and supported workforce is Pillar C of the 2023-30 FCPS Strategic Plan.

🗳️ 2025 ERFC Trustee Election

The Educational Employees’ Supplementary Retirement System of Fairfax County (ERFC) Board of Trustees will elect one person to serve as trustee. The ERFC Board is the governing body of ERFC and supports their mission to enhance the financial security of members through prudent financial stewardship.

Interested active ERFC members seeking to be candidates must submit a nomination petition and a statement of contribution. Notice 4771 outlines the election process.

Required materials must be received by Sherri Burris in the Office of Employee Relations by close of business on Wednesday, May 7. An electronic election will be held from Tuesday, May 27, to Thursday, May 29.

🗳️ 2025 SSEAC Nominations and Election

The Support Services Employees’ Advisory Council (SSEAC) will elect seven individuals who will each serve a two-year term for their specific community-of-interest group, as listed below, by working as liaisons between management and employees:

• Group 1 – Bus Drivers and Attendants
• Group 2 – Central Office Clerical/Technical
• Group 4 – Custodial and Plant Operations
• Group 5 – Trades/Maintenance/Security
• Group 6 – Finance Support and Supply Operations
• Group 8 – Educational Support
• Group 9 – School-Based Clerical           

Interested employees must submit an electronic nomination petition, a candidate statement of contribution, and nomination endorsements of at least 25 members from the candidate’s specific community-of-interest group. The SSEAC election petition outlines the process.

Required materials must be received by Sherri Burris in the Office of Employee Relations by Thursday, May 8. An electronic election will be held from Tuesday, May 20, to Thursday, May 22. 

For more information on the SSEAC, please see Regulation 1705, Employee Advisory Councils.

How Advisory Councils Differ From Union Representation

Advisory councils exist to address employee matters outside the scope of collective bargaining. For instance, any of our Strategic Plan goals or pillars could be topics discussed by advisory councils. 

Employees should direct concerns relating to pay and working conditions — which are covered under collective bargaining — to their union representative. To determine your bargaining unit and which union represents you, log in to UConnect. Click Employee Self-Service > Employment > Multiple Jobs/Position. Click on your job title to view the Detail section. In the first column, you will see your bargaining unit listed. 

If it is Operational or Licensed Instructional, your union is the Fairfax Education Union (FEU). If your bargaining unit is Administrators and Supervisors, the union representing you is the Fairfax County Federation of Principals, Supervisors, and Administrators (FCFPSA).

Visit the FCPS Collective Bargaining webpage for more information. 

✨ A diverse, adaptive, and supported workforce is Pillar C of the FCPS Strategic Plan.

🎨 Celebrating Arts in Our Schools: Honoring Angela Ah Ryoung Sung

March is National Arts in Our Schools Month, highlighting the transformative power of the arts in education. This week, we celebrate the exceptional contributions of Angela Ah Ryoung Sung, 2024 Outstanding Elementary School New Teacher Finalist and art teacher at Sangster Elementary School. Angela’s passion for the arts and her commitment to fostering creativity in students make her a vital part of the school community. Read more about how Angela supports and highlights young artists’ talents.

✨ Strategic Plan Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity

During the Strategic Plan update portion of last week's School Board meeting, Dr. Reid discussed Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity. She focused on the consistent availability of and accessibility to electives, extracurricular, co-curricular, and enrichment activities. 

Participation in out-of-classroom activities is linked to a number of positive outcomes, such as consistent attendance, academic achievement, and attending college. Outcomes also include increased self-esteem, mental health, and feelings of belonging; and decreased likelihood of risky behavior. 

Watch our video to learn about two new sports this year: girls wrestling and boys volleyball. All 25 FCPS high schools were able to add these sports, with 440 boys and 239 girls participating! These sports are in addition to winter cheer, which was added last year at high schools, and cross country and track and field, which were added at middle schools.

🎓 Equipping Students for Success After High School

In the Academic Matters section of the meeting, Dr. Reid spoke about Career and Transition Services, which support students who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as they prepare for life after high school. 

