Partnership Update - September 2021

Financial giving is incredibly important, but nothing compares to the feeling a person receives by engaging with students. We encourage you to join an opportunity for virtual or mask-to-mask engagement with FCPS students. 

The Ignite Partnerships program offers ways to work with and support young people, which we know from experience, can invigorate--or reinvigorate if the rumors are true--your sense of community and support for community.  

While all eight of our Ignite Partnership areas offer benefits, Workforce Development may be of interest as it offers a unique solution for businesses struggling to hire quality employees.   

Guidelines for in-person volunteering change quickly as the local health and safety situation changes. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility, and commitment to supporting students. When in-person volunteering is paused, virtual volunteering remains a great way to stay involved.

They Signed on the Dotted Line

In a month’s time, our friends at Capital One went farther than expected.  Last we reported, the valued Capital One Coders program was headed to Poe, Sandburg, and Whitman Middle Schools this school year. Since then, the committed and generous team at Capital One enlisted more volunteers and they have added Glasgow and Holmes Middle Schools.

This means a whopping, 200 to 250 students will learn web development and coding from business leaders currently in the workforce. Thank you.

Providence Presbyterian Church started purchasing school supplies for students at Annandale High School before our Ignite Partnership was official--ensuring delivery of the kits to students as the ink on their John Hancock dried. The thoughtful team at the church intends to work on a winter coat, scarf, and hat drive next; followed by a donation of health and hygiene items for students. 

Providence Presbyterian’s efforts will serve at least 75 students this school year. Thank you.

Paid Internships are Happening 

Students participating in our Genesys Works Ignite Partnership are now interning at local companies. They kicked off the start of their paid internship program at Signing Day, an event held in Washington, D.C.. The Signing Day marks the students' successful completion of their virtual 8-week summer training—a sign of commitment to themselves and the program to continue into their 1-year paid internships. 

This year, Genesys Works reported the highest retention of students during summer training since the start of their National Capital Region partnership in 2015.

Congratulations to the Genesys Works class of 2021. 

Almost There - Kudos, Info, and an Offer Follow

They Did it Again.

The many businesses, not-for-profits, organizations, and individuals who support our annual Collect for Kids school supply drive have once again outdone themselves. 

Thank you supporters and strategic team members for giving your time, efforts, and generosity. This year, through 560 donations, Collect for Kids raised nearly $50,000. Since we buy in bulk at a cost of $10 per school supply kit, this year's effort served about 5,000 students with quality school supplies. 

Contributions are welcome all year and can be made online through the Foundation for FCPS. Can you give $10?

Who You Gonna Call?

The partnerships team fields a lot of calls and emails from people looking to sell their goods or services to Fairfax County Public Schools. While we’re happy to redirect you, it may help if we more clearly define our roles. 

• Regarding revenue arrangements, Fairfax County Public Schools has a very structured processes for introducing products, curricular support, and other “for hire” services. We want to know if you are interested in doing business with FCPS.
• The Partnerships team works with businesses and community groups who wish to establish mutually beneficial and free partnerships. We do so in seven areas branded as our Ignite Partnerships. In each of the areas, we require engagement thresholds that you can read about in the link.

No matter your cause and goals, thank you for your interest in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Offer Discounts to Educators

Merchants looking to share discounts or coupons with roughly 39,000 FCPS employees and retirees should consider our Saving for Staff program.  

For a nominal fee, you can offer your online coupons and show your appreciation for all of the extra efforts teachers and others are making.

Our partners at PerkSpot are ready to guide.  Learn all about posting your discounts at our Savings for Staff website today.