April 2021 Newsletter

Dear Families,

Happy Spring! The fog of the pandemic is finally lifting and I cannot help but feel that brighter days are returning to Fairfax County. Over the last month, more than 109,000 students have returned for in-person learning at Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) while COVID-19 transmission rates remain low. I am encouraged watching students and staff return to schools and bring life and renewed energy to our campuses. In January, we were faced with limited supplies of vaccinations and distribution challenges. Now, COVID-19 vaccinations are essentially available to all staff who want them. As restrictions on large gatherings are being adjusted, FCPS can now ensure the Class of 2021 has memorable in-person graduation ceremonies to mark this important milestone in their lives. I look forward to seeing our students and their families at our planned, safe and socially distant graduations—I also extend an early and hearty Congrats to the FCPS class of 2021!!

While I am excited and hopeful, it is impossible to ignore that many old challenges of pre-pandemic life and new challenges follow us into our new normal. Last week, I also watched and waited for the delivery of the Chauvin verdict in Minnesota. These events are not easy for many to process. This reality is a concern for many and I will continue to take steps to make sure that we are supporting our students, listening to their concerns and providing a safe space to discuss these difficult circumstances. I cannot ignore that many of our students struggle to process what is happening in the world around us. Collectively, we are treading complicated waters and as adults, we must make sure our children and youth have the tools and support they need to effectively recover from their pandemic experience and be equipped to move forward once normalcy returns.

I continue to hear from students who are concerned about the pressures of life in a pandemic. Whether that be struggling with mental health challenges, academic loss, feeling emotionally distant while social distancing, or even experiencing outrage by the injustice they see inflicted on others or have experienced first-hand. I will continue to advocate for their needs and will make sure we give them space and opportunity to have their voices and concerns heard.

Spring is here and even more brighter days are ahead for the FCPS community. Together, I look forward to turning the page and beginning a new chapter in our shared story. Going forward, I am working to return our schools to 5 day in-person learning, reviewing our Student Rights and Responsibilities to make sure that we have clear guidelines and understand the roles of all involved in the discipline process, and I continue to advocate for equitable access to opportunity for all students. As part of this effort, I provide an update on my John Lewis Academy advocacy below. 

Inside this month’s newsletter:

  • Becoming John Lewis: School Rededicated and Celebrated on April 23
  • Return to School: April Update
  • 2021 FCPS Summer Learning Sneak Peek
  • Supporting the Religious and Cultural Observances of Students During Spring Assessments
  • Recognizing the Month of the Military Child and Spring Virtual Office Hours for Military Families, April 30 and May 1
  • 2021 Virtual Career Fair: April 19-30
  • Auditor General Update and Committee Seeking New Member: Applications Due May 16
  • Community Events and Activities

As always, I welcome the opportunity to hear from you. Please share your comments with me via FCPS School Board Portal.


Mural of John Lewis

Mural at John R. Lewis High School by South County Middle School Art Teacher and graduate of the school Ramandip Singh.

Becoming John Lewis: School Rededicated and Celebrated on April 23

On April 23, I had the honor of participating and speaking at the rededication ceremony of John R. Lewis High School. Read my remarks here. Lewis High School made national news when it was renamed in honor of Congressman John Lewis just days after his death in July 2020. The School Board voted unanimously to change the name of formerly Robert E. Lee High School to John R. Lewis School on July 23, 2020 with a motion made by Lee District Representative Tamara Derenak Kaufax which I seconded. To mark the occasion, a select number of students, teachers, and community members enjoyed an in-person celebration in accordance with CDC social distancing requirements while others participated virtually. In-person guests were given the opportunity to view a historical timeline display in the school library and murals recently completed by artist and Ramandip Singh, who graduated from the school in 2009 and is currently an art teacher at South County Middle School.

Members of the Lewis family watched the ceremony virtually and his youngest brother, Henry Lewis, sent a video message on behalf of his family. In it, he said, “He (Lewis) had a vision, and he lived that vision out. Thank you all so much for naming a school after him and keeping his memory alive.”

Student viewing timeline display at John R. Lewis High School

This celebration included remarks from U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, Congressman Don Beyer, Congressman Gerry Connolly, Superintendent Dr. Scott Brabrand, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair Jeff McKay, and Supervisor Rodney Lusk for this momentous occasion. While at the podium, I told the audience, “When John Lewis crossed the bridge at Selma, he did it so that we could all learn to see the humanity of our neighbors and to abolish the hatred that could cause blindness in this nation.” Read my full remarks.  

