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![Catherine Lee](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022316-2022-1600x600.jpg?h=a33eaacf&itok=QTSCYixK)
Becoming a Special Education Teacher - A Journey Across the World
Catherine Lee discovered FCPS as a parent, while looking for adequate care and education for her son with special needs. Her experience inspired her to become a teacher.
![Dr. Reid talking to students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Feb21-Reid-hero-022314-1050.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=IMuJtYFy)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This week she visited Lewis HS for a town hall on mental health and schools and she met with Cooper MS students working on an earthquake relief project. She also visited Mountain View…
![A John R. Lewis High School student asks a question of U.S. Education Sec. Miguel Cardona at a national town hall forum hosted by her school.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Lewis-DOE-HERO.jpg?h=ec56ac04&itok=aZH22QfL)
Lewis HS Hosts Education Sec. Cardona, Surgeon General Murthy for National Mental Health Forum
During the event, panelists discussed the need for support in schools to address a mental health crisis occurring in teens.
![Edison High School's production of Clue: Onstage (High School Edition)](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/TE_Clue_d.jpg?h=1acd623b&itok=WOCWyhoj)
Cappies Review of Clue: Onstage (High School Edition) by Edison High School
Nathan Bass of McLean High School gives us his review of Clue: Onstage (High School Edition), as performed by Edison High School.
![Dr. Reid greets an SRO](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/092223-2051.jpg?h=dd306a7a&itok=UMWKLU05)
Thank You to All Our School Resource Officers!
February 15 is School Resource Officer Appreciation Day
![the Edison Step Team performs](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022308-2146-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=POpXTNWa)
FCPS This Week - February 15
In this issue, learn about the 2023-24 School Year Calendar, how ESSER funds are helping students, and School-Zone Speed Cameras.
![A couple takes a selfie in front of the Jefferson Memorial](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Submitted-Couples2-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=gSDv4ZrZ)
We ❤️ FCPS!
Across FCPS, there are many couples and families including FCPS employees. What do these families love about the division that keeps multiple people employed here?
![A small group of students meet every day at Brookfield Elementary to work on reading intervention skills, with staffing and materials funded by federal aid intended to help students recover from the pandemic.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Brookfield-ESSER-Hero2.jpg?h=58c8a5e7&itok=c0JcSnhh)
“I Can Feel My Brain Getting Stronger:” ESSER Funds Help Students Make Big Gains In Small Group Work at Brookfield Elementary
Small groups of children across Fairfax County are receiving intervention services every day in reading or math, funded by federal aid intended to help students recover from the pandemic.
![student artwork](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Feb13-Scholastic%20Art%20Awards.jpg?h=1183d7da&itok=Ov0DA7QP)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This week she visited Bryant HS. She got a sneak peek at the art of student award winners and watched several high school basketball games.
![message from the superintendent](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/superintendent-message-2021-hero-image_1.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=AzKA5_3t)
Approved Calendar Focuses on Academic Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity for Next Three Years
The Fairfax County School Board approved a calendar for the 2023-24, 2024-25, and 2025-26 school years. Thank you for being a part of this important process and making your voice heard through the calendar survey and other feedback opportunities.
![window part of building](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/CIP-Board-Approve-hero-091906-1053.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=mAPdhMxZ)
Approved Capital Improvement Program Adds New Schools, Advances Commitment to Student Success
Fairfax County School Board unanimously approved an annual update to the capital improvement program (CIP) that includes continuing work on upgrading school facilities across the County, the building of three new elementary schools, and acquiring land to be used for a new high school.
![calendar development](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/calendar-approved-hero.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=ifQe29vD)
School Board Adopts a Calendar for Three School Years; Supports a Culture of Academic Excellence, Equity and Opportunity
The Fairfax County School Board has approved a school calendar for the 2023-24 school year and for the following two years. The first day of the 2023-24 school year will be August 21.
![Educate Fairfax 2022 Hall of Fame Inductees](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/052022EducateFairfax-186.jpg?h=1baeedd3&itok=KQ9PXAmL)
Partnership Update - February 2023
Learn more on the latest happenings with partnership activities in FCPS
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School Board Meeting Highlights - February 9, 2023
February 9, 2023 - Regular Meeting
![A counselor sits on the floor talking with students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012309-1176-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=VFugw8ox)
Thank You School Counselors!
Happy National School Counselor Week!
![Students receiving awards from Fairfax County Board of Supervisors](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Historical%20Marker%202023.jpg?h=3797f117&itok=VWRX3s0Q)
Historical Marker Contest Update
In 2022, area students submitted historical marker proposals to highlight the contributions of Black Americans in our communities; six markers were chosen to be installed in 2023.
