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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.

Dear Dranesville Families,

This year has whizzed by, and it’s hard to believe I have almost finished my first year on the School Board. We have committed to make effective changes that positively affect students, staff, families, and our community. There is more work ahead, and I look forward to our work as a School Board to make FCPS a leading school district with students at the center of everything we do. I hope you share your advocacy around our Capital Improvement Program and our Budget process in the first months of 2025. 

Thank you to everyone who came out to share their advocacy at the Region 2, Region 5, and Region 1 Community Boundary Review meetings. There was a great showing at the Region 1 meeting yesterday, and I appreciated the discussion I heard at table group breakout sessions and at the wrap up. See below to find the upcoming virtual Community Boundary Review meeting dates. The FCPS comprehensive school boundary review webpage shares community engagement opportunities, the work of the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee, and key takeaways and resources reviewed at their meetings thus far. As a reminder, no boundary changes have been proposed yet, and we are only in the first phase of a review process.

Like most of you, I am saddened and frustrated by the Hayfield football situation this fall. Things would have played out much differently if those with evidence of wrongdoing had come forward in August. I fully support Dr. Reid’s actions upon verifying the evidence received in late November. At that time, I shared my full support for her plan to “secure experts to conduct a comprehensive, external review and a thorough assessment of our internal protocols and procedures regarding recruiting and transfer residency and ensure the scope of the review is expansive and will look at every aspect of our protocols and procedures and how they align with the standards set forth by the Virginia High School League (VHSL).”

I am also in full support the School Board’s December 5th approval to engage an external law firm to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not limited to student athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with an examination of Hayfield High School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent. Once the examination is complete, the Governance Committee will review related policies for revision and bring the updated policies to the School Board for consideration, discussion, and votes as needed. Also, this work will go beyond football and include all VHSL sports to improve our protocols and procedures since families have been relocating for both academics and sports in FCPS for years. 

I enjoyed our annual joint meeting with the Fairfax City School Board. We had a great discussion and enjoyed a delicious dinner prepared by the Marshall Academy culinary students and the Davis Center culinary program’s desserts. We were treated to amazing student performances. I look forward to continuing this collaboration with the two returning and three new Fairfax City School Board members.

Congratulations to the Langley HS girls volleyball team’s state championship! Dr. Reid and I, among many supporters, watched their rematch against Chantilly HS. It was a great match of 5 close games with a lot of lead changes and great plays! I look forward to going to winter concerts, plays, and winter sports, especially the new girls wrestling teams, in 2025.

Happy holidays and have a wonderful winter break enjoying the outdoors, fun, friends, and family! 

Robyn

Marshall Academy Culinary Students providing dinner for the School Board and the Fairfax City School Board

In this newsletter,

• Updates
• School and Student News
• December is...
• Opportunities
• Events

Updates FCPS Updates Calendar Reminders

December 23- January 3: No School, Winter Break 

January 6: School Resumes

January 20: Martin Luther King Holiday 

School Year 2024-25 Calendar

Comprehensive Boundary Review

Region 1 Boundary Review Community Meeting

Virtual Comprehensive Boundary Review Meetings

Virtual Comprehensive Boundary Review Community Meetings will be:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6- 7:30 p.m. 
• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1- 2:30 p.m. 
• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30- 11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30- 8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30- 8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30- 8 p.m. 

Registration will be available soon on the Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage, where you can also learn about the boundary review process.

Looking for more information or to share feedback

Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter and submit your questions or feedback on our website. 

Superintendent's Boundary Review Advisory Committee

Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee has begun meeting. The committee includes two parents/caregivers or community members from each of FCPS’ 24 high school pyramids, school-based and division administrators, teachers, operational staff, and other community representatives. Each committee member’s unique perspective and insight are invaluable as we work together to follow a process that is transparent, includes significant community participation and feedback, and always keeps students at the center of every decision. Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials and read about key takeaways from the committee meetings.

Dr. Reid Reflects on the Comprehensive Boundary Review Process

In her December 9th Weekly Reflections, Dr. Reid wrote about the meetings mentioned above. She stressed that no boundary changes have been proposed yet; we are only in the first phase of a review process.

FCPS Comprehensive Boundary Work Timeline

Coates ES Boundary Community Meetings

FCPS will be conducting community meetings to discuss the specific boundary review that was passed for Coates Elementary.  This review will be happening alongside, but separate from, the Division Boundary Study. Come out to listen, share feedback, and ask questions. Please mark your calendars for either the virtual meeting on 1/16 or the in-person meeting on 1/21.

• Thursday, January 16, 6:30- 7:30 p.m.- virtual
• Registration required (link coming soon). 

• Tuesday, January 21, 6:30- 7:30 pm.- in person
• Coates ES (2480 River Birch Rd, Herndon)- Cafeteria, Door 1. 

Language interpretation services will be available at both meetings.

Fall 2024 Sports Champions

Langley HS Girls Volleyball State Championship Team

Congratulations to all the FCPS student-athletes who participated in the 2024 fall sports season. This year, four teams and two individuals won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 championship in their respective sports, and six teams and two individuals were the state runners-up. Congratulations to all our state champions and runners-up!

Dranesville winners:

• Langley High School, Golf.
• Langley High School, Girls Volleyball (repeat champion).

FCPS and FCPD Partnership for Social Media Threat Investigations

Schools across the country and here in Northern Virginia continue to experience a significant number of fake social media threats that can cause fear and distract students and educators from our mission. In our County, we are grateful for the close working partnership that exists between FCPS and the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD). FCPD’s Threat Assessment Management Unit (TAM), a new and industry-leading specialty unit, responds and fully investigates each time schools report a threat. As County leaders, let us be clear that we will work quickly to identify those who make these threats. If identified, these individuals face serious consequences including the very real possibility of criminal charges. What may be regarded as a joke, can damage a young person’s future. 

Please have a conversation with your child about making good decisions around the use of social media. Know what social media accounts your child has set up, what platforms they are using, what they are posting, especially on Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. Remind them that if they see something, it is their responsibility to say something whether that be to a trusted adult or through the anonymous FCPS tipline or by calling 911.

FCPS Tipline

An Emergency

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

Submit Anonymous Tips

You may submit your anonymous tips using any of the following methods:

• Online: Quick Tip Electronic Form (through SchoolMessenger)
• Phone: The Tipline phone number is 571-423-2020.
• SMS Text: Individuals wishing to report activity also have the option to text their concerns to 888-777; keyword TIP FCPS. 
  • Please remember to include the name of the affected school/facility when reporting. An automated banner will respond, allowing the person to text information.
  • You may receive a response in return asking for additional information. The responder is NOT able to see your name or phone number.

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is usually the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed.

Winter Resources for Students and Families

Fairfax County Public Schools has compiled a list of resources for students and families in case they need assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

• The Fairfax County Coordinated Services connects residents to county and community-based services that promote self-sufficiency and enhance well-being. Call (703) 222-0880, and you will be connected with someone who can assess family needs and link you to assistance throughout the year. 

• The Human Services Resource Guide is a searchable database that contains information on thousands of nonprofit and government services available to Fairfax County residents. Anyone with an internet connection has 24/7 access to the Human Services Resource Guide, including from mobile devices.

Course Selection Begins in January 

Beginning in January 2025, students will meet with their counselors to discuss course selection for next year. Families are encouraged to actively participate in this important process. 

As students choose courses, it is important to remind them to consider the following:

• Current academic strengths and habits.
• Graduation requirements (high school students).
• Interests and career and postsecondary goals.
• Personal well-being.
• Extracurricular activities and commitments that may impact students’ time and energy.

While considering all the above, I encourage all students to create an academic plan through grade 12. I also encourage all college bound students to earn an Advanced Studies Diploma, and to take math, science, and world language courses every year. Furthermore, colleges love electives of all kinds- from marketing to theatre, Music, and Dance, to Engineering, Studio and Graphic Arts. Students should pursue their interests in middle and high school electives. Lastly, school-life balance is an important consideration as students strive for academic and personal success. 

Graduation Requirements and Planning

Careful consideration is essential when planning next year's courses. We encourage our students and families to review the Graduation Requirements and Course Planning webpage to make informed decisions while planning for success in high school and beyond. Reviewing the Program of Studies may be helpful as well. Families should refer to their school’s course catalog and course selection website for more information.

2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound HS senior, regardless of income, who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. 

The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Get Help Filling out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will be offering several programs on completing the FAFSA/VASA and finding and applying for scholarships. In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email [email protected].

Special Education Resources for Families

FCPS has these resources available to help assist families of students with special needs. 

• The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 

• The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars, consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Contact the FRC at [email protected] or call 703-204-2941.

• Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by calling 571-423-4014, emailing [email protected], or by submitting a question. 

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Education has updated the Virginia Family's Guide to Special Education. This state guide was developed to help those involved in special education including families, teachers, school administrators, advocates, and students.

Upcoming FRC Webinars

January 10: Help! My Kids Won’t Go to School

January 11: Sibshops

January 13-17 - FCPS Math Week

January 17: A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

January 24: Depression in Teens

January 31:Understanding Trauma in Your Child Part 1/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo Parte 1 (presented in Spanish)

Tutoring Resources for Families 

Is your family looking for resources to help support your child’s academic success? FCPS’ Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of district employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to be hired as a tutor by parents. FRC maintains this list, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning virtually. 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, study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.

November Audit Buzz

In this issue of the Audit Buzz, we provide an update on current engagements; explain Accountability and the Five E's in the Knowledge Hive. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on Office of Auditor General's (OAG) website.

School Board Updates MS and HS Grading Governance Committee Policy 2418 Review

As Chair of the Governance Committee, I have been leading the committee through this policy review work. After five committee meetings, the current draft of Policy 2418 was a topic of the November 12th work session. Members asked clarifying questions, shared input from stakeholders, and offered suggestions for improvement. At the November 19th Governance Committee meeting, we incorporated School Board member input as we completed all revisions. Throughout the process I have heard from principals, teachers, students, parents and caregivers who shared their thoughts and opinions regarding how the FY 24-25 Grading Guidelines are working this year. The School Board is scheduled to vote on the policy December 19, 2024.

Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times 

At the December 5th School Board work session, staff from Prismatic Services, Inc., presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m. The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project.

Highlights of December 5th School Board Regular Meeting

Action Items

The School Board approved the following actions regarding HS athletics External Reviews and Internal Processes:

• Motion: That the School Board engage an external law firm that has not performed any work for FCPS or the Superintendent in the last 10 years to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not limited to student athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with an examination of Hayfield High School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent.
• Follow-on Motion: Based on the findings of this examination, that the School Board direct the Superintendent to work with the Governance Committee to identify potential updates to related policies, including but not limited to Policy 1106, Policy 1105 and Policy 1107 and bring those potential policy update suggestions to the Governance Committee to review and to send recommendations to the School Board for consideration and a vote as needed.

Presentations to the School Board

Dr. Reid and Chief Financial Officer Leigh Burden presented the FY 2025 Midyear Budget report.

Dr. Reid presented Academic Matters on Inclusive Schools.

Dr. Reid and Jenny Cunneen, Director of Leadership Development, presented a Strategic Plan Update on Pillar C: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supported Workforce.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

• Today, December 19, 2024, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
• Thursday, January 9, 2025, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
• Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:30 a.m.- Work Session 
• Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 6 p.m.- Capital Improvement Program Public Hearing

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.

Community Updates 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.

Fairfax County’s VA General Assembly Delegation's Pre-2025 Session Public Hearing

The Fairfax County delegation to the Virginia General Assembly will hold a public hearing regarding the upcoming 2025 session on Saturday, January 4, 2025, at 9 a.m., in the Board Auditorium at the Fairfax County Government Center (12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax).

Fairfax County residents can sign up in advance to speak at the hearing to share what matters most to you. Register online or contact the Department of Clerk Services at 703-324-3151 or TTY 711, by 12 p.m. on January 2, 2025. 

Additional guidelines for speaking at the public forum are available on the Fairfax County Government website. 

Holiday Events at Our Parks

Celebrate the season at our parks- ride the Holiday Express, take a spin on the Carolers Carousel at Winter Wonderland at Burke Lake Park, enjoy wagon rides, animal visits and more at Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park.

Online Safety During Winter Break  

Children may spend more time online while at home during winter break. To promote digital safety and help protect students against forms of online exploitation, learn about online risks and how to avoid them from SchoolSafety.gov, as well as encourage open and ongoing communication on safe digital habits. 

From the FC Police Department,

Dial 9-8-8 for 24-hour Behavioral Healthcare and Support

9-8-8 is a three-digit number that routes callers to the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. When an individual calls or texts 9-8-8, they are connected to trained counselors who will listen, provide support, and connect them with necessary resources. 9-8-8 is active in Fairfax County and across the United States.

What You Need to Know

• Dialing or texting 9-8-8 will connect you to free behavioral health care and support 24 hours a day.
  • Chat (English only) is also available through the Lifeline’s website.
  • 9-8-8 is a direct connection to support for anyone experiencing behavioral health-related distress as well as those concerned about a loved one.
• Callers may be experiencing:
  • Thoughts of suicide, mental health or substance use concerns, or any other kind of emotional distress.
• The Commonwealth of Virginia continues to build capacity and infrastructure:
  • To support 9-8-8 and the Commonwealth’s comprehensive crisis support system commonly referred to as Marcus Alert.
  • To enhance community-based crisis services.

Fairfax County continues to respond to community needs and expand crisis services. At the Merrifield Crisis Response Center (open 24/7) at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health, operated by the Community Services Board (CSB), walk-in emergency behavioral health assistance is available day and night, 365 days a year.

School and Student News Eight FCPS Students Recognized in National YoungArts Award Competition

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students received eight awards in the National YoungArts Foundation Competition. All YoungArts award winners have demonstrated exceptional technique, a strong sense of artistry, and an extraordinary commitment to developing their crafts. This year, winners were selected from more than 9,000 applications across ten artistic disciplines – classical music, dance, design, film, jazz, photography, theater, visual arts, voice, and writing.

Congratulations to these Dranesville students:

• Sophia Lin, Classical Music/Piano, Thomas Jefferson HSST
• Mia Mortman, Voice/Classical, McLean HS
• Renee Shi, Film, Langley HS
• Yeo Yeum, Classical Music/Oboe, Thomas Jefferson HSST

Educate Fairfax Grants Benefit Students 

This year, the team at Educate Fairfax was able to financially support 107 grants across 100 Fairfax County Public Schools, including 24 Title 1 Schools, totaling an unprecedented $180,273 in funding directly  impacting nearly 36,000 of our students, our biggest award ever. This milestone is possible by the incredible generosity of our donors, who believe in the power of public education to foster creativity, inspire innovation, and create equitable learning opportunities for all students.

Congratulations to these schools Dranesville students attend:

• Aldrin ES- Aldrin Ozobots for STEAM Curriculum
• Burke School- Burke School Market/ Care Essentials Baskets & Gift Cards
• Cedar Lane School- Dance Movement Therapy to Provide Reduction in Student Stress
• Clearview ES- True Book Fair- Part 2
• Coates ES- Expanding POG Skills Through Entrepreneurship
• Colvin Run ES- Enhanced Autism STEAM Resources
• Dranesville ES- Empowered Minds, Empowered Lives
• Herndon HS- Dreaming of My Future in Artificial Intelligence
• Herndon MS- Team up with Herndon Middle School and help us engage our students
• Interagency Alternative Schools-
• Bridging Futures: College & Career Fair Access for All
• Celebrating Creative Expression: Creative Arts Contest and Ceremony
• Kent Gardens ES- Encouraging Innovation with Keva Planks for Grades K-6
• Longfellow MS- Exploring Career Pathways
• Marshall Academy- Student-Driven Innovation for Community Challenges
• McLean HS- Student Services' Wheel of Futures
• Westfield HS- MTSS School Team Interventions

Megan Sawant 2024 VSBA Scholarship Recipient

Megan Sawant, a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, is one of two students to receive the 2024 Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Exhibitors Scholarship at the VSBA Annual Convention, held last month in Colonial Williamsburg. This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors who have made an impact by serving as student school board representatives on their local school boards. 

Sawant is the 2024-25 student representative to the FCPS School Board and began her one-year term on July 1.

SB Student Leadership Development Program

I welcome Selamawit Demeke, a junior at Westfield HS, as the Dranesville representative to the School Board Student Leadership Development Program. I received fifteen impressive applications making it difficult to choose one student. Selam has an amazing resume and a unique student perspective. I look forward to working with her as she completes this program. 

Herndon HS

The Herndon HS Science Department is looking for volunteers for Science Fair Judging. A background in science is not necessary. The science fair will take place at Herndon HS on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, starting at 3:15 pm. If you would like to volunteer, please fill out this google form.

Langley HS

Langley HS Girls Volleyball State Championship

Langley HS Girls Volleyball team, last year’s state champions, started this season down four of the six starters that led them to a state title last year. Undeterred, the team and the coaches doubled down, embracing six days a week of practice during the playoffs, to emerge with a second consecutive state championship this year. Coach Susan Shifflett, who has led the Saxons volleyball program since 1998, said the loss of the prior year’s starters pushed the team and her staff to expand their horizons to rise to the challenge. Shifflett credits the Langley community for developing its girls volleyball program, which has won four state championships since 2013.

From Principal Stroud- I want to thank everyone for the warm and welcoming reception I have received as I join this incredible community—a special thank you to the Langley PTSA for the welcome breakfast on Wednesday morning. If you are not a current member of the PTSA, I encourage you to join. Their work is invaluable in helping us provide an excellent experience for our students and families in many ways.

Langley HS PTSA's Welcome to Principal Stroud

McLean HS

Mikayla Dolina, McLean High School senior, won the International Powerlifting League (IPL) Drug-tested World Championship. Mikayla is now the IPL World Champion in the Junior (15-19-year-old), 67.5 Kg women's class. 

McLean High School Ethics Bowl team participated in the Virginia High School Ethics Bowl in Richmond last weekend and made it to the finals.

Potholder Project- During October and November, our Highlanders completed their goal of making one hundred handmade potholders!  These beautifully crafted and useful items will be donated to the Thanksgiving Potholder Project, a nonprofit that works with local food pantries to add these potholders to Thanksgiving Food donation bags for families in need.

Longfellow MS

Longfellow Science Olympiad team won first place at the Lake Braddock Invitational against the most competitive teams in Virginia. The team achieved top-6 placements in twenty-one of the twenty-three events (including thirteen first places). 

Dranesville ES

Dranesville's 6th Grade Chorus will be performing the National Anthem Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at George Mason University Women's Basketball Game vs. Loyola.

December is... Inclusive Schools Week- December 2- 6

At the December 5th School Board Meeting, Dr. Reid spoke about inclusive activities at our schools, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and the Family Summit event and resource fair, which will take place on March 15, 2025. View her presentation slides. 

National Special Education Day- December 2

National Special Education Day is recognized each year on December 2 and commemorates President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students with special needs, as well as our families who are partners in the education and support of these students! 

Bodhi Day- December 8

Bodhi Day, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. 

Christmas- December 25

A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Fairfax County Christmas and Holiday Lights

Chanukah- December 25- January 2

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. Fairfax County Chanukah events

Kwanzaa- December 26- January 1

Celebrated every year from December 26 through January 1, Kwanzaa is a week of festivities honoring African American culture and heritage. Friends and family gather each day to give thanks, exchange gifts, and share feasts.

New Year's Day- January 1

Celebrating the New Year and the potential it holds is a tradition dating back millennia. From watching “the ball drop” in New York City’s Times Square to popping grapes on the beaches of Barcelona, our rituals may vary, but the prospect of a clean slate is a universal ideal.

Three Kings Day/Epiphany- January 6

FCPS has designated Three Kings Day/Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance day.

Orthodox Christmas- January 7

FCPS has designated Orthodox Christmas as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days.

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.

Shark Tank Challenge

Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is now accepting entries in the Fairfax Area High School Student Shark Tank Technology Challenge. Initial proposals are due December 20, 2024. Open to all students in Fairfax County, Fairfax City,  and the City of Falls Church, the 2024-25 Challenge invites youth to develop an innovative device or app that will have a positive impact in the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, or caregivers.

