March 2025: Budget Work, New Safety Measure, and Spring Weather
School Board Dranesville District 4 days 5 hours agoHaving trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
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Dear Dranesville Families:I am so appreciative of our families’ and community’s ongoing support and dedication to our public schools. Over the last several weeks, we have celebrated many of our staff with appreciation days and weeks: social workers, custodians, food and nutrition staff, bus drivers and attendants, SROs, and crossing guards. I am so grateful for the work they all do every day for our students and families!
Given the number of changes and current uncertainty in the DMV, especially for government workers, please keep in mind that FCPS has a plethora of resources to support students. We have free counseling for high schoolers through Hazel Health, and each of our schools have family liaisons, counselors, social workers, and psychologists to help your students and family. The FCPS Family Resource Center also provides counseling and other resources. The Fairfax County Community Services Board Fairfax provides mental health services and resources, for crises and ongoing stresses. Finally, the county’s Public Assistance and Employment Services Office provides assistance for food, medical, childcare, employment, pet, and other financial services.
Thank you to those of you who have reached out regarding the FY 26 Fairfax County Public Schools Advertised budget. Most of your inquiries, comments, and concerns have been related to the Middle School Afterschool Specialist Positions. I am very grateful for your continued advocacy for these essential personnel. I also need you to know that this position sits in the Fairfax County budget and not in the FCPS budget. At present, Fairfax County is planning to cut this position along with a few other essential positions that support our schools. If you have not already done so, please share your advocacy on the importance of the middle school after school programs with the BOS. The Budget Town Halls are a good opportunity for you to share your advocacy on the budget including saving MS after school programs, HS crossing guards, school nurses, and other Fairfax County budget cuts that affect our students. The Dranesville Budget Town Halls with Supervisor Bierman are on March 28 and April 2.
Hope to see you at a Dranesville school theater production, concert, or enjoying the spring weather at a middle school or high school sporting event.
Regards,
Robyn
In this newsletter,
My visit to McLean HS's AP Capstone Presntations
Calendar RemindersMarch 28: End of 3rd Quarter
March 31: Eid al-Fitr, FCPS holiday
April 1: Teacher Workday, Student holiday
April 14-18: Spring Break, No School
FCPS 2024-2025 School Year Calendar
FCPS 2025-2026 School Year Calendar
Updates School Board Updates FY26 Budget InformationDeveloping a Strong Academic Foundation, Curiosity, and Joy for Learning
The FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget invests in academic growth and excellence for each and every student, one of the priorities of the FCPS Strategic Plan. A strong start for every student is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan. Pre-K classrooms are making a difference in our community. In this video, we explore the importance of bringing children under the age of five together, regardless of abilities.
Share Your Input on the FCPS and County Budget
Dranesville Budget Town Halls with Supervisor Bierman:
- March 28, 6pm at McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean)
- April 2, 7pm at Herndon High (700 Bennett St., Herndon)
Here are a few ways to share your direct advocacy with the BOS:
- Email [email protected].
- Take the FY26 Budget Survey
- BOS Budget Public Hearings on April 22- 24
Share your advocacy with the School Board:
- FY26 Budget Public Hearing May 13, 6 p.m. at Luther Jackson MS
- I'll share the sign up in my next newsletter
FY26 Budget Timeline:
April 22: FCPS Budget Presentation to Board of Supervisors
April 22 – 24: BOS Conducts Public Hearings on Budget
May 2: BOS Budget Pre-Markup
May 6: BOS Budget Markup, Determine Budget Package, and Tax Rates
May 8: Approved BOS Budget Presented to School Board
May 13: BOS Adopts Budget, Tax Rates, and Transfer to FCPS
May 13: School Board Budget Public Hearing (May 14 if needed)
May 20: School Board Budget Work Session
May 22: School Board Adopts FCPS Approved Budget
July 1: Fiscal Year 2026 Begins
March 13- Key Regular Meeting VotesCoates Elementary School Boundary Study Scope
The School Board voted to approve the scope for the boundary study to include the following schools: Coates ES, Aldrin ES, Armstrong ES, Clearview ES, Dranesville ES, Dogwood ES, Fox Mill ES, Herndon ES, Hutchison ES, Lake Anne ES, Lees Corner ES, McNair ES, McNair Upper ES, Oak Hill ES, Terraset ES, and the AAP boundaries for Clearview ES, Forest Edge ES, Hunters Woods ES, McNair ES, Oak Hill ES, and Sunrise Valley ES.
