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The Fairfax County School Board welcomes public comment on the proposed FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program at a Public Hearing. This public hearing is scheduled to take place at the Luther Jackson Middle School Auditorium at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.

The Speaker's List opened at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2024 and is now open through 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 13, 2025. The Fairfax County School Board Office will notify speakers (via email) the morning of January 14, 2025.

• Register to Speak at the CIP Public Hearing (in-person or live via Zoom)
• Proposed FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program
• Information on Speaking at School Board Meetings
• Watch School Board meetings and public hearings.

Any questions, written statements, and copies of testimony may be submitted to [email protected].

Upcoming Regular School Board Meeting

The next regular board meeting will be held Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Luther Jackson Middle School, at 7 p.m.

The Fairfax County School Board

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Hello, Springfield District,

I hope you are feeling rested and rejuvenated after an extended winter break!

The Superintendent is continuing her Boundary Review Community Meetings this month with the first virtual meeting occurring this Friday, January 10. Additionally, the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee has begun meeting. Please read below for details on both topics.

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

Also, please note the upcoming opportunity to comment on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Capital Improvement Plan and an FCPS Instructional Job Fair.

I’ll be in touch soon!

Sandy Anderson

 

Virtual Community Boundary Review Meeting Dates Set

Dates have been confirmed for upcoming virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings. All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. 

If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating virtually. Click a date below to register: 

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m.

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m.

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m.

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m.

To ensure a meaningful experience for participants, each virtual Community Boundary Review Meeting will be capped at 400 participants, and each participant will receive their own unique Zoom link. All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the recently held in-person meetings, including the information shared and breakout time. Language interpretation will be available. Please visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates. 

 

Summary of In-Person Community Boundary Review Meetings

We have completed six in-person Community Boundary Review Meetings for all FCPS regions as part of the first phase of the review process. These sessions provided an opportunity for parents and caregivers, staff, students, and community members to share their thoughts, ask questions, and learn more about the comprehensive boundary review. FCPS partner, Thru Consulting, facilitated each session.

Key Themes Presented

Thru discussed why a boundary review is essential to ensure equitable access to quality education for all FCPS students. Key challenges include:

• Overcrowding and lack of space for programs like pre-K.
• Long student travel times and program locations that are less than ideal.
• Split feeder schools and attendance islands.
• High renovation costs and extended timelines.

This review, which is required every five years by the recently approved Boundary Policy 8130, will help address these issues and align with FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

What We Heard from You

During each Community Boundary Review Meeting, the community emphasized several key priorities. View those priorities on our website.

 

Superintendent's Boundary Review Advisory Committee

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

Dr. Reid Reflects on the Comprehensive Boundary Review Process

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

  Public Hearing on Proposed FY 2026 Capital Improvement Program

The Fairfax County School Board will hear comment on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 proposed Capital Improvement Program at a Public Hearing scheduled for January 14, 2025. The speaker list opened at 6 a.m. on Thursday, December 26, 2024.

• Register to Speak in person or via Zoom.
• Information on Speaking at School Board Meetings

 

Instructional Job Fair on January 11 

Fairfax County Public Schools wants you to join our team! We seek educator talent with strong student engagement skills and a passion for positively influencing our school communities. 

Join us for our upcoming job fair.

Job Fair Details

• Saturday, January 11, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon (Weather Dependent)

• Glasgow Middle School 
• There will be networking and interviewing opportunities with representatives from various FCPS schools. Employment offers for current 2024-25 school year vacancies may be extended during the fair. 
• Registration is required to attend. 

Find more information on the FCPS website.

Quick Links

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• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars
• 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | 2026-27 (not approved)

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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

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

Hello, Springfield District,

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

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

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

Sandy Anderson

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

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

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

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Meeting information and materials will be posted to BoardDocs.

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

Please note that times and topics are subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español

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

School Board Work High School Athletics External Review and Internal Processes

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

Watch the full meeting.

 

Fiscal Year 2025 Midyear Budget Review

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

Watch the full meeting.

 

School Board Student Leadership Development Program

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

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

 

⏰ Update on Potential Changes to Middle School Start Times

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

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

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

  School Board’s Student Representative Receives VSBA Scholarship

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

 

Proclamations

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

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

Superintendent Updates Coming Soon: Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

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

Dates are still being confirmed for January 2025.

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

Remaining In-Person Community Meetings for Phase 1

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

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

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

Share Your Thoughts

Please submit your questions or feedback on our website.

 

🎓 Save the Date for 2025 Graduation!

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

 

🗓️ Save the Date: Academy Open Houses Begin in January

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

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

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

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

 

🚨 New Chief of Safety and Security

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

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

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

 

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

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

Springfield District Scene

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  💰 National PTA and PTSA Grant Award Recipients

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

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

 

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

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

Oakton High School

How to Get Away with Murder Mystery

January 16

Buy tickets

Student Opportunities

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

 

🦈 2024 Fairfax Area Student Shark Tank Challenge Now Open

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

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

 

🏛️ High School Youth Leadership Program

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

Activities may include

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

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

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

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

 

📷 2025 First Hike Photo Contest

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

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

Learn more about the First Hike Photo Contest.

 

📚 Bundle Up With Books Over Break

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

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

 

2025 FCPS Gap Year Fair

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Family and Student Resources 2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available

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

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

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

Get Help Filling Out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax

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

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

Sign up to receive the College Access Fairfax newsletter.