In addition to learning about workplace and life readiness skills in the classroom, FCPS students can gain experience through real-world and work-based learning experiences with more than 50 business and community partners.

✨ Supported and successful transitions that lead students to high school graduation and postsecondary opportunities is part of the Strategic Plan Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation.

🚙 On the Road With Dr. Reid

Want to keep up with more of Dr. Reid’s updates and travels? Check out her latest Weekly Reflections.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget process include:

• The School Board presents the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22. 
• The Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

🗓️ Calendar Reminders: Quarter End, Eid al-Fitr, and Teacher Workday

Friday, March 28, is the last day of the third quarter. It is a full day of school. 

All FCPS schools and offices are closed on Monday, March 31, for Eid al-Fitr. Tuesday, April 1, is a student holiday and teacher workday. See the complete school year calendar or the employee calendar.

Staff Staples

• Calendars
• Classifieds
• Employee Wellness Program
• FCPS CARES
• Human Resources
• Job Openings
• People on the Move
• Savings for Staff

Note: Some links in this email require a connection to the FCPS network. If you have any questions, please visit the FCPS Tech Support Portal to search for self help articles or submit a ticket.

Submit an Employee News request. Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Thank you! 

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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Board Meeting Recap: March 13, 2025

Dear Neighbor,

Last Thursday at the Fairfax County School Board’s Regular Meeting (agenda | video), we discussed several important topics, including an update on new athletic programs and a report on career and transition services for students who have IEPs.

We also approved local investments in new playground equipment at Marshall Road Elementary and sports lighting replacements at McLean High School, both attended by many Providence District students.

On another note, we are looking for someone to fill the Providence District seat on the School Board’s Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC), which addresses issues affecting minority student academic achievement. For more information or to apply before the March 25, 2025, 5:00 PM deadline, click here.

As always, you are welcome to attend School Board meetings (schedule) and register to share your thoughts with us during community participation (sign-up).

In service,

Karl Frisch
Chair and Providence District Representative
Fairfax County School Board

Table of Contents

• Strategic Plan Goal 4 Update: Equitable Access and Opportunity
• Academic Matters: Career and Transition Services (CTS)
• Superintendent Performance Review: EL-6 Financial Administration
• Local Investments: Marshall Road Elementary and McLean High
• Women’s History Month Proclamation
• Disability Acceptance Month Proclamation
• Honoring Gerry Hyland Proclamation
• Neurodiversity Affirmation Week Proclamation
• Student Performance of the National Anthem
• Board Matters: Providence District Update
• Upcoming School Board Meetings

Strategic Plan Goal 4 Update: Equitable Access and Opportunity

Video | Meeting Materials

 

For the update on Strategic Plan Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity, the Superintendent discussed the importance of consistent availability of and accessibility to electives, extracurricular, co-curricular, and enrichment activities, noting that participation in out-of-classroom activities is linked to a number of positive outcomes, such as consistent attendance, academic achievement, and college going, as well as increased self-esteem, mental health, feelings of belonging, and decreased likelihood of risky behavior.

As part of her presentation, the Superintendent shared this video, which highlights girls’ wrestling and boys’ volleyball, two new sports offered this year, and emphasized the board’s commitment to excellence, equity, and opportunity in insisting that these new programs be available at all 25 high schools.

Academic Matters: Career and Transition Services (CTS)

Video | Meeting Materials

 

For Academic Matters, the Superintendent provided a report on Career and Transition Services (CTS), which support students who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) as they prepare to move on to a variety of postsecondary options after high school. Every high school in Fairfax County has at least one employment and transitions representative who is responsible for working with families and students and providing input to the IEP transition plan.

In addition to classroom opportunities, real-world, work-based learning experiences with over 50 business and community partners offer opportunities for our students to gain valuable workplace and life readiness skills. Our Postsecondary Planning and Transition Services also help increase student access to college and trade and technical opportunities through college visits, job-shadowing field trips, and career fairs.

