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![graphic of envelope and text says: Message from the Superintendent](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/supt-message-2021-hero-image_0.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=I-X7u2S_)
Mask Guidance Update
On Wednesday, the Virginia General Assembly passed Senate Bill 739, which allows parents to opt their children out of mask-wearing effective March 1. At this time, FCPS' layered prevention strategies, including universal masking, remain in place.
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Employee News Blog for the Week of February 14, 2022
Get the latest news for employees for the week of February 14, 2022.
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FCPS This Week - February 16, 2022
This week's issue of FCPS This Week has information on how we measure community transmission, kindergarten registration, completing the FAFSA, the Back 2 Fairfax operational seminar, and becoming a 2022 Science Fair judge.
![Lawrence Cooper, a teacher at West Potomac](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Black%20History%20Month%20Cooper%20West%20Po%20022215-2100-Heroweb.jpg?h=26e46eba&itok=H35i9Vyd)
Video: Teacher's African American History Collection Inspires Students
A teacher's passion and his collection, displayed in school hallways, engages students during Black History Month.
![Cappies Logo](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Cappies%20Logo2_0.jpg?h=cab494f7&itok=0jYZOsZA)
Cappies Review of Airness at McLean High School
The Cappies is a program through which high school theater and journalism students are trained as critics, attend shows at other schools, write reviews, and publish those reviews. Amelia Preble of Robinson Secondary School provides her review of Airness as performed by McLean High School.
![Dr. Chet Kessler, MD holds up a photograph of himself and his 1963 science project.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022207-1007-heroweb-16x6%20%282%29.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=TwzGUy24)
Partnership Update - February 2022
Read the latest news happening in Business and Community Partnerships
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Fairfax County School Board Approves FY 2023-2027 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
During the February 10, 2022 School Board Meeting, the Board approved the FY 2023-2027 CIP, a planning and fiscal management tool used to coordinate the location, timing, and funding of capital projects over five years.
![Nick Scott plays for the Los Angeles Rams.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/nick%20scott.jpg?h=8beb9607&itok=HsN4-Vep)
From Fairfax HS Team Captain to Super Bowl Star
Starting safety for the Los Angeles Rams Nick Scott played for two years at Fairfax High School, where he formed a special bond with his coach and made lifelong friends.
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Update on Our Roll Back Plan
FCPS will scale back some prevention strategies, such as masking, testing, and quarantining, when the Fairfax County community reaches moderate transmission of COVID-19 and remains there for seven consecutive days.
![Dr. Chet Kessler displaying his science fair project from 1963](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022207-1007-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=c2714fd8&itok=cxTILf3h)
Call for Science Fair Judges as One Judge Reflects on 42 Years With FCPS' Science Fair
Each year, more than 200 judges are needed at our Regional Science and Engineering Fair (March 9-20) to evaluate hundreds of student projects in categories from astronomy to plant sciences to robotics. If you are interested in being a judge, please register by Friday, March 11.
![FCPS Winter Olympians Maame Biney and Ilia Malinin.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WinterOlympiansHero_0.png?h=1339f3b6&itok=FqU0d3L2)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - February 9, 2022
Learn about FCPS students in the Winter Olympics, health and safety updates, the Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event for high school students, ESSER III funding, magnet school information nights, and a Substitute Teacher Job Fair.
![2 adults in a classroom with children, one presenting a Valentine's day card](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/022213-1131-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=efe79d8d&itok=trycuRbE)
Messages of Hope and Gratitude for FCPS Employees
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors recently declared February 8, "We Love FCPS Day." That same day, our friends at Volunteer Fairfax showed their love by delivering over 5,000 personal valentine cards to FCPS staff members in more than 40 schools.
![Wakefield Forest third-graders use Innovation Hour to design "fairy fashion" on a tiny clothing bust.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/InnoHourHands.jpg?h=1a0e0a4e&itok=UahVBCY6)
FCPS Elementary Embraces `Innovation Hour’ to Spur Creativity, Boost Friday Attendance
In a Fairfax elementary classroom on a Friday in December, a pair of girls are teaching themselves sign language, while a boy across the aisle is building a replica of a CH-53 military helicopter and another group of students are making clothes for fairies using a tiny fashion bust.
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Ten Students Selected for National Association for Music Education’s 2021 All-National Honor Ensembles
Ten students from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) high schools were named to the 2021 National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) All-National Honor Ensembles.
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Employee News Blog - Week of February 7, 2022
Get the latest news for employees.
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Update on Legal Challenge- Masks Remain
Arlington Circuit Court agreed to a temporary injunction requested by FCPS and six other Northern Virginia school districts, that takes immediate action to protect the health of our community and also reaffirms the constitutional right in the Commonwealth of Virginia of school boards to make policy…
![fcps cares recognition event at bucknell elementary school](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/february-2022.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=0pGyQ0mn)
FCPS CARES - February 2022
FCPS CARES submissions for the month of February 2022.
