Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Hello Team FCPS!
As I sit down to share my thoughts this evening, I invite you to consider with me the amazing gifts we each have to be thankful for this winter season. It is so easy at times to fuss about things that pale in comparison to the challenges others around our dear world face. This evening, I wish for each of you that you are able to be wholly present for the beauty and joy of this winter season and that you find those peaceful and meaningful moments of reflection and contemplation. With the clamor of our daily lives, it is often refreshing to pause and find the quiet. "It is in the stillness that we save and transform the world." -- Eckhart Tolle
And so, Annandale High School student Tyson Perkins was recently featured during the Good Morning Washington segment, Kids Give Back. He shared about his work with the local non-profit to promote their "Baskets for Babies" initiative. This program encourages children to assemble and distribute essential items for families with infants, teaching the importance of giving back. Tyson shared his experiences and discussed the Atoms Games, an Annandale event that builds school community and gives back to Annandale families. Check it out on wjla.com. Way to go Tyson! Together, all things are possible!!
Thanks to Cheri Miller, Latin language teacher at Lake Braddock Secondary School, for sharing about a recent field trip for her students. Cheri writes, “We’re excited to share that the upper-level Latin, French, and Japanese classes from Lake Braddock Secondary School recently participated in an enriching experiential learning trip to the National Gallery of Art and the National Museum of Asian Art. French students explored the captivating new Impressionism exhibit and examined pieces from the gallery’s regular collections. Latin students engaged in a Mythology Scavenger Hunt, connecting classical themes with timeless art. Japanese students participated in a docent-led tour highlighting Japanese art, perfectly complementing their Human Expressions: Beauty and Art unit.” Go Bruins!!
As you may recall from a few weeks ago, I was able to participate in the Move with Compassion flash mob at Bailey’s Upper Elementary School. Principal Holly Dowling shares that “It was truly inspiring to see our students and staff come together as a community for this dance centered on kindness. Their energy and focus on making a positive impact – including specific ways we can show kindness to each other – really reminds us how amazing they are. They fill my days with joy every day.” She also shared this video which features students explaining how to show kindness and compassion to others as well as the flash mob itself. Go Tigers!!
I am thrilled to announce that FCPS is providing financial support for 100 FCPS employees who hold bachelor’s degrees but do not hold a Virginia teaching license, to become fully certified teachers within 12-24 months through the self-paced, online iteach program as members of the Teach Forward (Avanza!) FCPS cohort. Teach Forward (Avanza!) FCPS is a new program for current FCPS employees and community members who hold a bachelor’s degree or higher but have never held a Virginia teaching license. Accepted participants will become provisionally licensed teachers for the 2025-26 school year upon completion of the initial iteach program requirements, beginning teaching immediately in August 2025. Within 12-24 months, they will earn their teaching certification in one of the designated endorsements and commit to teaching in FCPS for at least two full school years after receiving their 10-year renewable teaching license. Participants are only responsible for the $250 iteach enrollment fee and the costs of the required Praxis tests. The full iteach program cost of $2800 will be funded by FCPS. More information, including the application link, is available here on the FCPS web.
This week we held two more Boundary Review Community Meetings, the first one was held on Monday at Mount Vernon High School, and the second one Thursday at Annandale High School. These meetings allow attendees to hear more about the boundary review process and provide insights into our community’s priorities and needs. As I mentioned last week, no boundary changes have been proposed at this time. We are only in phase 1 of the process that will continue until spring 2026. I’m thankful for the active involvement of community members who have attended these meetings and for the insightful conversations shared by our families, staff, and students! The final meeting of 2024 will be held on Wednesday, December 18, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Madison High School. I encourage you to attend to learn more about the boundary review process and provide input. Registration is not required but does help us plan. You can also sign up to receive the School Boundary Review newsletter by email. Keep an eye out for information on additional meetings in 2025!