2025 First Hike Photo Contest

Start 2025 on the right foot with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation's annual First Hike Photo Contest! Community members of all ages and abilities are encouraged to join the fun and explore the beauty of Fairfax County parks. Complete contest rules, photo submission instructions, and hike-planning resources can be found on the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest website. Photos must be taken on a Park Authority trail on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.

NOVA's Early Online College

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Early Online College (EOC) allows current high school juniors and seniors to take up to two tuition-free college courses. Fourteen different courses are offered in the spring 2025 semester. These courses are asynchronous, online, and for college credit only and run for 12 weeks. The registration deadline is January 8, 5 p.m. Classes take place February 4- April 28, 2025.

Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

Registration for the countywide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program will open on Monday, January 13, 2025. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion program for the 2025-26 school year. 

Dual Language Immersion is available in French (Kent Gardens ES), German, Japanese (Great Falls ES), Korean, and Spanish (Herndon ES). 

Interested parents/caregivers may want to attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered and other information. 

Academy Open Houses Begin in January!

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in January. A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses.

MLK Week of Service- Give Together- 1/19- 1/25

Each January, Volunteer Fairfax hosts its Martin Luther King, Jr. Week of Service – Give Together, uniting local volunteers, corporate partners, and community members for a day of service across Northern Virginia. The event emphasizes the importance of volunteering, particularly for children and teens, while addressing critical community needs.

Library’s Winter Reading Challenge Through 1/31

FC Public Library’s winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through January 31. Visit your local FCPL branch or the Winter Reading Adventure website to register. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

Looking for ways to help support your child’s reading and writing at home? Visit the FCPS Literacy Resource page for tips and information about the Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System.

DiverseARTLangley – Calling All Cooper and Langley Artists

DiverseARTLangley is an annual art exhibition sponsored by the Langley HS PTSA and Cooper MS PTO. We welcome ALL Langley HS and Cooper MS students to submit art that speaks to the following driving question: Investigating Normal: What does it mean to be “normal?” What do you wish was “normal?” What does “normal” look like? Art Exhibition is on February 11, 2025, in the Main Hall at Langley HS (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean). 

Herndon Library Maker Lab- Fridays 2- 4 p.m.

Maker Lab: Explore, Learn and Discover- Learn new skills, work on fun projects, and connect with others at the Herndon Fortnightly Library's Maker Lab. You will have access to a variety of tools including a 3D printer, sewing and embroidery machines, a Cricut, and more. Schedule may change due to other library events.

Teach Forward (¡Avanza!)

FCPS is thrilled to announce its financial support for 100 FCPS employees, with bachelor’s degrees  but not a Virginia teaching license, to become fully licensed teachers within 12-24 months through the iteach program as members of the Teach Forward (¡Avanza!) FCPS cohort. The cohort is a program for current FCPS employees and community members who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher but have never held a Virginia teaching license. Accepted participants will become provisionally licensed teachers for the 2025-2026 school year upon completing the initial iteach program requirements. 

Information sessions on January 8th and January 15th.

Seeking Professionals for the 2025 Instruction 2 Industry

In February 2025, during Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, school divisions across the region are teaming up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference. This Northern Virginia event will offer HS students the chance to connect with over one hundred local professionals from high-demand career fields. The event will be  at the Inova Conference Center in Fairfax, Virginia on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, with an inclement weather date scheduled for the following week.

We are actively seeking employers and industry experts from all career clusters who would be interested in participating in the following ways: 

• Career Fair Experience: Engage students at your exhibitor table, sharing insights about skills, education, and experiences in your field.
• Networking Nooks: Participate in themed breakout rooms, providing a relaxed space to inspire and guide students toward career success.

If you are interested in participating in this event, complete the interest form. Thank you for considering this opportunity to engage with high school students and better prepare the future workforce of tomorrow! 

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.

Light Up McLean: Holiday House Decorating Contest- December 23- January 5

The voting phase of the Light Up McLean Holiday Decorating Competition begins on Monday, Dec. 23! Local homeowners have entered the competition and need you, their McLean neighbors, to vote for the winners.

McLean Children's Business Fair- January 4

The 2025 Winter McLean Children's Business Fair (McLean CBF) will be January 4, 1-4pm, at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean). The McLean Children's Business Fair is a biannual event run by volunteers for young entrepreneurs to practice their business skills, from product development, business planning, to customer interactions.

Exploring Boundaries in Parenting: Pros, Cons and Consequences- January 9

The Safe Community Coalition offers monthly parent discussion groups facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. January's topic, Exploring Boundaries in Parenting; Pros, Cons and Consequences, helps parents set effective boundaries for children and teens and helps to create healthier family relationships. Join Mimi Weisberg, LCSW, Heather Tedesco, Ph.D., and Jennifer Lager, Psy.D.  January 9th, 7 p.m. at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Avenue, McLean) as we explore setting reasonable expectations and boundaries for different developmental stages. Participants are encouraged to share scenarios and techniques that have been effective and tools and resources to help with the challenges of parenting will be provided. 

2025 Mental Health Parent Discussion Series

2025 Event Schedule:

All events happen in person 7- 8:30 p.m. at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean). Sponsored by the Mclean Safe Community Coalition and the McLean Community Center.

• January 9: Exploring Boundaries in Parenting: Pros, Cons, and Consequences
• February 13: Autism and Social Skills
• March 13: Sleep Issues
• April 10: Depression and Self Harm
• May 15: Military Mental Health and Transitions

FCPS Math Week- January 13-17

Participate in a full week, January 13-17, 2025, of family time with stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6.

2025 Gap Year Fair- January 28

FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6- 8 p.m. at Marshall H.S. (7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church). 

This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event.  

The Alden Youth Production Auditions- 1/28- 29 

The Alden will host auditions for their 2025 Youth Production on January 28 and 29, with call backs on January 30. They will cast actors ages 10-16 who live in the MCC tax district. Actors must register to audition.

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.

© 2024 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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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,

This month I was lucky enough to visit several schools. I got to visit the Burke School during their annual Thanksgiving Luncheon, to talk with students at Robinson Secondary School with Delegate Dan Helmer, and visit Rocky Run Middle School with the Virginia School Librarian of the Year, Rachel Grover, and Principal Peter Kownacki, along with my colleague, Kyle McDaniel. I also visited with some principals, including Centreville High School’s new principal, Dr. Erik Healey, and Union Mill’s principal, Scott Hawk. 

The Board has also been hard at work. In a work session, we heard about proposals for middle school start times. We were able to welcome our new nominees from the School Board Student Leadership Development Program. (You can read more about the awesome program and my nominee below.) And, I was able to attend and hear community feedback at Boundary Review Community Meetings for Regions 4 & 5. If you would like to know more about each step of the Boundary Review Process, please sign up to receive FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter.

I wish you all a wonderful winter break! I hope you get time to spend with your family and friends. I'll be in touch soon! 

Sandy Anderson

Clockwise starting at top left: School Board Member-at-Large Kyle McDaniel and I with Rocky Run Middle School librarian Rachel Grover, meeting with my School Board Student Leadership Development Program Representative Chiara Cryan, Burke School Principal Dr. Thomas Sweet and me, Braddock District School Board Member Rachna Sizemore Heizer and I at the Region 4 Community Boundary Review Meeting, and Delegate Dan Helmer, Associate Principal Megan Sherrill, Robinson Secondary School Principal Tracey Phillips, and I meeting with the Student Advisory Council.

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

• 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

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Meeting information and materials will be posted to BoardDocs.

• December 19 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Fiscal Year 2025 Midyear Budget Review, Strategic Plan Goal 2 Report, Policy 2418 (Secondary Grades Assessment and Grading, and Reporting on Progress of Learning), etc.
• January 7 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting
• January 7 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting
• January 9 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Collective Bargaining Agreement Approval, etc.
• January 13 at 4:30 p.m.- Audit Committee Meeting
• January 14 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Pedestrian Traffic and Safety and Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
• January 14 at 6 p.m. - Public Hearing: CIP
• January 16 at 7 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee Meeting

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 High School Athletics External Review and Internal Processes

At the December 5 regular meeting, the School Board voted to engage an external law firm that has not performed any work for FCPS or the Superintendent in the last 10 years to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not be limited to student-athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across the district, starting with an examination of Hayfield Secondary School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent. View follow-on motions on Boarddocs.

Watch the full meeting.

 

Fiscal Year 2025 Midyear Budget Review

Also at the December 5 regular meeting, Dr. Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Midyear Budget Review. With increased available funds, adjustments will be made to focus on additional funding for safety and security measures, Esports stipends, and the licensure pathway iTeach.

Watch the full meeting.

 

School Board Student Leadership Development Program

As noted above, I’m pleased that the School Board recently revived the Student Leadership Development Program. Please join me in congratulating my student representative, West Springfield High School freshman Chiara Cryan (fourth from left below)! Chiara is just one of 12 students selected to participate in this year’s program. 

Students will work closely with the School Board and its staff, learning how the school division is governed, observing the operation of various board committees and regular meetings, developing and debating their own policy proposals, and even learning how to seek election to the Student Representative seat on the School Board.

 

⏰ Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

At the Tuesday, December 3 School Board work session, Prismatic Services, Inc. staff presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m.

The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project. 

  School Board’s Student Representative Receives VSBA Scholarship

At the Virginia School Boards Association's (VSBA) annual convention, in Williamsburg, my Board colleagues and I were thrilled to publicly congratulate our Student Representative, Megan Sawant, for receiving a $1,000 scholarship from VSBA!

 

Proclamations

I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s December 5 regular meeting.

• Justice High School 65th Anniversary
• Inclusive Schools Week 2024

Superintendent Updates Coming Soon: Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

In addition to in-person community meetings that are being held during this first phase of the comprehensive boundary review, FCPS is also planning to host virtual community meetings. The virtual events will follow the same format as the in-person meetings.

Dates are still being confirmed for January 2025.

 Be sure to sign up to receive FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter.

Remaining In-Person Community Meetings for Phase 1

Our first set of Community Boundary Review Meetings includes one meeting in each of our six regions. Parents/caregivers, employees, students, and community members are welcome! Join us to share your thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process. Click below to register for the final Fall 2024 Community Boundary Review Meeting.:

• Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m., Madison High School Cafeteria (Region 1)

Meetings are in person and follow the same format. Interpretation services will be available if requested on the registration form. Registration is not required, but it will help us with planning.

Share Your Thoughts

Please submit your questions or feedback on our website.

 

🎓 Save the Date for 2025 Graduation!

The dates, times, and locations for FCPS graduation ceremonies in 2025 have been published. 

 

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January

Is your child interested in architecture and construction, information technology, or health science? FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students starting in January. Open houses are a great opportunity to visit classrooms and labs and speak with instructors and academy counselors. 

An academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses designed to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Academy elective courses provide students with a variety of career experiences, including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses. Students can explore more than a dozen career fields through FCPS academies!

Watch this video to learn more about academy programs. View the calendar of Academy Open Houses. For questions, email Bonnie Wannett at [email protected]. 

✨ Availability of, accessibility to, and student enrollment in coursework in the arts, STEAM, career and technical education, trades, technology, and world languages is one measure of the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity.

 

🚨 New Chief of Safety and Security

Brian Lambert, a native of Richmond, VA, comes to Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) as a 25-year veteran of the United States Secret Service. He most recently served as the Assistant Director of the Office of Investigations. In that role, he led the Secret Service’s largest organizational unit, with 2,150 Special Agents and 850 analytical, administrative, professional, and technical employees throughout 162 domestic and international offices.

He has significant experience and leadership in financial and cybercrime investigations, threat investigations and mitigation, physical and technical security, human resources, and international operations. In addition, he was assigned to the Presidential Protective Division in 2006 and worked on the protective details for Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

Before joining the Secret Service, Lambert served as a police officer with the Chesterfield County (VA) Police Department. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the College of William & Mary in Williamsburg, VA.

 

🧪 Save the Date: Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair

Please save the date for the 70th annual Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, which will be held the weekend of Friday, March 21, to Sunday, March 23, 2025.

Springfield District Scene

Bryant High School students and staff were encouraged to wear their Crocs to school the day before Thanksgiving Break for a fun-filled opportunity to pick out new Jibbitz charms! What a great way to welcome in the holiday season!

 

While students at Chantilly Academy are engaged in lessons planned by their amazing instructors, one particular classroom is filled with students who are doing the lesson planning. Teachers for Tomorrow is a two-year program offered to juniors and seniors who are interested in pursuing a career in education. As part of their curriculum, these students participate in classroom observations and complete their own student teaching experience.  

Students in the program work with instructor, Mrs. Reinfried, to identify areas of education they are most interested in and passionate about, and select their observations and student teaching experiences accordingly. Teachers for Tomorrow students complete their internships in elementary, middle, and high school classrooms and have the opportunity to spend time in general education, special education, and advanced academics classrooms depending on their interests.  

Teachers for Tomorrow is one of FCPS' Grow Your Own programs. FCPS is committed to growing our own teacher pipeline and, as part of that commitment, students who successfully complete Teachers for Tomorrow and go on to earn a degree from an accredited collegiate teacher preparation program are offered a guaranteed interview for a teaching position with FCPS!

Chantilly Academy is home to a fantastic two-year Pharmacy Technician program.  In addition to learning the history of pharmacy and the roles of a Pharmacy Technician, students in this course learn about patient and medication safety, pharmaceutical calculations, prescription processing, suspension and solution preparation, and compounding to name just a few topics.  In year two of the Pharmacy Tech program, students complete an impressive 130 experiential hours in a local pharmacy thanks to our partnerships with Giant Food and Inova.  Upon completion of their second year, students sit for the National Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam and leave Chantilly Academy as a Board Certified Pharmacy Technician.  Last year, our students had a 100% pass rate on their board exam!  

Pharmacy Tech instructor, Mr. Rick Cutting, finds innovative ways to engage students in learning in the classroom.  Recently, level one students were introduced to the concept of compounding by making slime!  Students quickly learned how important it is to accurately weigh and measure ingredients when making a compounded prescription.  It was a fun - and sometimes sticky! - learning adventure.

 

Kudos to the Chantilly High School Varsity Girls Volleyball Team for winning the 6D Region title!

The winning continues with Chantilly’s Varsity Dance Team winning Best Choreography at the Universal Dance Association (UDC) DC Chance Challenge! Great job!

Additionally, Tilly Alpha Wolves, Chantilly’s League of Legends team, completed the VHSL Fall Esports season as state champions! Way to go!

FCPS CARES allows parents/caregivers, staff, and community members to recognize employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. Among the CARES of the Month recipients for October are French teachers Elaine Gonzalez (pictured to the right of Principal Amy Goodloe) from Chantilly High School and Jocelyne Smith from Westfield High School.  

A Chantilly parent nominated them for working to bring 22 exchange students from France to the schools.

“We loved hosting the students, learning from them, and showing them our lives,” the parent said. “For my child and family to experience this was phenomenal. The teachers went above and beyond to make this an excellent experience.”

Every Wednesday after school, a special class takes place at Fairfax High School. The students are parents, eager to learn a new language and skills to help them support their children’s education. Principal Georgina Aye is one of the dedicated teachers.

These classes are the heart of Fairfax High School’s Family Engagement Center, a vibrant space dedicated to empowering families and fostering a strong sense of community. Fairfax’s Family Engagement Center is building a bridge between families and the school, creating a shared space for learning, support, and community. Read more about the English literacy parent program. 

✨ Building trusting partnerships between home and school is Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan. 

 

Congratulations to the Robinson Secondary School Symphonic Band for being invited to perform at  The Midwest Clinic International Band and Orchestra Conference in Chicago, December 18-21! The International Conference is a highly esteemed event that draws an average of 18,000 attendees from all 50 states and 40 foreign countries in the music field. The Robinson Symphonic Band, the only band from Virginia participating in the conference, successfully navigated a rigorous audition process to secure a spot to perform at this prestigious gathering. 

During the conference, students will have the opportunity to interact with renowned composers, musicians, and clinicians through three demonstration sessions tailored specifically for music educators. These sessions aim to enhance their skills and expertise in their craft. 

Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson’s Chess Team! They secured first place in the nation in Blitz Chess at the Grade Level Nationals!

TJ’s upper-level Spanish students took their learning on the road! Students in Spanish 4 and AP Spanish classes, along with members of the Spanish Honor Society eighth-period club visited the Mexican Cultural Institute and the exhibit of the Latin Gallery of the Molina Family at the National Museum of the American Latino.

At the Mexican Cultural Institute, the students learned about the history of the building and the art that is housed on its walls and exhibits. They also learned about the “Día de los Muertos” holiday and could see the altar on exhibit.

Students were guided in Spanish and listened to native speakers at regular speed and with their accents. They learned much about Mexican culture and the Day of the Dead celebration.

At the museum, students had a scavenger hunt to explore the exhibit. There was a great deal of information about the history of the different Latin American countries that have impacted U.S. history. The students had the opportunity to listen to a Puerto Rican guide who explained the exhibit in more detail.

Shout out to Woodson High School’s Rocket League team for winning the VHSL Fall Esports championship!

  💰 National PTA and PTSA Grant Award Recipients

Congratulations to the following PTAs and PTSAs for being awarded National PTA grants!

• PTA Connected: Ready, Tech, Go! Program ($1500 each): Laurel Ridge Elementary School and Kings Park/Kings Glen Elementary Schools
• PTA Connected: Create With Kindness Program ($3000): Lake Braddock Secondary School
• Healthy Lifestyles Initiative ($1250): Irving Middle School

 

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

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

Oakton High School

How to Get Away with Murder Mystery

January 16

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.

 

🦈 2024 Fairfax Area Student Shark Tank Challenge Now Open

Entries for Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services Fairfax Area High School Student Shark Tank Technology Challenge are now being accepted. Initial proposals are due Friday, December 20, 2024. The challenge invites students to develop an innovative device or app that will positively impact the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, or caregivers. 

Visit the Shark Tank Tech Challenge website for more details, including the detailed application packet. Additional assistance is available by emailing [email protected]. 

 

🏛️ High School Youth Leadership Program

High school juniors and seniors residing in Virginia Senate District 36 (Check your residency here.) are invited by Senator Stella Pekarsky to apply to her 1st Annual Youth Leadership Program. The Program will allow students to travel to Richmond during the General Assembly Session in January 2025. Participants will engage with political leadership from across the Commonwealth and gain practical knowledge about Virginia's legislative process.

Activities may include

• Observing committee hearings and floor debate on bills
• Historic tours of the Virginia State Capitol and the Governor's Mansion
• Panel discussion with lobbyists, advocates, and key players in advancing legislative initiatives
• Discuss legislation and initiatives that are important to them with legislative staff and members

Students will head to Richmond on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and return on Tuesday, January 21, 2025. This opportunity comes at no cost. All transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided. A letter excusing the school absence on Tuesday, January 21 will be shared with each of the participants. 

The deadline to apply is 6 p.m. on December 27, 2024. Because of the limited number of spots, not every student who applies will be accepted. Students will be notified of their application status. 

For more information contact Chief of Staff Kat Thames at [email protected].

 

📷 2025 First Hike Photo Contest

The Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation are gearing up for another fantastic First Hike Photo Contest set for New Year’s Day 2025. The contest is open to photographers of any age and ability. It’s easy to participate.

1. Take a Hike: Stroll through any of the Park Authority’s 420 parks or along more than 334 miles of Park Authority trails on Wednesday, January 1, 2025.
2. Capture the Moment: Snap a fantastic photo during your walk.
3. Submit Your Best Shot: Upload your photo online by noon on Thursday, January 2, 2025, for a chance to win Park Authority prizes.

Learn more about the First Hike Photo Contest.

 

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

Fairfax County Public Library’s winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL branch or their Winter Reading Adventure website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered.

Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions.

