National Merit Commended Student Update From the Superintendent
Hello FCPS Students, Families and Staff,
Last month, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) was made aware that there had been a delay in sharing National Merit Scholarship Corporation recognition with students from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) designated as Commended Students by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
As part of the continuing review of our division-wide internal practices, it has come to light that there are two other schools where students did not receive timely notification of their designation as Commended Students this fall.
As soon as this new development was confirmed, Westfield and Langley high schools notified all impacted families and their broader respective school communities. Please be aware that FCPS is committed to sharing information that impacts our communities as soon as possible.
Staff has been contacting colleges where these students have applied to inform them of the National Merit Scholarship Corporation commendations. We are sincerely sorry for this error. Each and every student, their experience and success, remain our priority.
As we continue our division-wide review into these matters, we remain committed to being transparent with the key findings and sharing updates as appropriate to ensure each and every FCPS student is supported and recognized for the excellence they demonstrate.
FCPS continues to stand ready to work with our partners at the state level on their investigation. This past weekend, I proactively communicated this new information to the Office of the Attorney General for the Commonwealth of Virginia. Today, the Attorney General has extended his investigation to include all Fairfax County Public Schools.
We understand and value the hard work and dedication of each and every student, and the families and staff who support them. Please be assured that we remain resolutely committed to supporting every student in reaching their unique and fullest potential.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michelle C. Reid
Superintendent
Fairfax County Public Schools
