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![Students lift weights and stretch during a before-school exercise program known as Fitness Warriors at Chesterbrook Elementary School.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Chesterbrook-FitnessHero.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=0Yddsjdr)
Commit to Be Fit: Elementary Fitness Warriors Work Out Before School to Boost Focus, Gain Strength
Each morning, for the past 12 years at Chesterbrook Elementary, dozens of kids line up outside the gym a full 50 minutes prior to the bell ring. What are they there for? To be a Fitness Warrior!
![Students smile as they taste test a potential new recipe for FCPS cafeterias.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/112312-1205-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=d7HWF0Eb)
“I would love to see this at my school:” FCPS Revolutionizes School Food with Scratch-Made Recipes
From sweet Thai chili chicken wings to tikka masala, FCPS students had the chance to taste healthy and culturally diverse recipes that could soon come to school cafeterias.
![veteran with middle school students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Veterans-HP-image6.png?h=2aa300aa&itok=3z1drw8i)
Veterans Day in Schools 2023
Get a glimpse of Veterans Day (Saturday, November 11) happenings throughout the school division as students paid tribute to our veterans. These photos and events capture the genuine appreciation and recognition of those who have served.
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School Board Seeking FPAC Applicants
The Fairfax County School Board invites applications from community members interested in serving on the Facilities Planning Advisory Council (FPAC) for an At-Large member and a Sully District member. FPAC advises and informs FCPS staff and the School Board in the development of comprehensive, long…
![Dr. Reid at the Gatehouse Veterans Day celebration 2023](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%2011.10.23%20Veterans%20Day.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=iP1h2PDs)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she attended theater productions, celebrated several Veterans Day events, and more!
![Generic press release graphic - gold](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/genericdefault_heroimg_92_17.png?h=30cf5b69&itok=kLm3x0Z-)
FCPS Students Selected for 2023 All-Virginia Jazz Band, VMEA Senior Honors Choir, and All-Virginia Elementary Orff Ensemble
Forty-six students representing 16 Fairfax County high schools have been selected for the 2023 All-Virginia Jazz Band and the 2023 VMEA Senior Honors Choir. In addition, seven students representing two Fairfax County elementary schools have been selected for the 2023 All-Virginia Elementary Orff…
![A child looks at leaves through a magnifying glass](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102320-1228-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=SQ5zXKVt)
FCPS This Week - November 8, 2023
In this issue, read about the School Bond Referendum passing, National Merit Commended Scholars, and veteran staff and volunteers at one local school.
![Students learning on computers](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/072315-1521.jpg?h=4cae7fbd&itok=7sOtg_ga)
Second $2 Million Grant Received by FCPS to Expand STEAM and Computer Science through Mathematics and Work-Based Learning
FCPS has been awarded a $2 million grant from the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Military-Connected Local Educational Agencies for Academic and Support Programs (MCASP) to support “Code Up 2.0” project and build upon the Code Up project launched in 2022.
![Students showing support for the bond](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Bond-WEB-HERO-standard.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=xTm8nG03)
Fairfax County Voters Renew Community Investment in FCPS with Support for School Bonds
On November 7, 67% of Fairfax County voters renewed a community investment in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) by approving the sale of $435 million in bonds to fund the building and renovation of schools.
![McLean High School sophomore Riley Staats, seen here in her Team USA jersey, won the WBSC U-15 Women's Softball World Cup in October.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Riley%20Staats%20Hero%20Image.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=FpXGyMhN)
Super Slugger: McLean High School Student Wins Women’s Softball World Cup
Riley Staats was crowned a world champion at an international tournament in Tokyo, Japan.
![Rowlett "Moose" Bruce stands in front of a flag](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102324-1044-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=2Y4ElheW)
Honoring Our Veteran-Employees
As we approach Veterans Day on Saturday, November 11, we would like to say a heartfelt “Thank you” to the many FCPS employees who are also military veterans.
![From left: Sgt. Ralphael DiBacco, Capt. Harley Stuntz, Capt. Alan Peek, and MSgt. Clarissa Pruismann.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102314-1282-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=mjyKTnie)
91-Year-Old Volunteer Among Veterans Honored by FCPS’ White Oaks Elementary
From serving their country to serving their community, veterans are giving back at White Oaks Elementary School — and the school is taking time to honor them ahead of Veterans Day.
![Dr. Reid with Carson and Hughes MS students at the Panther Orchestra Day](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%2011.3.23%20Orchestra%20Day.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=jxatApZL)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she attended a varsity football game, saw a musical, and more!
![Three students smiling.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/012311-2327.jpg?h=2e2945ef&itok=UeOHxaez)
Let's Grow Together!
HEALTHY MINDS FEATURE - There are many ways to help children take on new challenges, learn new skills, and feel valued so that they can grow as individuals and contribute to a positive school community.