 

2025 FCPS Gap Year Fair

FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Marshall High School from 6 to 8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:00-6:45 p.m. Immediately following, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 6:45-8:30 p.m., with representatives from over 30 programs offering gap year opportunities. Students and their families are encouraged to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available. 

Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event. For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs.

 **In the event of inclement weather on Tuesday, January 28, 2025: The Gap Year Fair will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the same time and location.

Community News Seeking Professionals for the 2025 Instruction 2 Industry: Future Ready Event for High School Students

In February 2025 during Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, school divisions across the region are teaming up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference. This Northern Virginia event will offer participating high school students the chance to connect with over 100 local professionals from high-demand career fields.

This event will be held at the Inova Conference Center in Fairfax, Virginia on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, with an inclement weather date scheduled for the following week on Monday, February 25, 2025.

We are actively seeking employers and industry experts from all career clusters who would be interested in participating in the following ways: 

• Career Fair Experience: Engage students at your exhibitor table, sharing insights about skills, education, and experiences in your field.
• Networking Nooks: Participate in themed breakout rooms, providing a relaxed space to inspire and guide students toward career success. 

If you are interested in participating in this event, complete the interest form. 

Thank you for considering this opportunity to engage with high school students and better prepare tomorrow's workforce! 

Family and Student Resources 2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound high school senior — regardless of income — who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form. 

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. Then, create an account (if you have not already done so) and fill out the FAFSA.

The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Get Help Filling Out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will offer several programs to help students complete the FAFSA/VASA, and find and apply for scholarships. Get information on these programs and how to access them on the College Access Fairfax website.

In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email [email protected].

Sign up to receive the College Access Fairfax newsletter.

 

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide 

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance.

Learn how to help these families and discover the many resources available to support those experiencing food insecurity on Fairfax County’s website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

 

📖 Literacy Resources for Families

Benchmark Advance literacy resources are available to parents for each unit their child studies to assist in reading and writing practice at home. Be sure to view Literacy Resources for Families and the following additional resources.  

• FCPS Elementary Language Arts Pacing Calendars
• Literacy Resources for Families 
• Family-Facing Curriculum

 

💻 Fairfax County Public Library Loans More Than Just Books

Need to borrow a Chromebook or internet hotspot? Borrow them — or other helpful items — for free from a Fairfax County Public Library. Dozens of items are available to check out from the Library of Things at no cost with your library card. Items such as artwork, binoculars, games, Conserve Energy Kits, early literacy Launchpad tablets, nature backpacks, and thermal cameras are available. 

The library’s Family History Kits include everything you need to capture tales from the past and present such as a voice recorder, instructions, and interview prompts in English, Spanish, and Korean.

Visit your local Fairfax County Public Library branch or the Library of Things webpage for more information.

 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High Schoolers

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.

George Mason’s Center for Community Health

George Mason University’s new Center for Community Mental Health (9900 Main Street, Fairfax) provides evidence-based, accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive therapy and testing services to those in need, regardless of income. The Center sees children as young as age 5, and works with community members of various ages, including addressing the mental health needs of veterans.

The center’s Emotional Helpline provides free, anonymous, confidential support in both English (703-215-1898) and Spanish (703-914-3878). The line is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Learn more on the Center's website.

 

Tips for Parents of Children with Invisible Disability

Do you have a child with an invisible disability? Here are some tips to help you navigate and cope with the unexpected changes and sensory overload that can arise during travel over the holidays. Learn tips from the Pacer Center’s Learning Center.

 

Virginia Developmental Disabilities Waitlist Information

The Individual Family Support Program (IFSP) runs through the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services. IFSP provides funding for those on the developmental disabilities (DD) waitlist and hosts the website My Life, My Community. My Life, My Community is an online tool that helps people with DD and their families answer basic questions about services and support. 

• Sign up to get news and updates from the IFSP email list
• IFSP First Steps
• My Life My Community 

The Center for Family Involvement (CFI), part of the Partnership for People with Disabilities at Virginia Commonwealth University, has a network of staff and volunteer family navigators who have experience and provide one-to-one emotional, informational, and systems navigational support for individuals with disabilities and their family members. For more information and assistance on a wide variety of resources call the helpline at 877-567-1122 or email [email protected].

 

Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Programs

Virginia has two Medicaid-related premium assistance programs that help pay for employer-sponsored health insurance: HIPP and HIPP for Kids. You or a member of your family must first be enrolled in a Medicaid program to be eligible to apply for the HIPP programs. These are cost-saving programs administered by Virginia Medicaid.

HIPP (19 and over)

For the HIPP program, eligibility criteria include, but are not limited to the following:

• A family member must be enrolled in full coverage Medicaid. The health plan must meet cost-effectiveness evaluation.
• Must be enrolled in a health plan that meets the definition of a “qualified employer-sponsored plan” that qualifies as creditable coverage under section 2701(c) (1) of the Public Health Service Act and must be offered to all people in a manner that would be considered nondiscriminatory eligibility.
• Must not be a plan with deductibles that are equal to or exceed IRS High Deductible Health Plan limits. 

HIPP for Kids (18 and younger)

For the HIPP for Kids program, eligibility criteria include, but are not limited to the following:

• A family member must be enrolled in full coverage Medicaid and be less than 19 years of age.
• The employer must pay at least 40% of the cost of the health insurance premium.
• Must be enrolled in a health plan that meets the definition of a “qualified employer-sponsored plan” that qualifies as creditable coverage under section 2701(c) (1) of the Public Health Service Act and must be offered to all people in a manner that would be considered nondiscriminatory eligibility. 
• Must not be a plan with deductibles that are equal to or exceed IRS High Deductible Health Plan limits.

For Additional Information call 800-432-5924 or email [email protected]. 

 

Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center

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).

In September, the FRC will host webinars for families on supporting siblings of children with disabilities, helping students organize their school work, working with children who like to push boundaries, and teen development and well-being. Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

December and January webinars and workshops include:

• December 20, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. in-person at the Family Resource Center - Youth Mental Health First Aid

• January 10, 10-11:30 a.m. - Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

• January 11, 9 a.m.-noon - Sibshops

• January 13-17 - FCPS Math Week

• January 17, 10-11:30 a.m. - A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

• January 24, 10-11:20 a.m. - Depression in Teens

In Case you Missed It

• December 4 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Highlights in Advancing Literacy
• Daily Attendance Importance
• Make a Difference for FCPS Students and Families
• December 11 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Meeting Updates
• Calendar Reminders
• December Special Education and 504 Newsletter (Subscribe to the Special Education and 504 Newsletter.)
• December Business and Community Partnerships Newsletter

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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• School Year Calendars

• 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | 2026-27 (not approved)

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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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.

Mason District Community,

As we head into the winter break, I wanted to provide a brief update regarding the Boundary Review process and to express my appreciation for the feedback and comments shared with me over the past few months from the Mason District community. Public input is an integral component to the Boundary Review process and I encourage the community to continue to share their perspective and concerns. 

As a reminder, the priorities set forth in Policy 8130 which drive staff activity for the boundary work are as follows:

• Access to Programming: Ensure equitable access to programs and facilities, and consider impact on school programs and populations.
• Enrollment/Capacity: Using student enrollment projections, balance available capacity and maximize efficient and effective use of school facilities for capacity utilization and program needs while eliminating or preventing the establishment of split feeders, whenever possible.
• Proximity: Promote contiguous attendance zones and maintain neighborhood groupings (to include condominium and apartment complexes) to eliminate and/or prevent establishment of attendance islands.
• Transportation: Provide for walking and busing safety, limit transportation times, and ensure efficient transportation routes with attendance area.

I also want to ensure the Bren Mar Park Elementary community is aware of the upcoming opportunity to learn more about what to expect as the school enters the construction phase of the renovation. Please see below for details.

As always, 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.

As we enter the holiday season, I wish you and your loved ones a joyful and peaceful break filled with warmth and celebration!

In this issue:

Boundary Review Updates •Community Meetings •Virtual Meetings •Meeting Presentation •Feedback Opportunity •Timeline •Advisory Committee Work •Stay Engaged   Bren Mar Park Construction •Community Meeting Information   Boundary Review Updates Community Meetings

The first set of in-person Community Boundary Review meetings, scheduled in each of the six regions, included the opportunity for parents/caregivers, employees, students, and community members to learn about the process and share their thoughts and concerns. I have been encouraged by the participation of the Mason District community in the Region 2 meeting at Glasgow MS on November 18 and the Region 6 meeting at Annandale HS on December 12. 

The final in-person meeting in this round is tonight. This meeting is located in Region 1, but all FCPS families are welcome:

Wednesday, December 18
6:30-8:00 p.m. 
Madison High School Cafeteria
REGISTER

Interpretation services will be available if requested on the registration form. Registration is not required but helps with planning.

Virtual Meetings

In addition to in-person community meetings during this first phase of the boundary review, FCPS is planning to host virtual community meetings which will follow the same format as the in-person meetings. Dates are being confirmed for January 2025.

Meeting Presentation

Each community meeting followed the same format using this slide presentation.

Feedback Opportunity

Your feedback and suggestions are important. Provide feedback and comments at the link provided below to ensure the consulting firm captures your concerns in the development of recommendations to the Superintendent's Advisory Committee and ultimately to the School Board.

Feedback Form

Additional opportunities for providing input will become available as the review process progresses.

Timeline

The Boundary Review work is currently in Phase 1 which includes the initial community engagement and data collection. Following an analysis of the data, the community will again be engaged during meetings and through surveys to review draft scenarios provided by Thru Consulting. Phase 2 is expected to begin in summer 2025. The timeline below provides a complete outline of planned activities.

Advisory Committee Work

The Superintendent's Boundary Review Advisory Committee includes a minimum of two parents/caregivers or community members from each of FCPS’ 24 high school pyramids, school-based and division administrators, teachers, operational staff, and other community representatives. 

The committee members representing Mason District students are listed below. Please note that the members serve as representatives of their community and should gather feedback to incorporate in the discussions. 

Annandale Pyramid: Lucas Castanos & Jacqueline Chevalier Mosely

Edison Pyramid: Laura Huerta & Pearl Prince

Falls Church Pyramid: Lorena Katsantonis & Charla Ouertatani

Justice Pyramid: Aaron Alford & Ann-Marie Ward

Woodson Pyramid: Mark Angres, Aaron Middlekauff, & Vanessa Hall

A full listing of committee members can be located HERE.

The committee has met twice, with updates provided publicly following each meeting:

December 6th Materials

December 16th Materials

Additional information can be found on the Superintendent's Boundary Review Advisory Committee webpage.

Stay Engaged

• Visit the Comprehensive School Boundary Review webpage.
• Review the work of the Boundary Review Advisory Committee.
• Sign up to receive the School Boundary Review newsletter.

Bren Mar Park Construction

Bren Mar Park Elementary Addition Renderings

Bren Mar Park Elementary School will soon enter the construction phase and the community is invited to attend an in-person meeting to learn more about what to expect as this phase of the project begins. 

Wednesday, January 8, 2025

6:30 p.m.

Bren Mar Park Elementary School Cafeteria

Language interpretation will be provided based on the availability of interpretation staff.  

For updates, join the FCPS News You Choose subscription for this project. 

Learn more about the Bren Mar Park ES Addition and Renovation.

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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A student at Hutchison Elementary School high-fives School Counselor Jessica Wilcox.

💲 Tuition Reimbursement Window Opening

The portal to apply for reimbursement for fall 2024 courses will be open Wednesday, January 1, through Friday, January 31, 2025. Contracted employees may apply for up to $700 in reimbursement for one course that ended between September 1 and December 31, 2024. 

Eligibility to request reimbursement is based on the current priority list and is reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Directions for creating and submitting a request, detailed information on the priority list, and the documents needed for upload are available on the Tuition Reimbursement page on the Employee Hub. 

Apply through the Tuition Reimbursement Portal (VPN required). Have your tuition paid receipt and grade report handy to complete the request. Please email [email protected] for more information.

✨ Providing meaningful continuous learning is part of Strategic Plan Pillar C: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supported Workforce.

🎉  Teachers at 100 Schools Receive Educate Fairfax Grants

Educate Fairfax financially supported 107 grants across 100 Fairfax County public schools — including 24 Title 1 schools — totaling an unprecedented $180,273 in funding! These grants will help defray the costs of innovation in our schools, which might otherwise come out of the pockets of our educators and staff or simply not be possible. Nearly 36,000 of our students will be directly impacted by these grants. See the full list of schools and projects that will be funded.

⭐ West Potomac Teacher Honored with CARES of the Quarter Award

Congratulations to Lawrence Cooper, a work awareness and transition (WAT) teacher at West Potomac High School, who is the inaugural recipient of the FCPS CARES of the Quarter Award. 

Educate Fairfax partnered with the Human Resources employee recognition team to create this award and further highlight the incredible stories of our outstanding employees and their meaningful contributions. Lawrence was chosen from all of the CARES of the Month winners so far this year. 

Lawrence received a certificate and a $500 check from Apple Federal Credit Union in recognition of his unwavering commitment to his students and for fostering a strong sense of community and teamwork at West Potomac.

Read more about these awards in Dr. Reid’s Weekly Reflections.

💻 Go Paperless: Opt in for W-2 Web Delivery

W-2 tax forms will be issued by the end of January. Employees are encouraged to opt in for W-2 web delivery. Paper W-2s will be mailed to the address on file (as of Monday, December 30) for employees who have yet to opt in for web delivery.

To avoid delivery delays, please keep your address up to date in UConnect and submit a forwarding address to the U.S. Postal Service if you move. For assistance with online address changes, please call the Human Resources Welcome Center at 571-423-3000.

🎁 Give the Gift of Wellness to Family and Friends This Holiday

Share the gift of wellness with up to five friends or family members through Wellbeats! Stay healthy together and build a supportive wellness community with your spouse, co-workers, friends, or neighbors and:

• Cheer each other on, share encouragement, and celebrate successes.
• Challenge friends to workouts and stay motivated with real-time chats.
• Cook together virtually with fun demos and healthy recipes.

Make wellness more social and fun this season! In your Wellbeats account, select “Profile” in the drop-down menu and choose “Sub-accounts” to invite others to join Wellbeats.

New to Wellbeats or forgot your login information? Visit the Wellbeats Portal. Log in using your FCPS email address. Click “Next,” then select “Forgot My Password.” Wellbeats will email you a code to reset your password. 

For any account issues, please email [email protected].

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at the Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials committee members received. 

The final in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting for this first phase of the comprehensive review process is tomorrow, Wednesday, December 18, at 6:30 p.m., at Madison High School. Register to attend. Details about our upcoming virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings will be available soon.

Learn about the comprehensive boundary review process and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

School Board Meeting Thursday, December 19, at 7 p.m.

The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Thursday, December 19, at 7 p.m. Topics on the agenda include:

• FY 2025 Midyear Budget Review
• Policy 2418, Reporting Student Progress to Parents and Guardians (renamed to Secondary Grades Assessment and Grading, and Reporting on Progress of Learning)
• Strategic Plan Goal 2 Report: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered

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

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break will be from Monday, December 23, 2024, to Friday, January 3, 2025. Twelve-month employees are expected to work throughout the break except for Tuesday, December 24, 2024; Wednesday, December 25, 2024; and Wednesday, January 1, 2025. View the employee calendar.

No homework should be assigned during this time to help our families have a restful break. Teachers may assign long-range assignments, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break. 

Classes will resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

🎊 See You in January!

This is the last issue of Employee News for 2024. We will resume publishing on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. 

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram during winter break as we look back on some of the highlights of 2024.

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 Thursdays. 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.

Dear Sully District Families and Community Members,

With the holiday season here, I want to send my warmest wishes to each of you for a safe, joyful, and peaceful winter break. I am looking forward to the opportunity to relax, reconnect with friends and family, and recharge. I wish you all the same.

I have enjoyed meeting with you at school events, during open office hours and community meetings this past year. These moments have strengthened my commitment to ensuring every voice is heard, every school gets the support it needs, and every student receives the individualized care they deserve to thrive. As your School Board member, I am fully invested in managing resources wisely and creating policies that expand opportunities for all students. Together, we can continue building a stronger future for our schools and community.

Happy Holidays - Seema Dixit, Sully District School Board Member

Inside this newsletter:

• Seeking Professionals for the 2025 Instruction 2 Industry: Future Ready Event for High School Students - February 18, 2025

• Student Opportunities

• Winter Resources

• Make a Difference for FCPS Students and Families, Year-End Donations Appreciated!

THANK YOU for your ongoing support. I look forward to welcoming our students, staff and community back in the New Year. Until then, please stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy a well-deserved break!

In partnership,

Seema Dixit Seeking Professionals - Instruction 2 Industry "Future Ready" Conference for High School Students is February 18, 2025

In February 2025 during Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, school divisions across the region are teaming up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference. This Northern Virginia event will offer participating high school students the chance to connect with over 100 local professionals from high-demand career fields.

This event will be held at the Inova Conference Center in Fairfax, Virginia on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, with an inclement weather date scheduled for the following week on Monday, February 25, 2025.

We are actively seeking employers and industry experts from all career clusters who would be interested in participating in the following ways: 

• Career Fair Experience: Engage students at your exhibitor table, sharing insights about skills, education, and experiences in your field.
• Networking Nooks: Participate in themed breakout rooms, providing a relaxed space to inspire and guide students toward career success.

If you are interested in participating in this event, complete the interest form.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to engage with high school students and better prepare the future workforce of tomorrow! 

Sponsorship Options

Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference Sponsorship Opportunities, Feb 18, 2025

Student Opportunities Senator Pekarsky’s High School Youth Leadership Program

This program gives high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to visit Richmond during the VA General Assembly's legislative session and learn about political leadership on the state level. Students will be able to observe committee hearings and floor debate, take a tour of the state capitol, participate in panels with lobbyists, advocates, and political leaders, as well meet lawmakers and their staff. This is a great opportunity for students considering a future career in government, politics, or law - but all are encouraged to apply.

Please note that this is a free program and students will be provided with transportation, lodging, and meals at no cost to them or their families. 

The application is open to junior and senior students until Tuesday, December 27th at 6:00pm. Spots are limited, so students should expect to be notified about their status following the closing of the application.

Here is the link to the application, which also includes more information about the program: https://forms.gle/LMoqa8q5iYAgHyXV6

For questions or concerns, please email Kat Thames, Chief of Staff for Senator Pekarsky: [email protected]

Shark Tank Technology Challenge for FCPS students! 

Students from across the Fairfax County area are challenged to develop an innovative device or app that will have a positive impact in the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, or caregivers. The event challenges students to develop innovative technological solutions that can help people live independently and make the world more user-friendly.

Proposals for the 2025 Shark Tank Technology Challenge are due December 20th. More information: https://bit.ly/3BivNIk .

#StudentInnovators #TechForGood

Winter Resources for Families

⛄A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in case they or someone they know needs assistance while schools are closed for winter break. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

Even If School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue!

FCPS encourages students to take advantage of fun learning opportunities during winter break and snow days. Consider these winter activities to blend education and play for your students during winter break or weather-related school closures.

Make a Difference for FCPS Students and Families, Year-End Donations Appreciated!

The end of a calendar year marks a time of global generosity when your tax-deductible donations can help organizations transform communities. It is also the kickoff to the Annual Giving Fund for Educate Fairfax, the only charitable foundation dedicated exclusively to the success of our Fairfax County public schools.

Your generosity can be felt in the classrooms, extracurricular activities, and programs that provide students with equitable access to innovative learning experiences, changing the lives of our students and families every day. For some families, securing essential needs such as clothing, medicine, emergency food, and hygiene supplies is a struggle. With your help, we can make their holidays a little brighter.

Educate Fairfax also plays a pivotal role in providing essential support and resources with initiatives focused on workforce development and addressing the critical issue of hunger. Please join in the spirit of the holidays so that local students have what they need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. Donate today.

Contacting Me

To contact me, it is most helpful if you can please use the official School Board contact form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.

Use this link to sign up for my Newsletter and follow me on Facebook.