Superintendent Performance Review

The School Board judges the overall success of the Superintendent on the school division’s reasonable progress toward achieving the 2023-30 Strategic Plan goals and adherence to a set of thirteen Executive Limitations found on pages 14-31 of the Board’s Strategic Governance Manual. The Superintendent provides annual monitoring reports to the Board for each Executive Limitation. The Board then votes on whether the provided reports are in compliance with the given Executive Limitation. If the report is found not to be in compliance, the Superintendent provides a corrective action memo addressing the Board’s concerns.

 

Executive Limitation 6: Financial Administration

Video | Meeting Materials

The Superintendent provided her annual monitoring report on Executive Limitation 6: Financial Administration. As outlined on page 21 of the Board’s Strategic Governance Manual, Executive Limitation 6 stipulates that the Superintendent shall not fail to take reasonable steps to avoid allowing any fiscal condition that places the long-term financial health of the Division in jeopardy, causing a material deviation in spending from the budget adopted by the Board, or spending that is inconsistent with achieving the Division’s Strategic Plan goals. Additionally, the Superintendent shall not fail to be fiscally responsible and ensure all expenditures are kept within projected revenues of the Division. Nor shall the Superintendent fail to provide strong financial controls and an accurate, full, and transparent accounting of how taxpayer dollars are spent in support of the Division. Following the Superintendent’s presentation and a thorough discussion, the Board found that the monitoring report was in compliance with EL-6.

Motion: S. Anderson, Second: R. Anderson / Vote: Yes 11, No 1

Local Investments: Marshall Road Elementary and McLean High

• Marshall Road Elementary School: The Board approved a $386,993.75 contract for school-aged playground equipment installation at Marshall Road Elementary School, which many Providence District students attend. Funding for this project will be provided from the ADA Playground Improvement Fund and Site Improvement Fund. The contractor was selected and awarded per a competitively procured Job Order Construction Services Contract (details).

• McLean High School: The board approved a $371,749.00 contract for stadium sports lighting replacement for the track and field at McLean High School, which many Providence District students attend. Funding for this project will be provided by the Sports Lighting Replacement Fund. The contractor was selected and awarded per a competitively procured Sports Lighting Solutions with Related Technology, Equipment, and Services Contract (details).

Women’s History Month Proclamation

Video | Meeting Materials

The Board proclaimed March 2025 as Women’s History Month, a time to remember and honor the countless women who have fought relentlessly for the rights of all women in our nation, commonwealth, and county. This year’s theme, “Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations,” recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions women have made to the American educational system.

Motion: Lady, Second: Dunne  / Vote: Yes 12, No 0

Disability Acceptance Month Proclamation

Video | Meeting Materials

The Board proclaimed March 2025 as Disability Acceptance Month in recognition of the many contributions and strengths of people with disabilities and to promote inclusive school communities across Fairfax County Public Schools.

Motion: Dunne, Second: McDaniel  / Vote: Yes 12, No 0

Honoring Gerry Hyland Proclamation

Video | Meeting Materials

The Board honored and remembered Gerald W. (Gerry) Hyland, former Fairfax County Supervisor for the Mount Vernon District from 1988 to 2015, for his outstanding contributions, exemplary leadership, and unwavering commitment to the community and extended its deepest sympathies to his family on their loss.

Motion: Dunne, Second: Moon / Vote: Yes 12, No 0

Neurodiversity Affirmation Week Proclamation

Video | Meeting Materials

The Board proclaimed March 17-23, 2025, as Neurodiversity Affirmation Week in recognition of the cognitive brilliance that every student brings to our schools and communities and renewed its commitment to creating neurodivergent-affirming schools.

Motion: Sizemore Heizer, Second: Meren  / Vote: Yes 12, No 0

Student Performance of the National Anthem

The Board meeting began with a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by the Forestville ES 5th/6th Grade Chorus under the direction of Stephanie Patterson:

Board Matters: Providence District Update

At the end of most meetings, School Board Members provide updates from their communities about school visits, activities, upcoming events, and more. Here is a video of my update from the meeting:

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)

• Thursday, March 27, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)

• Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. (Goal 5 Report and SR&R)
• Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.