![Generic news graphic - teal](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_news-lime-1_7_9.png?h=26e46eba&itok=iiC2THy7)
628 FCPS Students Named National Merit Commended Scholars
Six hundred twenty-eight FCPS students have been named National Merit Commended Scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
![FCPS Observance Design Challenge for Students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Observance-Design-Challenge-website-hero%5B1%5D.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=lNevdudN)
11 New Observance Graphics Created by Students in Design Challenge
In May, the FCPS Office of Communications called for entries for new graphics to help acknowledge the religious and cultural observances identified on the 2023-24 School Year Calendar. Eleven winning designs will be featured on FCPS and school social media platforms, and in newsletters leading up to…
![Smiling kids leaving school on their bikes wearing helmets](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102213-2045-heroweb.jpg?h=34795f0b&itok=S5lDjiOo)
Transportation Safety Tips for the End of Daylight Saving Time
The end of Daylight Saving Time (DST) means that students and families should consider extra safety measures when traveling home from school in the evening and be patient with themselves in adjusting to the change in time.
![fcps cares recognition at south county high school](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/fcps-cares-november-2023.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=8fgidptU)
FCPS CARES - November 2023
FCPS CARES submissions for the month of November 2023.
![A student cleans out a pumpkin.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102321-1002.jpg?h=cf8cfe34&itok=HkwA2VOA)
FCPS This Week - November 1, 2023
In this week's issue, learn how to return your Federal Impact Aid Survey, how to provide feedback on the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities document, and which schools earned Purple Stars this fall.
![image of a child's hand holding a number 5 block](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL_4.jpg?h=d28b8abe&itok=8ouvflnF)
5-4-3-2-1 Early Childhood Tips for Today: Communication
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!
![a child's hand holding a number 5 puzzle piece](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL_5.jpg?h=d28b8abe&itok=c8zC4WHQ)
5-4-3-2-1 Early Childhood Tips for Today: Parent Teacher Conferences
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!
![Graphic with an envelope and text: Message from the Superintendent](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/supt-message-2021-hero-image_16_0_1.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=E2WmUMbo)
Statement About Recent Student Walkouts
FCPS is resolute in our work to provide a learning environment where every student and staff member feels safe, valued, and respected.
![a military family](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/032221-1143-heroweb_0.jpg?h=cef75163&itok=EqYA-Dxv)
Eighteen Fairfax County Public Schools Recognized for Supporting Military-Connected Families
Eighteen Fairfax County public schools have been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children as 2023 Purple Star Schools. The Purple Star Designation is awarded to military-friendly schools…
![A student greets a teacher at a welcome walk.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/082207-1150-heroweb.jpg?h=e8671265&itok=FYRRwPzw)
Putting Students’ Needs First at Parent-Teacher Conferences
Martha Paz-Espinoza, resource teacher at Willow Oaks, shares what it was like to be an English learner and have to interpret for her father at parent-teacher conferences. She offers a few tips for teachers to help put students first and better partner with parents during conference sessions and…
![Dr. Reid with students at the WCFL regional debate tournament](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%2010.27.23%20WCFL.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=0_qzDuBh)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she hosted Community Conversations, shared FCPS updates at the School Board meeting, and more!
![Students play with hula hoops outdoors.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102313-1420.jpg?h=9a7fff01&itok=pPPLg2y8)
FCPS This Week - October 25, 2023
In this issue, find information on the Fairfax County Youth Survey Results, High Impact Tutor Recruitment, How to Provide Feedback on the FCPS Websites.
![Students at Langley High School performing Alice in Wonderland.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/LH_Alice%20in%20Wonderland_b.jpg?h=1fe41ad9&itok=c-stH6A2)
Cappies Review of Alice in Wonderland at Langley High School
Check out this Cappies review of Langley High School's production of Alice in Wonderland written by Stella Samereie of James Madison High School.
![Dr. Reid with students at the Fairfax HS 2023 homecoming football game](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%2010.20.23%20Fairfax%20HS.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=yoACGIwl)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she visited schools, attended a homecoming football game, enjoyed a student theater production, and more!
![Exterior of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/tjhsstexterior.jpg?h=2ee3b79d&itok=Qc1lAXGs)
Applications Now Open for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Class of 2028
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) has opened its application process for admissions for the Class of 2028.
![Heman Bekele, winner of 3M's America's Top Young Scientist challenge, stands in front of W.T. Woodson High School.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Heman-Hero.jpg?h=e2e02870&itok=TqTQ0WqP)
“America’s Top Young Scientist” Heman Bekele Was Born in Ethiopia, Educated by FCPS
Fourteen-year-old Heman won 3M’s annual challenge with his design of a soap that aims to treat skin cancer.
![tutor with student](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/2023%20Tutor%20Hire%20fnl%20med-150%20hero_1.png?h=648b6813&itok=1O41RJLo)
FCPS High-Impact Tutoring Program Progress
Fairfax County Public Schools has developed systems and structures for implementing high-impact tutoring. As of October 17, FCPS has 161 tutors hired for this school year, working in approximately 60 schools.
![Twain Runners pose outside the white House.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102309-Submitted-Twain-CC-WHVisit-5002.jpg?h=71976bb4&itok=-vswCRc9)
FCPS This Week - October 18, 2023
In this issue, read about the Federal Impact Aid Survey, Virginia Sales Tax Holiday, and a Calendar Update for March 5, 2024.