Quick Links

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• FCPS’ No-Cost Virtual teletherapy for High Schoolers webpage 
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Family Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Board Meeting Information
• School Year Calendars: 2024-2025 | 2025-2026

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

Email: Seema Dixit | Phone: 571-423-1085  

Staff Aide: Shaheen Khurana | Phone: 571-423-1072

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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.

There’s Still Time Before Winter Break! 

Dear Providence District Families,

Don’t miss out – there is still time to see our talented students performing in end-of-year concerts before winter break! Check out the events featuring Providence District schools, which are listed below.

As the calendar year wraps up, I want to wish Providence District families a joyful holiday season. Whether you’re celebrating cherished traditions with loved ones or simply enjoying a well-deserved winter break, I hope this time of year brings you peace and happiness. As we look ahead, may the new year bring new opportunities, growth, and success for all in our school community.

Thank you for your continued support of Fairfax County Public Schools and the work we do together to ensure the success of all students.

In service,

Karl Frisch
Chair and Providence District Representative
Fairfax County School Board

Table of Contents

• Take Your Legislator to School Month Visits
• Supporting Military-Connected Students, Families, and Staff
• Fairhill Elementary Visit with Scout Pack 656
• Marshall Student Appointed to Student Leadership Program
• Visiting Waples Mill Elementary
• Kilmer’s Outdoor Classroom Under Construction
• Thoreau Symphonic Band Selected for Conference Performance
• Last Chance to See Talented Students in Winter Concerts
• Providence District Supervisor’s Lunar New Year Celebration
• Asian Community Service Center’s Annual Chinese New Year Festival
• Boundary Review Community Meetings
• Seeking Professionals for “Future Ready” High School Student Event
• Upcoming School Board Meetings

‘Take Your Legislator to School Month’ Visits to Graham Road, Timber Lane, Westgate, and Mosaic Elementary Schools

As part of the Virginia School Boards Association’s annual “Take Your Legislator to School Month,” I had the pleasure of hosting several of our state lawmakers at Providence District schools:

• Senator Saddam Salim joined me at Graham Road Elementary, where we spoke with fourth graders about democracy and the roles of local and state governments.
• Delegate Marcus Simon visited Timber Lane Elementary, and we had a thoughtful discussion about how to best support our schools in the upcoming legislative session.
• Delegate Holly Seibold, a former teacher, joined me at Westgate Elementary, bringing invaluable insight to our conversations about education.
• Delegate David Bulova joined me at Mosaic Elementary to discuss the needs of our students, educators, and schools.

I’m grateful for their support and look forward to working with them to ensure Fairfax County Public Schools receives the support it needs from the Commonwealth.

Supporting Military-Connected Students, Families, and Staff

 

Not long ago, we were honored to welcome military-connected students, families, and staff to our School Board meeting as we celebrated the 38 FCPS schools recognized as 2024 Purple Star Schools by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children.

The Purple Star Designation is awarded to schools that go above and beyond to support military-connected students and their families. These schools demonstrate a commitment to addressing the unique needs of military families through dedicated staff, professional development, and tailored resources and programming. Each Purple Star School also includes peer-led transition teams, like Student Ambassadors, to help new military-connected students feel at home in their school community.

This fall, Superintendent Reid announced an ambitious goal for FCPS to achieve Purple Star Division status by 2027, with 100% of schools earning this prestigious designation. We are proud to support military families and look forward to expanding this critical work in the years ahead!

Fairhill Elementary Visit with Scout Pack 656

 

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of joining my School Board colleague Ilryong Moon at Fairhill Elementary School to meet with Scout Pack 656. We had a great discussion about the role of the School Board and the importance of civic participation. It’s always inspiring to see young minds eager to learn about how they can make a difference in their communities!

Marshall Student Appointed to Student Leadership Program

 

I am pleased to announce that from a group of very impressive students, I selected Marshall sophomore Mira Karnik to participate in the School Board Student Leadership Program as Providence District’s representative. Mira wants to create positive change for students, especially those in marginalized communities, and plans to pursue a career in government and public policy.

The program is open to FCPS high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors in good academic standing. It is designed for students interested in pursuing a future in law, government, or public policy. Twelve students were chosen – one from each School Board Member’s magisterial district and one for each At-Large seat.

Students will work closely with the School Board and its staff, learning how the school division is governed, observing the operation of various board committees and regular meetings, developing and debating their own policy proposals, and even learning how to seek election to the Student Representative seat on the School Board.

Visiting Waples Mill Elementary

 

Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting Waples Mill Elementary, where I enjoyed lively conversations with students about their school and the work we do on the School Board. Their curiosity and thoughtful questions highlighted just how engaged and passionate our young learners are about their education and community. Visits like these remind me of the importance of ensuring every student has a voice and feels empowered to share their perspectives. Thank you to Principal Thirus and the Waples Mill community for the warm welcome!

Kilmer’s Outdoor Classroom Under Construction

On September 26th, the School Board approved nearly $1.4 million in new investments to retrofit ten middle schools and 12 high schools with outdoor classrooms, including Kilmer and Thoreau Middle Schools and Madison, Marshall, and Oakton High Schools. Kilmer was selected to be one of the first for installation, and crews are currently hard at work bringing the outdoor classroom to life. This exciting addition will provide a space for Kilmer students to explore and learn in a natural environment.

Thoreau Symphonic Band Selected for Conference Performance

Recently, Thoreau Middle School’s Symphonic Band, under the direction of Pat Smith, had the distinct honor of performing at the Virginia Music Educators Conference. Selected as one of only two middle school bands from the entire state, this achievement is a testament to the dedication and talent of Thoreau students. We offer them congratulations on this incredible accomplishment!

Last Chance to See Talented Students in Winter Concerts

There is still time to see our incredibly talented students in a winter concert this week:

• Freedom Hill ES Band/Strings Winter Concert: Monday, December 16, 6:00 pm
• Mosaic ES Winter Concert: Monday, December 16, 6:30 pm (Oakton HS)
• Camelot ES Band and Strings Concert: Tuesday, December 17, 6:30 pm
• Spring Hill ES ​​5th/6th Grade Orchestra Concert: Tuesday, December 17, 6:30 pm
• Marshall HS Orchestra Winter Concert: Tuesday, December 17, 7:00 pm 
• McLean HS Orchestra Winter Concert: Tuesday, December 17, 7:00 pm
• Oakton HS Performing Arts Winter Showcase: Tuesday, December 17, 7:00 pm
• Westgate ES Band/Strings Concert: Wednesday, December 18, 6:00 pm
• Longfellow MS Orchestra Winter Concert: Wednesday, December 18, 7:00 pm (McLean HS)
• Fairhill ES 5th/6th Band, Chorus, Strings Winter Concert: Thursday, December 19, 5:30 pm 

Providence District Supervisor’s Lunar New Year Celebration

 

Providence Supervisor Dalia Palchik invites the community to her inaugural Lunar New Year Celebration on Thursday, January 23, from 5:30 to 7:00 pm at the Jim Scott Community Center. This family-friendly event honors the cultural heritage of our Asian communities and will feature cultural performances, delicious food, and festive fun! The event is a great opportunity to learn about Lunar New Year traditions and welcome a prosperous New Year! [Register Here]

Asian Community Service Center’s Annual Chinese New Year Festival

 

Join the Asian Community Service Center for its 16th annual Chinese New Year Festival on Saturday, January 25, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm at Luther Jackson Middle School. It’s a full day of fun activities for all ages, exciting performances, delicious food, and a Lunar New Year dragon parade. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition. [Additional Information]

Boundary Review Community Meetings

FCPS is hosting Community Boundary Review Meetings in each of the school division’s six regions. The final session is later this week for Region 1 schools, which includes the Herndon, Langley, Madison, Oakton, and South Lakes High School pyramids:

• Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 pm, Madison High School Cafeteria - Register Here

In addition to in-person community meetings held during this first phase of the comprehensive boundary review, FCPS is also planning to host virtual community meetings in 2025. Dates are still being confirmed for January 2025. As a reminder, FCPS is not discussing or developing any specific boundary changes during this initial phase of its work. 

Please visit the Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information, You can also sign up to receive the School Boundary Review newsletter.

Seeking Professionals for “Future Ready” High School Student Event

School divisions across the region are teaming up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference at the Inova Conference Center on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. The event will offer participating high school students the chance to connect with local professionals from high-demand career fields and learn about promising career paths for their postsecondary future. Interested employers and industry experts from all career clusters are invited to submit an interest form. Thank you for considering this opportunity to engage with high school students and prepare the future workforce of tomorrow!

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)

• Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)

• Tuesday, December 17, 2024, at 5:30 pm (Meeting with City of Fairfax School Board)
• Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, February 4, 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.

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.

Dear Community Members,

Here we are, at the end of 2024. Reflecting on the year that’s been, I want to share these highlights of the School Board’s work and the work that I’ve led, in the effort to ensure each student has a meaningful education. 

2024 in Review:

1. Provided a 4% raise for FCPS employees
2. Worked to Get The Money for our chronically underfunded schools, presented about it to 40+ Virginia School Board Members at state conference 
3. Renewed Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s contract through June 2028
4. Updated two critical policies: School Boundary Policy, which began a full boundary review process; and Grading and Reporting Policy, which spurs further review of grading practices by the Superintendent
5. Considered changing middle school start times 
6. Held inaugural seasons of boys volleyball and girls wrestling 
7. Initiated full, independent review of athletics transfer practices 
8. Served as Vice Chair for the new Board at start of the year
9. Attended five graduations in spring, and 20+ back-to-school events in fall 
10. Helped retain crossing guards in Vienna 
11. Ensured facilities upgrades where Hunter Mill students attend: Louise Archer renovation completed, Crossfield and Armstrong underway; outdoor classrooms at Herndon, Kilmer, Thoreau, Madison, Marshall, Oakton, South Lakes, Westfield; stadium bathrooms at South Lakes, Marshall, Thomas Jefferson; playgrounds for Wolftrap and Flint Hill

What’s coming in 2025:

1. Working to Get the Money continues with the General Assembly beginning on January 8; know who your state legislators are, find them here.
2. Boundary review process continues - draft scenarios expected to the Board publicly in the spring, followed by much community engagement in summer and fall (decisions for changes expected in 2026) 
3. Considering middle school start time changes continues
4. Review of athletic transfers process per delivered report
5. Elect Virginia’s next Governor, Lt Governor, and Attorney General, plus vote on local school construction bonds, on November 4.

And more! 

I wish you a joyful and peaceful winter break and holiday season. 

🚧 School Board Updates and Recent Work Boundary Review Work: Community Meeting this Wednesday, December 18, then onward into 2025

Please join me at the community meeting this month about the boundary review process, at Madison High School on Wednesday, December 18, beginning at 6:30 and ending at 8:00pm. This will conclude this segment of community meetings, but more will continue in 2025. To remain updated, subscribe to the new Boundary review update News You Choose newsletter, and also visit this webpage, here. 

Consideration of Earlier Middle School Start Times

The Board considered publicly on December 3, findings from research and community engagement conducted throughout this year on options for adjusting middle school start times to be later than the current 7:30am, with the goal of improving adolescent health by increasing time for sleep. See materials here. I remain committed to implementing adjustments that prioritize students’ health, per the undeniable research about the impact of sleep on adolescents. However, I also am committed to providing plenty of advanced notice to the staff and the community in the event of changes, and making any changes as smoothly as possible - including in conjunction with any boundary changes. The Superintendent will return to the Board publicly in February with her recommendations on how to proceed.

Directing a Comprehensive and Independent Review of All Student Athlete Transfers And Eligibility Practices For All High School Athletics

I voted publicly on December 5, to approve an external, comprehensive, and independent review of all student athlete transfers and eligibility practices for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with a review of Hayfield High School, and to report its findings to the School Board and Superintendent. The details of that action are found here. As I shared in my public remarks, I made decisions and raised conversations with the Board and Superintendent over these last months, using the information I had best available to me at those times. Ultimately it is the Superintendent’s responsibility to implement athletics programs and as such, the Board has directed that this situation be fully examined and resolved in our duty to hold the Superintendent accountable for fair athletic competitions among FCPS teams.

I am eager to receive the results of the report in the new calendar year, and ensure that changes happen so this situation never occurs again. 

Kicking off 2025 with Facilities, and Pedestrian Traffic and Safety 

The Board’s work of 2025 begins with a huge topic: our facilities. This is the heart of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that offers a five year capture of all things facilities related (including boundaries and school capacities). The CIP is the topic of the Board’s first public Work Session of 2025, January 14. 

Then, the Board will vote publicly on approving the CIP, as this is connected to the Fairfax Board of Supervisors’ work to set the public bonds that will be on your ballot in November, determining funding for our schools. Note: the annual FCPS budget of over $4 billion does not include the costs to renovate nor build new facilities. The $4 billion is what it takes to run our schools annually, and most of it funds the employment of over 40,000 employees who make FCPS work for students. 

Stay tuned for more info about the CIP and bond process in the new year. Please learn about this critical aspect of FCPS, share your thoughts and advocate - to FCPS and to the County Board of Supervisors who are ultimately responsible for the Bond Program.  

📅 Upcoming School Board Meetings

All times and topics subject to change

• Tuesday, December 17, 2024 - 3 p.m. - Closed Meeting
• Tuesday, December 17, 2024 - 5 p.m. - City/County Board Meeting
• Tuesday, December 17, 2024 - 7:30 p.m. - City/County Dinner
• Thursday, December 19, 2024, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting 

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. 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. 
• Information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting or at Public Hearings.
• Latest schedule of School Board Meetings

Hunter Mill Happenings Lego Leaders from Floris Elementary

The Rainbow Radishes, comprised of 5th grade students at Floris Elementary, are building big success, as the First Lego League Division 1 Champions!

🐦Cardinals Caring for Cardinals

The mentoring of first graders by sixth graders at Cunningham Park Elementary School is the brainchild of 6th grader Ruth Gaffiney, with the support of Principal Allison Hoak and the Cardinal staff. Read about this inspiring effort here.

Play On at Flint Hill Elementary

Outdoor play will soon have a new look at Flint Hill ES, since the School Board approved installation of a new playground here! Recess and outdoor play must be part of the instructional program, and this is why I keep advocating for play spaces that are safe, accessible, and developmentally appropriate for students - including middle school students and even high school students! 

Other Info of Interest Update on Hiring and Retaining Educators

• Over 2,000 teachers hired in 2024, as of December 1, 2024.
• Teacher departures decreased by 37.6% from School Year (SY) 2022 to SY 2024, with 22.6% of 2024 departures due to retirements.
• The vacancy rate has halved from July 2023 to July 2024. In addition, there are currently fewer than 120 instructional vacancies remaining. Weekly hiring trends show consistent progress in reducing vacancies, even with 16,000+ teaching positions.

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

Students with sensory disabilities require specialized services and support to access instruction that is typically presented visually and audibly (by means of hearing). FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Visit the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website for Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.

School Board’s Student Representative receives VSBA Scholarship

At the Virginia School Boards Association's (VSBA) annual convention, in Williamsburg, my Board colleagues and I were thrilled to publicly congratulate our Student Representative, Megan Sawant, for receiving a $1,000 scholarship from VSBA!

Reston Planning & Zoning Committee Seeks New Members

New members are sought to serve starting 2025. This independent advisory committee reviews land use and planning proposals in the Reston Comprehensive Plan area, making recommendations to me and the Hunter Mill District Planning Commissioner. Reston residents interested in serving should apply by Jan. 10. Application form.

December is...

National Special Education Day

National Special Education Day is recognized each year on Dec. 2 and commemorates President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students with special needs, as well as our families who are partners in the education and support of those students! 

Learn more about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Budhi Day

Bodhi Day, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali.

Christmas

🎄 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts.

Chanukah

🕎 Happy Chanukah to all in our community who celebrate! This Festival of Lights is an 8-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple, and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple's menorah for 8 days.

Contacting Me

I prioritize responses to Hunter Mill constituents, so please be sure to identify yourself as such if you contact me. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.

To contact me, it is most helpful to please use the official School Board contact form via my website (click "Submit a Question"). This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. Thank you for your cooperation.

Best,

Was this email not addressed to you? Sign up for my newsletters here!

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 | Twitter

Staff Aide: Chris Pinkerton | 571-423-1070

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The Dunne Dispatch (Calendar Edition) - 12/13/2024

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Once a month the Dunne Dispatch provides a calendar of events. My goal is to connect the schools with the community, and vice versa. Even if you do not have children attending FCPS, I encourage you to attend public events at our schools.

Inside this issue: 

• Pyramid Events and Activities
  • Mount Vernon 
  • West Potomac
  • South County
  • Hayfield
  • Edison
  • Lewis
• FCPS Events and Activities
• Community Events and Activities

If you have any school or related community events you would like me to include in my next calendar newsletter, please email [email protected] and copy [email protected].

 

Very respectfully,

Mateo Dunne, Mount Vernon District Representative

Pyramid Events and Activities

Mount Vernon Pyramid

• Kick-Off the Winter Holiday Season with Mount Vernon HS, December 14. Mount Vernon HS Class of 2027 invites you to a Cozy Community Breakfast, 9-12 p.m. Come celebrate holiday traditions from around the world! Individual tickets are $6. A Family Pack is $20. Join the Class 2027 for cultural games, music, dance, photo opportunities, gift wrapping, and prizes! The Mount Vernon HS PTSA will host its Holiday Market, 9-2 p.m. There will be many gift options from local vendors, sweet treats, and holiday cheer. Questions? Email [email protected] or follow on Instagram: @ptsaholidayfest.  

• Mount Vernon HS Hosts Curriculum Night, January 9, 6 p.m. Mount Vernon HS invites its students and families to come learn about class options, advanced academics, diploma options, and much more. Participants will learn more about the International Baccalaureate program and Advanced Placement courses. Save the date now and stay tuned for more information!

• Whitman MS Science Study Sessions, December December 16-20. Students who did not perform well on the Unit 1 Science assessment will have the opportunity to retest. The retests will take place during advisory sessions the week of December 10-13 and December 16-20. Students will receive passes for a study session, which will include review and reteaching. On the day of the retest, students will receive a pass to retake the test. Notifications will be given to students in class.

• Save the Date for Upcoming Events at Fort Belvoir Primary and Upper Schools. Mark your calendars for these upcoming activities for the Fort Belvoir ES community.
  • December 13: Food Market
  • December 17: Volunteer Orientation, 10-11 a.m.
  • January 14: New Families Welcome, 10-11 a.m.
  • January 15: Blue Star Starbucks Meet Up, 10-11 a.m.
  • January 24: Food Market

• Fort Belvoir ES PTO Presents Santa Sacks. Order a Santa Sack for your favorite Fort Belvoir ES student or staff members. Orders are due by December 13 and can be picked up on December 16.

Riverside ES Hosts Winter Wonderland Party, December 21, 12-2 p.m. Join the Riverside ES community for a winter-themed party filled with snacks, games, fun, and more! Staff and families will celebrate the hard work of Riverside students and will also announce its semi-annual $100/100 winner. This event will take place at Mathnasium of Mount Vernon (7696h Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA 22306). Friends and family are welcome to join. RSVP online.

West Potomac Pyramid

• Contributions Needed for West Potomac HS Teacher and Staff Holiday Party. West Potomac HS PTSA is hosting a Winter Wonderland Party to celebrate the school’s hard-working teachers and staff. Families and community members are asked to contribute gift cards, drinks, and monetary donations to make this event possible. Questions? Email [email protected] for more information.
• Santa Claus is Coming to West Potomac HS, December 14, 8:30 – 11 a.m. Attend this holiday meet and greet to support the Class of 2026! Santa Claus himself will make a special appearance. Enjoy other fun activities, such as ornament making, holiday crafts, hot cocoa treats, and more! Tickets are $35/family and include a family picture with Santa, craft making, and a continental breakfast. Sign up online.

• Two Opportunities to Support West Potomac Athletics this Holiday Season.