Parklawn Elementary School Boundary Study Scope
The School Board voted to approve the scope for the boundary study to include the following schools: Parklawn ES, Annandale Terrace ES, Bailey’s ES, Bailey’s Upper ES, Beech Tree ES, Belvedere ES, Braddock ES, Bren Mar Park ES, Columbia ES, Glen Forest ES, Mason Crest ES, Sleepy Hollow ES, North Springfield ES, Weyanoke ES, and the AAP boundaries for Canterbury Woods ES and Belvedere ES.
Strategic Governance Manual Edits
The School Board voted to approve the edits to the Community Advisory Committee Operating Manual, Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710.
Watch the full meeting.
McLean HS Stadium Sports Lighting ReplacementThe School Board approved a $371,749.00 contract for stadium sports lighting replacement for the track and field at McLean High School.
March 13- Academic Matters: Equipping Students for Success After High SchoolIn the Academic Matters section of the meeting, Dr. Reid spoke about Career and Transition Services, which support students who have Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) as they prepare for life after high school. In addition to learning about workplace and life readiness skills in the classroom, FCPS students can gain experience through real-world and work-based learning experiences with more than 50 business and community partners.
March 13- Strategic Plan updateDuring the Strategic Plan update portion of the meeting, Dr. Reid discussed Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity. She focused on the consistent availability of and accessibility to electives, extracurricular, co-curricular, and enrichment activities.
Participation in out-of-classroom activities is linked to a number of positive outcomes, such as consistent attendance, academic achievement, and attending college. Outcomes also include increased self-esteem, mental health, and feelings of belonging; and decreased likelihood of risky behavior.
Watch our video to learn about two new sports this year: girls wrestling and boys volleyball. All 25 FCPS high schools were able to add these sports, with 440 boys and 239 girls participating! These sports are in addition to high school winter cheer and middle school cross country and track and field.
Upcoming School Board Meetings- Thursday, March 27, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
- Tuesday, April 8, 10:30 a.m. - All Day Work Session
- Thursday, April 10, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics subject to change.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
- Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99.
- Work Sessions and Regular Meetings are recorded and available here after the meeting on the School Board YouTube channel.
- Watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, at FCPS en Español YouTube channel.
- Information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting or at Public Hearings.
- Latest schedule of School Board Meetings
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.
March Audit BuzzIn the March issue of the Audit Buzz, we provide an update on current engagements and an article on Understanding and Preventing Time Fraud in the Workplace; and our celebration the May Internal Audit Awareness Month. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on the OAG website.
FCPS Updates Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop ArmsCameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”).
- A 30-day warning period will begin on Wednesday, April 9.
- Citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.
According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving.
We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.
Necessary ImmunizationsStarting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia.
Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!
Comprehensive Boundary ReviewThe Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained
Do you want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries.
Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting- 2/21
The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met on February 21. As part of our commitment to transparency, we will continue to provide an update on the committee's work following each meeting.
Key takeaways include:
- Welcome: Dr. Reid welcomed the group and reminded the committee that at the next meetings, the first two scenarios will be reviewed, including the evaluation of 6th grade in middle school, and a scenario that assumes all students attend the school that they are zoned to attend based on the current boundary.
- Education Session: The committee received presentations from FCPS staff related to school programs, the student transfer policy, and student membership projections.
- Community Feedback Data Review: Thru Consulting shared that summaries from virtual community meetings are available and reviewed how the summaries are organized.
- Closing
Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received. You may also learn about the Comprehensive Boundary Review and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.
FCPS TiplineFairfax County Public Schools' main goal is to keep students and staff safe at school.
As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tipline is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community.
If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is needed, please dial 911.
School administrators encourage students, staff, and community members to report school safety issues, such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tipline users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Kinder Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3…There’s an easy five-step process to register your child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify your local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events your school may host. For additional information or to set up an appointment, please contact your school registrar.
Try Online Registration for New Students and Kindergarten Registration
Online registration for the 2025-26 school year is open. Parents/caregivers may register their children online for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process. When registering, parents or caregivers will need to create or log in to an existing SIS ParentVUE account.
Apply for 2025-26 SY FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start TODAYFamilies are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.”
FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County.
Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30, 2025. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.
Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042. If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).
Multilingual Parent Information Line in Eight LanguagesParents/caregivers who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, or Vietnamese may call a telephone information line for general information about FCPS. View the list of phone numbers.