 

🍲 Food Assistance and Resource Guide 

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

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

 

📖 Literacy Resources for Families

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

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

 

💻 Fairfax County Public Library Loans More Than Just Books

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

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

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

 

No-Cost Virtual Therapy for High Schoolers

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

George Mason’s Center for Community Health

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

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

 

Tips for Parents of Children with Invisible Disability

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

 

Virginia Developmental Disabilities Waitlist Information

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

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

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

 

Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Programs

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

HIPP (19 and over)

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

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

HIPP for Kids (18 and younger)

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

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

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

 

Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).

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

December and January webinars and workshops include:

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

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

• January 11, 9 a.m.-noon - Sibshops

• January 13-17 - FCPS Math Week

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

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

In Case you Missed It

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

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

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• Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• Office of Ombuds
• Report Discrimination and Harassment
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS Trust Policy Violations
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars

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

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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

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

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.

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 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.

• Student Athletics and Activities Month
• Annandale High School 70th Anniversary
• Fairview Elementary School 125th Anniversary
• Hindu American Heritage Month
• Veterans Day
• School Counselors, Social Workers, Nurses, and Psychologists Appreciation Month
• Luther Jackson Middle School 70th Anniversary
• Patrick Bayne Recognition

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. 

Read more online.

 

National Merit Scholarship Information

Eleventh-grade students who participated in the PSAT may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Learn more on the National Merit Scholarship Corporation website. Families should contact their student’s school regarding score reporting or the National Merit Scholarship Program. 

Springfield District Scene New Centreville High School Principal

The Region 4 Leadership Team and I are pleased to announce that Dr. Erik Healey has been selected as the new principal of Centreville High School. 

Healey joins the Centreville community with 18 years of high school experience, and a proven track record of fostering inclusive and effective learning environments. Dr. Healey has served as the Director of Student Services at both Hayfield Secondary School and Annandale High School since July 2020. In this role, he oversaw the implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to ensure all students received the academic, behavioral, and wellness support they needed to be successful. He developed robust systems to monitor graduation progress, reduce dropout rates, and improve student connectedness to the school community. 

Healey also led significant improvements in access to advanced coursework for underrepresented students. His commitment to inclusion, equity, and excellence led to a significant increase in the percentage of Multilingual Learners achieving growth in their English language acquisition. This work led to Dr. Healey being recognized as the Fairfax County Public Schools Outstanding Director of Student Services in 2024. 

Healey's administrative career began at the Arlington Career Center, where he served as Assistant Principal. He served as an administrator for English Learners and the Arlington Tech program, a STEM-focused choice high school that experienced tremendous growth under his guidance. His innovative approaches to work-based learning and community partnerships not only enriched students’ educational experiences but also prepared them for future success in various fields. 

Before his administrative roles, Dr. Healey served as a Dean of Students and Mathematics Teacher at Meridian High School in Falls Church, where he fostered a supportive and engaging school culture. His experience as a coach and mentor further highlights his dedication to student development both inside and outside the classroom. 

Healey holds a Masters and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Colorado State University. Dr. Healey believes in the power of collaboration and communication and is committed to engaging with students, parents, and staff to create a vibrant school community. His approach emphasizes the importance of a positive school climate, strong instructional practices, and equitable opportunities for all students.  

Healey is excited and ready to lead Centreville High School into the future. Please join us in congratulating and welcoming Dr. Healey to the Centreville community. His start date will be December 2, 2024.

 

Service to others is a core value of Chantilly Academy’s Criminal Justice Program. Their students rallied together to help victims of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina by collecting and loading supplies to be transported to communities impacted by the hurricane. Way to go!

 

Congratulations to Chantilly High School’s Boys Cross Country Team for winning the Northern Region Championship!

 

Kudos to Fairfax High School’s Varsity Field Hockey Team who won the Occoquan Region championship!

Shout out to Fairfax’s Miles Murray for winning the 2024 Legend Track Championship at Virginia's Dominion Raceway. Read more on the Fairfax Now website.

Fairfax’s Bel Canto Chorus students recently performed at The Kennedy Center with Indie artist Aoife O’Donovan and the National Symphony Orchestra! Congratulations to Director Juliana Woodill and the choral students!

 

Fairfax Academy hosted Korean teachers and coordinators who work with the National Security Language Initiative for Youth (NSLI-Y) scholarship program. The visitors were interested in observing Fairfax High School’s language classes, particularly their Korean Academy Program, and getting a tour of the entire school. These visitors had never toured an American high school before! 

 

Frost Middle School won both the Girls and Boys First FCPS Middle School Cross Country Championships. Liberty Middle School hosted the Championships, featuring 439 athletes from all 26 middle schools—219 boys and 220 girls. Congratulations to all the student-athletes!

 

Congratulations to Katherine Johnson Middle School’s Boys and Girls Basketball Teams for finishing their seasons undefeated and claiming the Western Fairfax Basketball League Championship title!

The winning continues at Katherine Johnson with the Quiz Bowl Team winning the Washington, D.C. History Bowl! The team will now compete in the Middle School National History Bowl Championships in April! Fantastic!

 

Congratulations to Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Noah Smith for receiving the 2024 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Award for Male Athlete!

Lake Braddock’s JROTC Program was featured in Northern Virginia Magazine recently. Read the article.

Shout out to Lewis High School’s Baylee Stevens for receiving the 2024 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Award for Female Athlete!

I’m so proud of the work Lewis students are doing to champion disability rights, following in the footsteps of Congressman and civil rights leader John R. Lewis, their namesake. Key Middle School students have also contributed!

