School Board Springfield District | Fairfax County Public Schools

December Newsletter: Middle School Start Times, Student Leadership Development Program, and Winter Break Wishes

School Board Springfield District3 days 3 hours ago

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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.

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.

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.
Capture the Moment: Snap a fantastic photo during your walk.
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].

🍲 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.

💻 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.

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.

Quick Links

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.

Contact: Sandy Anderson | 571-423-1080

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

November Newsletter: Grateful for Our Incredible Schools

School Board Springfield District3 weeks 5 days ago

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

Hello, Springfield District,

The last month has included some pretty awesome moments. From being able to participate in the Carter G. Woodson High School Rededication Ceremony, conducting a roundtable with leaders from our school parent organizations, visiting Mountain View High School with some of my school board colleagues, visiting Waples Mill Elementary School with Sully District Representative Seema Dixit, attending the Fairview Elementary School 125th Anniversary Celebration and a Keene Mill Elementary PTA Meeting with Braddock District Representative Rachna Sizemore Heizer, participating in this month’s Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee meeting and touring Marshall Academy, seeing South County High School’s performance of The 39 Steps, attending the Fairfax County Special Education PTA’s (SEPTA) IEP Palooza, and attending West Springfield High School’s Performance of Puffs, it has been amazing! I am continually inspired and impressed by our outstanding students.

November is designated as Take Your Legislator to School Month by the Virginia School Board’s Association. I was proud to visit several schools with some of our state legislators. I visited a Centreville High School Leadership class with former Sully District School Board Member, Senator Stella Pekarsky, and Delegate Dan Helmer. We spoke with the kids and shared some of our own leadership experiences. I visited Saratoga Elementary with Delegate Kathy Tran, and we both toured the school and heard from some of their parents via their parent ambassadors. And, finally, I visited Silverbrook Elementary’s Veterans Day Program with Member-at-Large Kyle McDaniel and former Springfield District School Board Member, Delegate Laura Jane Cohen. All those kiddos did such an amazing job sharing their gratitude for our veterans. It’s such a special honor to get to show off our schools.

I also had an amazing time at the Virginia School Board’s Association Annual Conference last week where I had the opportunity to connect with school board colleagues from around the state. Hearing about how things are going in other divisions is essential to a shared path forward for the Commonwealth.

I hope everyone is doing well and gearing up for a wonderful holiday season. I will be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

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.

November 26 at 3 p.m. - Joint Budget Meeting with Board of Supervisors
December 3 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Middle School Start Times and Strategic Plan Goal 2 Report

December 5 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: To be determined

December 9 at 4:30 p.m. - Audit Committee Meeting

December 10 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting

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

Please note that times and topics are subject to change.

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.

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 Secondary Course Offerings

At the November 14 regular meeting, the School Board 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.

Watch the full meeting.

Comprehensive Facilities Condition Assessment

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.

Watch the full meeting.

Extension of Division Superintendent Contract

At the November 14 regular meeting, the School Board unanimously voted to renew the contract of Fairfax County Public Schools 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.

Amending Policies 1705, 1710, 4450, and 4510, and the Strategic Governance Manual

At the October 24 regular meeting, the School Board voted to amend policies 1705, 1710, 4450, 4510, and the Strategic Governance Manual. Visit BoardDocs for more information.

Watch the full meeting.

Election Results Certification and Exclusive Bargaining Agent Recognition

Also at the October 24 regular meeting, the Board voted to certify the results and recognize and certify the Fairfax County Federation of Principals, Supervisors, and Administrators (FCFPSA), as the exclusive bargaining agent for the Administrators and Supervisors bargaining unit. Visit Boarddocs for more information.

Watch the full meeting.

Proclamations

I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s October 24 and November 14 regular meetings.

Superintendent Updates 🏫 Inaugural State of Our Schools Event

Community leaders heard from Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid and other Leadership Team members at the inaugural State of Our Schools. The event was sponsored by Educate Fairfax and featured student presentations and performances. Visit the State of Our Schools webpage to view video highlights.

📍 Superintendent's Boundary Review Advisory Committee

More than 1,600 parents/caregivers applied to participate in the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee! Two parents/caregivers from each of FCPS’ 24 high school pyramids have been invited to join the committee.

Members were chosen randomly from those who confirmed their ability to participate in in-person meetings. Other advisory committee members include school-based administrators, teachers, operational staff, and representatives from community groups.

The Boundary Review Advisory Committee’s unique perspectives will be 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.

👨🏽‍🏫 Join Our Team of Teachers!

FCPS is hosting an in-person job fair on Saturday, December 14, at Sandburg Middle School from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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 the December 14 job fair no later than Thursday, December 12.

Contact Human Resources through their web portal or call 571-423-3000.

🤝 FCPS Expands Partnership with George Mason University’s Direct Admissions Program

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and George Mason University (George Mason) are expanding a partnership that will streamline the path to higher education for high school students through a Direct Admissions Program. This program will provide qualified FCPS students with automatic admission to George Mason, simplifying the college application process and creating new opportunities for academic and career success.

The partnership is designed to increase access to higher education, particularly for students who may face barriers in navigating the traditional college admissions process. In its first year, FCPS’ Class of 2024 at five high schools were invited by George Mason to participate: Annandale, Falls Church, Herndon, Justice, and Mount Vernon. More than 600 students received offers through this direct admissions opportunity.

The partnership is continuing this year with an additional four FCPS high schools being added for the Class of 2025: Edison, Fairfax, Lewis, and West Potomac. In order to be eligible for the GMU Direct Admissions Program, students must attend a partner school and have a 3.25 or higher cumulative grade point average as of the end of their junior year.

Region Boundary Review Community Meetings Announced

School Board Springfield District1 month 2 weeks ago

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Hello, Springfield District

As a reminder, Fairfax County Public Schools is beginning a comprehensive review of school boundaries for the first time in almost four decades. This long overdue project will assess boundaries across our district to better support student population growth, changes in school capacity, and evolving community needs.

Community engagement is a critical part of this work as noted in FCPS Boundary Policy 8130 and the Code of Virginia. Our first set of boundary review meetings will begin in a few weeks, with a meeting scheduled in each of our six regions. Families, staff, and community members will be able to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the boundary review process.

I encourage you to attend a meeting in your region. However, you may choose another date, if that works better for your schedule:

Monday, November 18, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Register
- Glasgow Middle School Cafeteria - (Region 2)
Monday, December 2, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Register
- Westfield High School Cafeteria - (Region 5)
Tuesday, December 3, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Register
- Lake Braddock Secondary School Cafeteria - (Region 4)
Monday, December 9, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Register
- Mount Vernon High School Cafeteria - (Region 3)
Thursday, December 12, 6:45 - 8:15 p.m. Register
- Annandale High School Cafeteria - (Region 6)
Wednesday, December 18, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Register
- Madison High School Cafeteria - (Region 1)

All meetings will be in person and follow the same format. Childcare and interpretation services will be available, as needed. Registration is not required, but it helps with planning.

As you may recall, the School Board approved updates to the Boundary Policy (Policy 8130) at its July 18 Regular Public Meeting, completing a years-long comprehensive review of the policy for the first time in nearly four decades. The updates provide a clear roadmap for any future boundary adjustments to help ensure better student achievement through enhanced instructional quality, budget optimization, and strengthened student well-being.

The revised policy did not propose specific boundary changes, nor were specific boundaries considered during the policy review. Instead, the updates create a framework for the division superintendent to follow when considering any potential future adjustments, which must prioritize robust community engagement throughout the process.

For now, please see and continue to check the Comprehensive School Boundary Review website for current information. Also, please be sure to check out information about the FCPS Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service.