We Are Lewis High School Rock

Now that this landmark achievement has been formally recognized and celebrated, we look forward to exploring the ways Lewis High School can champion the principles and spirit of its namesake. As a young man, he survived a brutal beating by police during a landmark 1965 march in Selma and became known for his philosophy of “good trouble” activism. In December 2020, I presented a motion (forum topic) before the School Board asking that the board approve a scoping to develop a plan to establish the John R. Lewis High School Academy. This initiative would support students who desire to work in public service. As a true tribute to the life and legacy of John Lewis, this Academy would be dedicated to teaching the principles of government, leadership, public policy, and human rights, serving primarily the children of the Lewis community, and other FCPS students. The School Board authorized FCPS administrators to begin initial exploratory and conceptual planning beginning in Summer 2021. As returning students to five-day, in-person instruction is our first priority, it was stipulated that this work begin after the major work for Return to School was completed. We look forward to receiving their recommendations and options for an academy model soon.


return to school

Return to School: April Update

Last week, FCPS extended the opportunity for four days of in-person instruction to students already attending two-days in-person (PreK-12) where staffing and space capacity allow. This transition to four days a week will depend on space and staffing at each school as well as community transmission rates. 

On April 5th, Superintendent Scott Brabrand announced that FCPS will return some students to in-person instruction four days a week, primarily for students who are experiencing the greatest learning challenges, as identified by school personnel using the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) starting the weeks of April 6 and April 13. Families of all students eligible to return under either of the above scenarios will be contacted by the school.

Why does the transition look different in every school?

  • In-person attendance already varies widely from school to school, ranging from 20% to 80%. Available space will vary depending on in-person attendance for each school.
  • Schools have different numbers of students identified through the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support.
  • Space challenges vary, including current occupancy, size of classrooms, furniture, and lunchroom space.
  • At lunch, schools need sufficient space for all students to eat without a mask, 6’ apart, and all facing the same direction. 

Our staff members and families have done a tremendous job during this difficult time. I am proud of our students who have persevered and I look forward to five days of in-person learning this Fall.


Description of 2021 Summer Learning Opportunities

2021 FCPS Summer Learning Sneak Peek

FCPS will offer summer learning support and opportunities to address the increased needs of students resulting from the pandemic. These optional opportunities will most likely target students who most need them. Visit the Summer Learning web page for more information about those opportunities will be available as plans are finalized. 

FCPS staff members will provide additional academic content and English language development support for our 36,000 English learners (ELs) this summer. 

  • Elementary and middle school ELs will participate in the division’s inclusive summer program to strengthen core mathematics and language arts skills.  All ELs ELP level 1 and 2 will be invited to participate. Additional ELs ELP level 3 and 4 will be invited based on identified needs.
  • High school ELs who failed a core academic course will participate in Credit Recovery. ESOL resource teachers will collaborate with content teachers to support ELs.
  • High school ELs who are ELP level 1 or SLIFE will be invited to participate in numeracy and literacy essentials based on need, for multiple weeks of math and literacy intervention.
  • All high school ELs ELP level 1-4 will be invited to participate in one hour of synchronous online learning with one hour of asynchronous reading, writing, and online assignments per week.
  • In addition, extended English Language Development (ELD) will be offered to all ELs ELP level 1-4 in elementary, middle, and high school who are not participating in a structured summer program. 

For any questions about the FCPS summer programs, email SummerLearning@fcps.edu


Supporting the Religious and Cultural Observances of Students During Spring Assessments

The evening of April 12 marked the beginning of Ramadan, a month-long observance of the Muslim community when believers are encouraged to fast, pray, and practice good deeds. Ramadan Mubarak to those who celebrate. Ramadan ends the evening of May 12.

Standards of Learning (SOL) and Advanced Placement (AP) exams are scheduled throughout April, May, and June 2021. Even though schools try to avoid scheduling conflicts, a student’s exams may fall during a religious or cultural observance in some cases. FCPS welcomes and encourages the parents and guardians of students affected by this type of scheduling conflict to contact school staff. School staff will work with parents and guardians to make schedule adjustments or determine how best to address students’ needs.

FCPS welcomes and encourages engagement with parents and guardians of students affected by this overlap. School staff will work with parents and guardians to make schedule adjustments or determine how best to address students’ needs. For example, it may be possible to schedule testing early in the day when energy levels are likely to be highest.

If you have a child in an SOL grade-level who will be fasting to observe Ramadan this year, notify the principal or school counselor to take advantage of possible scheduling options. Please feel free to contact my office or our ombudsman if you have additional questions.

View more about FCPS’ approach to supporting student assessments during religious and cultural observances.


Month of the Military Child Logo

Recognizing the Month of the Military Child: Spring Office Hours for Military Families, April 30 and May 1

April is the Month of the Military Child. This year’s theme is “Military children and youth: A resilient force in a changing world.” Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is proud to recognize all military-connected children in April during the Month of the Military Child. This yearly tradition is part of a national celebration to recognize military children for their resilience, strength, and sacrifices. Former Defense Secretary Casper Weinberger established the nationwide tribute in 1986.