FCPS Family Resource CenterA Supportive Hub for Families
The Fairfax County Public Schools Family Resource Center offers a variety of resources to help all families support their children's success in school. They provide free webinars and events, confidential consultations with professionals, and a lending library with over 10,000 resources. There are even resources specifically designed to help families of children with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Visit their website or call 703-204-3941 to learn more and get the support you need!
Family Resource Center Webinars- March and April
The Family Resource Center offers a variety of free webinars to help children and families succeed. Speakers are academic and FCPS experts.
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3/19- Supporting Mental Health: Recognizing and Addressing Anxiety and Depression in Teens
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3/25- Calming the Chaos: Teaching Emotional Regulation to Twice – Exceptional (2e) Students
- 4/1- SIB Shops and Sib Teen
- 4/4- Understanding Executive Function Milestones, Challenges, & Implement Effective Strategies at Home for Adolescents in HS
- 4/11- Math Strategies for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities
- 4/22- Empowering Twice-exceptional (2e) Students to Understand the Role of Accommodations in Accessing Learning
- 4/25- The Role of Boundaries in Teen Development
Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m.- 7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.
Become Unskippable: Share the FactsThis week is National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week. Talking with teens about the facts of fentanyl is a conversation you can’t skip. Learning about fentanyl gives teens a better understanding of the risks and effects of the drug.
Share these important facts with your child:
- Even half a fentanyl-laced pill can be fatal. Just a few salt-sized grains of fentanyl are enough to cause an overdose.
- More than half of local street pills contain a deadly dose of fentanyl. As of 2023, seven in 10 counterfeit pills in the U.S. contain enough fentanyl to cause a fatal overdose.
- Fentanyl is usually taken accidentally. Many people have no idea they’ve taken it until they overdose because you can’t see, smell, or taste it in pills and powders.
- Overdoses can happen in an instant. In as little as four minutes, the lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage and even death.
Learn more about how to have conversations with your child in a way that will make you Become Unskippable.
Opioid AwarenessFCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.
- What can families do?
- Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse.
- More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink.
- Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success.
- Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs.
- Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors.
- Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use.
- Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”
- Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse.
My visit to Marshall HS vs. McLean HS Boys Varsity Basketball Game
Community Updates Fairfax County Health Department Measles UpdateInternational travel plans for Spring Break?
If you plan to travel abroad or to an area with a measles outbreak, check with your healthcare provider before leaving for your trip to ensure all travelers who are able to be vaccinated have been vaccinated. Infants 6 to 11 months old should receive 1 dose of measles vaccine before traveling. Children 12 months and older should receive 2 doses before traveling.
Watch your health for 3 weeks after you return. Measles is highly contagious and can spread to others through coughing and sneezing.
Input on The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities’ Next State PlanThe Virginia Board for People with Disabilities is developing their next strategic plan. The plan will guide their work for five years. Your input, through attending town halls or taking a survey, will help them identify what to work on. They welcome input from people with developmental disabilities, their family members, and the people who serve them.
Scott's Run Temporarily ClosedScott’s Run Nature Preserve is temporarily closed for emergency wastewater repairs to prevent potential overflows into the Potomac River. Closure includes all trails & parking areas. Work may take up to 8 weeks.
"Lights Out for Birds" Help Through May 31Twice a year, billions of birds travel hundreds of miles between their winter and summer homes, mostly at night, using the stars to navigate. In Northern Virginia alone, an estimated 100 to 160 million birds migrate through our skies each spring and fall. As birds begin their migration this spring, the county is supporting the "Lights Out for Birds" campaign led by the Northern Virginia Bird Alliance. The alliance encourages residents and businesses to reduce excessive outdoor nighttime lighting from 11 p.m. through 6 a.m., March 15 to May 31 — the peak of spring bird migration.
Sign up for Your Elected Officials' NewslettersYou can find your elected officials by visiting My Neighborhood. Federal elected officials, such as Representative Connolly, Representative Beyer, Senator Kaine, and Senator Warner, offer newsletters and communications with up-to-date information.
Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Virginia Delegate Rip Sullivan
Please sign up for Delegate Rip Sullivan's informative newsletter to receive Virginia and Northern Virginia updates and information.