The students are a part of the school’s John R. Lewis Leadership Program, an innovative initiative designed to inspire students to become future leaders in government, public policy, and human rights. The program is inspired by the life and legacy of Congressman Lewis and aims to infuse his principles into the core curriculum. Students have opportunities for experiential learning, such as field trips, guest speaker events, and community action projects. Additionally, the program offers specialized coursework, internships, and university partnerships for students seeking deeper engagement.

 

Congratulations to Oakton High School’s Varsity Cheer Team for winning the Region 6D title for the first time in school history! 

The winning continues with Oakton Varsity Field Hockey taking the Region 6D championship! Great job!

Shout out to Robinson Secondary School’s Varsity Cheer Team for winning the Region 6C and Class 6 VHSL Championships!

The winning at Robinson continues with the Varsity Girls Cross Country Team taking the VHSL Championship! Way to go ladies!

I’m very proud of Rocky Run Middle School for holding their Annual Day of Service to give back to their community through a variety of activities! Students packed food with Rise Against Hunger, made Thanksgiving cards and fall centerpieces for Sunrise Senior Living, and wrote Veterans Day letters to name a few!

Kudos to South County High School’s Homeless Outreach Club! I’m delighted by their commitment to helping those in need in our community!

 

Congrats to the Thomas Jefferson HSST History Bowl Team for winning the Washington, D.C. History Bee and Bowl at the Georgetown Day School on October 26! They defeated 18 other schools, including five of last year's top 15 teams in the country! Both the Varsity and JV teams have now qualified for the International Academic Competition's (IAC) Varsity and JV National Championship tournaments that will take place April 24-27 in Arlington, Virginia!

Each year the University of Chicago confers Outstanding Educator Awards to teachers nominated by members of their incoming Class of 2028 (aka Class of 2024 high school graduates). The students nominate educators whose guidance has helped them along the path toward intellectual growth and positively impacted their lives. TJ's Geosystems instructor Dr. Kathy Phillips was nominated by an anonymous member of TJ's Class of 2024, and she was honored at a virtual reception on October 29. Way to go Dr. Phillips!

For the third consecutive year, TJHSST German World Language students went above and beyond in their studies and passed the German DSD exam. This is an exam created by the German Department of Education that allows them to show their fluency in both the language and culture and qualifies them to attend universities in Germany if interested. Congratulations!

Kudos to the West Springfield High School Varsity Girls Volleyball Team for winning the Occoquan Region title!

Shout out to Woodson High School for hosting their Annual Career Day where over 55 community members provided presentations and spoke to students about their diverse career paths!

I was thrilled to join hundreds of C.G. Woodson High School students and families, local leaders, Woodson pyramid principals, Dr. Reid, Woodson's family members, and alumni and teachers to rededicate the building, honor the school’s new namesake, and reflect on history.

  🎵 Students Selected for 2024 All-Virginia Jazz Band, VMEA Senior Honors Choir, and All-Virginia Elementary Orff Ensemble

Forty-eight students representing 17 Fairfax County high schools and one elementary school have been selected for the 2024 All-Virginia Orff Ensemble, the 2024 All-Virginia Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble, and the 2024 Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Senior Honors Choir.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!

All-Virginia Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble

South County High School: Vanya Balakersky

Senior Honors Choir

Chantilly High School: Lakshmi Hari and Adonis Iparraguirre

Fairfax High School: Ainsley Buice

Oakton High School: Eleanor Williams

West Springfield High School: Ruby Carlon

Woodson High School: Charlotte Reymann

All-Virginia Orff Ensemble

Powell Elementary School: Ahilya Sastry

See the full list of musicians and learn about their public performances.

 

🎷 Seven FCPS Musical Groups Showcased Talents at 2024 VMEA Conference

Seven FCPS bands performed at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference held November 21-23 in Norfolk. 

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

Congratulations to the following groups from schools attended by Springfield District students!

• Lake Braddock Secondary School Symphony Orchestra

• Robinson Secondary School Symphonic Band

• West Springfield High School Wind Symphony

• Woodson High School Wind Ensemble

Read the full list online.

 

🎖️ 38 Schools Recognized for Supporting Military-Connected Families

Thirty-eight Fairfax County public schools have been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children as 2024 Purple Star Schools. View the full list of new Purple Star Schools. 

Nearly half of Fairfax County public schools (96) are currently designated as Purple Star Schools. Earlier this fall, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid announced a goal for FCPS to achieve Purple Star Division status by 2026-27, with 100% of our schools designated as Purple Star Schools. 

✨ A positive school climate is part of FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.

Congratulations to the following schools attended by Springfield District students!

First Time Recognitions

Bryant High School

Chantilly High School

Cherry Run Elementary School

Fairfax High School

John R. Lewis High School

Newington Forest Elementary School

Oak View Elementary School

Oakton High School

Waples Mill Elementary School

White Oaks Elementary School

Second Time Recognitions

Keene Mill Elementary School

Ravensworth Elementary School

Union Mill Elementary School

Third Time Recognitions

Fairview Elementary School

Hunt Valley Elementary School

Sangster Elementary School

 

🌱 22 Schools Earn Green Flags for Sustainability at FCPS

Twenty-two Fairfax County public schools were honored with a Green Flag award from the National Wildlife Federation through the EcoSchools U.S. program. Only 56 of these Green Flags were awarded nationwide to schools committed to environmental sustainability!