On Tuesday, the Chief Equity Office hosted its final convening tied to the five follow-on motions from the May 2024 school board meeting. This community forum followed 18 focus groups that the Chief Equity Office has hosted on the Student Rights and Responsibilities Regulation, cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options over the course of the fall. The purpose of Tuesday’s community forum was to gather additional feedback to inform the School Board’s decision-making this spring around these topics. The Chief Equity Office hosted 185 participants including current students, parents and caregivers, community organizations, School Board committee representatives, staff, teachers, and administrators. The team is grateful to the 50 FCPS staff members who served as table facilitators, note takers, interpreters, and childcare providers. Thank you to all the community forum participants and volunteers who took the time to share your thoughts and perspectives, and to all the FCPS staff who supported this successful event. Learning happens best in community!
Tuesday evening, I attended the Woodson High School Choral Department’s winter concert, titled “The Stories We Tell.” According to Choral Director Amy Moir, “It was a wide representation of music from the 15th century Spanish carol Riu, Riu Chiu through modern day literature such as What About Us made popular by Pink. Students reflected on the stories of different cultures and religions representing multiple languages, traditions, and customs.” The students have such beautiful voices and worked very hard to put the show together. I appreciate the dedication of so many … Go Cavaliers!!
Wednesday, we had a meeting of the Family Vision Group for Quad 4 at Garfield Elementary School. We had a great discussion about the security process for school volunteers, student rights and responsibilities, the cell phone policy, student safety during after-school activities, and the resources available from the Family Academy. These meetings are a great way for parents and caregivers to provide their feedback on ways we can improve our schools!
Later Wednesday evening, I attended the winter band concert at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Again, so many students and staff put so much of themselves into this work to create such beautiful music for all to enjoy. I particularly enjoyed hearing the Mars winds in one of the songs and thought about all those whose voices and talents combine to provide us with such joy; this work matters.
Thursday was a busy day of school visits! My first visit was to Poplar Tree Elementary School, where I was greeted by Principal Susan Andujar and Assistant Principal Amy Alley. Our first stop was to the classroom of school-based technology specialist Leslie Leisey, where she was leading a meeting of the school’s Tech Squad, a group of students in grades 4-6 who work to help younger students – and sometimes teachers ;>) – with technology.
Students must apply to join the squad, including submitting their resume. They were an impressive group! Next, we went to the classroom of Mandy Walter, a severe disabilities teacher, where the students were engaged in language arts instruction. A few doors down we visited with Mclaine Sheehy, a multiple disabilities teacher, whose students were also working on language arts.
Our next stop was to the sixth grade Advanced Academic Placement (AAP) math classroom of Daniel Schroll, and we finished with a visit to the art classroom of Andrea Williams, where first graders were making slab drape bowls, which I learned are a type of pottery made by draping a circular slab of clay over a raised mold or bowl to create a base, then folding and curving the clay to create a design. I could see the enthusiasm in the students' faces as they worked to make their bowls. Art instruction is so important for our students' development, as it nurtures creativity and critical thinking, offering a platform for self-expression and stress reduction. Go Panthers!!
Next, I went to McNair Upper Elementary School, which is led by Principal Melissa Goddin. In the sixth grade AAP classroom of Jossette Kearney, the students were learning and writing about Anne Frank’s diary as part of a language arts assignment. One student has taken inspiration from this lesson to start her own diary as she enters the last half of her sixth grade year. She wants to be able to remember how she was feeling and what she was thinking about at this time of her life. Very impressive! In the sixth grade classrooms of Kristine Zeman and Humera Yousuf, the students were also engaged in language arts assignments. I was also pleased to hear that the fourth grade team was able to take some time to engage in planning for upcoming Benchmark Advance lessons. Go Mustangs!!
After I visited McNair Upper Elementary, I headed over to McNair Elementary, where Sheryl Rauer’s first-grade class welcomed me with fun and interactive finger math. It's always inspiring to see our young learners building such strong foundational math skills!