School and Student News Herndon HS Students Win Real Food for Kids Culinary ChallengeHerndon HS Culinary Team winning 1st place with their lunch meal “Creamy Dreamy” Gnocchi Stew (Photos courtesy of Real Food for Kids)
Four Herndon High School students won the Real Food for Kids Culinary challenge — a competition where area students create delicious, healthy meals they would like to eat in their school lunchrooms. As part of the Herndon team’s prize, FCPS’ Office of Food and Nutrition Services will adapt and serve their recipe in lunchrooms across the division!
Congratulations to our amazing students- Winnie O’Hanlon, Clarissa Dante, Syeda Fazeen Rizvi and Sidney Ide for their dedication and success. Let's celebrate their achievement and continue to support their culinary journey. Watch the team on Fox 5’s LION Lunch Hour.
2025 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax CountyStudents from 27 Fairfax County public schools have been named recipients of the 2025 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, designed to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. The Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County began in 2006 as a way to encourage people to think more about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. Every year, the high schools in Fairfax County are asked to select one junior or senior, or a group of students, whose work has promoted peace.
Congratulations to these Dranesville Students’ Schools:
- Herndon HS: Clarissa Dantes, Senior
- Langley HS: Anniyah Rizvi, Senior
- Marshall HS: Ghalia Sakly, Senior
- McLean HS: Bushra Ehikhamenor, Senior
- Mountain View HS: Julia Devera, Senior
- Thomas Jefferson HSST: Send a Smile Club
- Yusra Wahidi, Claire Guo, Hasset Bekele, Maria Peralta, Marla Wisniewski, and Sahra Abrar
- Westfield HS: Westfield Unified Sports
- Caroline Elson, Lilly Wilson, Charlie Ewell, Blake Sanders, and Joey Wyatt
Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2024-25 winter sports season. This year, five teams and 36 individuals won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 championship in their respective sports, and five teams and 35 individuals were the state runners up.
Congratulations to Langley HS and these Dranesville students:
- Champion:
- Langley High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 200 Yard Medley Relay.
- Runners Up:
- Langley High School, Boys Swim and Dive.
- Hunter Zipperer, Langley High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 50 Yard Freestyle.
- Aaron Jia, McLean High School, Swim and Dive, Boys 500 Yard Freestyle.
My visit to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit
First-Class Awards are presented, at the 2025 FCPS Family Summit, each year to recognize and celebrate the efforts of educators, administrators, support staff, and students who demonstrate excellence in all facets of education related to disability.
Congratulations to the awardees who support Dranesville students:
- Elementary School
- Kimberly O'Hara, Teacher Trainee, Coates ES
- Specialist
- Sarah Espanol, Speech Language Pathologist, Marshall HS
- Specialty Program Staff
- Theresa Piccolo, Special Education Teacher, Davis Career Center
Congratulations to the following Dranesville students who earned Reflections Outstanding Interpretation Award (OI), Award of Excellence (AE) and Award of Merit (AM) at Fairfax County Council PTA! These awardees go on to the Virginia PTA level. View all the Reflections winners here.
- Dance Choreography:
- Intermediate- Natasha Nesterova, Churchill Road ES PTA
- Middle School- Anna Qi, Longfellow MS PTA
- High School- Kayla Chen, McLean HS PTSA
- Film Production:
- Middle School- Erya Chai, Longfellow MS PTA
- High School- Luke Caldwell, TJHSST PTSA
- Literature:
- High School- Verity Oh, McLean HS PTSA
- Music Composition:
- Intermediate- Knox Kupets, Dranesville ES PTA
- High School- Chloe Stuckey, Langley HS PTSA
- Photography:
- Middle School- Dominick Choi, Great Falls ES
- PTSA High School- Alyssa Sun, Langley HS PTSA
- Visual Arts:
- High School- Chloe Jeong, McLean HS PTSA
Many Dranesville schools' Science Olympiad teams qualified for the March 29th Virginia Science Olympiad State Tournament at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville. Congratulations for qualifying and good luck!
Herndon High School10 Reasons on What Makes Herndon HS Special
10. Herndon Students Shine on National Stage! "Brewing Independence" Impresses at Career Development Conference- Our Work Awareness and Transition (WAT) program's "Brewing Independence" coffee shop made a significant impact at the Division on Career Development and Transition Conference.
9. A Choral Collaboration: HHS Hosts Successful Pyramid Event- Herndon HS's choir fostered a vibrant musical community on Monday, October 28th, by hosting a pyramid event for choral students from Dranesville, Armstrong, Aldrin, and Herndon Elementary schools, and Herndon Middle School.