![teacher smiling with two students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/MicrosoftTeams-image%20%28213%29.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=VhyG69FH)
In-Person Tutors Needed!
FCPS is actively recruiting qualified tutors to provide in-person academic support to small groups of students at schools that are being identified to have the greatest need. This tutoring program is intended to be high impact: relational, consistent, and targeted to each student.
![A student shows off a model rocket](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/072205-2337.jpg?h=1092a6fc&itok=IVKqdyCf)
FCPS This Week - February 8, 2023
In this week's issue, you'll find information on summer camp registration, magnet school information night, and a substance abuse prevention panel discussion.
![A crossing guard helps a student cross the street.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022013-1121-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=ZhKWp9J8)
Thank You to our Crossing Guards!
It's crossing guard appreciation day in Virginia!
![A teacher watches students working on a project](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/112237-1085-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=-XqU6G2e)
Why Are You a Teacher? Tell us!
"I am a teacher because I want to help my students grow into critical thinkers who can problem-solve issues that affect them and their communities." Why are you a teacher? Tell us!
![Dr. Reid](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Feb6--Reflections-Woodchuck-022302-1240_3.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=eLflfzj4)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This week she visited the Governor's STEM Academy at Marshall HS, Whitman MS, Weyanoke ES, Holmes MS, Poe MS, Mason Crest ES, Hayfield SS, Lynbrook ES, and Herndon HS.
![A student interacts with a service dog.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012317-1191-heroweb_0.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=crBpmxAn)
FCPS This Week - February 1, 2023
In this week's issue, learn about the School Year Development Process, Regional Scholastic Art Awards Winners, Career Expo for High School Students, and Strategic Planning forum dates.
![fcps cares at woodlawn elementary](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/fcps-cares-february-2023-1.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=Y1RZpn6W)
FCPS CARES - February 2023
FCPS CARES submissions for the month of February 2023.
![Micah the therapy dog comforts a student.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012317-1191-heroweb.jpg?h=e756c772&itok=No48UUG1)
Playing with Numbers: Therapy Dog Helps Students with Special Needs Learn Math in a Fun and Relaxing Way
Micah the golden retriever helps students at Key Center School meet their academic goals while also serving as a loyal companion.
![School Year Calendar Development](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/cal-dev-hero4_0.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=m8I1RhCh)
Have You Completed the Calendar Feedback Form?
We want employee input on the feedback requests related to the School Year Calendar Development Process. Tell us what you think!
![A science teacher writes on a white board.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122206-1112-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=xS5FmV2T)
"They are the Reason I Teach"
What inspires you to be a teacher? Kirsten Salonga from Justice High School shares her inspiration.
![Generic news release image - lime color](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_news-lime-1_7_5.png?h=26e46eba&itok=swhyxyL1)
Elementary Magnet Schools Information Nights to Be Held February 13, 15, 16; Applications Accepted March 1 - April 12
Fairfax County Public Schools will be accepting applications for its elementary magnet school programs beginning Wednesday, March 1. Information nights will be held February 13, 15, and 16.
![Two people smiling near DC monument](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/MicrosoftTeams-image%20%28175%29.png?h=2aa300aa&itok=Wsj9fIs8)
We ❤️ FCPS
Did you meet your partner through FCPS? Do you come from an FCPS family? What do you love about working for FCPS? Share your story and photos with us by emailing [email protected].
![award winners](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/2022-Conference-Awards-heroweb_0.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=sMpWkZ4T)
Five Schools Receive FCPS School Communications Awards
The 2022 Award of Communication Excellence celebrates the creation of excellent website, newsletter, and social media content that informs and engages readers.
![FCPS Strategic Planning](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/stratplan-hero-circle_0.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=2eSAKNgH)
What Would You Like to See in the Future of FCPS?
Strategic Planning Community forums begin tonight! What do you hope to see in the future of FCPS?
![An assistant principal high fives a student](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/112213-2131-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=khPq9nz6)
Winter Professional Development Options
Professional development opportunities are available to teachers and staff this winter. Read for more information.
![Dr. Reid speaking at conference](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Reflections-again-January-29-012323-1106.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=7Co2EfGe)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This week she visited Woodson HS and South Lakes HS. She spoke at events for 26 FCPS participants in the Fairfax County Youth Leadership Program and for Career and Technical Education…
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School Board Meeting Highlights - January 26, 2023
January 26, 2023 - Regular Meeting
![A mentor high fives a student over a chess board.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012315-2061-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=3NoKWXl6)
“Anyone Can Be a Mentor”
Many FCPS employees participate in MentorWorks by connecting with students for at least 30 minutes a week in schools near where they work. Have you considered the impact you could make by mentoring?
