January's News: Upcoming Board Meetings, School Board Updates, Health and Safety News, Springfield Scene, and More

Hello, Springfield District!

We have certainly had an eventful 2022 so far! Starting off with Snowmicron and half our household with COVID wasn’t quite my idea of how I hoped the New year might start! I’m so grateful to everyone who was so supportive and patient as we started back. I’m hoping the new semester will bring loads of sunshine to all our homes.

My communications with Springfield District families have primarily revolved around two topics these past two weeks: masks and the 22-23 calendar.

You can read more about the legal action below.

The Board will vote this Thursday (Jan. 27th) on the 2022-2023 school year calendar. I’m pleased that so many of you have reached out to give me your feedback and that it has been overwhelmingly positive. As I argued last year, aligning with our neighboring districts best supports our operations here and better supports all our families. I am hopeful that we can look to a more regional approach going forward, especially when nearly 40% of our employees reside outside of Fairfax County. As a parent, I’d ideally like to see us pick a calendar and stick with it! While this calendar isn’t perfect (my constituents have often reached out about a later start and earlier end date), I do feel that this is a step in the right direction and will vote in favor on Thursday!

I want to sincerely thank all of you for your support and kind words these last few weeks. As always, I feel so fortunate to represent the Springfield District.

All my very best-

Laura Jane 

 

Update on Mask Policy Legal Action

At issue is whether locally elected school boards have the exclusive authority and responsibility conferred upon them by Article VIII, Section 7 of the Constitution of Virginia over supervision of the public schools in their respective communities, or whether an executive order can unilaterally override that constitutional authority.

Also at issue is whether a governor can, through executive order, without legislative action by the Virginia General Assembly, reverse a lawfully-adopted statute. In this case, Senate Bill 1303, adopted with the goal of returning students to safe in-person instruction five days a week in March 2021, and still legally in effect, provides that local school boards should follow CDC health and safety requirements.

Without Monday’s legal action, school boards are placed in an untenable position -- faced with an executive order that conflicts with the constitution and state law. Today’s action is not politically motivated. These seven school divisions would welcome the opportunity to collaborate with the governor to ensure the safety and welfare of all students. This lawsuit is not brought out of choice, but out of necessity.

With COVID-19 transmission rates high, our hospitals at crisis level, and the continued recommendation of health experts to retain universal mask-wearing, for the time being, this is simply not the time to remove this critical component of layered health and safety mitigation strategies. School divisions need to continue to preserve their authority to protect and serve all students.

We believe everyone in Fairfax County wants what is best for students. While COVID-19 transmission remains high in our community, universal masking is essential for maintaining a healthy, safe learning environment for all – especially our most vulnerable students and those at a higher risk of severe illness. That is why our layered prevention strategies, including universal masking, remain in place.

We also believe there will be a time, hopefully soon when we will be able to safely roll back many of the protective measures that have been in place since the start of the pandemic. To do so prematurely puts students at risk of both illness and missing critical time in the classroom.)

 

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

  • Upcoming School Board Meetings
  • School Board Work
  • FCPS and Community News
  • Springfield District Scene
  • Family Resources
  • Health and Safety News
  • What’s in a Name?

Picture of School Board

 

Upcoming School Board Meetings

  • January 27 at 6 pm - Public Hearing: Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
  • January 27 at 7 pm - Regular Meeting: SY22-23 Calendar, PreK-2 Devices, etc.
  • January 31 at 6 pm - Work Session: Superintendent Search
  • February 8 at 10 am - Forum: Gun Violence Prevention and Educational Equity Policy
  • February 8 at 11 am - Work Session: FY23 Budget
  • February 10 at 7 pm - Regular Meeting: CIP
  • February 22 at 11 am - Work Session: ESSER Funds Update and Community Schools
  • February 24 at 6 pm - Public Hearing: ESSER Funds
  • February 24 at 7 pm - Regular Meeting: ESSER Funds, MS Recess Policy, FY23 Advertised Budget, etc.

Please note, times and topics are subject to change.

The work sessions and regular meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube page.

Visit the Community Participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.


School Board Updates graphic

 

School Year (SY) 2022-23 Calendar

In March 2021 the School Board directed the superintendent to provide clarity on the criteria and priorities used to establish annual calendars in the future. As a result, the calendar development process for 2022-23 was enhanced to include a revised staff and parent survey, the creation of a survey for high and middle school students, and an expanded Calendar Feedback Committee.

A draft calendar for School Year 2022-23 was presented by Dr. Brabrand during the Board’s January 18 Work Session. This calendar was developed using the following criteria:

  • Federal, state and Virginia Department of Education guidance
  • Superintendent’s priorities
  • School Board input
  • Student absentee data
  • Staff absentee data
  • Surrounding jurisdictions’ calendars
  • Survey Results
  • Calendar Feedback Committee input

After recommendations from the Board additional changes were made and the final calendar can be seen on the agenda for the January 27 Regular Meeting.