8. Herndon High Celebrates National Merit Semi-finalist and Commended Students- Herndon HS celebrated the academic achievements of Harold Kim, named a National Merit Semi-finalist, and Commended Students Maitlyn B., Ellen L., John R., Andrew T., and Sean W.
7. Herndon High: Achieving Excellence, Building Futures- Herndon HS is proud to announce that we are fully accredited by the Virginia Department of Education, with scores in the GREEN for English, Math, and Science for the 2023-2024 school year.
6. Beyond the Classroom: Stephanie Stewart's Excellence Recognized by FCPS- Herndon HS's Stephanie Stewart has been awarded the FCPS Excellence Award for her exceptional dedication to career mentoring.
5. FCPS Honors Herndon High Custodial Team as Staff of the Year-Custodial Staff of the Year was presented to Herndon HS in recognition for their hard work and dedication to the wellbeing of our students and faculty.
4. Herndon High is recognized as an AP Honor Roll school- The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access.
3. Herndon Band Program - Winter Concert- For those who might not have seen our winter band concert, it brings with it some wonderful traditions.
2. Herndon High's Theatre Arts, "MacBeth Apocalypse" Incredible Performance- The play Macbeth is riddled with superstition, witchcraft, supernatural occurrences, and premonitions.
1. Herndon High Homecoming Brings Together Community, Staff, Students and Alumni for an Unforgettable Celebration- Herndon's Homecoming includes a week of spirit days and activities. Activities include a pep rally, powderpuff game, bonfire, parade, football game and dance, which culminates the week of activities.
Virginia History Region 5 Competition- Congratulations to Zain and Isaac for taking 1st place in the Group Exhibit at the Virginia History Day Region 5 competition! The title of their exhibit is "The Truman Doctrine and the Responsibility of the U.S.A. to Defend Global Democracy." They will represent HHS and region 5 at the Virginia History Day on April 27th in Richmond.
All- Virginia Choir- Congrats to students Henry Waldrop and Cara Ethington! Henry was chosen as first chair representative to All-Virginia Choir representing District XII. Cara was chosen as 2nd alternate. Go Hornets!!
McLean HSStudents Excel in North American Computational Linguistics Open Competition- Congratulations to sophomores Sarah Li and Allegra O'Grady for their performance in this year’s North American Computational Linguistics Open Competition. They ranked first and second place in Virginia in the open round and advanced to the invitational round.
USAMO Qualifiers- Congratulations to Kalan Warusa and Jeffrey Yin for qualifying for the USAMO competition. Both Kalan and Jeffrey excelled in the AMC 12 and AIME tests. Only approximately 250 students nationwide qualify to take this proof-based, 9-hour assessment based on their AMC 12 and AIME test scores.
Teams Excel at District & Regional Championships- Congratulations to our Gymnastics, Swim & Dive, Boys Basketball, and Quiz Bowl teams for their championship wins! Gymnastics, Boys Basketball, and Swim & Dive brought home District titles, and Quiz Bowl rocked it at Regionals!
Quiz Bowl Takes 2nd in the State!- McLean's Quiz Bowl team finished second in the state! Congratulations on an outstanding season!
VHSL State Theatre Competition- Congratulations to the cast of At the Bottom of Lake Missoula for a great final performance at the VHSL State Competition. Special congratulations to Sam Carey for winning Outstanding Actor! Thank you to Director Phil Reid and Amber Smith for leading this production.
Longfellow MS"Women in STEM" essay contest- Two students received recognition from the AAUW McLean Branch for the 2025 STEM Essay Contest:
- Claire Broderdorf, 7th Grade - Honorable Mention
- Yonatan Nikolich, 7th Grade - Honorable Mention
Mr. Noel, a PE teacher, recently joined over 140 PE Professionals on Capitol Hill for SHAPE America’s SPEAK Out! Day. During this day, Mr. Noel met with members of Congress and their staff to advocate for the educational funding that helps to support Health and Physical Education programs across the state and country. Over the 15 years, these efforts have helped health and physical education be included in the definition of a well-rounded education, opening the door to receiving funds that support low income schools, professional development for all school employees and academic enrichment grants
Haycock ESCongratulations to our many 6th grade students who will be progressing to the state competition for National History Day, and many thanks to the 6th grade team for their hard work in support of all our 6th grade students as they completed their amazing NHD research projects.