Five FCPS schools earned a silver award. Some of these measures included engaging the local community, forming an action team, creating a plan, collecting data, taking solution-based actions, and measuring impact. 

This student-led program provides opportunities for youth leadership, raising environmental awareness, connecting students to the natural world, and driving positive environmental change. 

Congratulations to the following schools in which Springfield District students attend!

Green Flag Award

Hunt Valley Elementary School

Katherine Johnson Middle School

Terra Centre Elementary School

Woodson High School

Willow Springs Elementary School

Silver Award

Oak View Elementary School

See the complete list of schools.

 

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

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

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Student Directed One Acts

December 5 - 7 and 13

Buy tickets

Woodson High School

Student Directed One Acts

December 6 and 7

Buy tickets

Franklin Middle School

Footloose

December 6 - 14

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.

 

📱 Student Feedback Opportunity for FCPS Cell Phone Policy and SR&R

FCPS is working with K12 Insight to host a community forum for families, staff members, and students to provide feedback on the school division’s cell phone policies and practices, and the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document. FCPS is looking for more student participants (grades 3-12) to help ensure diverse perspectives from our community.

The community forum will be held on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Willow Oaks Administrative Center. If your student is interested in providing feedback, please visit the Cell Phone Policy Forum registration page to learn more. Families must register their child by Monday, November 25, 2024.

 

🙋 Attendance Champions Challenge…Because Every Day Counts!

Through the Attendance Champions Challenge, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) invites schools and 501(c)(3) community organizations to engage young people between the ages of 13 and 19 to identify new ways of understanding barriers to school attendance and engagement, as well as propose creative solutions that build on evidence-based strategies. Young people are also invited to submit their ideas directly to the DOE. The submission deadline for the Attendance Champions Challenge is November 29, 2024, at 9 p.m.

 

📝 New York Times Tiny Memoir Contest for Students

For this contest, the New York Times (NYT) invites students ages 13 to 19 in middle or high school students to write a personal narrative about a meaningful life experience in 100 words or fewer. They're not asking you to write to a particular theme or to use a specific structure or style, but we are looking for short, powerful stories about a particular moment or event in your life. The NYT wants to hear your story, told in your unique voice, and hopes you'll experiment with style and form to tell a tale that matters to you, in a way you enjoy telling it. Submissions are due by December 4, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. PST. 

 

🥤 Annual Marine Debris Program Art Contest

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program holds an annual art contest to reach K-8 students and help raise awareness about marine debris. Marine debris is a global issue and engaging our youth is an important part of addressing the problem. NOAA will publish a calendar featuring the winning artwork that provides a daily reminder of how important it is for us to be responsible stewards of the ocean. Apply by Friday, December 13, 2024.

 

📐 INTEGIRLS D.C. 2024 Winter Math Competition

The D.C. chapter of INTEGIRLS is hosting a beginner-friendly, in-person math competition on Saturday, December 14, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Bioscience Education Center at Montgomery College Germantown Campus. They will have math competition rounds (individual and team), an estimathon, a speaker event, an awards ceremony, provided lunch, and lots of fun STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities. Register here directly, or visit the INTEGIRLS D.C. website to learn more about the competition.

 

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

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

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

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

Find more information on the NOVA EOC webpage and on this flyer.

 

🧳 2025 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 George C. Marshall High School from 6:00- 8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. Student registration is now open.

 

💪 Remote Internship Opportunity

TurnUp Activism is a progressive non-profit organization offering remote internships for its work dedicated to making our nation more just, fair, and equitable by empowering young people to engage in civic activism on issues like climate change, racial justice, reproductive rights, gun violence, and voter suppression. High school students may apply at any time.

Community News 🥣 Discover New Holiday Recipes

As the holiday season approaches, why not impress your friends and family with new culinary skills? FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) offers a variety of holiday-themed cooking classes to help you craft delicious seasonal treats. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try the German Christmas Classic: Stollen & Fruitbread, or dive into the world of festive baking with classes like Buche De Noel - French Christmas Cake or German Christmas Cookies.

For those looking to enhance their general baking skills, classes like Cake Decorating for Beginners and Pound Cake Baking Skills with a Flavorful Twist will help you craft elevated treats for any occasion. Check out these classes and more at ACE.

 

🎶 C.G. Woodson High School Band Department’s Holiday Tunes for Tots

The C.G. Woodson High School Band Department presents Holiday Tunes for Tots on Wednesday, December 4, and Thursday, December 5, 2024, at 10 a.m. Tickets are $5 per person and the concert will be held in the C.G. Woodson High School gymnasium.

Please RSVP at [email protected].

  ❄️ 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza

Join 170 artisans and vendors for holiday shopping at South County High School at the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza on Saturday, December 7, 2024. The event will include seasonal children’s activities, a silent auction and raffle prizes, a blood drive, entertainment, and food trucks. General admission is $3 and $2 for students and senior citizens. Military and veteran families, FCPS staff, and children under 12 are admitted for free!

 

🎼 Lake Braddock Secondary School Band Children’s Holiday Concert and Open House

Join the Lake Braddock Bruin Symphonic Band for a Children’s Music Open House on Saturday, December 14 at 11 a.m. at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Guests will hear holiday tunes, see the Marching Bruins Halftime Show, and listen to various instrumental ensembles including Lake Braddock’s Jazz Band. Children may explore the “Bandieland” trail through the music department wing, collect treats and stickers at various stops, and learn more about instrumental music programs along the way.