 

Fiscal Year (FY) 23 Budget

Dr. Brabrand presented the proposed FY23 budget at the January 13 Regular School Board meeting. The budget includes a 4% Market Scale Adjustment (MSA) for all employees, along with a step increase for eligible employees. FCPS continues to recognize the critical role that instructional and operational staff play in our student’s success. Pay increases will also help to attract high-quality substitute teachers and bus drivers.  As in previous years, FCPS looks forward to collaborating closely with the Board of Supervisors and County Executive during the County budget process.  For more information, visit the FCPS Budget Documents page.

 

Capital Improvement Program Update

The School Board held a Work Session to discuss the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) on January 11.  The FCPS CIP is a planning and fiscal management tool used to coordinate the location, timing, and funding of capital projects over five years. The CIP is updated annually to reflect changing conditions within our schools and communities and builds upon the previously approved program of capital expenditures.  You can view the materials presented at that Work Session as well as a recording of the Work Session.  There will be a Public Hearing on January 27 and the School Board is expected to vote at its February 10 Regular Meeting.

 

Family Engagement Policy

I was happy to second the motion for the, unanimously approved, Family Engagement Policy. The purpose of this policy is to promote effective and meaningful family-school partnerships as an essential component in supporting student success. The policy can be viewed on Board Docs.

 

Governance Committee Recommended Changes to the Governance Manual Regarding Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee

During the December 16 Regular Meeting I made a motion to approve the Governance Committee recommended changes to the Governance Manual regarding Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee. It was approved by the Board with an amendment that added the following language to the members section A(8): One representative residing in the City of Fairfax nominated by a majority vote of the City of Fairfax School Board, and to make all technical and conforming changes necessary for the amendment.

 

Board Approves Investments to Address Student Learning Loss and Safety

As a continuation of the Board’s active efforts and commitment to help students rebound from the pandemic, the Board recently approved revenue and expenditures reflected in the FY 2022 Midyear Budget Review agenda item. This approval includes additional investments to specifically help students recover learning loss experienced during the pandemic. Following the adoption of the FY 2022 Approved Budget, the School Board approved the use of ESSER III grant funds to support 52.5 positions. The added positions include but are not limited to: Instructional Support Teachers, Translators, Multilingual Engagement Specialists, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Teachers, and School Health Support.

 The approved FY22 Midyear Budget Review also included additional investments to provide security cameras for 10 middle schools and additional staff designated to support middle school monitoring systems within the Office of Safety and Security. 

View the video of the December 16, 2021 Fairfax County School Board meeting.

 

John R. Lewis Leadership Program

The  School Board unanimously supported the creation of the John R. Lewis Leadership Program at Lewis High School on December 14. The Lewis Leadership Program is proposed to offer full-time enrollment, modeled after the Edison Global STEM Challenges Program. This initiative will focus on civic education through the study of government, leadership, public policy, and human rights. The goal is to expand learning opportunities for our students, to inspire them to learn in a way that is consistent with their passions, and to equip the student for the future through programs that are academically challenging, rewarding and provides experiential learning through community partnerships and opportunities to earn college credit. 

The next steps in the process include community engagement, conducting curriculum development, establishing a budget for the development of special programming, and exploring how the program’s development could support other Fairfax County public schools.

 

Boundary Study Report Presented to School Board

In February 2020, FCPS engaged with MGT Consulting Group to analyze school boundary policies and additional best practices, educational research, and factors that could be considered for school boundary practices in order to refine FCPS Policy 8130: Facilities Planning, Local School Boundaries, Program Assignments, and School Closings

MGT presented its final report to the School Board at the December 14 work session. Their report includes your feedback from September’s boundary survey. Thanks to everyone in the FCPS community who participated. 

If you missed the work session, please watch the presentation for a summary of community input and the results of the boundary policy study. Visit FCPS’ Boundary Policy webpage for more information.


FCPS and Community News

Budget graphic

Superintendent Proposes Fiscal Year 2022-23 Budget 

Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent Scott S. Brabrand has proposed a budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 inspired by the division’s tradition of academic excellence through public education. After two years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, FCPS is committed to moving forward into a bright future that places an emphasis on student achievement, and recognition of world-class educators and operational support staff. 

Drawing on a history of academic success that has seen Fairfax County students from all backgrounds succeed at the highest levels, this budget maintains an investment in:

  • Teacher pay increases.
  • Broadening opportunity and access for all students.
  • Shoring up critical education gaps that have widened during the pandemic. 

In total, 86% of the $3.3 billion Proposed School Operating Budget for FY23 is allocated to instruction. 

More information on the FY23 Proposed Budget is available online.

 

Security Technology Grants 

Recently the Office of Safety and Security (OSS) applied for SY 21/22 security technology grants that were announced by the Virginia Department of Education and the Department of Justice. Both grant submissions involved following a strict set of criteria with a detailed submittal process. We are pleased to share that the grants were awarded and are described as follows:

The Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Stop School Violence Act (SVPP) Grant from the Department of Justice provides $479,000 to support:

  • Exterior video surveillance (cameras) at 6 elementary schools (Woodburn, Weyanoke, Olde Creek, Woodlawn, Eagle View, and Terraset

  • Interior and exterior video surveillance (cameras) at 2 middle schools (Jackson, Stone)

Fairfax County Public Schools was the only Virginia school district to receive this award.

