Employee News – Special Edition, Tuesday, 2/16/21

Safe Steady Ready graphic

Back to Our Buildings: Safe, Steady, Ready

FCPS employees have shown an incredible commitment to ensure successful day-to-day operations during these uncertain times. While students and staff prepare to return to school buildings in phases beginning Tuesday, February 16, we will all work together to ensure we are safe, steady, and ready! In sync with our schools, FCPS Central Office staff will begin transitioning back additional staff to their offices throughout the month. Please reach out to your principal or program manager for specifics regarding your workplace.


Message from Superintendent Brabrand

Teacher leading classroom with social distancing


This week is an important milestone as we move forward to a new normal that requires flexibility and trust. Dr. Brabrand has a special message for staff about returning to work and keeping safety our number one focus. Watch Dr. Brabrand’s video. 


Updated Return to Work Guide

As you plan to return to your worksite, please remember to practice the five mitigation strategies. Review those and other important information in FCPS’ updated Return to Work Guide.  


Return to Work FAQs

It has been almost a year since some of us have been to our worksites. Understandably, many staff members have questions around returning to work. Please review these Return to Work FAQs. If you still need help with other questions, reach out to your principal or program manager.


Childcare Options for Student-Facing Staff

FCPS has childcare options for student-facing staff to allow them to return to work as student groups begin returning for in-person instruction. Principals will work to accommodate teachers’ requests as they are able, but social distancing requirements in their schools may present limitations.

If a student-facing staff member, such as a teacher, has children (grades K-6) in a Fairfax County public school, their child(ren) may attend their elementary base school for four days of in-person instruction, space permitting. Teachers may bring their child(ren) in grades K-8 with them to their workspaces if needed, and if it is agreed upon by the principal. This option is contingent upon the school’s capacity to maintain social distancing in classrooms/workspaces as well as balancing the job expectations of the employee. The principal reserves the right to determine if an arrangement is impacting an employee’s ability to fully perform their duty.

Please reach out to your principal to discuss the options available and what will work best for you and your school.


January CARES of the Month Winners

Congratulations to the January FCPS CARES of the Month recipients. The winners are:

  • Central: Gregory Robinson – Sideburn Satellite Center – Facilities
  • Region 1: Leah Conte – South Lakes HS
  • Region 2: Barbara Oswalt – Sleepy Hollow ES
  • Region 3: Monica Pelzer – Stratford Landing ES
  • Region 4: Carmen Correa Ibarra – Ravensworth ES
  • Region 5: Erin Denton – Daniels Run ES

See what makes the winners special. Recognize a staff member today.


Accelerated Certification Cohort XVII Information Session 

An Accelerated Certification Cohort (ACC) information session will be held Thursday, February 18, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Participants will learn about the structure and requirements of the program. Current ACC members will share their experiences and answer questions. The ACC is a partnership with the University of Virginia that allows FCPS staff to obtain the Virginia PreK-12 license in Administration and Supervision in a cohort setting. ACC cohort members complete a one-year intensive program which includes an administrative internship and coursework. The information session will also be recorded and posted to the Pathways to Leadership webpage from Monday, February 22 to Friday, March 5. Please register on MyPDE before 3 p.m.February 18.


Black History Month Events Planned by FABSE

The Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators (FABSE) is hosting a series of events in honor of Black History Month. This year’s events are virtual due to the pandemic. Find more information.


There’s Still Time to Show Your Heart Some Love!

To celebrate American Heart Month, Employee Wellness is hosting a five-day Love Your Heart Challenge! Give your heart some love by participating in daily heart-healthy challenges with a focus on fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, and awareness/education. Participants who complete all challenges will be entered into a raffle to win prizes such as Amazon gift cards and other wellness goodies. Find more information on the Employee Wellness webpage (VPN required). Complete this form to register.  


Running on E: Adding Energy and Fun to Your Work and Life

Are increased responsibilities, constant change, and more pressure draining your tank? Replenish with the Running on E: Adding Energy and Fun to Your Work and Life workshop. This event will provide strategies to help you thrive in today’s high-pressured world. By unleashing your energy, igniting your enthusiasm, and finding fun in your job, you are sure to maximize your work performance and even enjoy it!

Please register by clicking one of the following links:

For additional information, visit our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Guidance Resources online, and use Web ID: FCPS, or call our EAP at 1-855-355-9097. Also, sign up for the EAP-Wellness Newsletter for monthly updates and announcements.


Staff Staples


Note: Intranet access is required to open some of the links in this email. If you're using a mobile device or working remotely, you can connect to the intranet via the Pulse Secure VPN (Virtual Private Network)Email ITServiceDesk@fcps.edu with questions. 

Please email EmployeeNews@fcps.edu with potential submissions or questions. Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Thank you!