🍀 Marching Into Spring 🌸 - FCPS Focus on Franconia!
School Board Franconia District1 week agoHaving trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page.
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Dear Franconia Residents/Estimados Residentes de Franconia,As we welcome spring, we find ourselves on the brink of a beautiful transformation—one that begins with the much-anticipated peak bloom of the cherry blossoms, predicted to grace our community from March 28 to 31. This stunning natural spectacle serves as a reminder of renewal and hope, offering a moment of brightness as we navigate a gray uncertainty.
In light of the new administration's efforts to downsize the federal workforce and budget, thousands of our residents and their families are impacted. Fairfax County is offering a variety of resources and services that can help former federal employees, contractors and anyone else affected by job loss.
Amid these challenges, we also have an opportunity to reflect on the strength and resilience of women. The School Board issued a proclamation recognizing Women’s History Month which acknowledged the contributions of women who have shaped our history, our rights and our communities and the many women serving in public office and leading local organizations. However, I ask you to acknowledge and express your gratitude to the women who have been instrumental in your life, be it your mother, grandmothers, aunts, sisters, daughters, cousins or friends.
Let’s uplift the contributions of every woman and recommit to advancing equity and opportunity for all.
School Board NewsI invite you to catch up on our recent discussions by exploring the highlights from our February 20th and March 13th meetings. Your insights and engagement are important to our community.
FCPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best
"Every single one of us here can probably remember and speak to a teacher who had a great impact on our lives, if not just an impact that changed the trajectory of our lives. I actually know in Fairfax County that some of them have actually saved lives.
So when we talk about teacher pay, we're talking about work that is invaluable, that is really priceless.
I realize that we can talk dollars and cents all we want, but during this climate, the issue of free and inclusive public education becomes a moral imperative that addresses the very foundation of our democracy.
If the federal government won’t do their part, it is our responsibility to take up the mantel to work together and engage the Commonwealth to protect public education in Fairfax County."
I shared this message when the School Board met with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on February 25th.
I am collaborating with Franconia Supervisor Lusk and others to find creative solutions that meet our students' needs. Join us for a virtual Town Hall on April 1 at 7:00 p.m. to learn more and share your ideas. ⬇️ Details ⬇️
More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree.
Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers.
Next Steps in the Budget Process
The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak.
Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget.
Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.
Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process ExplainedWant to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.
Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.
Middle School Start Times - Unchanging for Next School Year
The Board met on February 18 for a public Work Session to discuss the analysis provided by the consultant, Prismatic Services, regarding recommendations and scenarios for changing middle school start times.
You can review their presentation, full report, or watch the Work Session.
We discussed thoughtful recommendations based on data, but at this moment in time, the Board and Superintendent need to evaluate how this project fits into the boundary adjustment study and dire FCPS budget constraints.
I’ll keep you updated on this work as more information becomes available. Thank you again to the Twain students for providing their insights and preferences and to all Franconia middle school families for supporting their students to get to school for a very early first bell.
🍀 Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t wish everyone a Happy St. Patrick’s Day today…of the many Irish Blessings I’ve heard, I leave you with one of my favorites; “May you never forget what is worth remembering, nor ever remember what is best forgotten.” 🍀
Kind Regards/Bondadosamente,
Marcia St. John-Cunning
Franconia District Representative
Fairfax County Public School Board
Focus on Franconia 🏆 Ethan Osburn Crowned Hayfield Secondary's First Two-Time State Champion!In an outstanding display of skill and determination, Ethan Osburn from Hayfield Secondary has made history by becoming the school’s first two-time state champion! Competing in the 190 weight class, Ethan concluded the season with an impressive record of 45-0, boasting a remarkable 100% bonus win rate. His dedication and hard work have not only earned him this prestigious title but have also inspired his teammates and the entire school community. Congratulations, Ethan, on this incredible accomplishment!
🎉 Congratulations to Avery Moran and Amiya Woolcock for Their Outstanding Achievement!
A big round of applause for Avery Moran and Amiya Woolcock, who secured first place with their impressive Women’s Voting Rights Project at the Virginia District 5 National History Day Contest! As talented students at Groveton Elementary, their hard work and dedication have set a remarkable example for their peers. We are so proud of their achievement and the important issues they are bringing to light!
🩰 Wolf Trap Foundation Grants Support Arts Education!
The Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts has awarded grants to 14 teachers across Virginia, Maryland, and D.C. One notable recipient, Courtney Betzel from West Potomac High School Academy, will partner with ClancyWorks Dance Company to offer dance masterclasses. Students will explore Hip Hop and classical Indian dance, delving into their cultural roots and creating a unique performance for spring. This exciting project highlights the diversity of dance across cultures!