The School Security Equipment Grant from the Virginia Department of Education provides the highest award possible of $250,000. This funding will support:

  • Exterior video surveillance (cameras) at 5 elementary schools (Cardinal Forest, Herndon, Virginia Run, Woodburn, Woodlawn)

Staff will be working with Financial Services and grant administrators to process the awards. Additional next steps will be Office of Safety and Security notification and guidance to schools on project implementation.

 

Supporting the Development of Life Skills in Students

We want to ensure that all our students have a grasp of appropriate life and behavioral skills, and can feel comfortable expressing feelings, talking about relationships and have sound mental health awareness.

Earlier this fall, students in grades 3-12 had the opportunity to participate in the SEL screener. This optional activity helps us understand students’ life and behavioral skills, feelings, relationships, experience of the school environment, and general mental health and well-being.

In the coming weeks, parents and guardians of students who participated in the fall 2021 screening window will be mailed a letter with their student’s self-reported ratings. The letter includes tips for understanding the ratings and discussing them with your child. Families may use this information to reinforce their child’s strengths and give extra support in areas of growth.

More information is available online.

 

Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity

FCPS has new tools to help parents and guardians know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided by Lightspeed, our internet content filtering service, at no cost to families. You may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. If you want more detailed information, sign up for the Internet Use Parent portal and log-in anytime to see more detail about your child’s browsing and “pause” access to the internet during non-school hours. Find out more and sign up for these services on our website.

 

Class of 2021 SAT Outcomes – Impact of Student Economic Status 

As celebrated in the September 22 press release, the Fairfax County Public Schools class of 2021 maintained strong overall performance on the SAT, as compared to state and global averages. However, this initial public reporting did not reflect the more sophisticated story of student participation and performance when taking into account the impact of economic status. 

A new report, Class of 2021 SAT Student Outcomes Economically Disadvantaged Student Details,  provides SAT participation and performance data for economically disadvantaged and non-economically disadvantaged students within each of the standard reporting groups. These data offer perspective as the division confirms a commitment to maintaining free access to PSAT exams in grades 10-11 and free access to SAT School Day exams in grade 12.

 

Graduation cap and diploma graphic

Class of 2021 Diploma Distribution Outcomes

A new Division Diploma Distribution, 3-Year Comparison report offers further analysis of graduation outcomes. The data in this report illustrate gains in the proportion of graduates earning Advanced Studies diplomas across the past three years for all student groups. During this same time, all groups showed a reduction in Applied Studies diplomas. 

Student-group analysis of diploma distributions on page 1 of the new report extends the overall diploma distribution information that was published by division, region, and school in the earlier Class of 2021 Graduation Detailed Outcomes by School report. Additionally, page 2 of the new report provides diploma details by primary disability type for students with disabilities. This data allows reflection on how different diploma options have been leveraged by students in general—and by students with disabilities in particular—across recent years. 

Paired with a record high on-time graduation rate, the 3-year comparison of diploma types reinforces a positive picture of our division trends. While FCPS student outcomes certainly benefited from state pandemic flexibilities, the systemic support structures we have embedded within schools also played an important role and will be critical for sustaining these successes for the Class of 2022 and beyond.

  

FY 2023-27 Capital Improvement Program Plans for the Future

Fairfax County Public Schools has released its proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-27 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) that focuses on capital projects, including new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations, reflecting schools for the current school year (2021-22) and a five-year requirement of approximately $1.2 billion.

The Board is scheduled to vote on the CIP at its business meeting on Thursday, February 3. 

Details about the FY 2023-27 CIP are available online.

 

FCPS External Auditor’s Report 

Dr. Brabrand submitted the audited Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Single Audit Report (SAR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021. The ACFR has been audited by Cherry Bekaert LLP, and Cherry Bekaert’s unmodified opinion, is presented on page 3 of the Financial Section of the ACFR. An unmodified opinion provides a high level of assurance that the professional, independent examination of financial statements has not revealed any actual or possible material misstatements in those financial statements. 

Access the information here. 

 The Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) is a thorough and detailed presentation of the financial condition of FCPS. It also provides an overview of FCPS activities and balances for each fiscal year.

The Single Audit Report (SAR) details the Schedule of Expenditure for Federal Awards and other communication that reports the results of the single audit of federal funds received by FCPS and Fairfax Government. This is outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 2, Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards. The Single Audit, is a special type of compliance audit applicable to specific federal grant programs. The requirements of the Single Audit are established by federal legislation and regulation and are very stringent.

Additional information included are the auditor’s management letter communicating any deficiencies in internal control or other issues or recommendations for improvement as noted during the audit. As indicated in the management letter for FY 2021, FCPS had no deficiencies or recommendations identified by the external auditors.

The ACFR is submitted for rigorous peer review by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) and the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). The FY 2020 ACFR for FCPS was awarded the GFOA’s and ASBO’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the highest honor conferred by both organizations.