Herndon ESAnnual Career Day April 23rd- Each year we host an annual career day to present information for our future workforce! We always have a variety of participants representing all walks of life. This is a school wide event with school, parent, and community participation. We are currently working on securing participants. We’d LOVE to have you join us and represent your chosen career area. If you are interested in sharing your career, please email Ms. Bryant at [email protected] as soon as possible.
Kent Gardens ESChess Club Represents at Tournament- Kent Gardens ES represented and won first place in the K-5 State Champions and placed second in the K-8 Championship! There were individual winners as well!
OpportunitiesDisclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Attend a Spring FCPS Theater Production- Herndon MS- Mathilda Jr.
- 3/27 7pm; 3/28 7pm; 3/29 2pm and 7pm
- Langley HS- Mouse Trap
- 4/24 7pm; 4/25 7pm; 4/26 7pm; 4/27 2:30pm
- TJHSST- Big Fish
- 4/25 7pm; 4/26 2pm, 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7:30pm
- Cooper MS- Curtains
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2 pm and 7pm
- McLean HS- Amelie
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 2pm
- Westfield HS- Sound of Music
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 1pm and 7pm; 5/4 1pm
- Herndon HS- Footloose
- 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 7pm
- Marshall HS- Anything Goes
- 5/2 7:30pm; 5/8 7:30pm; 5/9 7:30pm; 5/10 2pm and 7:30pm
- Longfellow MS- Cinderella
- 5/15 7pm; 5/16 7pm; 5/17 1pm and 7pm
The Youth Engagement Subscription (YES Pass) is a FREE season subscription for all Fairfax County HS students- freshman year to one year after graduation.
The YES Pass includes:
- A free ticket to every show in our season!
- Invitations to all opening night parties
- Invitations to free professional workshops (such as Slice It Up)
- No-fee priority rescheduling
1st Stage Theater is a not-for-profit professional theatre located at 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, VA. Follow their directions on their website as they share they’re pretty sure that 1st Stage would win the award for most difficult-to-find theater.
Review Potential K-12 Mathematics Instructional Resources- ends March 21FCPS will begin using new mathematics instructional resources for middle and high school students in the 2025-26 school year and for elementary school students in the 2026-27 school year. The community is invited to review materials and provide comments. Access resources on the FCPS Mathematics webpage.
You may view hard copies of instructional materials on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., ending Friday, March 21, at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Suite 100. All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and the School Board before the board votes on the new curriculum in spring 2025.
Spring Great Falls Oak Grove Student WorkdaysFrom the Great Falls Citizens Association- Do you enjoy being outside mulching and planting in a lovely mature oak grove in Great Falls while earning community service hours too? Then the Great Falls Oak Grove Workday is for you. Come and join fellow students and young folks to preserve this stately old oak grove and our all important pollinators too.
The dates and times are on the Fairfax County Volunteer Website. Use the "Volunteer Search" to find "Great Falls Grange Park Habitat Restoration" and sign up for the below dates:
- Saturday, March 29, 9- 11:30 a.m.
- Saturday, April 26, 9- 11:30 a.m.
- Saturday, May 10, 9- 11:30 a.m.
Once volunteers sign up, our Grange IMA coordinator will send more details on what we will be doing, what they should bring with them, weather forecast, etc.
2025 National Wildlife Photo ContestThe 2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest is open for submissions through March 23, 2025. Choose from nine categories, including the Young Nature Photographers category - open to ages 13-17!
Dr. Reid Community ConversationsYour voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! A series of Community Conversations is being held across the school division. These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:
- Monday, March 24, Kings Park Elementary School
- Tuesday, April 1, Lorton Station Elementary School
- Monday, April 7, Greenbriar West Elementary School
- Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School
- Wednesday, April 23, Mason Crest Elementary School
Events are open to all. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Click on the date to register for that event. Visit our webpage for other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
Virginia Board for People with Disabilities YLAThe Youth Leadership Academy (YLA), is one of the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities flagship training programs. This year's YLA will be held at Virginia State University Monday, July 14 - Thursday, July 17, 2025. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, March 28, 2025. Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are interested in becoming leaders in their school communities are strongly encouraged to apply as YLA delegates. Refer to the YLA Application - Virginia Board for People with Disabilities for additional details and to apply.
FC Redevelopment and Housing Authority Scholarship- due March 31Apply for up to 10 scholarships for postsecondary education, including technical training. You must be a member of a household currently receiving assistance from the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority.
NVSWCD College Scholarship- due April 1Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from NVSWCD. This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. Apply by Tuesday, April 1.