I will be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service

Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service is being offered to FCPS secondary students as an opportunity to explore multilingualism as a strength in developing leadership and advocacy skills. Students will plan for future success through their strengths and interests. Attendees will be able to network and learn with other FCPS students and staff. This event will also feature special guest Dr. José Luis Zelaya from the Multilingual Learners’ Summit. “Language is an opportunity,” says Dr. Zelaya, “believe in the power of education!” Secondary students should register and bring their FCPS laptops to the workshop.

The event will occur on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Edison High School and will also feature a table fair promoting college and career readiness.

Language interpretation services will be available.

Find more information on the Our Voices, Our Future: Multilingual Learners’ Day of Service webpage.

Quick Links

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

Contact: Sandy Anderson | 571-423-1080

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

October Newsletter: New and Improved!

School Board Springfield District1 month 3 weeks ago

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Hello, Springfield District

Happy fall! We are officially in the time of year when it’s impossible to know how to dress your kiddos! I have enjoyed the last month getting to attend and participate in some awesome events in and around Fairfax County and the Springfield District.

I had a chance to attend the Educate Fairfax FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame Event for the induction of eight new members to the Hall of Fame. We truly have remarkable graduates out there making a difference in the world.
I was able to attend the Employee Conversation at Saratoga with Dr. Reid to hear more from our staff. I heard from some Superintendents and amazing students from across the Northern Virginia region at the Faith Action for Climate Solutions (FACS) Climate Crisis Forum.
I attended the first FCCPTA General Membership meeting of the year to connect with our amazing parent PTA leaders.
I was honored to cheer on the 2024 Excellence Award winners showcasing the hard work of employees across our county.
I was able to cheer on the South County HS Boys Volleyball team at their final home game which also honored their seniors. It was awesome to see some of the kids who advocated so strongly for the adoption of volleyball to become a varsity sport in Fairfax County playing the sport they love!

Finally, this morning, I was able to attend the inaugural State of Our Schools with Dr. Reid and several of my board colleagues. Much of the message is also available in Dr. Reid’s letter to the community about our success in the 2023-24 school year, and I will be sure to share the link for the recorded version of the event in my next newsletter in case you don’t see it somewhere else before then.

I will be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

Upcoming School Board Meetings
School Board Work
Superintendent Updates
Springfield District Scene
Staff and 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.

October 28 at 4:30 p.m. - Audit Committee Meeting
October 29 at 2 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting
November 7 at 7 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee Meeting - CANCELED
November 12 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Budget Strategic Planning and Fiscal Forecast and Grading
November 14 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: To be Determined
November 18 at 4:30 p.m. - Audit Committee Meeting
November 19 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting

November 19 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting

Please note that times and topics are subject to change.

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.

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 📍 Boundary Review Updates

At the School Board’s October 8 work session, staff from Thru Consulting provided an overview of the divisionwide boundary project management plan. Their presentation included a review of priorities, timelines, project governance and management, community engagement opportunities, communications, the role of data, and sample maps and analytics. Watch the work session. For more information about the boundary review process or to provide feedback, visit FCPS' Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage.

2025 Fairfax County School Board State and Federal Legislative Program

Each year, the School Board adopts a State and Federal Legislative Program that includes the school division’s legislative priorities for action in Richmond and Washington. This year’s program emphasizes the importance of fully funding public education at the state level by adopting JLARC’s recommendations, which would mean an additional $568 million in annual funding for FCPS. As big as that number sounds, it would only bring Virginia schools in line with national averages for state support of public schools. Currently, Virginia spends $1900 less per student than the national average. This year’s program also prioritizes accountability standards that fairly assess school performance based on balanced measures of student achievement, academic progress, engagement, and outcomes toward college and workforce readiness goals and adequately accounts for all Virginia students' diverse learning needs.

The School Board voted to adopt the 2025 Fairfax County School Board State and Federal Legislative Program as amended at the September 26 regular meeting. Find more information on Boarddocs.

Outdoor Classrooms Update

The Board approved contracts at the September 26 regular meeting for the construction of new outdoor classrooms for 22 schools, including a number in the Springfield District or attended by Springfield District students.

Irving Middle School
Katherine Johnson Middle School
Key Middle School
Lake Braddock Secondary School
Lewis High School
South County High School
South County Middle School
West Springfield High School.

Outdoor learning has proven to offer many benefits to students, including increased engagement, decreased anxiety, connection with the environment, improved physical health, greater hands-on learning opportunities, and more.

Proclamations

I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s September 26 and October 10 regular meetings.

Superintendent Updates 🏫 Annual Opening of Schools Report

At the September 25 regular meeting, Superintendent Reid provided the board with the annual Opening of Schools Report for the 2024-25 school year. As we begin the new school year, Fairfax County Public Schools is the ninth-largest school district in the U.S., with more than 180,000 students who come from 204 countries and speak more than 200 languages in their homes. Additionally, we have more than 40,000 full and part-time educators and other staff, making us one of the largest employers in Virginia.

View Dr. Reid's presentation on the FCPS School Board YouTube Channel.

📝 Applications now Open for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Middle school students who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2029 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).

The application is now open. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 13, with a deadline to submit the application by Friday, November 15, at 4 p.m. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information.

📖 Virtual Lexia Parent Information Night

Learn more about Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp at a parent information night. Discover how FCPS uses Lexia in classrooms to support students’ literacy growth. Presenters will also share tips for improving your child’s literacy. Sessions will take place:

Tuesday, November 19, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 5, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

🏢 Davis Career Center Student Worksites Needed

The Davis Career Center depends on our wonderful northern Virginia business community to provide work experiences for our students. These active, hands-on learning experiences provide tremendous opportunities for students to build both soft and hard skills in preparation for life after DCC. This year they have grown and are still in need of additional worksites to support our students. They are asking for your support in directly connecting with specific individuals at worksites who may be willing to consider hosting a group of students and staff this year. If you might know of a business and a direct contact, please reach out to the Davis Career Center Employment and Transition Representative, Theresa Piccolo, by email at [email protected] or by phone at 703-714-5603. Thank you for your support!

Springfield District Scene

Chantilly Academy recently welcomed students and teachers from Seoul Digitech High School in Seoul, South Korea. Wow!

Kudos to Chantilly High School’s Odyssey yearbook for receiving the Charles E. Sadvedge Award for Continued Excellence in Journalism!

Congratulations to Chantilly High School’s The Purple Tide newsmagazine for receiving the All-American Award with marks of distinction in coverage, content, text, and presentation, from the National Scholastic Press Association.

Congratulations to Fairfax High School’s Peter Choi for winning the 2024 Election Sticker Contest with the City of Fairfax Electoral Board! His winning design will be featured on Election stickers for the 2024 Election!

I’m thrilled to hear that Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Student Government Association has implemented a mental health campaign! They kicked the initiative off with an after-school pumpkin carving contest! 🎃Great job, Bruins!

Kudos to Oakton High School’s Kelly Zou for taking first place in the Drawing category for Pearl at the VHSL 2024 Multimedia Championship!

Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology (TJHSST) for being named by the College Board to the Advanced Placement (AP) Program Honor Roll, earning Platinum distinction; the highest honor possible! This award was based on the recently graduated Class of 2024's participation in AP programs over the past four years. During that time 100% of them took at least one AP Exam during high school, 100% of them scored at least a 3 or higher on at least one AP Exam, and 85% of them took five or more AP Exams during the four years! Each criterion well exceeds the College Board's standards for earning Platinum status.

Shout out also to TJHSST’s Rocketry Team for being selected to the NASA Student Launch Challenge for the 2024-25 School Year!

I’m so proud of the West Springfield High School varsity football players and cheerleaders for taking time out of their game day to read with and inspire first graders from Cardinal Forest Elementary School! Way to go Spartans! And a special shout out to principals Mike Mukai and Felicia Drake, Assistant Principal Cindy Agner, and Cardinal Forest teacher Jennifer Walrath (and West Springfield football mom) for organizing the event! Read more on the wtop news and NBC4 websites and in FCPS News!