  

Office of the Auditor General (OAG) News

Current Engagement Update

  • At the December 9, Audit Committee meeting, OAG presented on the following agenda items (full agenda can be found on BoardDocs):
    • FY 2021 Annual Report.  View the report.
    • Recommendation Follow-up
    • Auditor General Updates
  • The Business Continuity Plan is complete as of December 2021 and is scheduled to be presented to the Audit Committee in January 2022.  The Community Use audit is currently ongoing.
  • FY22 Continuous Monitoring testing for quarter one is in the final stages. OAG is finalizing its work and will be sending results to the selected schools.  Continuous Monitoring is a year long process that is reported at the end of the fiscal year along with the end of year local school activity funds report.
  • 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.  Based upon the feedback collected from the School Board in the September 2021 work session, the Audit Committee recommended additional funding for the Year 2 (Phase II) Special Education Comprehensive Review over: (a) Stakeholder focus groups, (b) Classroom observations, (c) Extant data analysis, totaling $87,443. During the November 22 meeting, the School Board voted to approve the recommended modification of the Special Education Comprehensive Review Contract between Fairfax County Public Schools and AIR. As a result of the modification, the Year 2 report is now scheduled to be presented to the School Board between September and November 2022. 

Have a question for the auditor?  Contact OAG at internalaudit@fcps.edu

 Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline:

(571) 423-1333 (anonymous voicemail)

InternalAudit@fcps.edu (email is not anonymous)

 

Educate Fairfax logo

Announcing the FCPS Hall of Fame

For more than 150 years, Fairfax County Public Schools has been educating students to excel in all aspects of life. Today, thousands of FCPS alums are leaders around the world, in government and business, arts and entertainment, science and technology, education and community service. We believe our alumni are a testament to the power of public schooling.

To honor these special alumni, Educate Fairfax is launching the inaugural FCPS Hall of Fame. We want to create a community where our alumni are engaged with FCPS, our students and one another. 

Nominate a Distinguished Alumni today and join us on May 4, 2022 as we recognize the contributions of our friends and neighbors.

Submit Your Nomination here!

 

Sponsor the FCPS Honors

Each year, Educate Fairfax supports employee recognition programs throughout FCPS, culminating in the FCPS Honors event in June.

A corporate sponsorship can show the teachers, principals and other employees how much we value their service to FCPS, especially in these trying times. 

More details on the Educate Fairfax website.

 

Service Animals Welcome 

Picture of service dog

Service animals are trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. Service animals are allowed in all schools and buildings, in accordance with federal and state law. 

The ongoing use of a service animal by staff members, parents, or members of the community must be coordinated through the Office of Equity and Employee Relations, by contacting EERADA@fcps.edu, to submit an accommodation request. To coordinate a student’s use of a service animal, contact the Due Process and Eligibility section of the Office of Special Education Procedural Support at 571-423-4290. Therapy animals are not generally considered service animals and are not permitted. 

If you have any questions regarding service animals in FCPS buildings, contact the Office of Equity and Employee Relations at 571-423-3070.

 

Safe Routes to School

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) programs help students get physically active while taking cars off the road. Visit their website to learn more about SRTS. Over the past four decades:

  • The percentage of students who walk and bicycle to school has declined from 48 percent (1969) to 13 percent (2009).
  • The percentage of parents using Kiss and Ride has increased.
  • Traffic conditions around many schools have gotten worse making it more difficult for student walkers and bicyclists to get to school.

Donate Used Bikes to Students

SRTS is collecting used bikes in working condition to donate to students in our community.  For several years the SRTS program has been teaching elementary and middle school students about pedestrian and bike safety and how to ride a bike.  Many of the students who learn to ride do not have a bike of their own.  If you have a bike that is no longer being used, please consider donating it to SRTS.  Bikes in need of minor repairs will be accepted.  Please contact Sally Smallwood to arrange for pick-up or drop-off.

 

PreK and Kindergarteners May Now Apply for Dual Language Immersion Programs

Online registration for the county-wide lottery for Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs opened on January 24. Current prekindergarten students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program and current kindergarten students may apply for the first grade immersion programs for the 2022-23 school year. 

The kindergarten DLI programs are available in Korean and Spanish. Korean is available at Powell and Spanish is available at Bailey’s Primary, Fort Hunt, Lake Anne, Laurel Ridge, London Towne, and Rose Hill Elementary Schools. First grade DLI programs are available at 12 elementary schools and are offered in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish.

Information Meetings

Parents who are interested in the DLI programs in FCPS are encouraged to attend one of the upcoming informational meetings. All meetings are held virtually. Information regarding virtual meeting access will be made available on the Dual Language Immersion registration site by the day of the meeting.

Get more information on Dual Language Immersion programs.

 

High School Students Can Explore Career Paths at Upcoming Academy Open Houses

A high school academy is a center within an existing high school that offers students the opportunity to explore career interests. By taking advanced technical and specialized courses students gain practical skills and education to help them succeed. High school students interested in taking classes at FCPS Academies can sign up to participate in an upcoming open house to learn more about each school. 

The open house dates are:

Check out the below article to learn more about Academy classes at Chantilly Academy.

 

Picture of Chantilly Academy Teachers for Tomorrow student.

Teachers for Tomorrow Prepares Students for Careers in K-12 Education

The Teachers for Tomorrow class prepares juniors and seniors to pursue their dream of educating the next generations. With two different course levels, Teachers for Tomorrow provides an in-depth look into teaching on a personal and professional scale. 