• Rising 9th Family Night / Curriculum Night / Electives Open House, January 7, 6-8:30 p.m. Please join us on Tuesday, January 7 for Rising 9thGrade Family Night, Curriculum Night, and Electives Open House! With academic advising right around the corner, this is a great opportunity to come and learn about the wide variety of courses that West Potomac HS offers. We look forward to sharing some curriculum option changes at the 9th and 10th grade level. West Potomac HS looks forward to seeing you on Tuesday, January 7 at 6pm!

• PTSA Five Guys Restaurant Night, December 17, 4-8 p.m. It’s the holidays. Let somebody else cook dinner! PTSA Five Guys Restaurant Night on December 17th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. Both the Quander Road and Hybla Valley locations are participating. Five Guys will donate 20% of your purchase to West Potomac HS’s PTSA.

• Bucknell ES Winter Concert, December 17, 6 p.m. Join us for our annual Winter Concert featuring the talented band, strings, and chorus students of Bucknell ES! This joyful performance will take place on Tuesday, December 17th at 6:00 PM in the school gym. Come celebrate the season and enjoy an evening of beautiful music performed by our amazing young musicians.

• Hollin Meadows ES Plastic Bag Collection for Get to Green Recycling. Help Hollin Meadows ES earn a free bench from Trex Decking by contributing to their plastic bag recycling drive. Let’s help them reach their goal to collect 1000 pounds! Before Thanksgiving, they had collected 114 pounds of clean plastic bags.  There are collection containers in the front lobby of the school. Drop off your clean: grocery bags, bread bags, cereal bags, shrink wrap, bubble wrap, and plastic mailers.

• Fort Hunt ES Holiday Market, December 14, 9-11 a.m. Come shop to support the Fort Hunt Foxes and friends! Join Fort Hunt ES for its first annual Holiday Market. Enjoy food, drinks, shopping, music, and activities for the kids. Visit the Fort Hunt PTA online for more information.

South County Pyramid

• Support the South County HS Used Shoe Drive Fundraiser. The South County Cross Country team is excited to announce our shoe drive fundraiser! They are collecting gently used shoes to support micro-businesses in developing countries and raise funds for our team. Every pair of shoes makes a difference! Their goal is to collect 2,500 pairs. Please join in making a positive impact on our community and the world!

• South County MS Curriculum Night, January 16, 6-7:30 p.m. Don’t miss this opportunity for rising 7th and 8th grade South County MS families to learn about the courses available to students during the 2025-2026 school year. Meet core and elective teachers, counselors, and administration. Attend an information session to learn about math and core pathway options. Students are encouraged to attend as well!

Hayfield Pyramid

• Last Day of Gunston ES Book Fair, December 16. The excitement of the Gunston Book Fair is underway!  Come one, come all to shop for your favorite books. The fair ends December 16. Check online for more information.

• Celebrate the Holiday Season with Lorton Station ES, December 13 and December 19. Lorton Station ES students are cordially invited to the school’s Winter Formal on December 13, 5-7 p.m. Ring in the New Year in your most fancy clothing. Tickets are $5 and adults must stay and accompany students. Don’t miss Lorton Station ES’s Winter Sing Along, December 19. Come sing along to your favorite winter and seasonal songs with your student. Check the flyer or contact the school main office for specific performance times for each grade.

• 2024 Fairfax Motor Squad’s Santa’s Ride Toy Collection at Island Creek! During December, Island Creek ES’s Preschool, Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade students will welcome Santa's Ride presented by the Fairfax County Police Department Motor Squad! The purpose of this event is to collect new toys, books, and games for children who are sick in local area hospitals. Collected items will be donated to INOVA Children's Hospital Child Life Unit. A Toy Collection Box is outside Island Creek’s main office. There is also a QR code to donate through the 501(c)(3) charity Making Everything Good. View the INOVA Child Life “wish list” online. Diaper donations are also needed this year.

Edison Pyramid

• Contribute Gift Cards for Edison HS Faculty by December 16. Edison HS is collecting gift cards to raffle at the Annual Faculty Holiday Party on Tuesday, December 17th.  Parents, families, and students are invited to send donated gift cards to the main office addressed to Gina D'Angelo by Monday, December 16. Questions? Email [email protected] for more information.
• Support Edison HS’s Partnership with Food for Neighbors. Edison High School is pairing up with Food For Neighbors to assist families in need.  Please take a moment to read how you can help!  Every little bit can help a family. 
• Edison HS Class of 2024 IB Celebration, January 8, 4:30 p.m. Attention Edison HS Class of 2024 IB Diploma Candidates! Edison HS is thrilled to invite you to a special reception to celebrate your achievements and present your IB Diplomas. Celebrate your hard work, connect with your classmates, and pick up your diploma. Light refreshments will be provided. If you are unable to attend, please email [email protected] to arrange to pick up your diploma or certificate. 📅 Date: January 8 🕠 Time: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM 📍 Location: Edison HS Cafeteria – Gym Side (please use door 14 to enter)

• Edison HS International Baccalaureate (IB) Information Night, January 15, 6-7 p.m. Join Edison’s IB Coordinators on January 15, 2025, from 6– 7 p.m. in the Auditorium. They will provide an overview of the IB Program at Edison as well as answer some of the most frequently asked questions, such as: How do you become an IB student? What is the IB MYP Personal Project? What is the FCPS/IB MYP Certificate? What are the benefits of taking IB DP courses? What is the IB Diploma? What is the difference between the IB Diploma and the IB Diploma Certificate?

• Twain MS Book Fair Ends December 13. The Scholastic Book Fair is underway at Twain MS until December 13. Students can experience the limitless possibilities of reading! Every purchase benefits the school.
• Twain MS Winter Formal, December 13. Twain MS’s Student Council Advisory will host the school’s annual Winter Formal dance on Friday, December 13, 6:30-8:30, with doors opening at 6 p.m. Come early to take pictures and eat before the dance starts. 

• Don’t Miss Mount Eagle ES’s Winter Sing-a-Long, December 20, 2 p.m. Mount Eagle ES’s Winter concert is Friday, December 20 at 2:00pm. Get into the holiday spirit with the school’s staff and students. Contact the school office or your child’s teacher for more information.  

Lewis Pyramid

• Take the Plunge with Key Center School, January 25. The Key Center community is invited to join GOING FOR THE COLD to benefit Virginia Special Olympics and Key Center School.  The Key Center team will participate in the Mosaic Polar Plunge on January 25th, 2025.  Key Center School will receive 50% of the funds raised by the Key Center Team.  Key Center staff, families, and community partners are invited to join the Key Center Rockets Polar Plunge Team! Got cold feet? You can still support the team. Learn more online about how you can sponsor one of our team members.

FCPS Events and Activities

• Last Boundary Review Community Meeting at Madison HS, December 18, 6:30 – 8 p.m. There is one more opportunity to participate in a community meeting regarding FCPS' division-wide boundary review. While your students may not attend school in the region below, you are still welcome to attend and participate. Please click on a date to register: Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m., Madison High School Cafeteria, Region 1. In addition, the Office of Communications (OC) has created a new newsletter for regular updates on the Boundary Review process. You can sign up to receive information updates here.
• Window for Full-Time AAP Referrals Closes on December 15, 2024. Parents and guardians of students in Grades 2-7 who would like their student to be considered for Full-Time advanced academic programs may submit the AAP Full-Time Referral Form to your school’s Advanced Academics Resource Teacher (AART) no later than December 15, 2024. Forms for Full-Time and part-time referrals are available on the AAP Forms Page. No late referrals for Full-Time AAP services will be accepted.  If you miss this deadline, your student can still be screened for Subject-Specific AAP or Part-Time AAP for the remainder of the year and submit a referral for Full-Time AAP next fall. For more information, please visit the Advanced Academic Programs website.
• Thomas Jefferson Investigative Science Outreach to Host Science Fair for 5th-8th graders, April 5, 2025. The TJ Investigative Science Outreach, a student-led organization at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology will host its 12th annual invitational science fair on April 5, 2025. Students in 5th-8th grades are invited to participate. Admission to the science fair is free. Participants will complete a research project of their choice and present at the fair in-person on April 5th, 2025. There will be multiple sessions to help participants prepare and learn important skills in STEM like brainstorming, collecting data, presenting, writing an experiment summary, using statistics, and creating an experimental diagram. For more information, visit tjsciencefair.wordpress.com or email [email protected].
• Free and Reduced-Price Meals Application. Families must submit an application and be approved to be eligible for free and reduced-price meals for the 2024-25 school year. Students approved for Free and Reduced-Price Meals may qualify for additional benefits such as waived or reduced fees for instruments, uniforms, field trips, FCPS class fees, and Parktakes classes. Schools also benefit from funding opportunities based on Free and Reduced-Price Meal application numbers. You may access the following website for more information and an online application. Learn more about the Free and Reduced-Price Meal program online. This is a confidential process. Contact your school principal for more information.

Community Events and Activities

• Hybla Valley Community Center Food Distributions, December 14

• Join Your Local Library’s Winter Reading Challenge. Now – January 31. Fairfax County Public Library’s winter reading adventure has begun and will continue through Friday, January 31, 2025. Visit your local FCPL branch or their Winter Reading Adventure website to register and get a sneak peek at the prizes being offered. Check out their Winter Reading Events webpage to learn about laser tag, movie nights, crafting sessions, Noon-Year Eve celebrations, and book discussions. Looking for ways to help support your child’s reading and writing at home? Visit the FCPS Literacy Resource page for tips and information about the Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System.

 

• Woodlawn Little League 2025 Spring Registration Now Open

• NOVA Virtual Sessions Coming in 2025! Join a Virtual Discover NOVA webinar to explore program options, gain an understanding of our student support resources, and learn how to enroll in classes.  All sessions begin at 6:30pm and run for approximately one hour. Concurrent Spanish-speaking sessions will be available on February 20th and April 22nd.  See the NOVA Virtual Sessions Flyerfor all dates and to register.

• 2025 Gap Year Fair for Students and their Families, January 28, 6 – 8:30 p.m. FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseasare co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at George C. Marshall High School from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.  This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities.  The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:00 to 6:45 p.m.  Immediately following, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m., with representatives from over 30 programs offering gap year opportunities.  Students and their families are encouraged to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available.  Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event.  For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs or FCPS Gap Year Fair. 

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: Mateo Dunne  |  Phone: 571-423-1086

Staff Aide: Nelda Brown, 571-423-1049

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January Webinars at the
Family Resource Center

Interpretation available

Sibshops January 11, 2025 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

For children grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools.  An opportunity to meet other siblings in a relaxed, virtual setting.  Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.  Share sibling experiences, while receiving peer support.  Enjoy games and have fun!

January 11, 2025   9-12:00 p.m.

Register Here

FCPS Math Week January 13-17, 2025

Participate in a full week of family time with stories, games, and math activities in English and Spanish for families with students in K-6.

January 13-17, 2025

mindresearch.org/fcps-math-week

 

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

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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.

Hello Braddock Friends & Neighbors - 

Winter is on its way, and with it we are nearing the end of the first half of the 2024-25 school year! I hope you and your loved ones are preparing to enjoy the winter break, with some much needed downtime and festivities! I know I am looking forward to having my family home, with the fun, laughter, games, and even occasional disagreement that comes with that. We play hard, laugh loudly, disagree with gusto, and love each other through it all. I hope you also have a winter break filled with core memories, lots of love, and much joy. I think we could all use a little more joy these days.

I find joy every time I see our students performing, creating, building, helping their community, or playing a sport. I learn something every time I talk with them during my school visits, with their thoughtful questions and insights. Knowing that our future is in good hands with these young people brings me much joy and peace.

 

School Board Recent Actions: 

Your School Board has been quite busy in recent weeks with a number of important matters, including updating the system-wide grading policy, funding a comprehensive facilities assessment in preparation for creating a new school renovation queue, discussing the Strategic Plan Goal 2 report, receiving a report on middle school start times, approving new secondary course offerings and a division literacy plan, hearing the mid-year budget report with a focus on additional funding for safety and security measures, and receiving monitoring reports from the Superintendent in Human Resources and Student Learning Environment. Dr. Reid has also presented Academic Matters presentations on Student Attendance and Inclusive Schools.

See More from the School Board below for more information and links.

Speaking to the hundreds of caregivers who participated at a Boundary Project public input meeting on Dec. 3 at Lake Braddock Secondary School.

Boundary Review: 

I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to all those who turned out and participated in recent public input sessions about the current FCPS Comprehensive Boundary Review Project. Hundreds of constituents provided their thoughts during sessions for Region 5 at Westfield High School on Dec. 2 and for Region 4 at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Dec. 3.

I’ve received a few questions about where we are in the boundary process. The School Board has reviewed and updated the Boundary Policy which prioritizes capacity, shorter transportation times, proximity to schools, and access to programming as top factors to be prioritized in considering boundaries. The policy also includes robust community engagement before and after changes are proposed, before any changes are made. Currently, there are no proposed changes to boundaries; we are in the process of gathering community input for our consultant. There will be community engagement throughout the process - your voice matters to us and is a vital part of the process.

If you haven't yet had a chance to participate, there are two more opportunities coming up (dates and registration links below). This process and its result will only be the best it can be with your input. You can also send your thoughts to me directly.

High School Athletics: 

I'd also like to thank the many constituents who have reached out with concerns about recent events involving high school athletics. 

First and foremost, I am truly sorry for the angst caused to our community, and for the erosion of trust in our system. All students should have equal access to every aspect of public education, including sports programs, and competition should be fair. I regret that there have been unfortunate impacts to many, including on students and families in the Braddock District. As a leader in the system, I take my responsibility seriously and am sorry for any negative results your child may have faced, including student athletes whose season was affected.

You may be aware that the School Board voted at its Dec. 5 meeting to engage an external law firm that has not performed any work for FCPS or the Superintendent in the last 10 years to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not limited to student athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with a examination of Hayfield High School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent.

I am grateful to my colleagues for supporting my follow on motion, seconded by my colleague Melanie Meren of the Hunter Mill District, directing the Governance Committee to update related policies once the external review is complete, to help ensure our policies are updated to prevent a similar situation from happening in the future. In a related action, the school board voted to ask Dr. Reid to bring a corrective action plan to the Executive Limitations monitoring report on Human Resources to address plans to improve consistency of training and expectations for personnel. See below for more information.

Moving forward, I promise that I will continue to advocate for greater transparency and better guardrails for student transfers moving forward in partnership with the community and the Virginia High School League. 

Stay warm, and please let me know how I can assist you at any time.

Very truly yours,

Rachna

IN THIS ISSUE …

Focus on Braddock

Music & Arts

Neurodiversity News

More From the School Board

FCPS News

Out & About

More Stuff Families Should Know

Opportunities for Students

Focus on Braddock

I am so proud of the amazing accomplishments of Braddock District students, staff, and schools! Read more below.

Student Volunteer Project Highlighted on WJLA's Kids Give Back

Annandale High School’s own Tyson Perkins was featured during the Good Morning Washington segment, Kids Give Back. He shared about his work with a local non-profit to promote their "Baskets for Babies" initiative. This program encourages children to assemble and distribute essential items for families with infants, teaching the importance of giving back. Tyson shared his experiences and discussed the Atoms Games, an Annandale event that builds school community and gives back to Annandale families.

Fairfax HS Student Nominated to School Board Student Leadership Development Program

I am very excited that the School Board has revived its Student Leadership Development Program! Please join me in congratulating Caroline Cronin, a freshman at Fairfax High School, who I have nominated to participate in this program as representative from the Braddock District. Caroline has served as a Senate Page at the Virginia General Assembly, runs cross country, plays violin in the Chamber Orchestra, participated in the Frost Middle School Model United Nations, and founded a charity that collects and donates books to communities in need. Caroline is just one of 12 students selected to participate in this year’s program, which kicked off this week. I am looking forward to hearing her student perspective and insights.

Robinson SS Student Named Braddock Young Person of the Year

Congratulations to Callum Chang, an eighth grader at Robinson Secondary School who Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw recently named as Braddock Young Person of the Year. Already an active Boy Scout, civic student, community volunteer, and recipient of the Scouts’ Messenger of Peace Champion Award for his project to make no-sew fleece blankets for families in local homeless shelters, Callum is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished with focus and determination. He was recognized at a recognition event on Dec. 4 for all of the Best of Braddock Award recipients. Way to go, Callum, and thank you to Supervisor Walkinshaw for everything you do to promote and support public service in the Braddock District!

TJSST Teacher Nominated for Outstanding Educator Award

Congratulations to Braddock District resident and Thomas Jefferson School for Science & Technology (TJSST) Geosystems teacher Dr. Kathy Phillips for being nominated for the University of Chicago's Outstanding Educator Award. For this award, students nominate educators whose guidance has helped them along the path toward intellectual growth and positively impacted their lives. Thank you for all you do for our students, Dr. Phillips!

Braddock-Area Schools Earn National Wildlife Federation Green Flag Award

Several schools attended by Braddock District students were among 22 schools across FCPS being honored with a Green Flag award from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) through the EcoSchools U.S. program. 

Only 56 Green Flags were awarded nationwide! At these schools, students and teachers committed to sustainability measures that lead to enough points to earn the award. Five FCPS schools earned a silver award. Some of these measures included engaging the local community, forming an action team, creating a plan, collecting data, taking solution-based actions, and measuring impact. 

This student-led program provides opportunities for youth leadership, raising environmental awareness, connecting students to the natural world, and driving positive environmental change. Get2Green’s Ignite Partnership with the NWF provides a framework for schools to engage in student-led environmental action through the EcoSchools U.S. program. 

Green Flag Award

• Katherine Johnson Middle School,
• North Springfield Elementary School,
• Terra Centre Elementary School, and
• Woodson High School,

Silver Award

• Annandale Terrace Elementary School, and
• Oak View Elementary School.

FCPS Cares

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. Staff and teachers at the following schools attended by Braddock students have been recognized this month through FCPS CARES for something wonderful they have done:

• Eagle View Elementary School,
• Holmes Middle School,
• Rocky Run Middle School,
• Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, and
• West Springfield Elementary School.

Here's what one parent had to say about Nathan Walby, a music teacher at Eagle View: "A gifted musician AND a gifted teacher, he brings the most positive classroom environment and a genuine passion for musical learning to his students. He joyfully guides students to interact with, practice and perform music, and engages them with creative and fun lessons. He is kind and patient with all students and all abilities. In my own interactions with him, his first response is always warmth and an authentic smile. I am positive he is a teacher our kids will always remember and be able to identify the impact that he made when they look back on this time in their lives. He’s a fantastic human being."

Read the full list of FCPS CARES recognitions here.

Other School Shout-Outs!

• Robinson Secondary School’s Varsity Cheer Team for winning the Region 6C and Class 6 VHSL Championships!
• Robinson’s Varsity Girls Cross Country Team for taking the VHSL Championship! Way to go!
• Frost Middle School for winning the Girls and Boys First FCPS Middle School Cross Country Championships!
• Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Noah Smith for receiving the 2024 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Award.
• Frost Middle School for winning the Girls and Boys First FCPS Middle School Cross Country Championships!
• Katherine Johnson Middle School’s Boys and Girls Basketball teams for finishing their seasons undefeated and claiming the Western Fairfax Basketball League Championship title

• Katherine Johnson with the Quiz Bowl Team winning the Washington, D.C. History Bowl! The team will now compete in the Middle School National History Bowl Championships in April! (pictured below).

• And check out this article in Northern Virginia Magazine featuring Lake Braddock’s JROTC Program!

Congratulations to the Katherine Johnson Middle School Quiz Bowl Team!

Music & Arts Braddock Students Perform at 2024 Va. Music Educators Association Conference

Students from three Braddock District schools were among seven FCPS bands and orchestras to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference, held Nov. 21-23 in Norfolk. 

Performance groups throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for spots at the conference.

Groups which performed included:

• Falls Church High School Chamber Orchestra,
• Glasgow Middle School Wind Ensemble,
• Lake Braddock Secondary School Symphony Orchestra,
• Robinson Secondary School Symphonic Band,
• Thoreau Middle School Symphonic Band,
• West Springfield High School Wind Symphony, and
• Woodson High School Wind Ensemble.