Congrats to West Springfield’s Emily Yelnicker for taking first place in the Review category for In this movie, we wear pink in the VHSL 2024 Multimedia Championship!

Correction: New Region 5 Executive Principal

*Please note, in my September newsletter, I inadvertently included information about Region 5 Office Executive Principal Gordon Stokes with this picture of Mr. Chad Lehman.

The Region 5 Office and I are pleased to announce Mr. Chad Lehman as the new Executive Principal for Region 5 schools. With over a decade of leadership experience as a school-based principal in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Mr. Lehman brings an extensive background and a strong record of success to his new role.

Lehman began his career as a health and physical education teacher in Harrisonburg, Virginia, before joining FCPS in 2001 as a teacher at Chantilly High School. Over the years, he has served students and families in various capacities, including assistant director of student activities, athletic trainer, and instructional specialist. In 2009, he was appointed assistant principal at South Lakes High School.

Most recently, Lehman served as the principal of Centreville High School, where he led a diverse community of 2,500 students and 300 staff members. Under his leadership, the school achieved significant improvements in areas such as chronic absenteeism, dropout rates, and math performance, ultimately earning level-one state accreditation across all categories. His focus on refining grading and assessment practices, advancing equity learning opportunities for staff, and promoting collaboration among curriculum teams has had a lasting impact on the school's culture and student achievement. His commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment was evident through initiatives such as a schoolwide PBIS approach (ROAR: Respect, Ownership, Achievement, Relationships), social-emotional learning lessons, and a freshman mentoring program. During the pandemic, he provided steady leadership as the school transitioned to virtual learning and later returned to in-person instruction.

Before his time at Centreville, Lehman served as principal of Luther Jackson Middle School from 2014 to 2018, where he strengthened collaborative team efforts as part of a professional learning community and improved student outcomes in English and math. His leadership was widely recognized, earning him nominations for FCPS Outstanding First Year Principal in 2015 and Region 2 Finalist for FCPS New Principal of the Year in 2017. He was also nominated for the FCPS Outstanding Principal Award by the Centreville community in 2019.

We are confident that Mr. Lehman will bring his exceptional leadership, innovative vision, and unwavering dedication to student success to his new role as Executive Principal for Region 5.

📜 Students Earn 2023-24 AP Capstone Diploma and AP Seminar and Research Certificates

Sixty-nine Fairfax County Public Schools students earned the Advanced Placement (AP) ® Capstone Diploma and 19 earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™ during the 2023-24 school year.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!

AP Capstone Diploma Recipients

Centreville High School

Jocelyn Atya

Avery Deer

Daniel Gao

Owen Parrott

Chantilly High School

Griffin Lewandowski

Akshara Subburam

Fairfax High School

Vinh Chau

Krish Sharma

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Sophie Delaney

Caley Nee

Kiersten Schmitt

Oakton High School

Viraj Kamath

Amber Zhang

South County High School

Mary Crouse

Colin Miller

AP Seminar and Research Certificate Recipients

Centreville High School

Zoya Ali

Benjamin Emmert

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Leah Dutcher

Asees Kaur

Oakton High School

Alexis Chang

See the full list of the students.

✨ The availability of and enrollment in advanced, rigorous coursework and programs is part of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity.

🏆Recognizing Employees Committed to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity

Left to right: Franconia District School Board Member Marcia St. John-Cunning, At-Large Member Ryan McElveen, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, Robinson Secondary School College & Career Specialist Holli Selman, Principal Tracey Phillips, Assistant Principal Megan Sherrill, Region 4 Assistant Superintendent Pablo Resendiz, Chair and Providence District School Board Member Karl Frisch, me, and At-Large Member Ilryong Moon.

The FCPS Excellence Awards celebrate the efforts and achievements of employees whose job performance produces exceptional results that support the mission and vision of the division. The Excellence Awards recognize multiple pathways to results by using nomination categories based on the school system’s goals. Award categories include Collaboration and Partnerships, Equity and Cultural Responsiveness, Innovation and Improvement, and Student Achievement and Success.

Read more about the Individual and Team Excellence Award winners.

🏆 Five Schools Win Exemplar Awards

Five Fairfax County public schools have been awarded a 2024 Virginia Board of Education Exemplar Award. Two schools received the Highest Achievement Exemplar Award, Sangster Elementary School and Thomas Jefferson HSST. Three received both the Continuous Improvement Exemplar Award, and the Continuous Improvement Graduation and Completion Index and Dropout Rate Exemplar Award, including Lewis High School. Congratulations to these outstanding schools!

Boundary Update and Timely Student Opportunities

School Board Springfield District2 months ago

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Hello, Springfield District

I just want to drop in and give you a quick boundary update. At last week’s work session (you can watch it here), the Board had the opportunity to hear more from the contractor about the proposed work plan for completing the boundary work. I was very happy to see that the plan includes all the robust community engagement outlined by the policy. You can find the presentation here. The first step in our community engagement will be the meeting in each of the six regions. I will be in touch again as soon as those dates are set.

As a quick reminder, the Board approved updates to the Boundary Policy (Policy 8130) at its July 18 Regular Public Meeting, completing a years-long comprehensive review of the policy for the first time in nearly four decades. The updates provide a clear roadmap for any future boundary adjustments to help ensure better student achievement through enhanced instructional quality, budget optimization, and strengthened student well-being.

For now, please see and continue to check the FCPS website for current information. Also, please be sure to check out some student opportunities that couldn’t wait until my full newsletter next week.

I will be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

A Few Timely Student Opportunities

🧪Thomas Jefferson HSST Science Fair Interest Meeting

TJ Investigative Science Outreach is a student-led organization at Thomas Jefferson HSST. They are hosting their 12th Annual Invitational Science Fair on April 5, 2025.

Registered participants will complete a research project of their choice and present at the fair in person on April 5, 2025. TJ students help elementary and middle school students prepare for this fair by holding multiple sessions to teach them important skills in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Join them for our first interest/brainstorming session on October 18, 2024, at 6 p.m. They will be holding this session virtually. During this session, they will go over the goals and guidelines of the fair and introduce students to a multitude of project ideas.

🏫 Annual College Fair

The annual Fairfax County Public Schools College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Approximately 220 colleges and universities will be represented, including two and four-year colleges and US Service Academies.

Following the fair, the Two-Night Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 5, 6, and 7 p.m. Both events will help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey. Learn more about the College Fair and postsecondary virtual event.

Quick Links

Report Discrimination and Harassment

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

Contact: Sandy Anderson | 571-423-1080

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

September 2024 Newsletter - Student Opportunities Galore and More!

School Board Springfield District2 months 3 weeks ago

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Hello, Springfield District

Happy Fall, officially! I hope that everyone is settling back into the school routine and enjoying all those amazing events that ensure a strong start to our year put on by our talented staff and parent leaders. I have been honored to attend a few of these amazing events including Centreville Elementary School’s 30th Anniversary Celebration, Greenbriar East Elementary School’s House Pep Assembly, and Chantilly High School’s Homecoming Parade. I also look forward to attending as many community conversations with our families and staff with Dr. Reid as I continue to learn about the issues most important to you all.

I know that the recent school shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, GA has put a damper on our start to school this year as questions about the safety and security of our children are again brought to the forefront of our minds. FCPS remains dedicated and vigilant to ensuring a safe school environment for all our students and staff.

As Dr. Reid stated in her recent letter to the community, FCPS has built lessons on gun safety into our curriculum. In early grades, students learn what to do if they find a gun (leave it alone, leave the area, and let an adult know). In upper grades, students learn the consequences of gun violence, personal responsibility for gun safety in the community, and alternatives to violence to resolve conflicts. We continue to ask that parents and caregivers reinforce this message at home by talking to their children about gun safety as well. You can find out more about what FCPS is doing below!