Teachers for Tomorrow 1 focuses on building a foundation of how teaching works and classroom management, as well as providing opportunities to observe teachers in a classroom setting. Teachers for Tomorrow 2 allows students to further explore careers in teaching and gain more field experience. 

Learn more about the experiences of Teachers for Tomorrow students

 

Become a Substitute Teacher 

Calling All College Students! Use Your Breaks to Make Extra Cash by Becoming A Sub

If you are a college student comes home for school breaks, or you live in the area full-time, becoming a substitute teacher is an excellent part-time job. You can decide what days you want to work, and even do half days. Spring break is also a great time to make some extra cash. 

Julian Lawson Consolla is a junior at the University of Kentucky who is working at Mount Eagle Elementary School while he has a few weeks off. Learn about his experience as a substitute teacher

 

Fairfax County magisterial districts map

New Fairfax County Magisterial Districts For Some Schools

Redistricting is a legally required process to ensure proportional representation as populations grow and shift over time. This process takes place every 10 years as a result of Census numbers.

On December 7, 2021, the Board of Supervisors adopted a redistricting plan that maintains nine election districts, but shifts seven precincts to new districts, in whole or in part, including two changes involving the Mason District. The affected precincts are listed below.

Picture of Springfield District magisterial district changes

While the new districts take effect immediately, they must be certified by the Virginia Attorney General. It is important to note that redistricting does not change school boundaries.

The Board of Supervisors also extended the charter of the Redistricting Advisory Committee (RAC) with the mission of considering magisterial district names. This committee will report back to the Board of Supervisors by March 2022 with its recommendations.

 

PIcture of Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in Washington, D.C.

Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday held on the third Monday in January (January 17 this year) and is observed as a national day of service. This day of service helps to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, address social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King’s vision of a “Beloved Community.”

 

Happy Epiphany graphic

Orthodox Epiphany

Wednesday, January 19 was a FCPS Religious/Cultural Observance Day as some of our community celebrate Orthodox Epiphany. Christian Orthodox traditions in Europe, Russia, Northeast Africa, and Southwest Asia follow the Julian calendar, which places their holy days slightly later than Western Christian observances.  Epiphany occurs 12 days after Christmas. Did you know that in some countries, observers celebrate a folk custom of plunging into icy waters? Brr! 🥶

 

Virginia School Appreciation Week graphic

Virginia School Principal Appreciation Week

Virginia School Principal Appreciation Week was the week of January 10. I want to thank our principals for stepping up in so many ways over the past two years and for their commitment to our students, staff members, and parents. You rock! 

It's not too late to thank your principal by sharing your story with FCPS Cares!


Springfield District Scene

Chantilly High School logo

Congratulations to Chantilly High School AFJROTC Cadet Michael Tress and Cadet Nathan Good! Michael was selected to the Air Force Chief of Staff Flight Academy as a Primary (guaranteed seat) and Nathan as an Alternate (awaiting a seat). The Flight Academy is a $20,000 scholarship to earn a private pilot’s license next summer!

At the Annual Fairfax County/City of Fairfax School Board Dinner students from the Chantilly High School (CHS) Culinary Arts Program with the assistance of Chef Doubleday prepared and hosted a sumptuous dinner for Board members and the FCPS senior leadership team. This is an annual partnership meeting between the two Boards. Thank you to CHS students for your hospitality and creativity and to Chef Doubleday who himself was a CHS student and took over the culinary arts program in 1994! These are amazing courses dedicated to providing students a working knowledge of classical culinary techniques through lecture, hands-on experience, and projects.  See Chantilly High School Culinary Arts for more information.

Congratulations to Chantilly High School football player Aiden Gobaira for earining the All-State honor!

The Red Cross representative for the National Capitol area chapter, Courtney Bulger (former teacher at Chantilly HS/Academy) awarded the Chantilly High School Red Cross Club as Club of the Year for 2021! Awesome job!

 

Mount Vernon High School logo

Mount Vernon High School has earned the College Board's AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding young women's access to AP Computer Science Principles (CSP). MVHS was chosen for having achieved 50% or higher female exam taker representation in one of or both AP computer science courses. This award acknowledges 1,020 schools for their work toward equal gender representation during the 2020-21 school year. They are one of only 760 schools to be recognized for achieving this important result in AP CSP. Way to go!

 

FCCPTA Reflections Awards 2021-2022

The FCCPTA Reflections program awarded the top entries among Fairfax County schools. This year’s theme was, “I Will Change the World By…” Congratulations to the following awardees from the Springfield District:

Dance Choreography

  • Greenbriar West Elementary School: Aarohi Prajapati, Outstanding Interpretation
  • White Oaks Elementary School: Qantu Ward Alanya, Award of Excellence

Film Production

  • West Springfield Elementary School: Eli Abueg, Outstanding Interpretation
  • Lake Braddock Secondary School: Stephanie Groves, Outstanding Interpretation

Literature

  • Sangster Elementary School: Brianna Le, Outstanding Interpretation
  • Lake Braddock Secondary School: Stephanie Groves, Outstanding Interpretation

Photography

  • Lake Braddock Secondary School: Charles Nguyen, Outstanding Interpretation

Visual Arts

  • Greenbriar East Elementary School: Casey Yoon, Outstanding Interpretation
  • Keene Mill Elementary School: Livy Abueg, Award of Excellence
  • Lake Braddock Secondary School: Stephanie Groves, Merit Award

All FCCPTA awardees will have their entries submitted to the NoVa District PTA Reflections program.