![A music teacher teaches while playing a violin.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122209-1027-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=HpqOxnQE)
What do You Find Fulfilling?
Melinda Ward, strings teaching at Rolling Valley Elementary School, shares how she finds teaching fulfilling.
![Students dressed in traditional Korean clothes celebrate Lunar New year](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012316-2219-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=-ubeKJss)
FCPS This Week January 25
In this week's issue, learn how to submit feedback on the school calendar drafts, see how to use the new text-to-speech feature on our website, and learn more about summer camp options.
![Green press release graphic](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_awards-green_2_10.png?h=6f64ded6&itok=VUyWM6hc)
FCPS Students Recognized with 2023 Regional Scholastic Art Awards
The Fairfax County Art Region of the Scholastic Art Awards recognized FCPS students with 174 Gold Key awards, 171 Silver Key awards, and 188 Honorable Mention awards. Four works by FCPS students were nominated for the best-in-show American Visions Award.
![The salad bar at London Towne ES.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/3_1.jpg?h=5dc9785f&itok=o8ZAIPv8)
Lettuce Rejoice! Students Celebrate the Return of the Salad Bar
Salad bars have been paused during the COVID-19 pandemic. Students are excited to explore the new healthy options.
![A military family posing for a picture.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/032221-1143-heroweb.jpg?h=a0d3b522&itok=VoriMwBH)
Filling Your Child’s Emotional Bank Account
Healthy Minds Feature - Establish healthy relationships with your child by developing trust through emotional sharing.
![student eating a piece of broccoli](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Salad-Bar-012312-2056.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=AYShaWLH)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This week she visited London Towne ES to see the relaunch of salad bars. She also participated in a panel with students who run the Student Human Rights Commission.
![generic graphic for news](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_news-green-2_23.png?h=26e46eba&itok=HSzaqQtP)
Statement from Fairfax County School Board Regarding National Merit Scholarship Corporation Commended Scholar Notification
With the School Board’s support and oversight, Superintendent Michelle Reid has been addressing the operational matter of notification to students designated as Commended by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
![A Powell Elementary student displays a bunny puppet she made to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/LunarBunny.jpg?h=5e2b9da0&itok=YSvkOrfL)
Hopping Into the Year of the Rabbit
Powell Elementary School Holds School-Wide Celebration of the Lunar New Year
![generic image](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/supt-message-2021-hero-image_5.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=hRUs-lua)
National Merit Update from Superintendent
For the past month, we have been working to consider solutions for the delay in distribution of certificates for some of our Commended Students as designated by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC).
![A student mentor high fives a student learning the piano](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122207-2062-heroweb.jpg?h=195d542b&itok=en2z6btk)
Teachers Mentoring Student Mentors
Many FCPS educators work to inspire our students to be mentors to others. Have you mentored students?
![A student helps a younger student practice playing a keyboard](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122207-2044-heroweb.jpg?h=bfbc6e7b&itok=PK8sAKIW)
Student Mentors Share Their Love of Music
On Tuesdays after school, a group of middle and high school students volunteer their time and share their passion for classical music while mentoring elementary students at Dogwood Elementary School.
![A student holds a prototype of a "third thumb"](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012305-2218-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=fpGWzKrU)
FCPS This Week - January 18, 2023
In this week's issue, learn more about the proposed budget and calendar for next year, how students engineer with empathy, an how to get help filling out the FAFSA.
![Science Symbols](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/MicrosoftTeams-image%20%286%29.png?h=6f64ded6&itok=9jCM8EeC)
TJHSST Team Awarded Flight Opportunity in NASA’s TechRise Challenge
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) was among the 60 winning teams chosen by NASA for the second TechRise Student Challenge, a nationwide contest designed to engage students in technology, science, and space exploration.
![A Rachel Carson MS student shows a "third thumb" device that aids people with arthritis in maintaining a grip on coffee cups.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Eng3rdThumb.jpg?h=c4db0a46&itok=WRYOoAnh)
Engineering With Empathy: Carson MS Students Design Devices to Help Those in Need
Eighth-graders take prototypes to finished projects that aim to assist people with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, arthritis and dyslexia.
![Photo of Student Smiling](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/112237-1378-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=0YY6e0ZK)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes a weekly blog about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools.
![Coach Choates and his senior players](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Seniors%20%282%29.jpeg?h=6b4cfbcf&itok=ApA5vHrz)
Lewis Coach Named Washington Commanders Coach of the Year
Congratulations to Lewis High School Football Coach Larry Choates, named Washington Commanders High School Coach of the Year and nominated for the 2022 Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year.