The National Association of School Psychologists also has a resource that can help you identify when your child might be struggling. It also provides guidance on how you can have difficult conversations about school violence. If you or your child need additional support, please reach out to your school counselor.

I will be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

Clockwise from top: me, Sully District School Board Representative Seema Dixit, Centreville Elementary School Principal Josh Douds, At-Large Member Ryan McElveen, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid at the Centreville Elementary 30th Anniversary Celebration; Sully District School Board Representative Seema Dixit and me at the Chantilly High School Homecoming Parade; me at Greenbriar East Elementary School’s House Pep Assembly.

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

Upcoming School Board Meetings
School Board Work
FCPS News
Superintendent Updates
Springfield District Scene
Student Opportunities
Community News
Family and Student Resources
Quick Links

Upcoming School Board Meetings

September 26 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Legislative Program, etc.
October 1 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting: Information will be posted to BoardDocs
October 1 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting: Information will be posted to BoardDocs
October 8 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Strategic Plan Goal 1 Report and Boundary Contract Work Plan
October 10 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: To be determined
October 15 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting: Information will be posted to BoardDocs
October 17 at 7 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee Meeting: Information will be posted to BoardDocs

Please note that times and topics are subject to change.

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.

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.

If you need language interpretation or American Sign Language support for any School Board meeting, please contact the board clerk. Find your School Board member 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 o escanee el código QR.

School Board Work 2025-2026 Basal Resources Adoption: Social Studies

Are you interested in participating in the review of potential K-12 social studies resources? FCPS is engaging the basal resource (e.g. textbooks, online materials) adoption process for Social Studies, and I am seeking a community member to participate on the review committee. The process, governed by Regulation 3004.5, includes a 30-day public review period and a deep review by an Instructional Resource Review Committee (IRRC), made up of representatives from a variety of stakeholder groups - teachers, administrators, and community members. The process may lead to identified social studies resources (e.g. textbooks, digital materials) for some or all grade levels and courses in school year 2025-2026.

The review process is constructed to ensure:

Resources align with Virginia Standards of Learning and FCPS Learning Model
Resources meet the educational needs of a variety of learners
Resources reflect culturally responsive curriculum and pedagogy
Students gain equitable access to high-quality, dynamic resources
Input from multiple stakeholder groups is collected and valued

IRRC members must be able to meet on the following dates and times for a total commitment of 20 hours. All the meetings will be held at the Pimmit Hills Adult Education Center located in Falls Church.

October 29, 2024, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
November 6, 2024, 3:30 p.m. – 8.30 p.m.
November 13, 2024, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Participation on the committee requires the following:

Attendance at all meetings.
Review of submitted resource materials.
Email communication.
Confidentiality of information reviewed and recommendations made.

If you are interested in representing the Springfield District on the Social Studies Instructional Resource Review Committee, please complete this form by midnight, Sunday, September 29.

Consulting Services for Boundary Review

At the September 12 regular meeting, the School Board voted to approve the Boundary Review Consultant contract and authorize the Division Superintendent, or the Director of the Office of Procurement Services to execute, deliver, and administer the contract on behalf of the School Board.

Watch the full meeting.

FY 2024 Year-End Review

At the August 29 regular meeting, the School Board approved the FY 2024 Final Budget Review Summary of the year-end funds which included critical resources for extended special education teacher contracts, achievement gap-closing strategies, the DROP program to retain experienced educators, and our new boys volleyball and girls wrestling programs. We also approved contracts for facilities projects at Madison and Fairfax high schools. We also discussed and considered several important items, including new annual pass rate data for VAAP and SOL tests.

Watch the full meeting.

Secondary Grading Practices

Grading is an important aspect of the student experience. At the August 27 School Board work session, the Board reviewed grading practices used in our secondary grades for credit-bearing classes – basically, the classes that will go onto a student’s transcript and become critical indicators for entry into higher education after graduation. You can find the materials from the portion of the August 27 meeting about grading practices here.

The School Board’s Governance Committee will be working on revisions to Policy 2418. Grading and assessment practices should be transparent, predictable, and consistently applied across our schools. Please don’t hesitate to reach out and share your feedback regarding the grading policy.

Virginia Department Of Education Accreditation and Accountability

The FCPS School Board has been tracking the ongoing work that has been done by the State Board of Education to change the established standards that measure school and student performance. The new plan which is still under development is referred to as the Virginia School Performance and Support Framework. There are many aspects of the proposed revisions that are concerning, and there doesn’t seem to be a phased approach for implementation, which means our schools are being held to a standard during this school year that isn’t complete.

This week, the State Board is expected to adopt a final revised performance and support framework later this month, pending U.S. Education Department approval of the proposed Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) plan. Please note that the current 2017 Standards of Accreditation will be used when reporting school outcomes in fall 2024, based on data from school year 2023-24. The new system will not be fully in effect until its initial outcomes are reported in fall 2025, based on data from the current 2024-25 school year.

Please provide feedback to the VDOE during the final comment period which ends on September 25, 2024, or consider contacting your state elected officials to share your concerns and request their help. (You can locate your state elected officials by entering your address into My Neighborhood and viewing the results on the left side of the page.)

Proclamations

I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s September 12 regular meeting.

Mount Eagle Elementary School 75th Anniversary

FCPS News ✔️ Caregiver Checklist: Have You Completed These Important Forms?

We understand that the multiple school forms caregivers receive during the first weeks of school can feel overwhelming, but each one helps set your child up for a successful school year! If you do not have a SIS ParentVUE account, please contact your child’s school for an activation code and follow the directions on the SIS ParentVUE Account webpage.

🩹 Immunization Requirements

Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on the immunizations required by the state of Virginia. Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school.

You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office.

Alternative immunization documents (below) may also be provided to your school’s front office, but they may not be uploaded in ParentVUE:

A healthcare provider’s written statement specifying all administered immunizations.
A healthcare provider’s written statement of a permanent or temporary medical exemption.
A notarized Religious Exemption form objecting to the administration of immunizations due to conflicts with religious tenets or practices.

Find more information on immunizations.

📋 Permission Forms

Families can easily grant permission for their children to access a variety of school resources through the Parent Digital Consent system. Parents can opt their child in or out of resources including online educational tools, school counseling services, and tutoring services. They can also change how student information is managed.

Visit the Parent Digital Consent webpage to access the system. Watch a video to see how to use the tool.

Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R document explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses. Parents using SIS ParentVUE will be prompted to sign the document when logging in to that platform. A printable version of the document with a signature sheet is available on the SR&R webpage. This form should be signed and returned by Monday, September 30.

🚨 Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is our priority. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools must also notify parents and caregivers at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools do not have to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance.

By law, the first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students do not participate in the first lockdown drill.

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with them about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your student before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for staff, families, and students to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown; secure the building; and stay put, stay tuned.

☎️ Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First

If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, the FCPS Office of Safety and Security has a safety tip line that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

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

Students, staff, parents/caregivers, and community members should 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. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

If you have concerns about programs, regulations, policies, or other topics that do not impact the safety of our schools, please contact the FCPS ombuds online, at 571-423-4014 or [email protected].

FCPS Annual Public Notice: Career and Technical Education

Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to a learning and working environment free from all forms of discrimination. No person shall on the basis of race, sex, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, pregnancy status, childbirth or related medical conditions, marital status, veteran status, and disability be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any FCPS sponsored educational program or activity. Retaliation against any person who reports or participates as a witness in the investigation of a discrimination and/or harassment complaint is strictly prohibited.

FCPS provides career pathway opportunities that include study in the areas of:

Business Education and Information Technology
Family and Consumer Science
Health and Medical
JROTC
Marketing
Technology and Engineering Education
Trade and Industry

Annual Legal Notice

This is an annual notice of the availability of the postsecondary education and employment data published by the State Council of Higher Education (SCHEV) on its website pursuant to § 23.1-204.1.