FCCPTA Student Scholarship Applications - due April 1FCCPTA Scholarships Applications are due by April 1st. The scholarships are open to High School Seniors who were members (by Dec. 1, 2024) of PTSAs that are currently in “Good Standing” with FCCPTA/VAPTA. Scholarships are $500 for students continuing their education through an Academic, Technical, Fine Arts, or Special Education program.
Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet SchoolsThree FCPS elementary magnet schools, Hunters Woods ES, Bailey’s Primary ES, and Bailey’s Upper ES, provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open through Friday, April 4.
FCPS Prom Dress Shop Open Through April 6Students from Centreville High School and the Fair Oaks Classroom on the Mall program has opened their annual Prom Dress Shop to help economically challenged students celebrate in style. The shop, which operates out of Centreville HS (6001 Union Mill Road, Clifton) has helped hundreds of area student, not just those from FCPS, students attend prom each spring by providing hundreds of dresses donated by Macy’s and community members and accessories at no cost to students.
Youth Conservation Camp for HS StudentsApplications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, a week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach 9th-12th graders more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals. NVSWCD offers financial assistance and nominates campers in this selective program. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply. Applications are due Sunday, April 20. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp and contact NVSWCD with questions.
2025 VSBA Essay ContestThe Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education on July 25th. Submissions are open to FCPS high school students (grades 9-12) and closes May 5, 2025. This year’s topic is: Champions for Impact.
Earn Credit Toward Graduation This SummerTake advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, June 6. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.
Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. This is a self-directed course where students work independently. The course is available between Monday, June 23, and Friday, July 25. Registration is now open. Students must register by Friday, May 23. For more information, visit this Summer Learning page.
Prepare for a Summer of Learning and FunRegistration is now open for FCPS summer camps and learning opportunities. Career and Technical Education camps and Institute for the Arts camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration is open and ends Friday, June 6.
- Tech Adventure Camp is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM, culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas.
- CTE Summer Academy is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration.
- IFTA is a two- or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, Health and Physical Education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater.
- E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art.
Our high schools are asking for parents/guardians to volunteer their time to help proctor so AP testing can run effectively and smoothly. Volunteers are not allowed to assist with an exam for an AP class their student(s) is currently taking. Read your high school's newsletter to learn how to volunteer.
Join the Sustain Fairfax ChallengeJoin the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and see how your everyday actions can make a big difference on the environment and your community’s well-being. During the challenge, you can track your efforts to make changes and invite friends, groups and other communities to join you in adopting changes. The app lists various climate solutions and shows how adopting simple actions in your daily life can positively affect the environment.
EventsDisclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
2025 MPA Youth Art Show- Langley PyramidJoin the McLean Project for the Arts' second part of our annual FCPS Youth Art Shows. Stop in for our Langley Pyramid exhibition (Opening Reception is March 20, 4:30-6 p.m.).Our galleries will be open for extended hours on March 23 from 1-4 p.m. MPA's galleries are open 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with the Atrium Gallery open during all MCC open hours.
Herndon HS 2nd Annual Yard Show- March 21Get ready Herndon! SHADES of You is back! Join us for the 2nd Annual YARD SHOW. Last year was amazing, and we are doing it even bigger this year!
- March 21, 7 - 9 p.m.
- Herndon HS Main Gym (700 Bennett St., Herndon)
We are looking for educators with a strong academic background and a passion for making a difference. To meet hiring needs in instructional areas, we are hosting a virtual job fair on Saturday, March 22, 2025, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. Networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from various FCPS schools will be available.
Gen Z Navigators' College Hacks Workshop- March 22The College Hacks workshop will cover FAFSA Walkthrough: Do’s and Don’ts, Lesser-known Scholarship Programs, College Planning “Reality Check” Checklist, Alternative Pathways. Interested? Saturday, March 22, 9:30 am-12 p.m. In-person, Vienna Community Center (120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna)
23rd Annual Diva Central Dress Giveaway- 3/22Diva Central is the Reston Community Center’s (RCC) annual prom and formal dress giveaway boutique event. This one-day shopping opportunity is open to all current middle and high school students in need of a formal dress, shoes, jewelry, and other accessories. Everything is absolutely FREE! Each student may receive up to two dresses, one set of accessories, and one pair of shoes.
Fashion illustrator Theresa Kelly will be on-site offering free self-portraits from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There will also be free make & take crafts, door prizes and more!