All meetings are broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website. Meetings are also recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS YouTube channel. Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at regular meetings or public hearings.

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español: Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Karl Frisch  |  Phone: 571-423-1084 

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.

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Dear Franconia Residents/Estimados Residentes de Franconia,

As we welcome spring, we find ourselves on the brink of a beautiful transformation—one that begins with the much-anticipated peak bloom of the cherry blossoms, predicted to grace our community from March 28 to 31. This stunning natural spectacle serves as a reminder of renewal and hope, offering a moment of brightness as we navigate a gray uncertainty. 

In light of the new administration's efforts to downsize the federal workforce and budget, thousands of our residents and their families are impacted. Fairfax County is offering a variety of resources and services that can help former federal employees, contractors and anyone else affected by job loss.

Amid these challenges, we also have an opportunity to reflect on the strength and resilience of women. The School Board issued a proclamation recognizing Women’s History Month which acknowledged the contributions of women who have shaped our history, our rights and our communities and the many women serving in public office and leading local organizations. However, I ask you to acknowledge and express your gratitude to the women who have been instrumental in your life, be it your mother, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, daughters, cousins or friends. 

Let’s uplift the contributions of every woman and recommit to advancing equity and opportunity for all.

School Board News

I invite you to catch up on our recent discussions by exploring the highlights from our February 20th and March 13th meetings. Your insights and engagement are important to our community.

 

FCPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best

"Every single one of us here can probably remember and speak to a teacher who had a great impact on our lives, if not just an impact that changed the trajectory of our lives. I actually know in Fairfax County that some of them have actually saved lives.

So when we talk about teacher pay, we're talking about work that is invaluable, that is really priceless.

I realize that we can talk dollars and cents all we want, but during this climate, the issue of free and inclusive public education becomes a moral imperative that addresses the very foundation of our democracy.

If the federal government won’t do their part, it is our responsibility to take up the mantel to work together and engage the Commonwealth to protect public education in Fairfax County."

I shared this message when the School Board met with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on February 25th.

I am collaborating with Franconia Supervisor Lusk and others to find creative solutions that meet our students' needs. Join us for a virtual Town Hall on April 1 at 7:00 p.m. to learn more and share your ideas.  ⬇️ Details ⬇️

 

More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree. 

Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

  Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

 

Middle School Start Times - Unchanging for Next School Year

The Board met on February 18 for a public Work Session to discuss the analysis provided by the consultant, Prismatic Services, regarding recommendations and scenarios for changing middle school start times.

You can review their presentation, full report, or watch the Work Session.

We discussed thoughtful recommendations based on data, but at this moment in time, the Board and Superintendent need to evaluate how this project fits into the boundary adjustment study and dire FCPS budget constraints.

I’ll keep you updated on this work as more information becomes available. Thank you again to the Twain students for providing their insights and preferences and to all Franconia middle school families for supporting their students to get to school for a very early first bell.

 

🍀 Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick’s Day today…of the many Irish Blessings I’ve heard, I leave you with one of my favorites; “May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.” 🍀

Kind Regards/Bondadosamente,

Marcia St. John-Cunning

Franconia District Representative

Fairfax County Public School Board

Focus on Franconia 🏆 Ethan Osburn Crowned Hayfield Secondary's First Two-Time State Champion! 

In an outstanding display of skill and determination, Ethan Osburn from Hayfield Secondary has made history by becoming the school’s first two-time state champion! Competing in the 190 weight class, Ethan concluded the season with an impressive record of 45-0, boasting a remarkable 100% bonus win rate. His dedication and hard work have not only earned him this prestigious title but have also inspired his teammates and the entire school community. Congratulations, Ethan, on this incredible accomplishment!

 

🎉 Congratulations to Avery Moran and Amiya Woolcock for Their Outstanding Achievement! 