  ☃️ South County High School Tiny Tots Concert

Students in grades K-2 are welcome to join the South County High School Band, Choir, Orchestra, and Theater Arts Programs for their Tiny Tots Concert on Tuesday, December 17 at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door and the concert will take place at South County High School.

 

🔬 Support the 2025 Science Fairs

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

Family and Student Resources Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

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

Sessions in English are held online on:

• Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
• Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

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

Upcoming Family Academy Events

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

 

💲Free Financial Aid and Scholarship Workshops

College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of free virtual workshops on the financial aid process and an overview of the process of applying for outside scholarships. The next workshop, Scholarship 101, will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 10 a.m.

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

 

✈️ Wings for All Program

Join The Arc of Northern Virginia for Wings for All, a free program that gives families and aviation professionals the confidence to take to the skies with ease. The program provides an airport “rehearsal,” as well as a presentation on the aircraft features and in-flight safety protocols. The Arc of Loudoun and The Arc of Northern Virginia partner with United Airlines and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to design and carry out this program. By getting comfortable with the airport and flight experience (without actually leaving the airport) people with disabilities and their families can gain the familiarity and confidence they need to take future trips.

The second Wings for All will occur on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Register online.

During this free, half-day event, people with disabilities and their families can familiarize themselves with the airport and travel procedures. They experience:

• Entering the airport
• The check-in process and checking bags
• Security screening
• Boarding the plane
• Preparing for take-off
• Exiting the plane

Due to limited space on the airplane, a maximum of four (4) individuals are allowed per family group onto the aircraft, including the individual(s) with disabilities and family members/support staff accompanying them to the event. If a family group has multiple individuals with disabilities, then 1 designated adult is allowed per individual with disability. Additional family members attending the event but not boarding the plane will be able to wait at the gate to welcome them upon their return.

All participants 18 years old and over are required to bring a valid form of government-issued ID to be allowed through security.

 

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

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

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

 

Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students

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

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

 

⚕️Free Medical Clinic

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

Free services available are as follows: 

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

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

 

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

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

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

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

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

 

🎧 In a Few Words FCPS Podcast

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

 

Tutoring Resources for Families

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

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

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

 

Families Reunite Workshops

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

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

• Tuesdays, November 19 and 26; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Mondays, December 2, 9, and 16; 6:30-8:30 p.m.

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

 

Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).

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 webinars and workshops include:

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

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

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

 

In Case you Missed It

• October 30 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Upcoming Family Academy Offerings
  • Carter G. Woodson High School Rededication
  • Fairfax County Youth Survey
• November 6 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Fall Testing Results
  • Boundary Review Community Meetings
  • National Family Engagement Month Resources for Families
• November 13 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Providing a Safe and Welcoming Space for Everyone
  • Boundary Review Community Meetings
  • Calendar Reminders
• November 20 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Prepare for Winter Weather
  • Social and Emotional Learning Screener Results Coming Soon
  • Reducing Chronic Absenteeism to Improve Academic Success
• Office of Auditor General Current Engagement October Updates
• Office of Auditor General Current Engagement November Updates

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

Quick Links

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Safety Tip Line
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• Office of Ombuds
• Report Discrimination and Harassment
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS Trust Policy Violations
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars

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

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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

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

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

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

Hello, Springfield District

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Safety Tip Line
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• Office of Ombuds
• Report Discrimination and Harassment
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars

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

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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

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

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

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

Hello, Springfield District

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.

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 📍 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.

• Hispanic Heritage Month
• School Principals, Administrators, and Administrative Assistants Appreciation Month
• Indigenous People’s Day and Native American Heritage Month
• LGTBQIA History Month
• Red Ribbon Week

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. 

Register in advance. For more information, contact Theresa Lieteau at [email protected].

 

🏢 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!

Read more about these honored schools.

 

📜 FCPS Schools Recognized on Advanced Placement School Honor Roll

The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction. 

Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. 

The AP program offers college-level courses and exams that students can take in high school. By taking AP exams, students can earn college credit. FCPS pays the fees for the first six AP exams taken by each student for FCPS courses in which they are also enrolled for high school credit.

The schools named to the AP School Honor Roll in which Springfield District students attend are

Silver Distinction Schools

• Centreville High School

Gold Distinction Schools

• Chantilly High School
• Fairfax High School
• Lake Braddock Secondary School
• Oakton High School
• South County High School
• Woodson High School
• West Springfield High School

Platinum Distinction Schools

• Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

For a school to be recognized on the AP School Honor Roll in a given year, it must meet each of the following criteria for its students in the most recent graduating class; these criteria are anchored in research-based relationships between AP and college outcomes: 

Silver Distinction 

• College Culture: 50% or more. 
• College Credit: 30% or more. 
• College Optimization: 5% or more.

Gold Distinction 

• College Culture: 65% or more. 
• College Credit: 35% or more. 
• College Optimization: 10% or more.

Platinum Distinction 

• College Culture: 80% or more. 
• College Credit: 50% or more. 
• College Optimization: 15% or more.

* At least one of those exams was taken in 9th or 10th grade so that students are spreading their AP experience across grades rather than feeling disproportionate pressure in any single year. 

Read the full list of recognitions. More information about the AP School Honor Roll is available online. 

 

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

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

12 Angry Jurors - Oakton High School: October 25 at 7 p.m. and October 26 at 2 p.m.

The Crucible - Oakton High School: October 26 at 7 p.m.