![Student at summer camp holding up a robot.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/072118-1202-HP.jpg?h=b0c51a6c&itok=SPQsMgV6)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - February 2, 2022
In this week's issue, get information on the 2022-23 school year calendar, registration for the CTE Summer Academy and Tech Adventure Camp, winners of the 2022 Regional Scholastic Art Awards, and the Back2Fairfax Operational Seminar.
![two high school boys in classroom](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/mask%20mandate%20in%20our%20favor%20012217-2185-heroweb.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=AxaUwTuP)
Mask Requirement Continues
FCPS’ mask requirement remains in effect. A judge today said a decision will be made soon regarding a temporary injunction requested by FCPS to reaffirm the constitutional right of Virginia school boards to make policy decisions for their districts.
![Jessica Ye and Liam Reaser stand outside TJHSST.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122123-1058-heroweb.jpg?h=bc0dc88f&itok=ISPA4B9q)
Two TJHSST Students Make History, Chosen for U.S. Senate Youth Program
It's the first time ever two Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology students have been picked to represent Virginia in the prestigious program.
![roadside historical marker](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/historial%20markers.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=G_-ZF9RU)
FCPS Launches Historical Marker Project to Highlight Untold Stories of County’s African American Communities
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) and Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (BOS) announced the launch of their joint Historical Marker Project today. The project’s purpose is to bring attention to untold or less well known histories from Fairfax County communities, whose rich history, culture, and…
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Employee News Blog - A Message From Dr. Brabrand
Dr. Brabrand shares a message about the power of our work as professional educators and how we can continue to be a community that supports every FCPS student.
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Employee News Blog - Week of January 31, 2022
Get all the latest employee news for the week of January 31, 2022.
![Marshall High Junior Is Men's Figure Skating First Alternate, South Lakes Grad Again on Women's Speed Skating Team](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WinterOlympiansHero.png?h=72a7c224&itok=0I3CXXsC)
South Lakes Grad Makes Second Winter Olympics Appearance, Marshall Junior Waits in Wings
Ilia Malinin, 17, Is U.S. Men’s Figure Skating Team’s First Alternate for Beijing Olympics; Maame Biney reprises role on U.S. Women’s Speed Skating team
![graphic about 2022-23 calendar](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/SY22-23-Calendar-Hero%20%282%29.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=Ju6-zOq-)
Fairfax County School Board Approves Calendar Based on Data and Community Input
The calendar for the 2022-23 school year is aligned with neighboring school districts and adds additional key observance days.
![Graphic with a guitar and camera.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_arts-gold_2_0.png?h=26e46eba&itok=9JdQwEDV)
FCPS Student Artists Recognized in 2022 Regional Scholastic Art Awards
The 2021 Regional Scholastic Art Awards program has awarded FCPS students in grades 7-12 a total of 497 awards.
![Adult mentor with student.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012209-1364-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=4kN4SNis)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - January 26, 2022
Get information on FCPS' mask requirements, the Superintendent search, mentoring, and February parent webinars.
![Gratitude Challenge poster.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/image003-1024x682.png?h=6b3f69ac&itok=PcU9jWdX)
Frost Minds Matter Hosts a Gratitude Challenge and Food Drive
Healthy Minds Feature - Gratitude is not only a gift that helps others, but it makes the giver feel connected to something greater than themselves.
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Employee News Blog - Week of January 24, 2022
Check out the latest Employee News.
![Students riding bicycles.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/042107-1136-heroweb2%20%281%29.jpg?h=4823a671&itok=cB7wtvyf)
Teaching Children about Healthy Diet and Exercise
Healthy Minds Feature - Parents and guardians are in a unique position to positively influence children’s healthy eating habits and exercise.
![Students in a school library sitting on bean bags.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012212-2473-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=uNKL_HzK)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - January 19, 2022
Information to help your student be prepared for virtual learning days; universal mask wearing; vaccination locations; fall sports champions; and the FY 2023 Budget.
![A student participates in a TJ AT Club meeting.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122114-2110%20%281%29.jpg?h=eef745f1&itok=gwv0NXYA)
TJHSST Students Use Coding and Creativity to Communicate with Non-Verbal Elementary Students
The TJ Assistive Technology Club creates games and activities to help younger students practice their communication skills in a fun, interactive way.
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Employee News - Week of January 17, 2022
This week's Employee News blog has information on updating your vaccination status, free home COVID-19 tests, and the Special Education Conference in March.
![mentor and student at a table together](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/092101-2236-heroweb%20%281%29.jpg?h=8a0c7e5e&itok=nQXlKWRB)
Partnership Update - January 2022
Learn about the newest partnerships in motion with Business and Community Partnerships.