 

Congratulations to the Fall 2021 Sports Champions

Congratulations to all the Springfield District student-athletes who participated in this year's fall sports season. This year, one student won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) championship in his respective sport, and two teams were the state runners-up.

Individual state champions

  • Fairfax High School - Josh Duangmanee, Class 6 Boys Golf

Team state runners-up

  • Robinson Secondary School - Class 6 Cheerleading
  • Lake Braddock Secondary School - Class 6 Golf

 

Picture of Principal Birge

Welcome Principal Birge to Bonnie Brae Elementary

The Region 4 Office is pleased to announce that Mr. Morgan Birge, former assistant principal at Lemon Road Elementary School, has been selected as the new principal of Bonnie Brae Elementary School, effective January 3, 2022. 

Mr. Birge is a proud product of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), growing up in the Springfield area and graduating from Lake Braddock Secondary School. He spent the first fourteen years of his educational career as a physical education teacher in FCPS. He also served as a resource teacher in the Instructional Services Department, where he helped usher in the county’s standards-based progress reports. Mr. Birge transitioned back to a school-based position when he became the instructional coach at Lemon Road Elementary School. He went on to serve as the assistant principal at Garfield Elementary School and returned to Lemon Road, where he has been serving as the assistant principal for the past five and a half years.

Mr. Birge is a leader who places a high priority on relationships, family, and student success. He has a proven record of building a positive and inclusive culture, with an intentional focus on building trusting relationships.  As the assistant principal at Lemon Road, he worked alongside the principal to prioritize equity-related goals which included a focus on diversifying the staff and strategic work to bring all families into the life of the school. During Mr. Birge’s tenure at Lemon Road, the school achieved some of the highest culture and climate results in the most recent Employee Engagement Survey. He was also instrumental in increasing family engagement through collaboration with the staff and teams at the school and region levels. He firmly believes that family engagement fosters a welcoming and collaborative environment that benefits the entire school community and has a significant impact on the success of students. 

Read more about Principal Birge.


Family Resources

The Importance of Submitting Free and Reduced-Price Meal Applications

School meals provide nourishment that allows students to excel in the classroom and to grow and thrive. This year, FCPS continues to offer no-cost meals to all students, thanks to a waiver granted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

While the meals are no cost for all, it is still important for families to submit the Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM) application because it impacts much more than meals.

FRM applications help link families to other benefits, such as waiving fees for SAT, ACT, and AP exams as well as other school fee-based programs. Qualifying students may also have access to scholarships, classes, or services provided by agencies and organizations outside FCPS. FRM applications also help determine additional education funding for your child’s school.

Find out more on our website.

 

FCPS Parent Resource Center logo

Register for Free Webinars from the Parent Resource Center

The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) is offering free parent webinars. They are:

 

Everything You Need to Know About Marijuana in 1 hour: A Webinar for Families

“Everyone’s doing it” is what most teenagers will say about marijuana, but truly only about 20% of teens have used marijuana in the last 30 days. During our session, we’ll talk about a myriad of topics relating to marijuana to include: THC vs CBD, legalization vs decriminalization, the various ways marijuana can be consumed, and more. 

Discussion Highlights:

  • Legalization vs. decriminalization
  • Drug use and the pandemic
  • THC's various forms of use
  • THC through the years
  • THC vs. CBD

Join Tiffany J. Jones, FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist for this important webinar.

Friday, January 28, 2022, 10-11 a.m. 

Register online for Everything You Need to Know About Marijuana in 1 hour: A Webinar for Families

 

What Should I do Before my Child Grows Up? Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students with Disabilities

Join Career and Transition Services (CTS) to learn about planning for life in and after high school!

It’s never too early or too late to start preparing for your future. We want to help you start planning for a successful transition from school to life as a young adult. 

Ensuring the postsecondary success of our students with disabilities is dependent on what is known as transition planning. Please join CTS and other support service personnel for a month of webinars focused on planning for the future. 

Each week, webinar sessions will cover a range of topics: CTS programming and services for students with disabilities, short and long-term postsecondary supports, employment and postsecondary education considerations, Supported Decision Making, and student self-determination as an evidence-based predictor of post-school success. 

This event also includes two evenings of student/parent panels where members describe their firsthand experiences as they navigated Fairfax County Public Schools and planning for their child’s future.

Wednesdays in February

February 2

6:30 – 6:45    Session 1A Event/Workshop Overview                 

6:45 – 7:35     Session 1B

I’m Determined: K-12: Learn why it’s important for students with disabilities to understand and possess self-determination skills from elementary school to adulthood.