Several FCPS students also performed as part of the All-Virginia Jazz Band, VMEA Senior Honors Choir, and All-Virginia Elementary Orff Ensemble.

VMEA is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of music education across the state of Virginia. It serves music educators who teach in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. 

The Cappies Review Lear at Woodson HS

I recently saw a performance of Lear at Woodson High School, which was amazing! The acting was so believable, changing the character from King Lear to Queen Lear was very well done, the use of music and effects (rainstorm!) was very creative, and it left me with lots to ponder. The students did justice to this very complex and difficult material.

Following is an excerpt from The Cappies' review of Woodson High School's excellent performance of Lear by William Shakespeare, written by Lucy Baboyian of Annandale High School.

"A steady beat of drums pounded through the theater like thunder as Queen Lear stormed on stage, her commanding presence a warning of the turmoil on the horizon.

"Lear, Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, explores themes of pride, betrayal, and madness. When Queen Lear attempts to divide her kingdom amongst her three daughters, her plan soon goes awry. She finds herself betrayed by those she trusted most, stripped of power, and ultimately abandoned. This descent exposes the devastating cost of pride and the fragile nature of loyalty."

Read the full review here.

Upcoming Performances on My Radar

• Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. - Annandale High School Winter Band Concert
  • The Annandale High School Bands will present Winter Nights, their annual holiday concert in the AHS auditorium. The concert will feature all of the AHS band students in a collaborative presentation of seasonal favorites, including a special narration of "Scrooge" and our traditional “Sleigh Ride.” Doors open at 6:45pm; admission is free.
• Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m. - Lake Braddock Theatre Arts State One Acts
  • The Lake Braddock Theatre Arts 3 and 4 classes are proud to present a combination of two one-act plays in rotating repertory: Booby Trap by Ed Monk, and Henry V by William Shakespeare. Tickets
• Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m. - Lake Braddock Secondary School Band Children’s Holiday Concert and Open House
  • Join the Lake Braddock Bruin Symphonic Band for a Children’s Music Open House at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Guests will hear holiday tunes, see the Marching Bruins Halftime Show, and listen to various instrumental ensembles including Lake Braddock’s Jazz Band. Children may explore the “Bandieland” trail through the music department wing, collect treats and stickers at various stops, and learn more about instrumental music programs along the way.
• Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m. - Annandale High School Winter Chorus Concert: Deck the Halls
  • The Winter Concert with the Annandale Singers, Atom Chorale, Men's Chorale, and the Chamber Ensemble in the Auditorium.

Neurodiversity News 10 Highly Successful People You Didn't Know Were Neurodivergent

From CEO Today: "Estimates suggest that at least 30% of the population is neurodivergent, with these statistics being higher for our most creative innovators (around 40% of self-made millionaires are dyslexic). Yet stigmas around neurodiversity remain. Although Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Einstein are all well known for being neurodivergent, it’s easy to call them 'exceptions'.

"But there are many neurodivergent individuals who could have an amazing impact on society if they are given the opportunity. It’s inexplicable in a world where innovation is at the top of every company’s wishlist that these diversely functioning brains are ignored by the hiring process."

Read more.

More from the School Board Upcoming School Board & Committee Meetings

I encourage everyone to follow the work of the School Board. All of the following meetings will be open to the public. They also will be streamed live online and archived. Locations, agendas, background materials, and streaming links can be found below. Dates and times are subject to change.

• Tuesday, Dec. 17, 5:30-7 p.m. - Joint Meeting with City of Fairfax School Board, Gatehouse Administration Center
• Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting, Luther Jackson Middle School

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

What Has the School Board Been Doing?

Since my last full newsletter, we have had two regular School Board meetings and one work session. Please see the links below for summaries of those meetings, as well as agendas, meeting documents, and archived video.

• Nov. 14 Regular Meeting
  • Agenda & documents
  • Meeting summary
  • Archived meeting video
• Dec. 3 Work Session:
  • Agenda & documents
  • Archived meeting video
  • We heard two presentations:
    • Middle school start times, discussing the recommendations from our consultant, Prismatic Services Inc., and
    • A report on the FCPS Strategic Plan Goal 2 Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.
• Dec. 5 Regular Meeting
  • Agenda & documents
  • Meeting summary
  • Archived meeting video

FCPS News Boundary Review Community Meetings

There are two more opportunities to participate in community meetings regarding FCPS' division-wide boundary review. While your students may not attend school in the regions below, you are still welcome to attend and participate. Please click on a date to register:

• Thursday, December 12, 6:45-8:15 p.m., Annandale High School Cafeteria, Region 6.
• Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m., Madison High School Cafeteria, Region 1.

In addition, the Office of Communications (OC) has created a new newsletter for regular updates on the Boundary Review process. You can sign up to receive information updates here.

Out & About Judging the We the People Civics Competition on Dec. 7

As a lawyer and professor, I was thrilled to be a judge in the We the People Civics Competition! I was impressed with the constitutional knowledge, keen analysis, and critical thinking ability demonstrated by these high school students. Strong civics education is a high priority for me - informed citizens and reasoned debate keep our country and democracy strong.

State Football Semifinals at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Dec. 7

With At-Large School Board Member Kyle McDaniel.

The Lake Braddock Secondary School Bruins played their best in the Virginia state semifinals on Dec. 7 but ultimately fell to the Madison High School Warhawks. Congratulations on a great season, Bruins!

Dec. 3 Boundary Project Public Input Meeting at Lake Braddock Secondary School

With Springfield District School Board Member Sandy Andersonat the Boundary Project public input session at Lake Braddock HS.

Virginia School Board Association Conference in Williamsburg Dec. 19-22

I always treasure opportunities to collaborate with and learn from my school board colleagues from across the state and strategize about important issues including special education needs and requirements and the state funding disparity. The 2024 VSBA conference was both enlightening and educational. There is much work to be done!

Networking at the Virginia School Board Association's 2024 conference in Williamsburg.

Take Your Legislator to School Events at Woodson HS on Nov. 13 and Bonnie Brae Elementary on Nov. 19

I appreciate Senator David Marsden and Delegate Laura Jane Cohen joining me at Woodson High School on Nov. 13 and Delegate Dan Helmer for joining me at Bonnie Brae Elementary School on Nov. 19 for the VSBA's Take Your Legislator to School Month! We chatted about school funding and ways to address the underfunding of schools as shown in the JLARC report but the best part was hearing the students' ideas of how to improve their education. They loved being able to talk directly to their elected officials and gave us lots of ideas!

Enjoying music class at Bonnie Brae ES with Delegate Dan Helmer.

Talking to Woodson HS students with Delegate Laura Jane Cohen and Senator David Marsden, with Principal Kevin Greata at left.

Puffs at West Springfield High School on Nov. 18

I had a fantastic time at Puffs at West Springfield with my colleague Sandy Anderson, Springfield District School Board member, and FCPS Chief of Staff Marty Smith. Such a well done production! The costumes were amazing, the students' timing and character development perfect, and the set very clever! We laughed all night. What an achievement for the theater director also in his first year.

With FCPS Chief of Staff Marty Smith and Springfield District School Board Member Sandy Anderson at Puffs.

More Stuff Families Should Know Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated. 

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed. text.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Your child’s principal will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.

2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound high school senior — regardless of income — who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form. 

Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. Then, create an account (if you have not already done so) and fill out the FAFSA.

The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.

Get Help Filling out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will offer several programs to help students complete the FAFSA/VASA, and find and apply for scholarships. Get information on these programs and how to access them on the College Access Fairfax website.

In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email [email protected].

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.

Sessions in English will be held online on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 6 p.m. 

Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

Free Financial Aid and Scholarship Workshops

College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of free virtual workshops on the financial aid process and an overview of the process of applying for outside scholarships. The next workshop, Scholarship 101, will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 10 a.m.

Find more information on College Access Fairfax’s Events page.

U.S. Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Virtual Family Game Nights

The United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication’s Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Committee is excited to host upcoming AAC Family Game Nights. They welcome children who are emergent AAC users and their families, including siblings. This is a great opportunity for families to play games and have conversations while making new friends and meeting other AAC users.

Register in advance. Please note the upcoming game night is full but use the form to receive updates for additional game nights.

Free Medical Clinic

The Adams Compassionate Healthcare Network is providing a free medical clinic. They serve uninsured and low-income individuals within the 300% federal poverty guidelines.  

Free services available are as follows: 

• High Blood Pressure or Diabetes check-up
• Chronic medical condition treatments 
• School, sports & annual physicals
• Preventative screenings
• Routine doctor visits 
• Health counseling
• Wellness Exams
• Lab Services 

Contact them at 703-542-3386 or [email protected].

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:

• Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
• Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
• Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
• Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
• A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
• Alcohol or drug use.
• Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family. 
• Thoughts of harming themselves or others.

If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. Contact your student's school counselor, social worker, or psychologist. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness. 

If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.

In a Few Words FCPS Podcast

In a Few Words FCPS is a podcast aimed at providing families with essential school news and resources. It encourages partnership between families and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) for children's education. Produced by the Office of Family and School Partnerships and others, the podcast is available in both English and Spanish. Find more information online.

Tutoring Resources for Families

Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as a tutor. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource to families.

FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. 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.

✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.

Families Reunite Workshops

Family and School Partnerships offers a course for Spanish-speaking immigrant families who are going through the reunification process. It is designed for parents/caregivers and children who have lived apart for at least one year and were recently reunited.

The six-hour Zoom course takes place over three consecutive weeks. Upcoming sessions include:

• Tuesdays, Nov. 19 & 26; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, & 16; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

We encourage families to attend every session to fully benefit from the program. Register for Families Unite and learn more about FCPS’ Immigrant Family Reunification Program.

Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center

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).

Missed a webinar? Check out the Family Resource Center YouTube Page for past webinars.

December webinars and workshops include:

• Dec. 13, 10-11:30 a.m. - Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation: Keeping Kids Safe Online

• Dec. 20, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. in-person at the Family Resource Center - Youth Mental Health First Aid
• Jan. 10, 10-11:30 a.m. - Webinar on Overcoming School Resistance: Help! My Kid Won't Go To School! Addressing Chronic Absenteeism in Schools

Opportunities for Students Senator Pekarsky’s 1st Annual Youth Leadership Program 2025 Application

The Youth Leadership Program will allow high school juniors and seniors to travel to Richmond during the General Assembly Session in January 2025. Students will engage with political leadership from across the Commonwealth and gain practical knowledge about Virginia's legislative process.  Students from Senate District 36 in Fairfax County are invited to apply.

Students will head to Richmond on Sunday, Jan. 19 and return on Tuesday, Jan. 21.  This opportunity comes at no cost to the students. All transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided. A letter excusing the school absence on Tuesday, January 21st will be shared with each of the students.

Applications will close on Tuesday, Dec. 27, at 6 pm. Because of limited number spots, not every student who applies will be accepted. Students will be notified of their application status. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email them to [email protected].

2025 Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program

Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy (District 33) has announced that her office is now accepting applications for The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program, to take place during the 2025 legislative session.

The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program will allow eight exceptional high school juniors and seniors to travel to Richmond during the General Assembly Legislative Session. The 2025 program will take place from Sunday, Jan. 19 through Tuesday, Jan. 21. Students will engage with political leadership from
across the Commonwealth and gain practical knowledge about Virginia's legislative process.

For more information on The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program and to apply for the 2025 session, please complete the application by Dec. 15 here: http://bit.ly/EllaBaker2025.

Annual Marine Debris Program Art Contest

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program holds an annual art contest to reach K-8 students and help raise awareness about marine debris. Marine debris is a global issue and engaging our youth is an important part of addressing the problem. NOAA will publish a calendar featuring the winning artwork that provides a daily reminder of how important it is for us to be responsible stewards of the ocean. Apply by Friday, Dec. 13.

INTEGIRLS D.C. 2024 Winter Math Competition

The D.C. chapter of INTEGIRLS is hosting a beginner-friendly, in-person math competition on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Bioscience Education Center at Montgomery College Germantown Campus. They will have math competition rounds (individual and team), an estimathon, a speaker event, an awards ceremony, provided lunch, and lots of fun STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities. Register here directly, or visit the INTEGIRLS D.C. website to learn more about the competition.

NOVA’s Early Online College is back for the Spring 2025 Semester

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Early Online College (EOC) allows current high school juniors and seniors to take up to 2 tuition-free college courses. 

Fourteen different courses are being offered in the Spring 2025 semester. These courses are asynchronous, online, and for college credit only. They run for 12 weeks. EOC courses are selected because they meet the requirements for most of NOVA’s Associate degrees and are highly transferable as general education requirements for most colleges and universities. Students must meet eligibility requirements (GPA or available test scores) to take EOC courses.

The registration deadline is Jan. 8, at 5 p.m. Classes take place Tuesday, Feb. 4 through Monday, April 28, 2025.

2025 Gap Year Fair

FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at George C. Marshall High School from 6- 8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. Student registration is now open.

Save the Date: Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair

Please save the date for the 70th annual Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, which will be held on the weekend of Friday, March 21, to Sunday, March 23, 2025.

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.

© 2024 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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Diane Cho, art teacher at Mosaic Elementary School, shares some of her students’ artwork.

❄️ Be Among the First to Learn About Weather Closings!

When FCPS decides to delay the opening of school or close due to winter weather, one of the first ways we communicate that decision is by sending a text message to employees and families. 

Be sure to get that text message! Log in to UConnect and update your contact information today.

🌍 CARES Recipients Coordinate Cultural Exchange

FCPS CARES allows parents/caregivers, staff, and community members to recognize employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. Among the CARES of the Month recipients for October are French teachers Elaine Gonzalez (pictured to the right of Principal Amy Goodloe) from Chantilly High School and Jocelyne Smith from Westfield High School.  

A Chantilly parent nominated them for working to bring 22 exchange students from France to the schools. 

“We loved hosting the students, learning from them, and showing them our lives,” the parent said. “For my child and family to experience this was phenomenal. The teachers went above and beyond to make this an excellent experience.”

Other FCPS CARES of the Month recipients include:

• Tashima Bradshaw, Stonecroft Transportation
• Paula Prosper, Cooper Middle School
• Heather Murphy and Caroline Taylor, Thomas Jefferson Science and Technology High School
• Lawrence Cooper, West Potomac High School
• John Tourtellotte, Lake Braddock Secondary School
• Jessica Gregory, Hayfield Secondary School

Read about all the recipients.

Unlock Your Future With Information Technology’s Mid-Year Conference

The Department of Information Technology (DIT) Mid-Year Virtual Conference 2025 will take place on Wednesday, January 29, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Log on for a morning filled with learning, insights, and innovation designed to empower your professional journey. At the conference, you can expect to:

• Gain exclusive insights during a thought-provoking panel discussion with FCPS leadership, exploring artificial intelligence’s (AI) impact on education and the future of learning.
• Hear from students who are embracing AI tools to transform their educational experiences.
• Dive in to practical, hands-on sessions to learn how IT tools can enhance efficiency and effectiveness in your instructional and operational roles.

Register for the DIT conference.

📝 Apply Now to Work Toward Your Teaching License

FCPS is thrilled to announce its financial support for 100 FCPS employees interested in becoming teachers. If you hold a bachelor’s degree but not a Virginia teaching license, you can apply to become fully licensed within 12-24 months through the Teach Forward (¡Avanza!) FCPS cohort. 

Teach Forward is a self-paced online program taught through iteach. Cohort members will become provisionally licensed teachers and be eligible to teach in August 2025 upon completing the initial iteach program requirements. Participants are only responsible for the $250 enrollment fee and the costs of the required Praxis tests. The iteach program cost will be covered by FCPS for Teach Forward participants.

For more details, including virtual information session dates, visit the Teach Forward (¡Avanza!) website.

👩‍🏫 Help Our Teacher Team Grow!

Are you an instructional assistant who is considering becoming a teacher? Know someone who you think would be a good fit for Team FCPS? An in-person job fair for teachers and other instructional positions will be held on Saturday, December 14, at Sandburg Middle School from 9 a.m. to noon. 

There will be networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from FCPS schools. Employment offers for the current school year may be presented during the fair. 

Registration is required. Register to attend no later than Thursday, December 12.

Questions? Contact the Department of Human Resources through their web portal or call 571-423-3000.

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

🌴 Plan for Retirement: Book Your ERFC Appointment Today!

It’s about to be ERFC’s busy season. Appointments fill up fast, so don’t wait to schedule an appointment with an ERFC retirement specialist to learn more about your second pension. Specialists are available to meet with you at any stage of your career, but ERFC members retiring within the next six months are given priority when scheduling. 

Please remember, ERFC staff can’t provide advice regarding taxes, estate planning, or retirement date selection. Contact a professional tax or financial advisor to help you with those questions.

Call ERFC at 703-426-3900, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., to book an in-person or virtual meeting. For additional information and resources, visit the ERFC website.

💙 Principal Prioritizes Parent Program

Every Wednesday after school, a special class takes place at Fairfax High School. The students are parents, eager to learn a new language and skills to help them support their children’s education. Principal Georgina Aye is one of the dedicated teachers. 

These classes are the heart of Fairfax High School’s Family Engagement Center, a vibrant space dedicated to empowering families and fostering a strong sense of community. Fairfax’s Family Engagement Center is building a bridge between families and the school, creating a shared space for learning, support, and community. Read more about the English literacy parent program. 

✨ Building trusting partnerships between home and school is Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan.

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

As mentioned in Dr. Reid’s message last night, the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met for the first time last Friday evening. The committee includes two parents/caregivers or community members from each of FCPS’ 24 high school pyramids, school-based and division administrators, teachers, operational staff, and other community representatives. Each committee member’s unique perspective and insight are invaluable as we work together to ensure this process is transparent, includes significant community participation and feedback, and always keeps students at the center of every decision.  

Visit the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee webpage to learn more about the committee and key takeaways from their first meeting.

Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not already, please consider attending one of the remaining community meetings. If you are unable to attend an in-person meeting, stay tuned for details about virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings coming early next year.

View FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

Dr. Reid Reflects on the Comprehensive Boundary Review Process

In her latest Weekly Reflections, Dr. Reid wrote about recent Community Boundary Review Meetings and the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting. She stressed that no boundary changes have been proposed yet; we are only in the first phase of a process that will continue until spring 2026.

Read the latest Weekly Reflections.

Opportunities for Current and Aspiring Leaders

At the December 5 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented an update on FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Pillar C: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supported Workforce (PDF). Watch a video to learn more about leadership development at FCPS or visit the Leadership Development webpage.

📣 Every Voice Matters! Inclusive Schools Week

Dr. Reid also spoke at the meeting about inclusive activities at our schools, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and the Family Summit event and resource fair, which will take place on March 15, 2025. View her presentation slides. 

✨ Equitable access and opportunity is Goal 4 of the FCPS Strategic Plan.

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break will be from Monday, December 23, 2024, to Friday, January 3, 2025. Twelve-month employees are expected to work throughout the break except for Tuesday, December 24, 2024; Wednesday, December 25, 2024; and Wednesday, January 1, 2025. View the employee calendar.

No homework should be assigned during this time to help our families have a restful break. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break. 

Classes will resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. See the complete school year 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 Thursdays. 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: December 5, 2024

Dear Providence District Families,

At last Thursday’s Regular Meeting of the Fairfax County School Board (agenda | video), we considered several important items, most notably, the midyear budget review that included school security enhancements, conducting an independent examination of student athlete transfers and eligibility, and investing nearly $370,000 in new playground equipment for an elementary school attended by many Providence District students.