The first stop on our tour with Principal Elizabeth Watson was Dreier Qureshi’s Head Start inclusion classroom. There, I had the chance to see students enjoying some of our new menu items served in a family-style setting. It was a great example of how we’re promoting community and connection during lunchtime. Next, I had the privilege of meeting two teachers in our Teacher Trainee Program, Karina Aguero Van Goethem and Rachel Batta. What a joy to see the next generation of educators in action! From there, we went to Ashley Rose’s music class, where kindergarteners learned about traditions and songs from different cultures. It’s so important that we expose students to diverse cultural experiences as we prepare them to become the global leaders of tomorrow. The final stop on my visit was Shannon Burke’s first-grade class, where students were diving into early literacy with a focus on writing and reading. It's exciting to see these young learners developing such essential skills. Go Mustangs!!
Next, I visited Hutchison Elementary, where Principal Sarah Aiello took me into the second-grade wing to explore Virginia’s Native Peoples: A Project-Based Learning Unit. Students from Diana Partyka, Lilia Damian, Madhuri Karandikar, and Floriana Van Pelt’s classes showcased dioramas and other exhibits they had created, highlighting the Powhatan, Lakota, and Pueblo tribes. They shared detailed information about the environments, homes, and traditions of these native Virginian cultures. Great job, Eagles!!
Later Thursday, I had the privilege of honoring Mr. Lawrence Cooper, a Work Awareness and Transition teacher at West Potomac High School, as the inaugural recipient of the FCPS CARES of the Quarter Award. Many of you are already familiar with the FCPS CARES program, which allows parents, staff, and community members to acknowledge FCPS employees who make a profound impact on our students and staff. For the past eight years, the CARES of the Month program has celebrated exceptional nominations each month from the six Regions and one central office department.
To enhance this initiative, Educate Fairfax partnered with the employee recognition team to create the CARES of the Quarter award, which further highlights the incredible stories of our outstanding employees and their meaningful contributions. During Thursday’s ceremony, Lawrence was presented with a certificate and a $500 check from Apple Federal Credit Union. His unwavering commitment to his students sets a high standard, and beyond his remarkable work in the classroom, Lawrence fosters a strong sense of community and teamwork at West Potomac. By recognizing exceptional educators like Lawrence, we reaffirm the significance of their work and the lasting impact they have on our students. This award serves as a testament to the dedication, passion, and commitment our staff demonstrate each day. This work matters!!
I have some great news to share. After a very competitive application process, the annual Educate Fairfax Grants have been selected and announced for the 2024-25 school year! This year, the team at Educate Fairfax was able to financially support 107 grants across 100 Fairfax County Public Schools, including 24 Title 1 Schools, totaling an unprecedented $180,273 in funding! These grants will help defray the costs of innovation in our schools, which might otherwise come out of the pockets of our educators and staff, or simply not be possible.
As a result of the funding for these grants, nearly 36,000 of our students will be directly impacted - our biggest award ever. This milestone is made possible by the incredible generosity of our donors, who believe in the power of public education to foster creativity, inspire innovation, and create equitable learning opportunities for all students. Congratulations to our 107 grantees and a big Thank You to our friends at Educate Fairfax for making this happen. We look forward to growing donor support in future years to fund all applications fully. Go to https://sqr.co/EducateFairfaxGrants2425/ to see the list of schools receiving grants and learn more about the innovative work that’s planned for inside and outside the classroom.
Saturday, FCPS held an Instructional Job Fair at Sandburg Middle School. We are always on the lookout for the next generation of teachers who will lead our students in the classroom! If you know someone who is interested in working for FCPS, or perhaps you are looking for an instructional position, the next job fair will be on January 11, 9 a.m. to noon, at Glasgow Middle School. I continue to so appreciate our human resources team for their dedication to hiring the very best next educators for Team FCPS.
Saturday morning also provided the opportunity to join the girls wrestlers at Madison High School. This is a new sport for our girls this year just as boys volleyball was new for our boys this fall. I enjoyed visiting with a number of our student athletes, coaches and family members. It is an exciting time as this sport is now an Olympic sport as well.