A big round of applause for Avery Moran and Amiya Woolcock, who secured first place with their impressive Women’s Voting Rights Project at the Virginia District 5 National History Day Contest! As talented students at Groveton Elementary, their hard work and dedication have set a remarkable example for their peers. We are so proud of their achievement and the important issues they are bringing to light!

 

🩰 Wolf Trap Foundation Grants Support Arts Education! 

The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has awarded grants to 14 teachers across Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. One notable recipient, Courtney Betzel from West Potomac High School Academy, will partner with ClancyWorks Dance Company to offer dance masterclasses. Students will explore Hip Hop and classical Indian dance, delving into their cultural roots and creating a unique performance for spring. This exciting project highlights the diversity of dance across cultures!

 

🤝 Community Leaders’ Luncheon Fosters Collaboration at Fort Belvoir

I had the privilege of attending Colonel David J. Stewart's Community Leaders’ Luncheon at Fort Belvoir, where community leaders and Garrison staff gathered to align goals and share insights for collaboration. Mount Vernon High School Principal Cary Dimmick delivered an engaging keynote about the school, captivating the audience. Additionally, Supervisor Lusk was honored with the Ft. Belvoir 2025 Community Leader Award for his contributions.

Celebrating Our Young Peacemakers: 2025 Student Peace Awards Recipients Announced!

We are thrilled to announce that students from 27 Fairfax County public schools have been honored with the 2025 Student Peace Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions as peacemakers in their communities. This year, Franconia District proudly celebrates the achievements of the following award winners:

• Ava Saunders and Grace Varughese, Hayfield Secondary School
• Mia Martin-Escandarani, Edison High School
• Madison McLaughlin, John R. Lewis High School
• Jennifer Villalobos-Saenz, Mount Vernon High School
• Salaiha Najeeb, West Potomac High School

Congratulations to these remarkable students for their commitment to fostering peace and making a positive impact!

 

🎭 Edison Drama Presents Grease April 3-5

Tickets on sale now! 

 

🌟 Transformative Leadership Opportunities for Rising High School Students!

 

Is your rising high school student eager to make a difference? The John Lewis Leadership Program offers real-world experiences like field trips, internships, and service projects, supported by over 70 partners, including Congressman Lewis’s family. This flexible program helps students develop vital leadership skills for college and beyond.

Limited full-time enrollment spaces are available for students from outside Lewis High School, with accepted students transferring in fall 2025. Participants can also pursue the IB Diploma Programme.

Explore how Congressman John Lewis's legacy inspires the next generation of changemakers! For more information, contact Deborah March at [email protected].

 

🎨 Join Us for the Hayfield Craft Fair and Silent Auction! FCPS News You Need ✔️ Reminder to Sign Up Weekly for Student Fasting Meal Kits

Students who are fasting during the school day between now and March 28 can take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families must fill out a separate request form for each week and for each student in order to receive school meal kits. To receive meal kits for the week of March 24, please fill out this form by March 17. 

Please remind your child to pick up their meals each day at our school’s designated location. Visit the Food and Nutrition Services webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

 

👗 Prom Dress Shop Opens With Hundreds of Dresses

The annual Prom Dress Shop opened for the season on Friday, March 7, at Centreville High School. Any area student — not just those from Fairfax County Public Schools — who do not have the funds to purchase a prom dress may choose from hundreds of new dresses donated by Macy’s. Learn more and see shop hours.

 

📆 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid

Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS on Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

 

💻 Kindergarten Registration

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open for parents/caregivers who would like to enroll their child in FCPS for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account.

 

💰 Dream Project CTE Scholarship

The Dream Project CTE Scholarship is an annual renewable scholarship awarded to immigrant students whose career goals align with post-secondary education focused on the applied skills needed for a specific craft/profession. Application deadline is March  31, 2025.

 

💰 Fairfax County Scholarship

Fairfax County scholarship opportunity for students who live in affordable housing. Apply before March 31 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more and apply today!