![Dr. Reid with Twain MS students for the Girls Leading Change convening](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%2010.13.23%20WH.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=Qm_21dIe)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she attended FCPS' Excellence Awards, hosted USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack at Annandale Terrace ES, visited the White House, and more!
![Generic news graphic - teal](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/hero_awards-teal_8_10.png?h=6f64ded6&itok=qRzoKfTF)
Seventeen FCPS Schools Named to Advanced Placement School Honor Roll
The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction.
![Parent and student volunteers sell healthy food items to hungry shoppers at Willow Springs Elementary School.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/102303-5038-heroweb.jpg?h=e2bcc475&itok=PgEcpZDI)
Keeping It Fresh: Farmers Markets Offer FCPS Students Environmental Lessons, and Families Expanded Access to Healthy Meals
Students, staff, and families at two Fairfax County Public Schools are getting nutrition in a unique way - by running their own farmers markets.
![Vivi with her students](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Webpage%20Hero%20Image%20%285%29.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=LoE9rUrc)
🔔 My First Year Episode 2: The First Bell
Ms. Vivi is a first-year, third-grade teacher at Shrevewood Elementary School. Get a glimpse of what it's like to be a new teacher at FCPS with the My First Year docu-series. In our second episode, The First Bell, watch how Ms. Vivi fosters a sense of community in her classroom, juggles the tasks…
![A girl eats a school lunch](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/082321-1727-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=LX4L1qmd)
FCPS This Week - October 11, 2023
In this issue, find stories on new menu options, AI classes, and the upcoming solar eclipse.
![USDA Chief Tom Vilsack and Annandale Terrace ES Principal Ingrid Badia chat with students in the school cafeteria.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/VilsackThumbsUp.jpg?h=9a7fff01&itok=TuxUNYTv)
Annandale Terrace Shows Off Learning Garden, Revamped Lunch Menu to USDA Secretary Vilsack
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack tours Annandale Terrace Elementary School amid National School Lunch Week, National Farm to School month.
![students with heritage flags](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/2.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=umfNS4ky)
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at Braddock Elementary
At Fairfax County Public Schools, we believe students deserve meaningful, sustained opportunities to learn about the experiences and contributions of the many cultures and people who make our nation unique. National Hispanic Heritage Month is a perfect time to honor the rich stories of those who…
![Message from the Superintendent](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/supt-message-2021-hero-image_16_0_0.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=vUbfprH6)
FCPS Remains Committed to Maintaining Safe and Secure Schools
Superintendent Reid shares a message regarding the deadly events in the Middle East.
![988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/Hero-988-1600x600.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=do_uzoZl)
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Saves Lives
HEALTHY MINDS FEATURE --- The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week access to trained counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, and other mental health crises. Spread the word!
![Sawko chatting with a student while she eats lunch.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/082321-1855.jpg?h=58c8a5e7&itok=nM3y9rNg)
A Man With a Healthy Plan: Welcoming FCPS’ New Head of Food and Nutrition Services
FCPS has a new executive director of Food and Nutrition Services. Shaun Sawko is excited to make some significant changes to the food our students receive in school.
![Dr. Reid at the Fairfax County Digital Equity Summit](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/WR%20hero%20Digital%20Summit%20new%2010.6.23.png?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=nJ8_fEZU)
Superintendent's Weekly Reflections
Superintendent Reid writes about all of the great things happening in Fairfax County Public Schools. This past week, she hosted Employee and Community Conversations, attended the Fairfax County Digital Equity Summit, and more!
![glasgow middle school](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/fcps-cares-october-2023.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=ezYMveXS)
FCPS CARES - October 2023
FCPS CARES submissions for the month of October 2023.
![Students play under a parachute](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/092316-1338-heroweb-16x6.jpg?h=e0d9a4bb&itok=nkKckh2t)
FCPS This Week - October 4, 2023
In this issue, learn about SAT/PSAT day, Indigenous Peoples day, and how one school is helping all students read on level by third grade.
![A custodian cleans a floor.](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/062301-5742.jpg?h=58c8a5e7&itok=bKak2AK4)
Custodians, We Appreciate You!
This custodian appreciation day, we offer thanks to our colleagues in custodial services. NBC4 highlighted two of our recent FCPS Honors winners last week.
![image of a child's hand holding a number 5 block](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL_3.jpg?h=d28b8abe&itok=G7uR3uL6)
5-4-3-2-1 Early Childhood Tips for Today: Executive Function
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!
![image of a child hold a number five](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL.jpg?h=b0499e4c&itok=B63L0LJN)
5-4-3-2-1 Tips for Today: Inclusion
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!
![image of a child's hand grabbing a block number 5](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL_2.jpg?h=d28b8abe&itok=HHWSN8Si)
5-4-3-2-1 Early Childhood Tips for Today: Math
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!
![image of a child's hand grabbing a block number 5](/sites/default/files/styles/card_1x/public/media/hero/i-gjN34Bg-XL_1.jpg?h=d28b8abe&itok=LjWdiQE4)
5-4-3-2-1 Early Childhood Tips for Today: Literacy
5 things to know or do, 4 links to visit, 3 points to access research, 2 children read aloud, 1 video to view!