![budget graphic with four students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Budget%20FY%2022_0.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=-Za9SjHA)
Superintendent Proposes Good News Budget That Delivers on Expectations of Excellence for Public Education in Fairfax
The $3.3 billion Proposed School Operating Budget for FY23 maintains an investment in teacher pay increases, broadening opportunity and access for all students, and shoring up critical education gaps that widened during the pandemic.
![School news graphic with three students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/SchoolNewsgenericdefaultblue2_179_2.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=brX-McZk)
Cooper Middle School Band Named Winner of 2021 Sudler Cup by John Philip Sousa Foundation
The Cooper Middle School Band program has been selected by the John Philip Sousa Foundation to receive the 2021 Sudler Cup. This international award recognizes junior high and middle school concert bands for outstanding musical excellence.
![school bus with snow](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/school%20bus.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=FnOgYLcT)
Snow Is in the Forecast: How to Prepare for an Inclement Weather Virtual Learning Day
What to students and staff can expect on a virtual learning inclement weather day.
![Emergency medical technician students practicing removing a student from a car.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102131-1036-heroweb_1.jpg?h=6fca3d25&itok=OwBBidie)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - January 12, 2022
This week's issue has the latest COVID-19 guidance, information on upcoming Superintendent Search Virtual Town Hall meetings, open house dates at FCPS Academies, and a reminder of upcoming student holidays.
![Girls competing in a cross country meet.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/101648-2249.jpg?h=bc816b12&itok=4m16QsqK)
Congratulations to FCPS' Fall 2021 Sports Champions!
Congratulations to all the FCPS student-athletes who participated in this year's fall sports season. This year, two FCPS teams and two individuals won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) championships in their respective sports, and five teams and three individuals were the state runners-up.
![students in a trade an industrial course](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/trade-and-industrial-course-student1.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=XYWTYRmi)
Annual Operational Back2Fairfax Seminar
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will host its Annual Operational Back2Fairfax Seminar virtual event on Tuesday, February 22, 2022, from 5-8 p.m.
![South County High School students performing in Puffs (Two Act Edition for Young Wizards).](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/SC_Puffs_b.jpg?h=d3a8edbd&itok=JaPp2AwE)
Cappies Review of Puffs (Two Act Edition for Young Wizards) at South County High School
The Cappies is a program through which high school theater and journalism students are trained as critics, attend shows at other schools, write reviews, and publish those reviews. Sara Kaufman of Justice High School provides her review of Puffs (Two Act Edition for Young Wizards) as performed by…
![Julian Consolla reads to a class at Mount Eagle Elementary.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122122-1087-heroweb.jpg?h=fd68b88b&itok=XH4f0vkm)
Calling All College Students! Use your Breaks to Make Extra Cash by Becoming A Sub
Looking for a job? Substitute teaching offers a flexible schedule and excellent pay. One college student shares his experience and encourages others to give it a try.
![Jefferson logo on a folding chair](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/122124-1004-heroweb.jpg?h=eb58d59d&itok=fOBA6ivx)
See What Makes TJHSST One of the Highest Rated High Schools in the Nation
This January, a bill will be introduced into the Virginia General Assembly that directly challenges the changes made to FCPS’ admissions policy for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
![School buses covered in snow.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012204-1102-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=ywdt6wTw)
FCPS This Week e-newsletter - January 8, 2022
The first issue of FCPS This Week for 2022 has information on navigating the COVID surge, changes to quarantine and isolation, the superintendent search, and the 2023-27 Capital Improvement Plan.
![several children with arms in the air](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/translations%20122119-1263.jpg?h=26e46eba&itok=9uheD6th)
How to Receive FCPS Messages in Your Own Language
You can choose one of several languages for your FCPS messages. Also, learn about translations.
![fcps cares - riverside elementary school](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/fcps-cares-riverside.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=Q8Cxs_gN)
FCPS CARES - January 2022
FCPS CARES submissions for the month of January 2022.
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FY23 Budget Public Hearing
FY23 Budget Public Hearing scheduled for January 24, 2022
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FCPS Announces Open Enrollment for Dual Language Immersion Programs
Online registration for the county-wide lottery for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) dual language immersion (DLI) programs will open on Monday, January 24.
![Stock photo depicting a student working on a computer.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/AdobeStock_347629821-1600x600.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=X1yllY1R)
Working Together to Keep Students Safe on Social Media
To help keep students focused on learning while at school and reduce the potential harm students may experience from social media, FCPS is blocking several social media sites for students on FCPS network and laptops.
![masked student in school with thumbs up](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/072110-2070%20RTS%20Safety_1.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=Eq8moe93)
UPDATE: NEW LOCATION for Sat/Sun Optional Diagnostic Testing for Symptomatic FCPS Students and Staff
FCPS will be offering additional diagnostic testing Sunday, January 2 for symptomatic staff and students at South County High School