School Board Meetings

Public participation is the foundation of a healthy democracy. I invite you to tune in or attend FCPS School Board meetings. Visit BoardDocs for meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.

• Monday, March 17, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Audit Committee
• Tuesday, March 18, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee (PEC)
• Tuesday, March 18, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Governance Committee
• Thursday, March 20, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee (CPDC)
• Thursday, March 27, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting
• Tuesday, April 1, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee (PEC)
• Tuesday, April 1, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Governance Committee
• Thursday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting
• Tuesday April 22, 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. - HOLD Work Session if Needed
• Thursday, April 24, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting

   

How to Watch Live

• FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11),

• FCPS YouTube Channel, and

• FCPS website 

How to Watch Recordings

• FCPS YouTube channel (English), and 

• FCPS en Español YouTube channel (dubbed in Spanish)

How to Attend In-Person

• Regular School Board Meetings take place at Luther Jackson Middle School.
• Work Sessions, Committee Meetings, and Forums are held at Gatehouse Administration Center. 
• Public Hearings take place at Luther Jackson Middle School.

How to Speak at a Regular Board Meeting

Visit the community participation webpage and fill out the form.

 

Helpful Links

• FCPS SY24-25 Calendar

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences

• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information

• Safety Tip Line

• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

• FCPS Jobs

• Multilingual Telephone Help Line

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Marcia St. John-Cunning |  Phone: 571-423-1081

Staff Aide: Mara Kaiser Braunger | Phone: 571-279-1691

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Dear Community Members,

We are at a defining moment in American history and in the history of Fairfax County. Leaders of our county can no longer do business as usual. Not only our public schools are at stake, but our economic survival as individuals and as a County is at stake. I spoke to exactly this during the March 13 Public Regular Meeting. I remain committed to doing the work needed to fortify our community.

 

“What a time in public education.

We are doing what we must do, and that is to be the stewards of public education, to work so that children thrive. I believe that the most important thing that the 22 local elected officials serving on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the School Board can do is to unify our efforts to fortify our quality of life for all in Fairfax County. 

This is a historic, unprecedented time. So we may not have the answers on what to do – and people are asking me, what they can do. But I know that the two Boards working together is the pathway. It’s finding out how to do better business to construct our schools so we save time and money and it’s doing the hard work to find a solution – not just cut – programs and protections for our youth. That’s middle school afterschool, it’s summer programming, it’s crossing guards at high schools, it’s ensuring that our staff receive the dignity of a salary worthy of their emotional, mental, and physical work to nurture children into people who will thrive and create a much better America. I am not done working on this budget, and I am asking Chairman Jeff McKay and the County Executive Bryan Hill whom the County Board supervises and holds accountable, to do the hard work with the School Board and our Superintendent to find solutions. Cutting programs is not a solution. It’s not creative, and we can do better. 

I also want to state that Fairfax County Public Schools is the largest employer in this county, the third largest in the state. We must fully fund competitive compensation for our incredibly-hard working staff, as agreed to in our collective bargaining agreement. FCPS is a stable employer – we have staff who are now the breadwinners in their families, due to federal cuts. I see it as a moral imperative, but it is truly an economic imperative to provide the best public education system in the nation and in the DMV region.  

If we want people to retain their homes, spend money, and continue living in Fairfax County, we must fully fund the Superintendent’s proposed budget and compensate our staff. Public education is a non-negotiable public investment.”

Best,

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Melanie K. Meren |  Phone: 571-423-1082 | Facebook

Staff Aide: Jacob Harrer | 571-310-9539

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  Advanced Academic Programs for Military Families Virtual Workshop

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Family and School Partnerships (FSP) Office will be facilitating a virtual workshop given by the Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Office on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at 6 p.m.

This workshop will provide information on the AAP philosophy and continuum of services, the screening process for students with previous advanced academic services, those new to AAP, and what services look like at the various school levels.

The presentation will be geared towards military families, and parents/guardians may submit questions beforehand.

This virtual event will be held via Zoom.