SCHEV Map of Virginia Colleges & Universities
Top 100 professions in the Commonwealth by median pay and the education, training, and skills required for each such profession (PDF; State Superintendent's Memo)
Top 10 degree programs at institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth by median pay of program graduates (PDF; State Superintendent's Memo)
Virginia Job Outlook (PDF)

The Postsecondary Opportunities for High School Students (VDOE) webpage and the Level Up Virginia website contain information for students on preparing, applying, and paying for college, as well as information on degrees and labor market career projections.

✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan

FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.

Each goal has an equity commitment — the promise we make to every student to support them in attaining these goals. Each goal also has several measures that allow us to track our progress.

Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12

The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or high school, we want our students to be set up for success.

See how Goal 1 is being put into practice. Watch the video above about pre-K.

Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered

The Office of Food and Nutrition Services’ updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table!

As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.

🍽️ Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooking Up at FCPS

Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias starting this week. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings.

View school menus to see all the new options and when they will become available.

Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence

Our third goal is for all students to achieve academic growth and excellence. We want our students to have the academic skills to be successful. For example, making sure they are readers by third grade and taking courses that challenge them throughout their education will help prepare them for lifelong success. See how Goal 3 is being put into practice.

Foundation of Four Pillars

While the five goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan focus on student success, the four pillars describe what FCPS must do well to reach our goals for all students:

The first focus of the pillars is on teaching and learning. We want to make sure each and every student has access to excellent and inclusive learning environments, and that instruction meets students’ individual needs.
The second pillar focuses on our connection with families and our communities. We cannot do this work alone. Strong partnerships are key to our students’ success.
The third pillar is centered on our hiring and maintaining a world-class, diverse workforce. We want to make sure our incredible employees have what they need to help our students thrive.
The fourth and final pillar centers on how we bring this all together. We remain focused on creating a culture of equity, excellence, and accountability where data guides our decisions.

Visit our Strategic Plan webpage for more information.

FCPS Statement on Nondiscrimination: Americans With Disabilities Policy Notice

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment, Title IX, and pregnancy), marital status, religion, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information in its programs and activities. These protections apply to students, employees, and other members of the public.

FCPS also provides equal access to all designated youth groups. FCPS is committed to equal access and equal opportunity in all services and employment; to include its policies, complaint process, program accessibility, religious accommodations, and other Equal Employment Opportunity matters. FCPS prohibits retaliation against individuals who report allegations of discrimination, file a formal complaint, or participate in the investigative process.

Compliance is coordinated by the directors of the following:

Office of Employee Relations, Department of Human Resources, regarding equal employment opportunity, discrimination, and sexual harassment issues. Find contact information on their website.
Office of Special Education Procedural Support, Department of Special Services, 571-423-4290, regarding programs and activities for students with disabilities.

For more information, visit the non-discrimination policy webpage or the non-discrimination/ADA webpage.

Results of the Family Engagement Survey

The results of FCPS’ Family Engagement Survey are now available. A key finding showed that 92% of respondents say they “feel welcome” at their child’s school, an increase from 89% in the 2021-22 survey.

The most recent survey was conducted during the 2023-24 school year to measure the division’s success with family engagement. Thank you to the more than 26,000 parents and guardians who participated! Your responses will help FCPS build trust, strengthen connections, and empower families to support their children’s success.

Survey Outcome: FCPS Family Academy

One outcome of the Family Engagement Survey is the creation of the FCPS Family Academy.

The Family Academy’s goal is to support the continued success and well-being of each and every student within the FCPS community. The Academy will offer engaging learning opportunities and meaningful connections for families to support a welcoming environment at FCPS for all.

Family Academy goals align with FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Pillar B: Vibrant Home School & Community Partnerships. Pillar B reminds FCPS to empower families through trusting partnerships that sustain a safe, inclusive culture for learning.

Access Your Child’s Intervention Plans

All FCPS schools use an approach called Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to make sure every student gets the help they need to learn. MTSS helps teachers deliver high-quality instruction for all students by providing extra time, support, and interventions as needed. Learn more about MTSS in FCPS.

Families are partners in this process. Your child’s school will share information about their learning needs, support, and progress, as well as any interventions that are found to be necessary.

Families can now see their child's intervention plans and progress in SIS ParentVUE. Expect progress to be updated quarterly with report card due dates.

Find out how to log in to SIS ParentVUE and access MTSS information.

💛 FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture

FCPS is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Government’s Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit our Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.

FCPS Policies, Regulations, and Notices Available Online

Virginia’s Standards of Quality require all school divisions to notify the public annually of the availability of the school system’s policies. A continuous review process ensures ongoing examination and revision of each policy, regulation, and notice as needed. View Fairfax County Public Schools policies.

Any citizen who requests a hard copy of a directive has a right to receive it and should be provided the most current version printed from the website. The School Board office, at Gatehouse Administration Center, maintains the historical records of all directives.

Please call 571-423-1075 for more information.

FCPS Business and Community Partnerships Genesys Works 2025 Signing Day

Summer 2024 marked a milestone for our Ignite Partner Genesys Works National Capital Region! The 2024 enrollment and summer training completion numbers are the highest since Genesys Works came to Fairfax County and expanded in the National Capital Region in June 2015.

On August 15, Genesys Works celebrated the accomplishments of their newest cohort of young professionals during Signing Day, a day when they look back at the successes of their summer skills training, and look ahead to their paid internship, and ongoing career and college coaching.

Congratulations to all of the students who completed the intensive summer training, and good luck as you move on to your yearlong work experience at a partner site. There you will not only put your training into practice but also refine your workplace skills — all while providing valuable services to the companies they serve.

Along with Genesys Works, we’d like to thank the 29 corporate partners locally supporting Genesys Works.

Career Awareness, Exploration, and Preparation Takes Center Stage

Staff development never stops in Fairfax County Public Schools. Last month the FCPS Work-Based Learning (WBL) team invited High School Career Experience Specialists, Internship teachers who coordinate student-driven WBL experiences, other school leaders, and engaged businesses and community groups to half-day training. The event aimed to connect with business and community partners, enhance student access to rewarding opportunities, and establish a strong work foundation for staff members.

The Inova Workforce Development team led by Dr. Stacey Desseker generously provided their conference center, refreshments, and event programming during the breakout sessions.

Michael Batt of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority shared updates on regional hiring and industry trends. The event also included breakout sessions about careers in nonprofits, exploring data centers careers, healthcare careers beyond doctors and nurses, and the introduction of a new interactive online tool called Tiggbee where students can learn about careers and the academic and work pathways to attain them.

A major highlight of the day was the WBL student panel, where FCPS alumni shared their experiences and insights. Their stories provided educators with a deeper understanding of the real impacts of these authentic experiences.

In the afternoon, attendees visited various FCPS partners at their workplaces as part of the inaugural School Staff Externship Program. Career cluster-themed partners, including Associated Builders and Contractors Virginia, Amazon Fulfillment Center, Fairfax Water Authority, and Microsoft Garage, provided valuable insights into their respective industries.

If you would like to learn more about ways FCPS connects work-based learning and workforce development, explore some of these web pages:

Office of Auditor Current Engagement Updates

At the September 16 Audit Committee meeting, the Office of Auditor General (OAG) presented the following agenda items:

OAG FY25 Audit Committee Kick-Off - OAG provided an overview of the team, roles, and responsibilities.
FY24 Grants Audit Report - OAG discussed the results of the one finding related to compliance with the grant process and one observation related to updating the Grants Regulations and Manual.
OAG Audit Follow-Up Status - OAG presented the follow-up status of open audit recommendations as of July 31.
FY24 Continuous Monitoring Results for Online Travel and MyTime - As a pilot, OAG utilized an analytical software, ACL, to analyze patterns and trends. We selected and tested transactions in the Online Travel System for nonlocal travel and MyTime for time and attendance.

Read more in the September 2024 issue of Audit Buzz.