Dessert on Broadway - Lake Braddock Secondary School: October 29 at 6:30 p.m.

King Lear - Woodson High School: November 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 7 p.m. and November 9 and 16 at 1 p.m.

The Play That Goes Wrong High School Edition - Oakton High School: November 14, 15, and 16 at 7 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m.

Puffs - West Springfield High School: November 14, 15, and 16 at 7 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m.

The 39 Steps - South County High School: November 14, 15, and 16 at 7 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream - Robinson Secondary School: November 15, 16, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m., November 16 at 2 p.m., a sensory-sensitive performance on November 21 at 6:30 p.m., and November 23 at 2 p.m.

Dorothy in Wonderland - Katherine Johnson Middle School: November 15 at 7 p.m. and November 16 at 2 p.m.

Much Ado About Nothing - Fairfax High School: November 20, 21, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m.

Peter Pan, Jr. - Lake Braddock Secondary School: November 21, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m.

Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical - Chantilly High School: November 21, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. and November 24 at 2 p.m.

Puffs - Lewis High School: November 21, 22, and 23 at 7 p.m. and November 24 at 2 p.m.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown - Rocky Run Middle School: November 22 and 23 at 7 p.m. and November 23 and 24 at 2 p.m.

Antigone 3021 - Centreville High School: November 22 at 7 p.m. and November 23 at 2 p.m. and November 24 at 2 p.m.

Staff and 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.

 

🏳️‍🌈 Safe Space NOVA Sunday Socials

Starting Sunday, October 27, Safe Space NOVA will host Sunday Socials for LGBTQIA+ youth 18 and under. Youths under 14 require parental consent. The socials will occur from 2 to 4 p.m. at 108 South Columbus Street, Alexandria, VA (inside the courtyard), and will include games, icebreakers, snacks, drinks, music, and good conversation. Adult supervision will be provided by trained mental health specialists and other LGBTQIA+ young adults.

For more information contact [email protected].

 

🌌 NASA TechRise Student Challenge

NASA invites students in grades 6–12 to submit science and technology experiment ideas to fly on a high-altitude balloon. The 2024–2025 TechRise Challenge provides participants with hands-on insight into the payload design and suborbital flight test process, with the goal of inspiring a deeper understanding of space exploration, Earth observation, coding, electronics, and the value of test data. Sixty winning teams will be selected to build their proposed experiment. The submission deadline is November 1, 2024.

 

Venture into Volunteering Fair

Are you looking for service hours? Attend the annual Venture into Volunteering Fair on Sunday, November 3, from 12-4 p.m. at the Springfield Town Center. Meet representatives from various nonprofits and local government agencies to learn about ways to volunteer in the community. Learn more.

If you have questions or would like to reserve a table as an organization, please email [email protected] or call 703-324-5406.

 

💸 Fairfax County Special Education PTA Mini-Grants

The Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) FCPS teacher and staff mini-grant application is now open! November 3, 2024, is the deadline to apply for a mini-grant from SEPTA for the fall. SEPTA is pleased to offer up to $500 in mini-grant funds for SEPTA member teachers and staff to implement programs, attend professional development, and obtain materials to support students with disabilities.

Apply on SEPTA’s Mini-Grant web page. They will announce those selected at IEP Palooza on Saturday, November 16!

 

  ⛄ 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show Volunteers Needed

The South County Parent Teacher Student Organization is seeking student volunteers to distribute flyers promoting the 19th Annual Lorton Holiday Extravaganza & Craft Show. See their Sign-up Genius to volunteer. All students will receive volunteer credits.

Community News 💊 Drug Take Back Day

The Drug Enforcement Administration is holding its annual National Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 26. Safely dispose of unused or expired medications through free, convenient, confidential, and safe disposal between 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Safe disposal of medications prevents drug misuse, and accidental poisoning, and protects the environment. Drop off your medications at the following locations convenient to Springfield District residents.

• Fair Oaks District Station
• Franconia District Station
• Kings Park Library
• Mount Vernon District Station
• Sully District Station

For more information visit the Fairfax County Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board web page.

 

🎃 Chantilly High School Annual Haunted House

Mark your calendar for the Chantilly High School Haunted House on Saturday, October 26 from 1-5 p.m. (less scary) and 6-10 p.m. (scarier) Along with the Haunted House, there will be games, face painting, and refreshments for sale. Proceeds benefit the Chargers Field Hockey, Girls Soccer, and Girls Lacrosse programs. Tickets are $10 in advance ($15 at the door). To order your tickets, use the QR code or log on to www.CHSHauntedHouse.com.

 

🍬 Lake Braddock Secondary Trunk or Treat

Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Trunk or Treat takes place Wednesday, October 30 in the student parking lot from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The event is $5 per child or $10 per family. They encourage everyone in the community to dress up and celebrate the spooky season!

If you would like to host a trunk, please complete this form.

 

❄️ Fairfax County Park Authority Winter Camp Registration

The Fairfax County Park Authority has set its registration dates for winter camps and classes. Registration for winter camps is now open. These camps take place during school holiday breaks and cultural observances. The single-day and two-day camp sessions run from December 8, 2024, through February 17, 2025. 

Find more information on the Park Authority website.

 

🛍️ Robinson Marketplace

Just in time for the holiday season, the Robinson Marketplace will occur on Saturday, November 9, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Robinson Secondary School. Support local businesses, artisans, and Robinson groups and clubs! Food, entertainment, and a silent auction auction will also be provided.