7:35 – 8:30     Session 2

CTS Special Education Programs and Services Available in FCPS 

Career and Transition Services (CTS) Overview: Learn about the different course offerings, programs, and services available from CTS. Opportunity to ask questions and interact with teacher and staff representatives. 

February 9

6:30 – 7:30     Session 1

The Arc of Northern Virginia: Transition Planning and Supported Decision-Making: Learn how to successfully plan for the move from school to the adult world, including how to empower your child or student to maximize independence and rights protection by using a chosen team of supporters. 

7:30 – 8:30     Session 2

Supporting Students Accessing Adult Services: Learn about how the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS), the Community Services Board (CSB), and Career and Transition Services (CTS) work together to support students accessing adult service providers upon exiting FCPS. 

February 16

6:30 – 7:30     Session 1

College and Postsecondary Education Options: Understand the college planning process and learn how to find colleges/programs with the right support and services for your child or student. 

7:30 – 8:30     Session 2

My Journey - Part I: An FCPS Graduate Student and Parent Panel: Opportunity to hear from students and parents who navigated special education programs and services in FCPS.

The panel for Part I will consist of individuals with disabilities who are pursuing competitive employment and higher education opportunities after exiting FCPS. 

February 23

6:30 – 7:15     Session 1

Middle School Support: This session will provide an overview of planning for your future within the IEP and a discussion about why it’s important to start that planning early. 

7:15 – 8:30     Session 2

My Journey - Part II: An FCPS Graduate Student and Parent Panel: Opportunity to hear from students and parents who navigated the transition process in FCPS. 

The panel for Part II will consist of individuals with disabilities who are pursuing supported employment, group supported employment, or day support opportunities, and working with the Community Services Board (CSB) for on-going support after exiting FCPS. 

Register for What should I do before my child grows up? Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students with Disabilities

 

FCPS Multilingual Family Podcasts

FCPS Multilingual Podcasts logo

Listen and subscribe to an FCPS multilingual family podcast to hear timely, important information related to school news. The podcasts are produced in conjunction with the Office for English as a Second Language (ESOL) Services and the Office of Professional Learning and Family Engagement.

FCPS Parent Resource Center: Resources and Supports

In this episode, hear how the Parent Resource Center provides resources and supports for all families and school staff in FCPS and the surrounding communities. The Center provides free library resources, confidential consultations, and informational webinars. Meet Mary Beth Harrison-Cunningham and Amal Elsayed. 

Reach the Parent Resource Center by calling us at 703-204-3941, by emailing at prc@fcps.edu or the website at https://www.fcps.edu/resources/family-engagement/parent-resource-center.

Listen and subscribe:  

 

Parent Tip Sheet: Teens Respond Best to Specific Praise

Praise from you can motivate your teen. But vague compliments, such as, “You’re great!” may do little to inspire them.

Try instead to praise your teen’s actions. Say they have done a fabulous job painting their room. Don’t say “How wonderful!” Instead, say, “I don’t see one stray mark on your walls. Look how even and smooth they are. It must make you feel proud to know you put a lot of care and attention into your work. Thank you very much.” Knowing that their actions have merit encourages your teen to repeat them.

This kind of specific praise can motivate your teen's efforts in school, too. If they have produced a well-thought-out presentation, say something like “You backed your points up with great examples. I can really understand your argument!”

Copyright 2021, the Parent Institute, a Division of PaperClip Media Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Get more tips for parents and other family engagement resources.

 

SAPS: Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists

SAPS now has a Twitter account! Follow SAPS at FCPS SAPS (@FcpsSaps) Twitter for timely information and help with any substance abuse issues.

SAPS recently created a video to break down the new 2021 Marijuana legislation and its implications for students in FCPS. Find it at the links below: 

English: https://youtu.be/CpmUJ_s2ddw 

Spanish: https://youtu.be/140V-Tu6oRQ 

 

Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Online Early College Program

NOVA will offer select college courses this Spring 2022 with free tuition to Fairfax County high school juniors and seniors. Courses are twelve weeks, virtual, asynchronous classes and will begin February 1, 2022. Students must meet placement requirements and understand there may be textbooks or other material fees associated with courses. Students will need access to a computer and the internet. The online courses are not intended to replace any 2021-22 classes for which students are already registered at their high school. The program provides an accelerated opportunity to earn transferable college only credits. Find details about the Online Early College Program.

Additionally, NOVA will be offering Early Online College courses for juniors and seniors during the 2022-23 school year. All high schools should advertise these opportunities during academic advising. Additional information was provided to high school directors of student services at their December 15 meeting to assist with marketing and answering questions.

 

SEPTA Focus Groups on Family-School Partnerships  

Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) is hosting virtual focus groups to discuss National PTA's Standards for Family-School Partnerships. Share your experiences and your perspectives on family-school partnerships.

  • How do you want to engage with your child’s school?
  • What are the most important parts of a parent-educator relationship?

Your feedback will be used to make family-school partnerships more inclusive and impactful in FCPS. National PTA will also use your feedback to inform a set of National Standards for family-school partnerships nationwide.  Sessions last 1 hour and 15 minutes, are interactive, discussion-based, and open to all FCPS families. You do not need to be a PTA member to participate.  A small stipend will be given to the first 20 registrants per session who then attend and complete a brief survey.