Superintendent Updates FCPS Aims to Become Purple Star School Division

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, who is from a military family, has established a goal for FCPS to become a Purple Star Division — with 100% of our schools earning their Purple Star Designation — by the 2026-27 school year. Virginia’s Purple Star Designation recognizes schools for excelling in their support of military-connected students.

The division has 69 current Purple Star Schools and expects approximately 33 schools to earn or renew their Purple Star status this year. Read more about our Purple Star Division plan.

🎖️ Thank You, Military Families!

This week is Blue Star Welcome Week, an opportunity to empower military families to thrive as they serve. There are approximately 13,500 military-connected students enrolled in FCPS. Each year, one-third of our military families transition into or out of our school district.

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

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

Click the date above to register. Registration is not required but helps with planning. Additional registration links will be shared in next week’s This Week at FCPS. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.

🗓️ Date Change for Elementary Early Release Mondays

Elementary schools in the Herndon, Langley, Madison, Marshall, McLean, South Lakes, Centreville, Chantilly, Fairfax, Oakton, Robinson, and Westfield pyramids will have an early release on Monday, December 9, rather than Monday, November 25.

You can view the Upcoming Events on your school homepage to look for early release dates that will impact your child.

Please visit the FCPS website for additional information about early release Mondays. If you have questions, email [email protected].

🌍 Students Can Receive Credit for Proficiency in Languages

This year's World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at each FCPS middle, high, and secondary school.

The World Languages Credit by Exam is an optional test for students in grades 7-12 who can speak and write (type) proficiently in a language other than English. Based on the results of the exam, they can earn 1, 2, and/or 3 passing world language credits.

Registration closes on Friday, October 4, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. Please contact your student’s school counselor to register for the exam.

Find more information, including the list of eligible languages.

Family Life Education Instructional Program Info

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) provides a comprehensive, sequential Family Life Education (FLE) program for students in grades kindergarten through grade twelve. Instruction is seen as a partnership among parents and guardians, the school, and the community in supporting the learning essential to the development of strong families, positive relationships, and a healthy community.

Parents/guardians may choose to opt their child out of all or part of the Family Life Education program. Students who are opted out are provided with age-appropriate, nonpunitive alternative health instruction, and every effort is made to foster respect for family choices. If you wish to opt your child out of all or part of FLE for this school year, opt-out forms are available in Parent Digital Consent. Paper opt-out forms are available from your child’s school. Students receiving special education services and accessing modified curriculum will receive a printed opt-out form for modified FLE lessons.

Detailed grade-level program descriptions are available online at Elementary (K-6), Middle School (7-8), and High School (9-12). FLE grade level-specific lessons and media that FCPS has streaming rights for are available for parents online in Schoology. Parents/guardians log in to Schoology using the same username and password as their Student Information System (SIS) Parent account. Grade-level-specific lessons are also available at the City of Fairfax Regional Library (this location does not have media). Grade-level-specific lessons and media that are not streamed online are available for review at your child’s school library. Due to copyright permissions, we are unable to stream all media online.

Program questions may be addressed at your child’s school or by contacting Instructional Services at 571-423-4550 or by email to [email protected].

Fairfax County Pass Rates for State Tests

At the August 29 School Board meeting Dr. Reid presented information on FCPS’ annual pass rates for the Standards of Learning (SOL) and Virginia Alternate Assessment Program (VAAP) tests in the Academic Matters segment. FCPS continues to outperform the state average in all subjects.

“Annual Pass Rates on SOL and VAAP Tests” Data

Key Points: Fairfax improved in math and science and held steady in reading, outperforming Virginia in all subjects. FCPS math pass rates increased even while more students took accelerated math courses:

6.8% increase in 5th graders taking Advanced Math
9.5% increase in 8th graders taking Algebra I or higher

Data for FCPS “All Students” Rates Compared to Virginia - 2 Years:

View the presentation slides and find more information on the FCPS website.

Springfield District Scene

Kudos to Chantilly Academy’s Tony G. for taking first place in System Control Technology in the Technology Student Association National Competition this past June!

Congratulations to Katherine Johnson Middle School ESOL teacher Colleen Al Mukhtar who has been accepted into the United States Institutes of Peace (USIP) 2024 Peace Teachers Program! The USIP is a national, nonpartisan, independent institute, founded by Congress and dedicated to the proposition that a world without violent conflict is possible, practical, and essential for U.S. and global security. Way to go!

Shout out to Oakton High School’s Wesley Seidner for publishing a book, K for Kosher, on the history of Jewish baseball players, his love of baseball, and his journey into Judaism! Wow!

Congratulations to Debbie Tannenbaum, school-based technology specialist at Saratoga Elementary School, who was named an International Society for Technology in Education 2024 20 to Watch Award Winner! This award recognizes 20 up-and-coming individuals who are already making a difference through their work. Winners have exemplified excellence through projects or artifacts that others can replicate. Bravo!

New Executive Principals for Regions 4 and 5

The Region 4 Office and I are pleased to announce Kim Greer as the new Executive Principal for Region 4. With over twenty-five years of leadership experience in Fairfax County Public Schools, Dr. Greer brings an extensive background in education and a proven track record of success to her new role.

Greer began her career as a middle school English and Social Studies teacher before advancing to leadership roles within FCPS. She has served as assistant principal at Marshall, South Lakes, and Westfield High Schools. In her current role as principal of Langley High School, she has led a diverse community of students and staff, emphasizing academic excellence and student well-being.

Under Greer’s leadership at Langley, the school has seen significant improvements in areas such as mental wellness, advanced academic offerings, and an increased graduation rate. Her focus on creating a positive, inclusive learning environment has been a cornerstone of her leadership, benefiting both students and staff. She is widely known for her commitment to fostering student success and promoting equity within the school.

Beyond her work at Langley, Greer has been actively involved in leadership and professional development at the district, state, and national levels. She has presented at various educational conferences and has served as a member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) Board of Directors since 2020, demonstrating her dedication to advancing the field of education.

Greer holds a bachelor's degree in Middle Grades Education from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, and an endorsement in Educational Leadership from George Mason University.

We are confident that Dr. Greer will bring her visionary leadership, deep expertise, and unwavering commitment to student success to her new role as Executive Principal for Region 4.

The Region 5 Office and I are pleased to announce Gordon Stokes as Executive Principal for Region 5. With a distinguished career marked by exceptional leadership and a commitment to educational excellence, Stokes brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to his new role as Executive Principal.

Stokes started his career at Rachel Carson in 1998 teaching U.S. History. He served as a LEAD Fairfax Administrative Intern at Key Middle School from 2007-2008. In 2008, he was named assistant principal at Luther Jackson Middle School. In 2012, Mr. Stokes transitioned to South County Middle School where he also supported students, staff, and families as assistant principal. Since July 2015, Stokes has served as the Principal of Rachel Carson Middle School.

During his tenure at Rachel Carson, Stokes leveraged the school's mission and priorities to enhance the development of Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes, expanded diverse elective offerings, and provided responsive supports tailored to the needs of Carson’s student body. His ability to assemble and lead teacher teams in county-wide instructional initiatives, such as the Capstone and secondary literacy projects, FCPSON, and Portrait of a Graduate presentation of learning, has been instrumental in piloting and evaluating innovative programs. He partnered with Carson’s teacher leaders and collaborative learning teams to establish a culture of continuous improvement and professional development.

Stokes’ leadership extends beyond instructional strategies to foster a positive school climate. Stokes established a safe and welcoming environment at Carson Middle School. He also engaged parents and families in conversations and improvement efforts to enhance student achievement and behavior. As a culturally responsive and equitable school leader, Stokes has partnered with the school-based equity lead to implement cultural proficiency modules and facilitated dialogues to address school-wide challenges. His development of the Young Scholars outreach program underscores his dedication to providing equitable opportunities for all students.

