Fairfax County School Board Announces National Superintendent of the Year As Next Leader
The Fairfax County School Board has voted to appoint Michelle Reid, Ed.D., as the next superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools.
Dr. Reid is known regionally and nationally for strong instructional leadership. She was named AASA National Superintendent of the Year in 2021 for exemplary communications, her work in closing achievement gaps, and leading her previous school system in uncharted territory at the start of the pandemic.
She has been praised for her early pandemic response; her creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students; her equity work; strength in both personal and organizational communication; and understanding of regional, national, and international issues. Dr. Reid is also known for leading robust community engagement to ensure all stakeholders, including students, have a voice.
“Everyone has a lived experience,” said Dr. Reid. “When you walk by inequity you have lost the moral authority to lead. I am committed to listening and learning from this community so, together, we can build on the strengths of Fairfax County Public Schools while developing schools of the future, not the past.”
With a STEM background, Dr. Reid has a proven track record in improving math and science proficiency, but is also a strong believer that success in these subjects does not happen without equally strong literacy skills.
Dr. Reid’s commitment to increasing access, opportunity, and equity for all students in public education led to the creation of Northshore’s Racial and Educational Justice Department. She is committed to bringing that equity mindset to her leadership of FCPS and will focus on ensuring that each student has access and opportunity to reach their greatest potential. During her tenure, she has overseen increases in graduation rates for all students - especially English Language learners.
“Dr. Reid is focused on academic achievement and outcomes for every student in our Fairfax community. She has previously demonstrated the highest professional standards when it comes to leading a school district and a proven track record of working to build a successful future for students. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to working closely with her,” said Fairfax County School Board Chair and Sully District Representative Stella Pekarsky.
Dr. Reid has served as superintendent for Northshore School District, Washington, since 2016 – a school district that is seen as the gold standard in Washington State. She previously served as superintendent of South Kitsap School District in Port Orchard, Washington. Prior to becoming South Kitsap's superintendent, she served as deputy superintendent, district athletic director, and high school principal in Port Angeles (Washington) School District.
Dr. Reid received her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Washington, master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Washington, and her bachelor’s degree in Natural Science/Chemistry from the University of Puget Sound.
Fairfax County Public Schools is the 11th largest school district in the U.S., with 199 schools and centers; 180,000 students; and 25,000 full-time employees.
Incoming Superintendent Reid Tells FCPS Journalists She’ll Prioritize Student Voice, Agency
Dr. Reid speaks with student journalists spanning all grade levels Friday afternoon to introduce herself and her goals to the 180,000 students enrolled in FCPS.
New Chapter: Incoming FCPS Superintendent Connects with Students and Staff
Dr. Michelle Reid visited two schools Friday to meet students, see teachers in action, and greet principals.
Meet the New Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools
In a video, Dr. Reid shares more about her background, her passion for education, and what she thinks makes FCPS a world-class school division.