To register for the workshop, as well as submit questions for the AAP office, please fill out this Google form by Friday, April 11, 2025.

For more information and/or to connect with FCPS resources, email us at [email protected]. 

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Mason District Community,

The third quarter is set to close in a little over two weeks on March 28, 2025. Please take a moment to connect with your student’s teacher(s) to discuss their progress. There is still some time to ensure that all assignments have been submitted.

I will be joining Supervisor Andres Jimenez for a Mason District Budget Town Hall on March 26th at 6:00 p.m. The meeting is virtual and details regarding registration are below. Please feel free to submit your questions ahead of time to [email protected]. 

There have been many inquiries regarding the potential of various reductions in the County budget and their impact on schools. Please find below the programs which will directly affect FCPS included in the County reduction package.

I value the input I receive from the Mason Community and am happy to address questions or concerns via email or phone. You can reach me by email at [email protected]. If you are interested in scheduling a phone call, please reach out to my assistant, Cristy Coffey, at [email protected] to arrange a time.

In this Issue:

Budget Matters Opportunities •County Reductions •FCPS Family Summit •FCPS FY 2026 Budget •Review K-12 Math Resources •Budget Development Calendar •Kindergarten Registration •Mason District Budget Town Hall •American Youth Climate Summit   •National Wildlife Photo Contest   •Dream Project CTE Scholarship   •Fairfax County Scholarship Budget Matters County Reductions

Below is a table of County reductions that impact Fairfax County Public Schools as outlined in the FY26 County Executive’s Advertised Budget. Also find the full list of reductions proposed by the County here.

**26 Middle School Afterschool Program Coordinators

FCPS FY 2026 Budget

The Superintendent’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget, discussed during the February 4th Work Session, totals $4.0 billion. This is a net increase of $297.1 million, or 7.9%, over the FY 2025 Approved Budget. Priorities in the proposed budget include:

• Compensation: a 7.0% salary increase for all staff: $240.8 million
• Recurring baseline adjustments: substitute teacher incentive, middle school late buses, esports stipends, legal services, online campus, AP/IB test fees, workers compensation, and grant adjustments: $23.6 million

• Enrollment and Student Need: $20.0 million

• Transfers to Other Funds: Funding for major infrastructure maintenance, continue support for enhanced summer school, and debt service: $12.9 million

• Cost escalations, contracts, renewals, and leases:  $8.6 million

• Inclusive Preschool Expansion: $2.0 million

• Human Capital Management (HCM) Project Year 4: $0.7 million

• Fine and Performing Arts Stipends Year 3: fine and performing arts stipends for middle school theatre and musicals, high school one act plays, indoor drumline, and indoor color guard: $0.7 million

• Certified Athletic Trainers Year 3: to provide one additional certified athletic trainer at each of the 25 high schools: $0.7 million

• Safety and Security: Enhance safety and security in schools to include additional security cameras, Rap Back program, panic alert system, and security vestibules: $9.3 million

• Differentiated Learning Credentials: $4.9 million

Budget Development Calendar  

View the complete FY 2026 Budget Development Calendar.

Mason District Budget Town Hall

Join Supervisor Jimenez and me for a virtual Mason District Town Hall.

Register to attend the town hall scheduled for Wednesday, March 26th at 6:00 p.m.

Submit questions ahead of time to [email protected] or ask questions live on Facebook. The meeting will also be livestreamed on Fairfax County’s Channel 16.

Opportunities FCPS Family Summit

FCPS is pleased to announce the 2025 FCPS Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging, an in-person event hosted by Fairfax County Public Schools in collaboration with a host of internal and external community partners. 

Date: Saturday, March 15, 2025

Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m

Location: South Lakes High School

Learn more and register for the Family Summit.

Review Potential K-12 Mathematics Instructional Resources

FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources in the 2025-26 (secondary) and 2026-27 (elementary) school years. The community is invited to review the materials and provide comments. Resources may be reviewed on the FCPS Mathematics webpage.

Physical copies of the materials are available for viewing on weekdays from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm until Friday, March 21, at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100. 