In recognition of his achievements at Rachel Carson Middle School, Stokes was named Outstanding New Principal in 2017. He served as President of the Middle School Principals Association during the 2018-2019 school year where he led advocacy efforts and partnered with the FCPS Leadership Team.

Stokes earned his Bachelor of Arts, History, and Master of Teaching degrees from The University of Virginia.

We are confident that Mr. Stokes brings passion and dedication to his new leadership role as Executive Principal for Region 5!

Student Opportunities

🏞️ Service Hours Opportunity

Looking to give back and earn some service hours? Join Fairfax County for a Park Clean Up volunteer event near you on September 28 to mark National Public Lands Day.

🏛 School Board Student Leadership Development Program – Apply Today!

The School Board is now accepting applications for the 2024-25 Student Leadership Development Program! Open to high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors in good academic standing, the program is a great opportunity for those interested in pursuing futures in law, government, or public policy.

Selected students will partner with their School Board Member to observe how the school division is governed. They will also learn about the board’s various committees and functions, develop and debate their own policy proposals, and acquire details about the process for running to be Student Representatives on the School Board.

The nine magisterial district School Board Members will each select one student from their respective districts, and the three At-Large Members will select one student each from among all applicants. Interested students must submit applications to their principal before September 30, 2024. Click here for more information about the program or to submit your application.

✅ Election Day Participation Program For High School Students

Would you like to learn more about the electoral process and earn service-learning hours that can also be applied toward the Seal of Excellence in Civics Education?

The Fairfax Office of Elections is offering students the opportunity to serve inside a Fairfax County polling place or in an early voting satellite office as an election page. They also encourage students fluent in a second language to apply.

More information may be found on the Election Day High School Student Program web page. Apply by Monday, September 30, 2024.

🏛 Virginia House of Delegates and Senate 2025 Page Programs

The Virginia House of Delegate and Senate are now accepting applications for their Page Program. The application deadline for the Senate Page Program is Tuesday, October 1, at 5 p.m., and the deadline for the House of Delegates Page Program is Friday, October 8, 2024, at 5 p.m.

The House Page Program focuses on civics education, the lawmaking process, and leadership development. As non-partisan staff of the House Clerk’s Office, Pages are an integral part of an institution with a long-standing tradition of providing outstanding support and customer service to state legislators and those they represent.

Each year, the Speaker of the House of Delegates appoints 13 and 14-year-olds from across the Commonwealth to work in the House Clerk’s Office as House Pages during the Regular Session of the Virginia General Assembly. They assist the Delegates and staff in the House Clerk’s Office in performing a wide variety of daily duties required for the successful operation of the House.

The Senate Page Program also appoints 13 and 14-year-olds from across Virginia. Similar to a college preparatory program, the Senate Program combines organized learning activities with day-to-day duties servicing the legislature.

The mission of the Senate Page Program is to facilitate a structured environment in which young Virginians accept responsibility and accountability, develop professional characteristics through strict standards of conduct, and engage in the legislative process through work, observation, and discussion.

Find more information about the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate Page Programs on the Capital Classroom website.

🪖 United States Service Academies Application

Congressman Gerry Connolly is now accepting applications for nominations for the Class of 2029. Considered to be among the top academic institutions in the country, our U.S. Service Academies produce some of the nation’s best and brightest.

Applicants must meet eligibility requirements established by law and be nominated by an authorized nominating source, including Congressman Connolly, who can nominate qualified applicants residing in Virginia’s 11th congressional district.

Your complete application packet and all required documents must be submitted on or before October 4, 2024.

📣 Fairfax High School Cheer Junior Clinic

Join Fairfax High School’s Varsity Cheer Team for a Junior Cheer Clinic for ages 7 to 13 on Friday, October 4, 2024, from 4 to 8 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity for young cheerleaders to learn sideline cheer skills and cheer alongside the varsity team during the first half of the West Potomac vs. Fairfax football game.

The cost is $50 and the clinic will take place in the Fairfax High School auxiliary gym and stadium. Register in advance.

For more information email Coach Thrift at [email protected].

🔬 STEAMOLOGY STEM FEST

STEAMOLOGY STEM FEST is a STEM-focused event that will be taking place on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at Mount Vernon High School from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event is designed for elementary and middle school children, who will have an opportunity to participate in various hands-on activities related to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.

High school kids will also be involved in the event as volunteers. This is a valuable experience for them to develop leadership skills, gain community service hours, and inspire younger students to pursue STEM interests.

Additionally, there will be high school clubs and vendors on the day of the event with informational booths or displays set up by various STEM-related clubs from the high schools, as well as vendors.

The participation is around 500 or more students, and STEAMOLOGY ensures that the event is well-organized and that all participants are aware of any guidelines or safety measures in place to ensure a positive and productive experience for everyone involved.

We are currently seeking educational entities/vendors who can share their work with the students. We are also looking for sponsors and vendors. Plan to attend with your student, as a volunteer, or as a vendor to help support tomorrow’s workforce!

Please register beforehand.

🏫 Annual College Fair

Following the fair, the Two-Night Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held on Monday, October 21, and Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 5, 6, and 7 p.m. Both events will help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey. Find more information on FCPS’ Look to the Future web page.

💰Scholarships for FCPS Students

FCPS now has a web page dedicated to student scholarship opportunities! Please note scholarships offered by organizations other than FCPS are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the superintendent, or any Fairfax County public school.

Scholarships are awarded to students based on academic record, leadership ability, talents, and need for financial assistance. FCPS reviews scholarship opportunities and publishes eligible ones in the Naviance scholarship database. Many high schools have specific scholarships only available to students at their school. School-specific scholarships are listed in Naviance. Additionally, a comprehensive list of scholarship opportunities is available in Naviance.

Many colleges and universities provide scholarship and award information through their Financial Aid or Admissions offices. Please check with your institution of choice for their offerings.

Visit the FCPS Scholarship web page for more information.

🌎 Virginia Space Grant Consortium

The Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS) focuses on the challenges of the next generation of scientists and engineers to become part of the solution to the societal issues faced by the impacts of climate change. This program engages 11th and 12th-grade students in real-world investigations of the Earth and its systems using the latest research and data from NASA. Applications are open until October 24, 2024.

🎵 National Anthem Performances

The School Board would like to welcome performing arts students to perform the National Anthem at the School Board Regular Meetings taking place at Jackson Middle School each month to showcase the high level of performance instruction available in our schools. Meetings are held at Jackson Middle School, 3020 Gallows Road, Falls Church, 22042. Performing groups or soloists should arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. The National Anthem begins the meeting at 7:00 p.m. so performers should be on stage by 6:50 p.m. Students may leave following their performance. If you are interested in performing the National Anthem at a School Board Meeting, please complete this form.

League of Women Voters (LWV) Youth Council

The LWV Youth Council is open to ages 16-21. Their goal is to introduce young people to the programs and projects of the League that will benefit our youth and local communities.

Projects of Youth Council members may include:

Assisting with local leagues' voter registration.
Social media videos, graphics
GOTV on their campus at their schools
Pre-registration of 16-year-olds and registration of young people
Conduct youth candidate forums in conjunction with their local or State League.
Website update – they will have a page on the website to share information
Visits to legislators during Session – learning the legislative process – and helping with advocacy.
Partner with youth groups that are working with our partner organizations
Outreach to other youth groups regarding the League
Assist with ongoing programs for which we may need assistance on the state level.

Find more information and the application on the LWV webpage.

Contact Erni Bridges at [email protected] with any questions.

🏫 Early College Scholars

The Early College Scholars program allows eligible public high school students to earn a minimum of 15 transferable college credits while fulfilling the requirements for an Advanced Studies Diploma.

To qualify for this program, you'll need to meet these criteria:

Maintain a "B" average or better in your high school courses; and
Be pursuing an Advanced Studies Diploma; and
Complete college-level coursework, such as AP, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, or dual enrollment, to earn at least 15 transferable college credits.
To formalize your participation, you'll sign a Governor's Early College Scholars Agreement, which will also be signed by your parents or guardians, principal, and school counselor.
If you are interested please complete the form and return it to Student Services.