  🍫 Woodson High School Chorus See’s Candy Sale

Shop for the holidays by supporting the Woodson High School Chorus at their virtual See’s Candy store! Every purchase of See’s boxed chocolates, candy bars, and more goes to Woodson Chorus. Enjoy sweet treats while supporting a great cause! Candy will be available to ship on November 11, 2024.

  Chantilly Academy AFJROTC 2024 White House Ornament Fundraiser

The Chantilly Academy AFJROTC is selling 2024 White House Ornaments until December 8, 2024. The ornaments are $25 each. Contact a cadet or Lt. Col. Michael Rue at [email protected] to place your order. Acceptable forms of payment are cash, checks payable to “Chantilly Academy,” or credit cards via Schoolbucks.

 

🥤 West Springfield High School Low Incidence Small Business

West Springfield High School special education students in the Low Incidence Program started a small business! They make crayon letters, lanyards, wooden signs, mugs, and cups!

Original Creations is a small business that offers meaningful work experiences to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It provides opportunities for them to develop a wide range of functional skills that are essential for independence. It celebrates their willingness to learn, as well as the hard work and love they put into each product.

 Check out their website!

Family and Student Resources 🔐 Safely Store Firearms and Medications

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks that fit a wide variety of firearms. Visit the Lock and Talk website to learn more.

 

Teen Dating Violence

Fairfax County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Services supports teens who experience dating violence in their relationships. Teen dating violence includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial, and digital harm and can happen between those of any gender or sexuality. It may look like

• Beating, hitting, kicking, or shoving you or people or pets you care about
• Keeping you trapped or not letting you leave a room
• Going through your phone or social media accounts
• Stopping you from participating in your hobbies, interests, or extracurriculars 
• Lying about things you have said or done or telling you things about yourself that are not true
• Never pay for activities you do together or make you pay for everything.
• Forcing or guilting you into doing sexual things you do not want to do or which make you uncomfortable.
• Putting pressure on your neck or chest to make it hard for you to breathe
• Misgendering you or calling you by the wrong name or pronouns as if your identity doesn’t matter

Find more information on the Teen Dating Violence web page. If you are experiencing teen dating violence or see warning signs that your relationship is abusive, call the Domestic and Sexual Violence 24-hour Hotline at 703-360-7273.

 

FCPS Ombuds Staff Are Here to Hear You

Office of the Ombuds staff engage with families, students, and staff to offer resources, assist in settling conflicts, and raise concerns to improve the experience of every member of the FCPS community. The team works as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  

The ombuds is available to: 

• Share strategies for parents/caregivers to improve communication with teachers and schools.
• Help resolve disagreements involving employees in the workplace or disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools.
• Provide ideas to foster parent/caregiver participation in Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 Plan meetings.

Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.

Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected], or visit their webpage, where you may Submit a Question.

 

Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation

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

Sessions in English are held online on:

• Tuesday, November 12, at 6:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, December 10, at 6 p.m.
• Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. 

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

Upcoming Family Academy Events

The FCPS Family Academy is where families can learn and get support for their child's school journey. You are an important part of your child's education! The Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings.

✨ Fostering trusting partnerships with families is included in Pillar B of the FCPS Strategic Plan: Vibrant Home, School, & Community Partnerships.

 

💻 Digital Access Technology and Resources

Visit Fairfax County’s Digital Equity and Inclusion website to learn how to:

• Find free wifi.
• Borrow a computer.
• Visit Access Fairfax locations to use a computer. 
• Take free tech classes.
• Sign up for an internet discount.

 

💲Free Financial Aid and Scholarship Workshops

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is slated to open on December 1, 2024. Seniors and their families should complete the FAFSA and other financial aid applications in order to receive financial assistance for postsecondary education. Find more information in the College Access Fairfax October 11 newsletter. 

College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of free virtual workshops on the financial aid process and an overview of applying for outside scholarships.

More information may be found on College Access Fairfax’s Events page.

Paying for College

• Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 10 a.m.

Scholarship 101

• Tuesday, October 29, 2024 at 7 p.m.
• Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 10 a.m.

 

📑 Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost

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

 

💉 Upcoming Immunization Clinics

Does your child need school-required immunizations? If so, please check out the options below.

Elementary School Clinics

The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will provide immunizations for FCPS elementary students on limited early-release Mondays at their district offices. All school-required immunizations will be offered at no cost. Call 703-246-7100 to make your appointment.

Middle and High School Clinics

FCPS is partnering with the health department to host immunization clinics at middle and high schools. Clinics will take place during the school day. Students may only participate in the clinic at the school where they are enrolled. Parental/caregiver consent is required for students to receive immunizations.

Clinics are now being scheduled. Visit the Immunization Resources page for clinic locations, dates, and how to submit a consent form.

Please note that students age 19 and older may access free immunizations at their middle/high school immunization clinic, the Fairfax County Health Department, or through other community resources.

Safeway Immunization Clinics for All FCPS Students

Safeway Pharmacy will provide immunizations at Frost Middle School for all FCPS students at no cost on: Monday, October 28, 3-7 p.m.

Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are highly encouraged to avoid wait times. A parent or guardian must accompany walk-in students under 19 to provide consent. Learn more about immunization resources and registering in other languages for the Safeway clinic. 