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

In service,

Karl Frisch
Chair and Providence District Representative
Fairfax County School Board

Table of Contents

• Midyear Budget Review (FY 2025)
• Superintendent Performance Evaluation
• Examination of Student Athlete Transfers and Eligibility
• Academic Matters: Inclusive Schools
• Strategic Plan Update: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supportive Workforce
• Local Investments: Flint Hill Elementary Playground Equipment
• Inclusive Schools Week Proclamation
• Student Performance of the National Anthem
• Upcoming School Board Meetings

Midyear Budget Review (FY 2025)

Video | Meeting Materials

FCPS Chief Financial Officer Leigh Burden presented the Midyear Budget Review, providing an update on the revenue and expenditure adjustments for the 2025 financial year. In the School Operating Fund, funds available are increasing by $3.8 million due to adjustments made after the FY 2024 Final Budget Review, primarily from sales tax revenue based on actual receipts and other funding due to a settled class-action lawsuit. Expenditure adjustments for FY 2025 include funds for the Esports stipends, Licensure Pathway (iTeach), and Safety and Security initiatives.

Superintendent Performance Evaluation 

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 4: Human Resources

Video | Meeting Materials

The Superintendent provided her annual monitoring report on Executive Limitation 4: Human Resources. As outlined on page 18 of the Board’s Strategic Governance Manual, Executive Limitation 4 stipulates, in short, that the Superintendent shall not fail to recruit, select, retain, and appropriately compensate a highly qualified and diverse workforce that enables FCPS to deliver a world-class education to every student in an environment characterized by high staff morale; and shall not fail to ensure employees are able to work in a collaborative manner towards achieving the Division’s Strategic Plan goals, that they have avenues for providing input and feedback, and that they receive relevant professional learning to support their performance and growth. 

Following the Superintendent’s presentation, the Board found that the Superintendent is in non-compliance and requested a corrective action memo by the Board’s next Regular Meeting on December 19, 2024, that addresses the following concerns related to high school athletics and other division programs and practices:

• Addresses the lack of consistency related to training and personnel development regarding the rights and responsibilities of staff under Division policy.
• Additional measures are taken to ensure adherence to all governing codes and legal requirements.
• Explains measures taken to ensure employees are prepared to perform the duties of their position.
• Increases consistency of expectations and accountability for employee behaviors and explains the expectations for further accountability on the part of colleagues.
• Addresses plans for increased valuable training opportunities.

Motion: S. Anderson, Second: Sizemore-Heizer  / Vote: Yes 11, No 0

Examination of Student Athlete Transfers and Eligibility Practices

Video | Meeting Materials

 

The School Board unanimously voted to engage an external law firm to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not limited to student athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with an examination of Hayfield Secondary School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent.

Motion:  St John-Cunning, Second: McDaniel / Vote: Yes 11, No 0 

Academic Matters: Inclusive Schools

Video | Meeting Materials

The Superintendent presented her academic matters report on the school division’s efforts around inclusive schools, emphasizing the ongoing implementation of Universal Design for Learning (UDL), an educational approach that meets the needs of every student by minimizing barriers to learning. The practice is based on brain research and uses flexible methods and materials that embrace learner variability.

Dr. Reid also explained that FCPS is engaging an inclusive schooling expert to provide guidance for a 3-5 year action plan to enhance inclusive opportunities in every school by redesigning the special education service delivery model and student experience to better meet the needs and goals of students identified through the IEP process.

Additionally, the Superintendent encouraged families to save the date for the 2025 Family Summit on March 15, 2025.

Strategic Plan Update: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supportive Workforce

Video | Meeting Materials

For the Strategic Plan Update, the Superintendent and Jenny Cunneen, Director of Leadership Development, offered an update about efforts to achieve a diverse, adaptive, and supportive workforce. They detailed the school division's efforts to create pathways for current and aspiring leaders and a strong pipeline of future instructional and operational leaders.

Local Investments: Flint Hill Elementary Playground Equipment 

The Board approved a $369,117.50 contract for playground equipment Installation at Flint Hill Elementary School, which many Providence District students attend. The contract was awarded to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder. Funding for this project will be provided by the ADA Playground Improvement Fund and Site Improvement Fund. (More information)

Inclusive Schools Week Proclamation

Video | Meeting Materials

The Board unanimously proclaimed the week of December 2-6, 2024, as Inclusive Schools Week and reaffirmed its commitment to creating an inclusive, supportive, and equitable learning community where all students are engaged, inspired, and thrive. The Board encourages the Fairfax County community to participate in activities that celebrate inclusion, diversity, equity, and belonging.

Motion: Moon, Second: S. Anderson / Vote: Yes 11, No 0

Student Performance of the National Anthem

The Board meeting began with a beautiful performance of the National Anthem by the Island Creek Elementary School Chorus under the direction of Sarah Laird:

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)

• Thursday, December 19, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)

• Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, February 4, 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.

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.

December Newsletter Message from Ilryong Moon Counting my blessings

For Veterans Day, I had the privilege of visiting a couple of schools to commemorate the occasion. 

As a Korean American, this day carries deep personal significance for me. I am profoundly grateful to the countless American soldiers who served in my native country during the Korean War to defend democracy in the South. Without their courage and sacrifice, North Korea might have taken over the entire peninsula, and my family would not have had the chance to come to the United States.

Because of their bravery, I have been able to enjoy the freedoms and opportunities that this great nation offers, opportunities I could never have imagined growing up. Reflecting on my life over the past 50 years in the United States, including my 40-year career as a practicing attorney and more than 25 years in public service, I feel incredibly blessed to have built a life rooted in the values of freedom and resilience.

At the Veterans Day commemoration at Silverbrook Elementary School, Col. Christy Orser of the United States Army shared a heartfelt message about resilience. She said, “Resilience isn’t about being the biggest or strongest; it’s about bouncing back when things get tough. It’s the strength to keep going, one step at a time, and to ask for help when needed. Like Dory says, ‘just keep swimming,’ and stick together.”

I also came across a powerful image of the Missing Man Table, a tribute to the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives and those who remain missing in action while serving to protect our freedom, including those yet to return from the Korean War. It was a sobering reminder of the cost of liberty and the debt we owe to all who serve.

The Missing Man Table symbolizes the sacrifice of those missing in action. The round table reflects our concern for them, and the white cloth honors the purity of their service. The red rose represents their lives and the faith of their loved ones, while the red ribbon shows our commitment to finding them. The slice of lemon reflects their bitter fate, and the pinch of salt symbolizes the tears of their families. The lighted candle offers hope for their return, and the Bible represents strength through faith. The inverted glass signifies their inability to toast, and the empty chair honors their absence.

As I reflect on Veterans Day and my own journey, I am filled with gratitude for those who fought for the freedom I now enjoy and for the opportunities to live, work, and thrive in this incredible country. Their sacrifices have paved the way for so many of us to dream, achieve, and live freely. 

What are you thankful for this year?

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa, and Happy Holidays! 

Ilryong Moon

What’s happened in November

In early November, I had the pleasure of attending the Kimchi Day Festival at the Fairfax County Government Center, an event that beautifully celebrated Korean culture and tradition. The day began with a captivating performance by a Korean traditional dancer, a recognized holder of the National Intangible Cultural Heritage, showcasing the elegance and artistry of Korea’s cultural heritage.

We were honored to welcome distinguished guests, including a representative from the Korean Veterans Association, the Consul from the Korean Embassy, and Former Virginia State Delegate Mark Keam, who all delivered heartfelt congratulatory remarks to celebrate the Virginia Kimchi Day Festival.

The event brought together people of all ages, including enthusiastic children, to experience the joy of making kimchi. I made a batch myself. The process was incredibly enjoyable, and I must say, the result was absolutely delicious!

The Kimchi Day Festival was not only a wonderful celebration of food and culture but also a reminder of the power of traditions to bring communities together. It was a truly memorable experience, and I’m already looking forward to the next one!

I had an absolutely delightful visit to Scout Pack 656 at Fairhill Elementary School with my colleague Karl Frisch. Our bright and enthusiastic scouts were brimming with curiosity, sharing their hopes and dreams for future adventures. Their questions about how the School Board works and what we do were thoughtful and engaging. It is clear we have some future leaders in the making.

Spending time with these amazing kids was pure joy. Their energy, excitement, and big ideas were truly inspiring. Thank you so much for welcoming us so warmly and making it such a memorable experience. I cannot wait to see where their adventures take them next.

This month, I had the privilege of participating in "Take Your Legislator to School Day" alongside my colleague Seema Dixit. Together, we were honored to host Delegate Irene Shin at Westfield High School in Chantilly.

During our visit, we had meaningful discussions about the cellphone policy and its implementation across schools in the division, particularly at Westfield. It was impressive to see how well students are adhering to the policy, refraining from using their phones during class and limiting usage to break and lunch periods. We also explored discipline measures for students who struggle to follow the policy and addressed important topics like bullying and fostering a positive school environment.

I am deeply grateful to the dedicated teachers and staff at Westfield High School for creating a strong sense of belonging for students. Their hard work is instrumental in shaping a supportive and respectful school culture. My sincere thanks to Delegate Shin for taking the time to join us and to Seema Dixit for extending the invitation to make this visit possible.

This year marks an exciting milestone for FCPS athletics with the introduction of varsity boys volleyball as an official sport in all high schools, alongside varsity girls wrestling. Previously offered only as a club sport in 23 of 25 schools, boys volleyball has had a successful inaugural varsity season across the county. I had the pleasure of attending four thrilling matches recently, where players gave their all and fans cheered with great enthusiasm.

Volleyball is a dynamic team sport with players taking on specific roles like setter, middle blocker, outside hitter, opposite hitter, serving specialist, and libero. I want to highlight the libero's unique role, which is critical to the team’s defense. Liberos are often the shortest players but excel in ball control, passing to the setter, and leading the defensive plays. Their different-colored jerseys make them easy to spot on the court.

Growing up, I was not necessarily an athlete. I wasn’t strong, fast, or tall, but volleyball was one sport I could enjoy. While I couldn’t spike, I could play defense and dig balls, much like the libero position today. That experience gives me an even deeper appreciation for the dedication and teamwork that this role requires.

As the inaugural varsity boys volleyball season wrapped up, I encouraged the superintendent to explore opportunities to expand beyond varsity teams, perhaps adding JV teams like in girls volleyball. Space and coaching might present challenges, but providing more opportunities would allow more students to participate, grow, and experience the joy of this dynamic sport.

Last but not least, in late November, I attended the Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Annual Conference in Williamsburg and had the privilege of experiencing an extraordinary keynote presentation. The speaker brought his message to life through a captivating combination of visual performance and engaging storytelling, using fast painting as a unique medium to enhance his words. It was a moment that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

During his presentation, he quoted Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book: “The strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.” This profound statement underscores an essential truth. Individual contributions, no matter how remarkable, rely on the collective strength of the group. Just as a wolf’s survival and success depend on its pack, our achievements are magnified when we embrace unity, mutual support, and a shared vision within our division. Of course, a pack is composed of individual wolves, so individual wolf’s input and contribution to the strength of the pack should not be overlooked, either.

I came away from this presentation with a deeper appreciation for the value of teamwork and collaboration. When we align our efforts with a shared vision and act with integrity and determination, we can overcome challenges and create transformative change. Together, we have the power to achieve extraordinary results and make a meaningful impact. Let us move forward as a unified team, confident in the strength we derive from one another.

Upcoming School Board Business & Meetings

Broadcast & open to the public:

• Monday, Dec. 9, 4:30 p.m. - Audit Committee CANCELED 

• Tuesday, Dec. 10, 10:00 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee

• Tuesday, Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m. - PM Work Session

• Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting

• Tuesday, Jan. 7, 10:00 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee

• Tuesday, Jan. 7, 3:00 p.m. - Governance Committee

• Thursday, Jan. 9, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting 

School Board Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are broadcast live and available to the public on several platforms:

• FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11),
• FCPS YouTube Channel, and
• FCPS website

If you miss the live broadcast of any School Board Meeting or Work Session, you can also watch archived broadcasts:

• FCPS YouTube channel (English), and 
• FCPS en Español YouTube channel (dubbed in Spanish)

** Dates & times are subject to change. Please check the 2024 School Board Annual Work Calendar for the latest information **

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: Ilryong Moon | 571-423-1089

Staff Aide: Sarah Park | 571-502-5386

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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.

Dear Sully District Families and Community Members,

We have made it to December and there are lots of exciting things happening in our schools over the next two weeks, prior to the winter break. I hope you can attend some of the festive events and enjoy some holiday fun!

This past month has been a busy one on the School Board. At the November 14 regular meeting, the School Board unanimously voted to renew the contract of Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for an additional four years, effective November 14, 2024. The new contract will run through June 2028. Visit BoardDocs for more information. Watch the full meeting.

Also at the November 14 regular meeting, the Board voted to authorize $3 million in funding from the School Board Flexibility Reserve to be combined with the $2 million previously allocated in FY 2023. This funding will be used to complete the initial phases of a comprehensive Facility Condition Assessment of all FCPS-owned school buildings, facilities (including athletic facilities), and infrastructure (including tracked and untracked). View the follow-on motion on BoardDocs. We also approved changes to the list of middle and high school course offerings for the 2025-2026 school year, as recommended by the Course Review Committee. View BoardDocs for more information

Inside this newsletter:

• "Take Your Legislator to School" Visits with Delegate Delaney and Delegate Shin

• Sully District Happenings

• Superintendent Reid's Academic Matters

• Computer Science Education Week is Dec 9-15

• Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

• Family Resource Center - December Events

• Make a Difference for FCPS Students and Families - Donate Today!

• Mental Health Resources for Families

• Support the 2025 Science Fairs - Be a Judge!

• Upcoming School Board Meetings

It was great to see such a robust turnout for the Region 5 Boundary Review Community meeting at Westfield High School earlier this week. I enjoyed listening and engaging with you...it is so important to make your voice heard on this important and much-needed work!

Community meetings regarding FCPS' Comprehensive School Boundary Review are taking place in each of the division's six regions. The upcoming meetings are listed below. 

Region 5 Boundary Community Meeting at Westfield High School

Registration is not required but is helpful in planning for childcare and language interpretation. Please click on a date to register:

• Monday, December 9, 6:30-8 p.m., Mount Vernon High School Cafeteria, Region 3. 
• Thursday, December 12, 6:45-8:15 p.m., Annandale High School Cafeteria, Region 6. 
• Wednesday, December 18, 6:30-8 p.m., Madison High School Cafeteria, Region 1.

You can also sign up to receive the School Boundary Review newsletter by email. Thank you for continuing to share your concerns and experiences with me.

I am excited about National Computer Science Education Week next week! Computer science is very important to the success of our students in a digital, inter-connected world and I am excited about expanding access and participation in CS for all our students to support their career and creative aspirations. It is integral to Goal 5 of our 2023-30 Strategic Plan, Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation. More #CSEDWeek resources are provided below in this newsletter. 

As always, I am honored and privileged to serve this community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can be helpful to your family in any way. 

In partnership,

Seema Dixit "Take Your Legislator to School" - November Visits with Delegate Shin and Delegate Delaney!

"Take Your Legislator to School" - November Visits with Delegate Shin and Delegate Delaney!

November marks the Virginia School Boards Association's (VSBA) "Take Your Legislator to School Month".

It was my pleasure to take Delegate Irene Shin to Westfield High School along with my colleague Ilryong Moon, Fairfax County School Board, At-Large Member! Our goal is to provide opportunities for educational and political leaders to work together to ensure that we provide the best possible education for our students. Thank you Principal DiBari for sharing the successes and challenges of this school year especially around illicit substance use and school meal debt. It was fun interacting with the students and visiting classrooms! Go Bulldogs!

I also had the pleasure of accompanying Delegate Karrie Delaney and my colleague Kyle McDaniel, Member At-Large, to Deer Park Elementary School.

This visit was a fantastic opportunity to engage with the classroom representatives of the Student Council Association (SCA) from grades 4-6. Their thoughtful questions about leadership, community service, and education policy were truly inspiring. It’s so important for students to see local, tangible role models in their community—after all, "it's easier to be what you can see!"

A big thank you to Principal Damato, and music teacher/SCA lead Mr. Wallace for organizing such a meaningful event! Visits like these are so important to help bridge connections between students, educators, and local leaders. Go Bucks!!

Sully District Happenings Welcome School Board Leadership Development Program Students!!

Students selected for School Board Leadership Program along with School Board Student Representative Megan Sawant (also a Sully District student!). Megan Sawant with Ariya Lee, Sully District student selected for School Board leadership program.

Congratulations to all the students who were selected to be part of the School Board Leadership Development Program. We are so thankful to all the students who applied...I am so impressed by your desire to affect positive change in our communities. So proud of Ariya Lee from Chantilly High School who was selected from Sully District to be part of this program.

Student voices are vital to the future of education and I look forward to the valuable insights and ide as Ariya and all of these amazing students bring to the table. The School Board Student Leadership Development Program is for students interested in a future in law, government or public policy. Welcome!

Sully District Music Students Excel!!

Congrats to all the FCPS students, which includes many from the Sully District, who performed as part of the All-Virginia Jazz Band, VMEA Senior Honors Choir, and All-Virginia Elementary Orff Ensemble. VMEA is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of music education across the state of Virginia. It serves music educators who teach in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities. 

Sully Schools highlight fun "Advancing Literacy" learning activities with students! 

Thank you to Principal Josh Douds at Centreville Elementary School for sharing a special school tradition for the Advancing Literacy initiative! Centreville Elementary School has been hosting virtual Bedtime Stories for families as a way to promote literacy at home. Last week they read “Eggasaurus” by Jennifer Waugh (pictured above) and “Hattie Harmony” by Elizabeth Olsen. 

Principal Doud writes, “Prior to and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we engaged our community with virtual Bedtime Stories on Facebook Live. These readings took place from diverse locations, including my office, home, and even the city of Seattle. While the program temporarily subsided post-pandemic, recent requests from our PTA have inspired us to bring it back."

“We've transitioned to Zoom and are thrilled to welcome both of our assistant principals as storytellers, adding a new layer of excitement to the experience. Students and families alike enjoy participating, and the program provides administrators with a valuable platform to model and discuss the significance of literacy.” What a wonderful way to spread the joy and importance of reading. And thank you to everyone who’s helping our students become stronger readers and writers.

Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC) sponsored trip to Marshall Academy

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Tour of Marshall Academy

On November 14, the Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC), of which I am the School Board Liaison, sponsored a fantastic tour of Marshall Academy, one of six high school academy locations in FCPS, for our elected officials and community. Thank you to the Career and Technical Education team for organizing and to all our elected officials including Chairman Jeff McKay for participating to see firsthand how these academy programs are actively preparing students for successful careers and post-secondary education.  FCPS offers many opportunities through its academies, where students can explore diverse fields—ranging from trades and technology to the arts and other specialized interests. These academies function as dedicated centers within existing high schools, equipping students with essential skills while providing invaluable real-world experiences through job shadowing, mentoring, and internships with local businesses.

The programs are open to all FCPS students, with courses and transportation tailored to each student’s base school. To learn more about the available courses and transportation options, be sure to check out the High School Academy Course Finder at https://isweb.fcps.edu/CTE/. #careerandtechnicaleducation

⛄ Get Outdoors for Winter Fun!

The Fairfax County Park Authority has rounded up its seasonal fun into a handy list of events happening across the county. 

Learn more about the Winter Wonderland and the Holiday Train at Burke Lake Park, Holiday on the Farm at Frying Pan Farm Park, the Holiday Lantern Tour at Colvin Run Mill, and many more fun events.

Superintendent Reid's Academic Matters

During the Academic Matters section of last Thursday’s School Board meeting, Dr. Reid discussed student attendance and engagement, in particular reducing chronic absenteeism. As we all know, regular attendance is important because:

• Missing just 10% of school (the definition of chronic absenteeism) negatively affects a student’s academic performance. That is just two days a month. 
• Only 17% of students who were chronically absent in both kindergarten and first grade were reading proficiently in third grade, compared to 64% of those with good attendance. 
• Students who fail to read at grade level by the end of third grade are four times more likely than students who achieve proficiency to drop out of high school. 
• By sixth grade, chronic absenteeism becomes a leading indicator that a student will drop out of high school.

After the pandemic, chronic absenteeism in FCPS rose to a high of 17.1% in the 2022-23 school year, but thanks to our multi-tiered systems of support, we reduced that to 12.8% in 2023-24. This is the result of a great deal of hard work and strong partnerships between our schools, staff, and families. We are making good progress, and I’m confident our efforts will continue to pay off in this area. 