🤝 Community Leaders’ Luncheon Fosters Collaboration at Fort Belvoir
I had the privilege of attending Colonel David J. Stewart's Community Leaders’ Luncheon at Fort Belvoir, where community leaders and Garrison staff gathered to align goals and share insights for collaboration. Mount Vernon High School Principal Cary Dimmick delivered an engaging keynote about the school, captivating the audience. Additionally, Supervisor Lusk was honored with the Ft. Belvoir 2025 Community Leader Award for his contributions.
Celebrating Our Young Peacemakers: 2025 Student Peace Awards Recipients Announced!We are thrilled to announce that students from 27 Fairfax County public schools have been honored with the 2025 Student Peace Awards, recognizing their outstanding contributions as peacemakers in their communities. This year, Franconia District proudly celebrates the achievements of the following award winners:
- Ava Saunders and Grace Varughese, Hayfield Secondary School
- Mia Martin-Escandarani, Edison High School
- Madison McLaughlin, John R. Lewis High School
- Jennifer Villalobos-Saenz, Mount Vernon High School
- Salaiha Najeeb, West Potomac High School
Congratulations to these remarkable students for their commitment to fostering peace and making a positive impact!
🎭 Edison Drama Presents Grease April 3-5
🌟 Transformative Leadership Opportunities for Rising High School Students!
Is your rising high school student eager to make a difference? The John Lewis Leadership Program offers real-world experiences like field trips, internships, and service projects, supported by over 70 partners, including Congressman Lewis’s family. This flexible program helps students develop vital leadership skills for college and beyond.
Limited full-time enrollment spaces are available for students from outside Lewis High School, with accepted students transferring in fall 2025. Participants can also pursue the IB Diploma Programme.
Explore how Congressman John Lewis's legacy inspires the next generation of changemakers! For more information, contact Deborah March at [email protected].
🎨 Join Us for the Hayfield Craft Fair and Silent Auction! FCPS News You Need ✔️ Reminder to Sign Up Weekly for Student Fasting Meal Kits
Students who are fasting during the school day between now and March 28 can take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families must fill out a separate request form for each week and for each student in order to receive school meal kits. To receive meal kits for the week of March 24, please fill out this form by March 17.
Please remind your child to pick up their meals each day at our school’s designated location. Visit the Food and Nutrition Services webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.
👗 Prom Dress Shop Opens With Hundreds of Dresses
The annual Prom Dress Shop opened for the season on Friday, March 7, at Centreville High School. Any area student — not just those from Fairfax County Public Schools — who do not have the funds to purchase a prom dress may choose from hundreds of new dresses donated by Macy’s. Learn more and see shop hours.
📆 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS on Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
💻 Kindergarten Registration
There’s an easy five-step process for parents wanting to register their child for kindergarten:
- Determine eligibility.
- Identify your local school.
- Gather documents.
- Fill out forms.
- Schedule an appointment.
After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Read more about the registration process.
Try Online RegistrationOnline registration for the 2025-26 school year is open for parents/caregivers who would like to enroll their child in FCPS for kindergarten through 12th grade. Learn how to begin the online registration process.
When registering, parents/caregivers will create (or log in to an existing) SIS ParentVUE account.
💰 Dream Project CTE Scholarship
The Dream Project CTE Scholarship is an annual renewable scholarship awarded to immigrant students whose career goals align with post-secondary education focused on the applied skills needed for a specific craft/profession. Application deadline is March 31, 2025.
💰 Fairfax County Scholarship
Fairfax County scholarship opportunity for students who live in affordable housing. Apply before March 31 at 4:30 p.m. Learn more and apply today!
School Board MeetingsPublic participation is the foundation of a healthy democracy. I invite you to tune in or attend FCPS School Board meetings. Visit BoardDocs for meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.
- Monday, March 17, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Audit Committee
- Tuesday, March 18, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee (PEC)
- Tuesday, March 18, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Governance Committee
- Thursday, March 20, 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee (CPDC)
- Thursday, March 27, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting
- Tuesday, April 1, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee (PEC)
- Tuesday, April 1, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Governance Committee
- Thursday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting
- Tuesday April 22, 5:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. - HOLD Work Session if Needed
- Thursday, April 24, 7:00 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting
How to Watch Live
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FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11),
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FCPS YouTube Channel, and
How to Watch Recordings
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FCPS YouTube channel (English), and
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FCPS en Español YouTube channel (dubbed in Spanish)
How to Attend In-Person
- Regular School Board Meetings take place at Luther Jackson Middle School.
- Work Sessions, Committee Meetings, and Forums are held at Gatehouse Administration Center.
- Public Hearings take place at Luther Jackson Middle School.
How to Speak at a Regular Board Meeting
Visit the community participation webpage and fill out the form.
Helpful Links
Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.
The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.
© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
E-mail: Marcia St. John-Cunning | Phone: 571-423-1081
Staff Aide: Mara Kaiser Braunger | Phone: 571-279-1691