 

✈️ Wings for All Program

Join The Arc of Northern Virginia for Wings for All, a free program that gives families and aviation professionals the confidence to take to the skies with ease. The program provides an airport “rehearsal,” as well as a presentation on the aircraft features and in-flight safety protocols. The Arc of Loudoun and The Arc of Northern Virginia partner with United Airlines and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority to design and carry out this program. By getting comfortable with the airport and flight experience (without actually leaving the airport) people with disabilities and their families can gain the familiarity and confidence they need to take future trips.

The first Wings for All will occur on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Washington Dulles International Airport from 8 a.m. to noon. The second event will take place on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The time and registration for this event are yet to be determined. 

During this free, half-day event, people with disabilities and their families can familiarize themselves with the airport and travel procedures. They experience:

• Entering the airport
• The check-in process and checking bags
• Security screening
• Boarding the plane
• Preparing for take-off
• Exiting the plane

Due to limited space on the airplane, a maximum of four (4) individuals are allowed per family group onto the aircraft, including the individual(s) with disabilities and family members/support staff accompanying them to the event. If a family group has multiple individuals with disabilities, then 1 designated adult is allowed per individual with disability. Additional family members attending the event but not boarding the plane will be able to wait at the gate to welcome them upon their return.

All participants 18 years old and over are required to bring a valid form of government-issued ID to be allowed through security.

Register in advance.

 

Fairfax County Special Education PTA IEP Palooza

Join the Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) for their second annual IEP Palooza on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 9 a.m. to noon at Luther Jackson Middle School. The event will include a simulated IEP meeting (with narration to draw attention to specific points), breakout sessions explaining the various parts of the IEP, and a resource fair to learn about community supports. Each breakout room will be hosted by a SEPTA board member and Fairfax County Public Schools staff member presenting as a team. We are thrilled that the Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC) will also join us to host two sessions in Spanish! This event is geared toward families, school staff, and students ages 14+. 

Register in advance.

  Transition Parents Support Group

The Arc of Northern Virginia is holding a Transition Parents Support Group on Saturday, November 16, 2024, from 10 a.m. to noon at their Fairfax location in the Cherry Blossom Room. The meeting provides a forum to share resources, ask questions, and be surrounded by families who understand the thrills and challenges of navigating life after leaving school.

Register in advance.

 

Military Family Resources Our Military Kids

Our Military Kids® (OMK) is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit offering extracurricular activity grants to children and teens of deployed National Guard, deployed Reserve, or post-9/11 combat wounded, ill, or injured Veterans in treatment. OMK activity grants build the children's self-confidence, enhance family wellness, and strengthen a shared sense of community. 

Military Childcare

Access to childcare directly affects mission readiness, morale, and retention of defense personnel worldwide. For this reason, the Department of Defense is committed to connecting military and DoD-affiliated families to quality, affordable childcare programs. Visit MilitaryChildcare.com for information.

 

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.

October and November webinars and workshops include:

• October 25, 10-11:30 a.m. - Transitioning with Confidence - Collaborating with the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services

• October 28, 5-7 p.m. - hybrid Dyslexia Open House: in person at 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Center, Fairfax, VA  22031 or via Zoom

• November 5, 9 a.m.-noon - in person at the Pulley Center: SIBSHOPS: an Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs

• November 5, 1-4 p.m. - in person at the Pulley Center: SIBTEEN: an Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs

• November 8, 10-11:30 a.m. - 5 Ways to De-Escalate a Nuclear Meltdown & Stop the Shame Cycle: A Webinar for Families

• November 12, 10-11 a.m. - Language Arts and Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities Accessing an Adapted Curriculum

• November 13, 10-11:30 a.m. - Executive Functioning Skills (presented in Arabic)

• November 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. - in person in the  Fairfax High School cafeteria (enter through door 1): Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair

• November 15, 10-11:30 a.m. - Teen Series: Building Resilience: Helping Teens Develop Coping Skills and Emotional Intelligence

• November 22, 10-11:30 a.m. - Starting the Conversation About Drugs: A Webinar for Families

In Case you Missed It

• September 25 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Boundary Review Updates
  • Review of Social Studies Teaching Resources
  • 2023-30 Strategic Plan - Goal 4: Equitable Access to Opportunities
• October 2 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • All FCPS School Accredited
  • How FCPS Teaches Reading and Writing
  • 2023-30 Strategic Plan - Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation
• October 9 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Learn About Lexia for Literacy
  • Celebrating the Power of School Lunches
  • Opportunity to Review Social Studies Classroom Resources
• October 16 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Fairfax County Youth Survey on Physical and Mental Well-Being
  • 2023-30 Strategic Plan - Goal 1: Strong Start PreK-12
  • Encouraging a Healthy, Balanced, Positive Approach to Media and Technology
• October 23 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
  • Federal Impact Aid Survey
  • Assistive Technology Student Ambassadors
  • Student-Driven Menus
• Office of Auditor General Current Engagement September Updates
• FCPS Business and Community Partnerships October Updates

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

Quick Links

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Safety Tip Line
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• Office of Ombuds

• Report Discrimination and Harassment

• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars
• 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | 2026-27 (not approved)

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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

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

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.

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 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

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.

 

🧪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.

Register in advance.

  🏫 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.

Register in advance. 

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

• Newsletter Subscription Preferences
• Safety Tip Line
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Family Academy
• Family Resource Center
• Office of Ombuds

• Report Discrimination and Harassment

• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• FCPS CARES
• Educate Fairfax
• Job Openings
• School Year Calendars
• 2024-2025 | 2025-2026 | 2026-27 (not approved)

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

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Sandy Anderson  |  571-423-1080

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