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Saturday, March 22: 11 a.m.- 3 p.m.
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RCC Lake Anne (1609 Washington Plaza, Reston)
March 22, 23, 29 and 30 at Great Falls Grange (9818 VA-193, Great Falls). The performances run 75 minutes, with no intermission, and is for all ages. Visit the McLean Community Players website for more information.
Fiesta del Sol- March 22Latin American and Caribbean Festival produced by the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., Mclean)- March 22, 5- 10 p.m. Taste sumptuous tapas, enjoy great live music and hear the sounds of Latin America and the Caribbean right here in McLean with renowned live bands, top notch chefs, and quality artisan exhibitors. Learn how to dance the salsa, meringue or cumbia from the best of dance instructors, free throughout the evening.
70th Annual Regional Science Fair- March 23The 70th Annual Regional Science Fair will take place at Robinson Secondary School (5035 Sideburn Rd, Fairfax) the weekend of March 21-23. The fair is open to the public on Sunday, March 23, 1-3 p.m., during the Open House. Community members are invited to see the project displays and congratulate our high school student participants.
Fairfax County Spelling Bee- March 23Root on Dranesville and FCPS student spelling bee champions competing to represent Fairfax County at the 100th Scripts National Spelling Bee May 6- 10.
- Sunday, March 23, 2025, 2- 6 p.m.
- Lake Braddock SS (9200 Burke Lake Rd., Burke)- Little Theatre, Entrance 14
March 28, 8 a.m.- 12 p.m.: Children age 2-15 and their families learn about fishing and experience a relaxing and successful day catching fish. Trout Unlimited will help clean and store your catch. Volunteers will be on hand to teach you how to bait, cast, hook, and cook your freshly caught dinner.
McLean Central Park Reopening- March 29The Fairfax County Park Authority is celebrating the reopening of the McLean Central Park Playground, and you're invited!
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Saturday, March 29, 10 a.m.
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McLean Central Park Pavillion-1468 Dolley Madison Blvd., McLean
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Puzzle enthusiasts, get ready to shine! Puzzle-Palooza is back and better than ever. Form a team of up to 4 and compete to be the first to complete a 500-piece jigsaw puzzle. It's a race against time and other teams, with exciting prizes on the line! March 30, 2 - 4:30 p.m. at the Herndon Community Center
Spring Fest- April 5Celebrate the changing of seasons with spring-themed arts and crafts, and entertainment. A free family event for all ages at the MCC (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) April 5, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.
"Stuart Little" The Alden's 2025 Youth Production- April 5 & 6It’s the 80th anniversary of E.B. White’s beloved classic about a mouse named Stuart Little (Alden Theatre 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) who is born into an ordinary New York family. This one-hour version will see Stuart though adventures, life lessons and funny moments.
The Alden's yearly youth production features actors age 10-16 who live in McLean and are supported by theatre professionals including a director, stage manager, designers and technical staff.
Bands on the Run 5K- April 6Join us for the 6th Annual Bands on the Run 5K & Fun Walk on April 6th, 8 a.m. at Langley High School (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean). Proceeds benefit the Cooper MS and Langley HS band programs. Bring the entire family to enjoy fitness, music, and fun!
Northern Virginia Regional College Fair- April 9Spring 2025 NVRCF – Admissions Events
- Wednesday, April 9, 2025, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
- Eagle Bank Arena (4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax)
Join the Safe Community Coalition on April 23 at 7 p.m. at the Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) for Turning Setbacks into Success: Helping Kids Thrive Through Challenges with author Michelle Icard. Based on her recent book, 8 Setbacks That Can Make a Child a Success, the talk helps parents know when to step in or step back as kids navigate challenges like friendship struggles, rule-breaking, and self-doubt.
Senator Warner's Service Academy Day- 4/26Senator Mark Warner invites HS and MS students, their parents or caregivers, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025. The event will include a seated program that will provide a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes. Information will also be shared regarding application procedures for congressional nominations, medical requirements for the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and other military-related options that exist at higher education institutions in Virginia.
- April 26, 2025: 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
- Dodd Auditorium (1301 College Ave Fredericksburg, VA 22401)
See the Service Academy Day flyer for registration details We eagerly anticipate welcoming you and your families to an evening filled with inspiration and information!
Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and BeyondThe FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.
The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.
© 2025 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
E-mail: Robyn Lady | Phone: 571-423-1087
Staff Aide: Wendy Biliter | Phone: 571-423-1068