All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with the School Board before the board votes in spring 2025.

Kindergarten Registration

There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:

1. Determine eligibility. 
2. Identify your local school. 
3. Gather documents. 
4. Fill out forms. 
5. Schedule an appointment.

After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.

💻 Try Online Registration

Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open for parents/caregivers who would like to enroll their child in FCPS for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. 

When registering, parents/caregivers will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account.

American Youth Climate Summit

The American Youth Climate Summit will be held on Saturday, March 29, at American University. This event is designed to empower students to tackle climate challenges and build a sustainable future through inspiring keynote talks, interactive workshops, and networking with leaders in the field.

Event Highlights:

• Keynote speakers, including Congressmen, Senators, and other national climate leaders
• Workshops tailored for students at all levels of climate action experience
• Opportunities to connect with peers and professionals from across the country

Details:

• Date: Saturday, March 29
• Time: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (light breakfast included)
• Location: American University, Washington, DC (Free Parking Available)
• Admission Fee: $30 

This summit is an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of climate issues, develop leadership skills, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. 

Registration closes March 13. 

2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest

The 2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest is open for submissions through March 23, 2025. Choose from nine categories, including the Young Nature Photographers category - open to ages 13-17!

Learn more and submit your photos.

Dream Project CTE Scholarship

The Dream Project CTE Scholarship is an annual renewable scholarship awarded to immigrant students whose career goals align with post-secondary education focused on the applied skills needed for a specific craft/profession. Application deadline is March  31, 2025.

Fairfax County Scholarship

Fairfax County scholarship opportunity for students who live in affordable housing. Apply before March 31 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more and apply today!

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson |  Phone: 571-423-1083 | Twitter

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064, [email protected]

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Fairfax County Public Schools Family Academy

We are happy to introduce the new FCPS Family Academy, a one-stop shop for resources, tools, and learning opportunities for families.

The Family Academy offers in-person and virtual classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families in our learning catalog.

Listed below are numerous opportunities for families to register. Choose the opportunity and find information about dates, times, locations, and registration information.

See what opportunities are offered this month.

Want to learn more about Lexia® Core5 & Lexia® PowerUp?

Join Lexia® Learning for a parent information night to learn how FCPS is using Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp in classrooms across the district to support students' Literacy growth.

March 18

6:30-7:30 p.m.

Virtual

Register here 

ABA Family Training: Teaching Self-Help and Independent Skills

Participants will learn how to teach self-help, living, and social skills to increase their child’s independence.

March 19

10:30-11:30   a.m.  Virtual

Join this session

March 19

7-8:30 p.m.   Virtual 

Join this session

Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice Exceptional (2e) Students Webinar

Join Dr. Oladimeji as she supports families to understand the unique emotional regulation challenges of Twice Exceptional (2e) students.

March 25           10-11:30 a.m.   Virtual     Register here

Getting to Know FCPS: A Family Orientation (GTK)

This interactive seminar provides information about the Fairfax County school system. The orientations are presented in Arabic, English, Korean and Spanish.  Scroll through the Family Academy Catalog to GTK to register for dates this month.

For more information, please visit FCPS Family Academy. 

To connect with Family Academy, please email [email protected] 

Family and School Partnerships - Family Academy

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Career Pathways for Military-Connected Families Wednesday, March 19, 2025

The Bridges to Success Networking Career and Education Fair

• Where: National Museum of the United States Army
• When: Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
  • A session for high school students will be from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
  • A session for adults will be from 12:30-2:30 p.m.

This event is open to transitioning service members, military spouses, dependents, and veterans looking to pursue their career and education goals. 

Participants will have the opportunity to connect with local area employers offering certification programs, jobs, apprenticeships, fellowships, and paid internships. 

Participants will also be able to engage with post-secondary institutions to learn about professional development opportunities. With a variety of exhibitors, attendees can explore diverse pathways to success.  

For more information or to register for the event, please visit Bridges to Success. To connect with FCPS resources, please email [email protected].

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