As the mother of a son who is currently serving in the military, I humbly thank our military families and want to send a special thank you to our military and veteran-connected students for their service and sacrifice. Military kids sacrifice and serve our country in their own way. Here in Fairfax County, we are extremely fortunate to have over 11,000 students who are part of a military family as well as part of our FCPS family.

Our military connected students bring a strong sense of community and a wealth of life experiences to our schools. They are resourceful and adaptable while living with numerous challenges presented by frequent moves, parental deployments, and a host of life transitions that often include reintegration and dealing with profoundly changed parents.

Most military families relocate an average of every 1-3 years. For military kids, this often means attending 6-9 different schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. They know first-hand what it feels like to be the “new kid,” so they are usually the first one to welcome a new student to school.

Celebrating the Month of the Military Child provides a powerful opportunity to raise awareness and build support to help our children meet the unique challenges they face and I hope to chat with parents and/or students during my office hours listed below. I want to take this opportunity to hear your thoughts on how FCPS can better serve our military-connected families..

For FCPS Resources for Military Families, click here.

Spring Office Hours for Military Families 

As the Month of the Military Child winds down, I would like to hear directly from Military Families with children attending FCPS schools. I am hosting Virtual Office Hours on Friday, April 30 and Saturday, May 1. Sign-up for an appointment time now.


save the date

2021 Virtual Career Exploration Career Fair for High School Students: April 19 - 30

FCPS high school students are invited to participate in the 2021 Virtual Career Exploration Fair, scheduled to take place from Monday, April 19, through Friday, April 30. This completely virtual event will include synchronous (live) and asynchronous (recorded) sessions and workshops.

Developed in conjunction with Arlington Public Schools, the event will offer a connection to more than 100 local industry professionals from in-demand career fields. Students will also be able to attend college- and career-ready workshops and information sessions.

High school students will be able to learn about work-based learning (WBL) opportunities; attend industry panel discussions; take part in mock interviews; attend resumé workshops; and learn about postsecondary education, training, and apprenticeship opportunities.

Here are more details and how to register.

Students can also email workbasedlearning@fcps.edu with questions.


Image of auditor tools

Auditor General Update and Committee Seeking New Member: Applications Due May 16

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) is currently performing its annual risk assessment process, with the goal being to identify and prioritize audit topics for the FY 2022 Audit Plan.  OAG presented its FY22 Risk Assessment Methodology and Potential Audit Topics to the Audit Committee at the February 24, 2021 Audit Committee meeting. 

At the April 14, 2021 Audit Committee meeting, OAG provided a general update as well as presentations on FY21 Business Process Audits (BPA), which included Audit Reports for ERFC, Westbriar ES, Canterbury Woods ES and Mount Vernon HS. The OAG also reporting on continuous monitoring FY21 Q1 and Q2 results as well as Audit Follow-Up Status and FY21 Fidelity of Implementation of School Board Actions Audit Report. Audit Reports are available here on OAG's website.

The Hiring and Onboarding Practices audit, which is being performed in accordance with the FY 2021 OAG Audit Plan, is complete we expect to present the results at the May 2021 Audit Committee meeting. OAG continues to serve as the project liaison for a comprehensive program review of FCPS’ special education, which American Institutes for Research (AIR) was contracted to perform.  The first-year report is scheduled to be presented to the School Board in July 2021.

The Fairfax County School Board invites applications from community members interested in serving on the School Board Audit Committee. Applications will be accepted until May 16, 11:59 p.m.  Applicants must reside within the boundaries of Fairfax County or Fairfax City. The Board appoint one committee member for a term ending June 30, 2023.  

Click here to get more information and submit an application.


Community Events and Activities

NOVA JumpStart Summer Program Offers Free Classes for Graduating Seniors Applications Due: April 30.

This summer, Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) will offer a selection of online, tuition-free classes to Northern Virginia high school graduating seniors. Students must meet placement requirements and understand there may be textbooks or other material fees associated with courses. Since these classes are all online, students will need access to a computer and the internet. Students may take a maximum of two JumpStart courses. Important dates:

  • JumpStart applications are open and will close April 30.
  • Classes will run from June 1 until August 9.

Details about the JumpStart Summer Program, including placement requirements and material fees, are available online.


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NOVA Summer Camp

Online Registration Now Open

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is providing opportunities for students to explore STEM and the engineering design from home. The curriculum includes some hands-on projects coding with micro:bit and scratch, VEX robotics, fabrication and cybersecurity tools. Camps are offered for rising 4th graders to rising 12th graders. Visit NOVA online to learn more.


The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

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