Consent for Release of Student Records in Support of Postsecondary Application

This form is to be used by students and parents/guardians to authorize Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to release student records and related information to support student applications to colleges, universities, scholarship sponsors, employers, or other similar organizations. This form is most often used to request a transcript to be sent to colleges, internships, and other programs. We are now accepting this form from all grades. FCPS allows for the form to be completed once during a student’s high school career unless withdrawn in writing by the parent/guardian or eligible student.

To complete the form please visit here. If you have questions about the form, please reach out to your student’s counselor.

⚙ Coursera Career Academy Program

The FCPS Department of Information Technology has partnered with Coursera to provide an exclusive opportunity for high school students to access the Coursera Career Academy Catalog. Students may explore exciting career paths and gain access to over 30 professional certifications from industry leaders, all at no cost.

Start your journey exploring a high-demand career in technology
Learn from industry titans such as Google, Meta, Microsoft, and IBM
Earn valuable micro-credentials and share them on your professional profile (resume, LinkedIn, etc.)

Browse the FCPS Student Academy Catalog and join the program today by following the below steps.

Complete the Student Interest Form
Obtain permission from parent/guardian to access Coursera
Create a Coursera account.

Questions? Contact Scott Simmons at [email protected].

These courses are not VDOE-recognized industry credentials and do not contribute to high school graduation requirements. This limited program operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Community News Students Reporting Fewer Mental Health Challenges

The 2023-24 Fairfax County Youth Survey results show a decline in students reporting mental health challenges compared to previous years. Highlights include:

The anonymous and voluntary annual Fairfax County survey was taken by students in grades 6, 8 10, and 12.
Students continue to report lower rates of mental health concerns since the pandemic
Students reported historic lows for substance abuse.
Students who reported experiencing bullying increased slightly from 2022-23.

🌎 Climate Crisis Forum

Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions is hosting a Climate Crisis Forum on Monday, October 7, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Meridian High School, 121 Mustang Alley, Falls Church, VA 22043.

Join a conversation on how our local schools are tackling the climate crisis and making a difference in our communities. The event will feature two panels.

Northern Virginia Superintendents (including Dr. Michelle Reid) will speak about how their districts are leading the way with sustainable practices and student engagement.
Student climate activists will discuss why climate change is an important issue to students and what they’d like to see their school districts doing.

Agenda

6 p.m.: Doors open with partner tables, exhibits, and a clothing swap donation drop-off
7 p.m.: The main program starts with the Student Climate Activists Panel and the Northern Virginia Superintendent Panel

Registration closes at midnight on Friday, October 4, 2024.

September recognizes… Suicide Prevention Month

Schools play a key role in suicide prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is one of the leading causes of death for young people aged 10-24. When school personnel, families, and communities take an active role in suicide prevention, lives can be saved.

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.

Call/Text/Chat 988 or Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

Free 24/7 support for anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal crisis
When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.

The previous Lifeline phone number (1-800-273-8255) will always remain available to people in emotional distress or suicidal crisis.

🎖️ Blue Star Welcome Week

Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community.

Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 21 - September 29, 2024, and throughout the year.

National Hazing Prevention Week - September 23-27

National Hazing Prevention Week (NHPW) is an annual event aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of hazing and promoting prevention efforts. During this week, schools, colleges, universities, and communities across the U.S. engage in educational activities focused on eliminating hazing, which can lead to severe injury or death through extreme physical exertion, alcohol abuse, and dangerous rituals.

Families, school staff, and communities can support student wellness and prevent hazing by:

Open Communication: Talk openly about hazing, and its dangers, and encourage your student to share their experiences. Watch the video, Death of a Pledge: The Adam Oakes Story, with your high school student or students, and have an open conversation about hazing and the profound impact it has on everyone involved.
Education: Learn about and discuss your student’s school policies on hazing and attend workshops on prevention. You can find resources on hazing at www.lovelikeadam.com, https://hazingpreventionnetwork.org/, and www.stophazing.org
Healthy Involvement: Encourage participation in positive, inclusive groups and stress the importance of self-care. Learn more about organizations, teams, clubs, and more before joining them by asking fellow students, athletes, and peers about the groups.

These actions help create a safer and more supportive environment for students.

Early October recognizes… Rosh Hashanah

Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Wednesday, October 2. That day is an evening-only O day, and important events will not be held after school.

Thursday, October 3, is a holiday for all FCPS staff. Schools and offices will be closed.

Friday, October 4, is a teacher workday and there will be no school for students.

See the complete school year calendar.

Walk and Roll to School Day

FCPS will participate in International Walk and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 9 to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools. Students and employees are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work where safe to do so. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school and to work with their school and PTA or PTO to assemble bike trains or walking groups for the event. Schools are encouraged to register online with Walk and Bike to School. Get more information about Walk to School Day.

Yom Kippur

Friday, October 11, will be an evening-only observance day for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. There is school that day, but important events will not occur after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Family and Student Resources 🍎 Make School Attendance a Priority

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan time away during breaks from school.

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers.

Research shows that chronically absent children (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read on grade level at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School

Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.

Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit our website for information on when to keep your child at home.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff. Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and tell school staff why and for how long.

Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!

FCPS SEL Screener: Student Survey on Well-Being

FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.

The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students.

After each screening, results are available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families without a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.

Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact your child’s school.

Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

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. All Fairfax County public schools have at least one school counselor, school psychologist, and school social worker.

Please reach out to one of these staff members to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Call your school or visit their website for staff member contact information. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness.

No-Cost Therapy for High Schoolers

High school students can access virtual mental health services at no cost through an FCPS program with Hazel Health. Their therapists are licensed and also trained in teen-specific challenges.

Students may be referred by a guardian or designated staff member and participate in weekly video therapy sessions. Therapists will work with students until they achieve their therapy goals, or they can help connect the family with long-term mental health services in the community if needed.

Learn more about teletherapy for high schoolers.

Pacing Guides

FCPS provides online access to the curriculum for each core subject area to provide families with an overview of what students are learning and when they are learning it.

With just a few clicks, parents and caregivers may access each grade level or course page including the objectives and outcomes for each unit and the pacing by quarter and by week.

🏳️‍🌈LGBTQ+ Student Advocacy Toolkit

The American Civil Liberties Union of Virginia has launched an interactive toolkit “for LGBTQ+ students, parents, educators, and allies dedicated to LGBTQ+ rights in Virginia’s K-12 public schools” and to help ensure “all youth, including LGBTQ+ youth” have access “to safe, affirming and inclusive school environments.” For more information, visit the toolkit online.

The Arc of Northern Virginia Fall Transition Series

Transition Series is The Arc of Northern Virginia's annual event designed to educate and empower families and individuals with disabilities as they transition from school-provided services to community-based services for adults. The series will be held virtually September 16 through October 26, 2024.

Families, teachers, and disability professionals may attend any and all webinars. The date and time for each webinar and the Zoom link will be shared with all registrants at least a week before the start of the series. They hope all participants will attend live, but if not, all webinars will be recorded and made available with slides and additional resources.

Medicaid Waiver Basics

Medicaid Waivers serve as Virginia's primary means of funding services for individuals with developmental disabilities. These waivers cover a wide range of support, from brief respite care to in-home assistance and employment services. In this one-hour presentation, Lucy Beadnell, Director of Advocacy at the Arc of Northern Virginia, will provide an overview of Medicaid Waivers, discuss the services they offer, explain the application process, and share practical tips for families waiting for services.

Join The Arc of Northern Virginia on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 10 a.m. for this live, online virtual meeting.

💲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.

Mark your calendars for the following workshops—more information to follow on College Access Fairfax’s Events page.

Paying for College