View data from the “What is chronic absenteeism” graphic in an accessible format.

After the pandemic, chronic absenteeism in FCPS rose to a high of 17.1% in the 2022-23 school year, but thanks to our multi-tiered systems of support, we reduced that to 12.8% in 2023-24. This is the result of a great deal of hard work and strong partnerships between our schools, staff, and families. We are making good progress, and I’m confident our efforts will continue to pay off in this area. 

Computer Science Education Week is Dec 9-15!

The week of December 9-15, 2024 is recognized as National Computer Science Education Week and it recognizes the transformative role of computing and the need to bolster computer science at all educational levels. Schools across the nation participate in numerous activities to promote computer science in the PreK-12 learning environment.

Latest numbers from US Bureau of Labor Statistics state that Computer and Information Technology Occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033. About 356,700 openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently. The median annual wage for this group was $104,420 in May 2023, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060.

In Fairfax County Public Schools, students participate in computer science learning experiences like the Hour of Code to inspire interest and excitement for continued computer science learning. Explore free resources on the FCPS CS Week Educator Page, continue engaging students in CS learning throughout the school year, and visit the FCPS STEAM and Computer Science public page. More resources for CS Ed Week can be found below:

• Celebrate CSEdWeek 2024 and Hour of Code with curriculum from Microsoft

• Video: Equity in Computer Science Education
• Computer Science Education Week
• Girls Who Code Programs
• Code.org
• Code with Scratch
• CS Ed Week Resource Guide curated by the Microsoft Technology Education and Learning Support (TEALS) team.

Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

At Tuesday’s School Board work session, staff from Prismatic Services, Inc., presented options for adjusting start times at FCPS middle schools. As a reminder, Prismatic is charged with developing an action plan to help the School Board reach its goal of starting middle school at or after 8 a.m.

The presentation includes five options for adjusting middle school start times based on the consultant’s analysis from community forums, surveys, and interviews with staff, parents, associations, and other groups. The School Board will provide next steps to the superintendent.

Watch a video of the work session. Visit the Middle School Start Times webpage for more information on the project.

Family Resource Center - December Events

The Family Resource Center offers 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. 

December webinars and workshops include:

• December 6, 10-11:30 a.m. - Stress Less, Enjoy More. Reducing Stress and Increasing Happiness: A Webinar for Families

• December 13, 10-11:30 a.m. - Protecting Kids Against Digital Exploitation: Keeping Kids Safe Online
• December 20, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. in-person at the Family Resource Center - Youth Mental Health First Aid

For more information, visit the Family Resource Center webpage. You may also sign up to receive the FRC newsletter for updates on webinars, resources, and other information. If you have questions, please contact the FRC via email at [email protected] or call 703-204-3941.

Make a Difference for FCPS Students and Families

The end of a calendar year marks a time of global generosity when your tax-deductible donations can help organizations transform communities. It is also the kickoff to the Annual Giving Fund for Educate Fairfax, the only charitable foundation dedicated exclusively to the success of our Fairfax County public schools.

Your generosity can be felt in the classrooms, extracurricular activities, and programs that provide students with equitable access to innovative learning experiences, changing the lives of our students and families every day. For some families, securing essential needs such as clothing, medicine, emergency food, and hygiene supplies is a struggle. With your help, we can make their holidays a little brighter.

Educate Fairfax also plays a pivotal role in providing essential support and resources with initiatives focused on workforce development and addressing the critical issue of hunger. Please join in the spirit of the holidays so that local students have what they need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. Donate today.

Mental Health Resources for Families This month's theme: Do Good December

This month, we're encouraging you to carry out small acts of kindness. 

Go to Action for Happiness for ideas to help you take action for a happier and kinder world.

Student Wellness: Tips and Strategies

Feeling super stressed? Worried about a friend's mental health—or your own? Get tips to help manage your emotions and see what to do if you are in crisis. 

Mental Health and Resiliency

Helping students to manage stress, make better choices, and develop healthy habits.

FCPS Family Resource Center

Staff is available by phone 703-204-3941 or email [email protected] to help! Offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library, and more to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs and disabilities.

No Cost Virtual Therapy for High Schoolers

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.

Find out more about the Hazel Health mental health services available for all FCPS high school students: https://bit.ly/3UAQyVe.

George Mason’s Center for Community Health

George Mason University’s new Center for Community Mental Health (9900 Main Street, Fairfax) provides evidence-based, accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive therapy and testing services to those in need, regardless of income. The Center sees children as young as age 5, and works with community members of various ages, including addressing the mental health needs of veterans.

The center’s Emotional Help Line provides free, anonymous, confidential support in both English (703-215-1898) and Spanish (703-914-3878). The line is open daily from 8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Learn more on the Center's website.

Support the 2025 Science Fairs

Are you a scientist looking to give back and inspire future scientists? Science Fairs across Fairfax County are looking for judges from the community! Judges are needed at high school Fairs and the Region Science and Engineering Fair. Find more information.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

• Tuesday, December 17 at 5:30 p.m. - Work Session: Meeting with the City of Fairfax School Board
• Thursday, December 19 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Fiscal Year Midyear Budget Review, Strategic Plan Goal 2 Report, etc.

Please note, times and topics are subject to change. 

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

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

The work sessions and regular 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.

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.

Contacting Me

To contact me, it is most helpful if you can please use the official School Board contact form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.

Use this link to sign up for my Newsletter and follow me on Facebook.

Quick Links

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• FCPS Family Resource Center
• Safety Tip Line
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Board Meeting Information
• School Year Calendars: 2024-2025 | 2025-2026

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

Email: Seema Dixit | Phone: 571-423-1085  

Staff Aide: Shaheen Khurana | Phone: 571-423-1072

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December 5, 2024

 

The latest issue of the Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. 

Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Be a Special Education Teacher
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options
• Office of the Ombuds
• Meet the Family Resource Center

Office of Special Education Instruction

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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.

Following is the agenda and links to materials and video for the next Fairfax County School Board regular meeting scheduled for later this week. I strongly encourage you to follow the work of the School Board and take advantage of opportunities for public input. Please let me know how I can assist you at any time.

Rachna Sizemore Heizer
Braddock District School Board Member

Upcoming School Board Meetings Thursday, Dec. 5, Regular Meeting

The Fairfax County School Board will hold a regular meeting at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 5, at Luther Jackson Middle School, 3020 Gallows Rd, Falls Church VA 22042.

Agenda Items:

• Justice High School 65th Anniversary Proclamation
• Community Participation
• Student Representative Matters
• Performance Review: Human Resources (EL-4) Monitoring Report
• Policy Review: Human Resources (EL-4) Policy Review
• Academic Matters
• Strategic Plan Update
• Superintendent Matters
• FY 2025 Midyear Budget Review Presentation
• Consent Agenda
  • Amendment to the Strategic Governance Manual regarding Newsletters
  • Approval of Minutes
  • Award of Contract – Playground Equipment Installation at Flint Hill Elementary School
  • Award of Contract – Baseball Field Renovation at Fort Hunt Elementary School
  • Award of Contract – Bren Mar Park Elementary School Renovation Project
• New Business
  • FY 2025 Midyear Budget Review
  • Proposed FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program
  • Strategic Plan Goal 2 Report: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered
  • Award of Contract – Lees Corner Elementary School Renovation Project
  • External Review and Internal Processes (related to high school athletics)
  • Policy 2418, Reporting Student Progress to Parents and Guardians (renamed to Secondary Grades Assessment and Grading, and Reporting on Progress of Learning)
• Board Committee Reports
• Board Matters

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, 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.

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.

© 2024 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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Fourth Grade Teacher Karen Fitzpatrick works with her class during a literacy lesson at Louise Archer Elementary School.

💲 Monthly Employees: Early Payday in December

Monthly employees are paid on the last business day of each month except for December when they are paid before winter break. Payday in December for monthly employees will be Friday, December 20. If you have any questions, please contact Payroll Management at 571-423-3500 or [email protected].

💵 Need Extra Cash? Earn Your $100 Wellness Incentive!

Employees enrolled in an FCPS health plan as the primary cardholder may earn gift card rewards up to $100 by completing their annual physical and biometric screenings by Sunday, December 31. To redeem your gift card, follow the simple steps on the Wellness Incentive Program Employee Hub page.

💻 Go Paperless; Sign Up to Receive Your W-2 Electronically

It’s almost tax time. Plan for tax season now and opt in to receive your W-2 electronically by Monday, December 30. Going paperless will not only save FCPS money but will also save you time when you prepare your tax return! If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact [email protected].

🎉 Start the New Year with New Skills Educators: Register for North TIER courses

Registration is now open for the winter 2025 semester of North TIER professional development courses. The online courses run Monday, December 16, 2024 through Sunday, February 2, 2025. For more information contact Aron Sterling.

Leadership Skills Program Application Open for Schedule A Operational Employees

Seven Competencies Strong (7CS) — formerly known as Supporting Success — is a 10-session cohort-based professional development program for Schedule A operational employees (non-exempt). It supports budding leadership skills with participants’ strengths in mind. 

Each participant begins their learning journey with the CliftonStrengths Top 5 assessment. Participants then align their strengths with the FCPS Operational Competency Framework, applying knowledge to leadership concepts and skills that demand these competencies. Leadership concepts discussed include visibility and belonging, communication, customer focus, and engagement. 

Sessions are three hours (9 a.m. to noon). There will be two cohorts: a Tuesday cohort beginning on February 4, 2025 and a Thursday cohort beginning on February 6, 2025. 

For more information, contact Tyauna Bruce, operational leadership development specialist, at [email protected]. 

2025-26 Accelerated Certification Cohort Information Sessions

The Accelerated Certification Cohort (ACC) is a partnership with the University of Virginia for FCPS instructional employees to obtain the Virginia PreK-12 license in administration and supervision in a one-year cohort setting. Two virtual information sessions are available for the 2025-26 ACC:

• Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 5-6 p.m.

• Monday, January 13, 2025, 5-6 p.m.

Register for an info session in MyPDE.

The application for the 2025-26 ACC will be open from Monday, January 13, 2025, to Friday, February 14, 2025. Visit the ACC Google site to access the application and learn about eligibility and requirements. 

Contact Sofia Mora with questions. 

✨Providing meaningful continuous learning is part of Strategic Plan Pillar C: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supported Workforce.

New VDOE Accountability and Accreditation System

In her November 24 Weekly Reflections, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid shared some updates on how the state will measure schools and deliver accreditation and performance ratings. Read her Weekly Reflections to learn more.

📍 Boundary Review Update

Boundary Review Community Meetings are well underway. They provide a great opportunity for families, staff, and community members to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process. 

The Region 3 community meeting will be held on Monday, December 9, 6:30-8 p.m., at Mount Vernon High School in the cafeteria. Visit the Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to register or view other community meeting dates. Also, sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

School Board Meeting Thursday, December 5, at 7 p.m.

The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Thursday, December 5, at 7 p.m. Topics on the agenda include:

• Strategic Plan Update
• FY 2025 Midyear Budget Review Presentation
• Awarding of Contracts

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

🗓️ Calendar Reminder: Winter Break

Winter break will be from Monday, December 23, 2024 to Friday, January 3, 2025.

Twelve-month employees are expected to work throughout the break except for Tuesday, December 24, 2024; Wednesday, December 25, 2024; and Wednesday, January 1, 2025. View the employee calendar.

To help make sure our families have a restful break, no homework should be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks before the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately after the break. 

We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year. Classes will resume on Monday, January 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

🎁 Give the Gift of Learning for Fairfax County Students

Today, Tuesday, December 3, is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity when people and organizations unite to transform their communities. It’s also the kickoff to the Annual Giving Fund for Educate Fairfax — the only charitable foundation dedicated exclusively to the success of our Fairfax County public schools. 

Please join in the spirit of the holidays so that local students, teachers, and staff have what they need to succeed in 2025 and beyond. Donate today.

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide

Food insecurity impacts more than 96,000 Fairfax County residents. Learn how to help and discover the many resources available to support those who need food assistance on Fairfax County's website or view the county’s Human Services Resource Guide.

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 Thursdays. Thank you! 

Web | Facebook | X | YouTube

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January 2025 Webinars at  Family Resource Center

January 10, 2025

10 -11:30 a.m.

Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

A roadmap to help parents unravel the underlying causes of their child’s school resistance.

Parents will learn how to take care of themselves in the heat of the moment and how to set supportive boundaries at home. In addition, families will discover key facts and root causes for school refusal.

January 10, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 17 2025

10-11:30 a.m.

A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

January 17, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 24, 2025

10-11:30 a.m.

Depression in Teens

Practitioners will discuss the prevalence of major depressive disorder and how to identify depression in teenagers. In addition to understanding brain-based depression in teenagers, elements of recovery and strategies for treatment and strategies for Families to support families.

January 24, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 31, 2025

10:11:30 a.m.

Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo.

Aprendemos sobre el trauma en este semanario de web de 3 partes y sobre los diferentes tipos de trauma, las respuestas naturales y los efectos que esto puede tener tanto en los niños como en los padres y estrategias que los padres pueden usar para apoyar a sus hijos de manera efectiva.

Understanding Trauma in Your Child.

Join us to understand trauma throughout this workshop, we will present the different types of trauma, natural responses, and effects this can have on both children and parents. Offering strategies parents can use to support their children effectively.

Parte#1:31 de Enero de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Parte#2:14 de Febrero de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Parte#3 21 de Marzo de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

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

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January 2025 Webinars at  Family Resource Center

January 10, 2025

10 -11:30 a.m.

Help! My Kids Won’t Go To School!

A roadmap to help parents unravel the underlying causes of their child’s school resistance.

Parents will learn how to take care of themselves in the heat of the moment and how to set supportive boundaries at home. In addition, families will discover key facts and root causes for school refusal.

January 10, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 17 2025

10-11:30 a.m.

A Series on Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function Skills

Discover how to support your child’s executive function skills in our webinar series. We will present information on understanding your child’s developmental milestones, recognizing signs of executive dysfunction, and implementing effective strategies to support their learning at home and in school.

January 17, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 24, 2025

10-11:30 a.m.

Depression in Teens

Practitioners will discuss the prevalence of major depressive disorder and how to identify depression in teenagers. In addition to understanding brain-based depression in teenagers, elements of recovery and strategies for treatment and strategies for Families to support families.

January 24, 2025   10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

January 31, 2025

10:11:30 a.m.

Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo.

Aprendemos sobre el trauma en este semanario de web de 3 partes y sobre los diferentes tipos de trauma, las respuestas naturales y los efectos que esto puede tener tanto en los niños como en los padres y estrategias que los padres pueden usar para apoyar a sus hijos de manera efectiva.

Understanding Trauma in Your Child.

Join us to understand trauma throughout this workshop, we will present the different types of trauma, natural responses, and effects this can have on both children and parents. Offering strategies parents can use to support their children effectively.

Parte#1:31 de Enero de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Parte#2:14 de Febrero de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Parte#3 21 de Marzo de 2025 10-11:30 a.m.

Register Here

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

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

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

The Dunne Dispatch (Hayfield Football Update) - 11/26/2024

STATEMENT OF MATEO DUNNE ON NEXT STEPS IN THE HAYFIELD FOOTBALL SITUATION

FCPS has demonstrated unprecedented incompetence in its handling of the Hayfield football situation, which is perhaps the greatest (local) sports scandal in the history of the Commonwealth. Their actions and inaction have shattered the faith and trust of our community in the integrity of our athletic programs and FCPS leadership. I deplore the unnecessary trauma and turmoil inflicted on our student-athletes, families/caregivers, schools, and community.  

Yesterday, I joined with my colleagues Ricardy Anderson and Ricardy Anderson to issue a Joint Statement calling for a comprehensive and independent investigation of the Hayfield football situation, to include a “no holds barred” external inquiry into how FCPS has handled this scandal since inception.

Today, the City of Fairfax School Board issued a clarion call for a comprehensive and independent investigation, echoing our Joint Statement and the City’s previous statement on November 17.

It is time for the School Board to hear the voices of our constituents and hire an outside law firm to ascertain the facts and make recommendations on how we can chart a new course to establish a level playing field for our athletic programs wherein games are played in accordance with established rules that are fairly and consistently enforced.

I regret that due to the obvious conflict of interest, I must call for the Superintendent and her Division Counsel to recuse themselves from any involvement in the comprehensive and independent investigation. Their actions and inaction led to the current debacle, and they can’t be trusted to right the ship.

While the Superintendent has announced limited actions such as an external review of student transfers, those actions appear to my constituents to constitute a coverup--a narrow inquiry that does not address the profound questions that have been raised by the scandal and how it has been handled.

I am sharing with you the text of motions to be discussed during the School Board meeting on December 5, 2024. These motions are based on the Joint Statement issued yesterday by Mateo Dunne, Ricardy Anderson, and Ryan McElveen. Through these actions, we hope to restore the integrity of our athletic programs and rebuild public trust in FCPS leadership.

I encourage my constituents and Fairfax County residents to contact your representatives on the School Board to express their support for these motions. Now is a time for action to root out the rot and ensure a bright future for our student-athletes.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1. I move that the School Board restore the integrity of our athletic programs and provide a level playing field for FCPS student-athletes by directing the School Board’s Office of Auditor General to retain an outside law firm through a competitive solicitation to conduct a comprehensive and independent investigation of all allegations arising out of or relating to the Hayfield football situation, to include but not limited to: (1) the alleged dismissal of Coach Said Aziz and the hiring of Coach Darryl Overton; (2) the allegedly involuntary reassignment of FCPS employees; (3) the alleged recruitment of football players from other schools; (4) the transfer of 31 football players from other schools; (5) the residency and eligibility of the football players concerned; (6) alleged cyberbullying and social media policy violations; (7) the conduct of the FCPS internal investigation from June to August 2024; (8) the handling of the Hayfield football situation by FCPS leadership since February 2024; and (9) alleged actions and statements to silence, reprimand, retaliate against, and threaten FCPS employees who shared (or sought to share) their personal views on the Hayfield football situation. The outside law firm shall report directly to the School Board’s Office of Auditor General (without any direction or supervision from the Superintendent and Division Counsel). The outside law firm shall have no pre-existing relationship with (and shall not have performed any work within the last 10 years for) the Superintendent (to include her positions with other school divisions) or the Office of Division Counsel. The findings and recommendations of the investigation shall be published (subject to any limitations under Virginia law as determined by the outside law firm).
2. I move that the School Board direct the Governance Committee to amend Policy 1106 to (1) expand the definition of “protected activity” to include an actual or apparent violation of any law, rule, or regulation; gross mismanagement; gross waste of funds; abuse of authority; substantial and specific danger to public health or safety; or censorship of educational data and research; (2) require whistleblower disclosures and claims of actual or apparent whistleblower retaliation to be reported to the School Board’s Office of Auditor General; and (3) assign exclusive responsibility for the investigation of whistleblower disclosures and claims of actual or apparent whistleblower retaliation.
3. I move that the School Board direct the School Board’s Office of Auditor General to establish a Dissent Channel modeled on the State Department’s Dissent Channel for the expression of (anonymous) alternative or dissenting views and policy proposals
4. I move that the School Board direct the Governance Committee to establish a new policy to govern the hiring, reassignment, removal, and training of coaches.
5. I move that the School Board direct the Superintendent to (1) establish increased controls and scrutiny of the hiring, reassignment, removal, and training of school-based administrators; and (2) prohibit the involuntary reassignment and removal of school-based administrators without advance notice to the School Board.
6. I move that the School Board direct the Superintendent to establish a code of ethics and standards of conduct for FCPS leadership and school-based administrators, modeled on Federal ethics laws and regulations.
7. I move that the School Board direct the Governance Committee to ensure that all FCPS policies and regulations, including but not limited to the SR&R, uphold the rights of student journalists to make decisions regarding content without prior review or approval.

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: Mateo Dunne  |  Phone: 571-423-1086

Staff Aide: Nelda Brown, 571-423-1049