School Board Supports Creation of Lewis Leadership Program
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously supported the creation of the John R. Lewis Leadership Program at Lewis High School at their work session on December 14, 2021.
In December 2020, at a Board Forum sponsored by School Board At-Large Member Karen Keys-Gamarra, the Board voted to ask staff to conduct research into the development of a Lewis Leadership Academy that adopts the principles of its namesake’s life in a curriculum that focuses on government, public policy, leadership, and human rights.
The Lewis Leadership Program is proposed to offer full-time enrollment, modeled after the Edison Global STEM Challenges Program. The development of a program of this scale will be a multi-year initiative requiring long-term commitment and additional financial support.
“I am extremely thankful to my colleagues for supporting the development of the Lewis Leadership Program,” said Keys-Gamarra. “It will not only support student success at Lewis, but it will also enhance the educational experience of high schoolers across the school division.”
The program is supported by a collaborative effort of John R. Lewis High School students and staff, FCPS leadership, community groups, and higher education institutions and centers. The Lewis Leadership Program will be integrated into the core curriculum, making it a unique learning experience for all students. The creation of the program aligns with FCPS’ strategic plan and the school district’s commitment to providing multiple options for students to explore areas of interest and better map their futures.
School Board Member and Lee District Representative Tamara Derenak Kaufax stated, “I have long advocated that this type of curriculum be offered in an FCPS school. I am proud that the Lewis Leadership Program will provide instructional programming on government leadership, policy, and civic engagement aligned with our International Baccalaureate (IB) program. It’s exciting to know that students in this new program will have unique opportunities for internships and college credits in fields related to civic leadership and public policy.“
The next steps in the process of building the Lewis Leadership Program include community engagement, conducting curriculum development, establishing a budget for the development of special programming, and exploring how the program’s development could support other Fairfax County public schools.
The Fairfax County School Board voted to rename Robert E. Lee High School after the late U.S. Congressman John R. Lewis in July 2020. The name change occurred during the midst of the pandemic and heightened awareness of social injustice and was led in large part by students.
For more information, contact the Office of Communication and Community Relations at 571-423-1200.