Following the wrestling tournament, I attended the performance of The Snowman performed by the Madison High School orchestra and choral groups. It was a full house of families and children who were enthralled with the performance of the orchestra and choral groups. Definitely a classic well performed.
In other news, the new Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) 2024 Accountability System includes a School Performance and Support Framework (SPSF). The SPSF includes a separate measure of student achievement growth as a performance indicator for elementary and middle schools. Under the new SPSF, growth is measured in grades 4-8 by looking at how a student’s current score compares to other Virginia students with similar past Standards of Learning (SOL) performance. For a student to show “growth” within SPSF, they must keep up with or outperform their peers. This approach presents certain potential issues. For example, this new system in effect identifies “winners” and “losers” in growth calculations, since we recognize that not all students will progress at the same pace.
The previous accountability system’s growth measure, on the other hand, looked at a student’s year-over-year SOL improvement using predefined targets. The new system is only concerned about comparisons with others rather than students reaching for and achieving their own individual highest potential. Within FCPS, our energy will continue to go toward helping each individual student show ongoing growth in their own academic knowledge. Goal #3 of our 2023-30 Strategic Plan focuses on Academic Growth and Excellence via meeting or exceeding high academic standards and achieving each student's highest academic potential. By monitoring our Goal 3 outcomes at the school and division level, we will keep our focus on the values important to our FCPS community.
Thank you to Joyce Matthews, XSTREAM Programs coordinator at Braddock Elementary School for sharing this week’s Advancing Literacy segment! Joyce shared a letter from Braddock Elementary School Literacy Coach Jacqueline Vereen about Braddock’s Readers are Leaders program. Jacqueline writes that “Readers are Leaders is a partnership program we have with Annandale High School students since 2018. It is a literacy tutoring partnership consisting of our 2nd grade students and Annandale’s high school basketball players, coaches, and the National Student Honor Society.
“As Fairfax County adapts the new Benchmark literacy curriculum, we decided to focus on comprehension. On November 18, we trained 27 Annandale basketball players at Braddock Elementary, using Benchmark Advance Intervention Comprehension for grades 2-6. This curriculum offers scaffolded reteaching and extra practice for students working toward mastery of essential reading skills for reading literacy and informational texts. It also provides guided and targeted practice to help struggling readers develop the key skills they need to achieve reading mastery.
“The amount of dedication and investment that these young Annandale students have put forth is clear by the way they try to scaffold instruction so that our students make progress. They understand the needs of our students and are focused to move our students forward. We stand proud of the conversations they are having with our students. They are asking critical indirect/direct questions, they are asking for evidence from the text/rereading, they are providing motivation, being strong role models on the importance of reading. Our students have bonded with their Annandale tutors, we are seeing the joy of learning in their eyes. Braddock students look forward to seeing them. These Annandale students should be commended for their maturity, focus, and the love of helping our students.”
Thank you for sharing, Joyce, and Jacqueline! What a wonderful initiative and a great way for our students to grow — both as leaders and as readers! Go Eagles and go Atoms!!
Talented FCPS students and teams were recognized by the Virginia High School League (VHSL) for excelling at a variety of athletic pursuits from cross country to golf. Four FCPS teams and two individuals earned VHSL Class 6 championship in their respective sports, and six teams and two individuals were the state runners-up. Congratulations to our stellar student-athletes and our coaches for all their hard work!
Saturday was the VHSL Class 6 state football final, with our Madison Warhawks squaring off against Oscar Smith High School from the Tidewater area. While Oscar Smith prevailed 21-20 in a close contest, we are proud of our Warhawks for the hard work this season!
Finally, there are so many examples of our students and staff going above and beyond to support those less fortunate in our community this winter holiday season. This speaks so highly of the character and grace abundant in our great school division; a real FCPS family feel to be sure. Many have noted the following: “This is my wish for you: peace of mind, prosperity through the year, happiness that multiplies, health for you and yours, fun around every corner, energy to chase your dreams, joy to fill your holidays!” What a joyful wish to come true for each of you …
Warmest wishes for a great week ahead,
Michelle Reid, Ed.D.
Superintendent