Register by clicking on the below links:

Questions?  Please contact:

Michelle Cades - president@fairfaxcountysepta.org

Amanda Campbell - vicepresident@fairfaxcountysepta.org

 

Scholarship Guidance logo

Below you will find a list of Scholarship Programs that will give out individual scholarship awards during the 2021-2022 school year. Students are eligible for all awards below.

*Weekly Scholarship Newsletter available here: https://scholarshipguidance.com/newsletter.

1) Technology Addiction Awareness Scholarship - $1,000 – 1 Award (Deadline: January 30, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a graduating high school senior.
  • Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29994/technology-addiction-awareness-scholarship 

2) NC Scholarships - $2,000 - 12 Awards (Deadline: January 31, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be currently enrolled as a high school senior located within the United States.
  • Have a GPA of at least 2.5.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/35356/nitro-scholarship

3) Melvin Kruger Endowed Scholarship - $20,000 - 3 Awards (Deadline: January 31, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a graduating high school senior.
  • Have a relative that is employed in the roofing industry.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29885/melvin-kruger-endowed-scholarship 

4) Union Plus Scholarship - $4,000 - 199 Awards (Deadline: January 31, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a current or retired member of a participating union, their spouses or their dependent children.
  • Have at least one year of continuous union membership by the applicant, applicant's spouse or parent.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29572/union-plus-scholarships-program 

5) Society of Manufacturing Engineers Scholarship - $10,000 - 200 Awards (Deadline: Feb 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a graduating high school senior, current undergraduate or graduate student who will be enrolling as part-time or full-time undergraduate or graduate student, attending accredited colleges or universities.
  • Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/33050/society-of-manufacturing-engineers-scholarship 

6) Morton Gould Young Composer Awards - $5,000 – 8 Awards (Deadline: February 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a young composer.
  • Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident or student that is at least 13 years of age.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/27130/morton-gould-young-composer-awards 

7) McDonald's HACER Scholarship Program - $100,000 - 30 Awards (Deadline: February 7, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a high school senior that is younger than 21 years old and carries a minimum 2.8 GPA.
  • Have at least one parent of Hispanic heritage.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/33112/mcdonalds-hacer-national-scholarship 

8) Elks National Foundation Legacy Awards - $4,000 - 300 Awards (Deadline: February 7, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a high school senior.
  • Be a child or grandchild of an Elks member.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/29961/elks-national-foundation-legacy-awards 

9) Linda S. Montross New Latin Educators Scholarship - $2,000 – 16 Awards (Deadline: Feb. 15, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a high school senior or undergraduate, or enrolled in a master's degree program.
  • Be planning to teach Latin at the K-12 levels.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/34493/linda-s-montross-new-latin-educators-scholarship 

10) Gordon A. Rich Memorial Scholarship - $50,000 - 9 Awards (Deadline: February 16, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be graduating high school senior who plans to enroll as a full-time first-year student in pursuit of a four-year bachelor's degree at an accredited college/university in the United States.
  • Have a minimum grade point average of 3.5 (on a 4.0 scale).
  • Rank in the top 20% of their class.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/31282/gordon-a-rich-memorial-scholarship 

11) KJK Special Education Scholarship - $1,000 - 1 Award (Deadline: February 28, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and be in good standing academically.
  • Be a high school senior, college student or graduate student who is a legal resident of the United States.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/36735/kjk-special-education-scholarship 

12) Education Matters Scholarship - $1,000 - 1 Award (Deadline: March 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be currently enrolled in or about to attend an accredited college in the Fall of 2022 and have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/35293/education-matters-scholarship 

13) National Italian American Foundation Scholarships - $12,000 - 200 Awards (Deadline: March 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be enrolled in a US accredited institution of higher education on a full-time basis for the Fall 2022 semester.
  • Have a GPA of at least 3.5 out of 4.0 (or the equivalent).

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/30425/national-italian-american-foundation-scholarships 

14) American Foreign Service Association Scholarship - $5,000 – 77 Awards (Deadline: March 14, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a high school senior graduating in 2022.
  • Be a child of a Foreign Service employee and maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/26528/american-foreign-service-association-scholarship 

15) Kochhar & Co. Chartered Professional Accountant - $1,000 - 1 Award (Deadline: March 31, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be attending college or university on a full-time or part-time basis no later than September of 2022.
  • Have achieved a GPA of 2.5 or greater during their last academic year.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/35831/kochhar-co-scholarship 

16) Breaking the Stigma Scholarship - $1,000 – 1 Award (Deadline: March 31, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a current high school senior, college student, or graduate student who is a legal resident of the US.
  • Submit an essay in response to the prompt: How can society better work to break disability stigmas?

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/36982/breaking-the-stigma-scholarship 

17) Young Women in Public Affairs Award - $5,000 - 42 Awards (Deadline: April 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be a woman between the ages of 16-19 living in a Zonta district/region.
  • Demonstrate evidence of at least one of the following: Active commitment to volunteerism, Experience in local government, student government, or workplace leadership.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/31731/young-women-in-public-affairs-award 

18) Global Lift Equipment Scholarship - $500 - 1 Award (Deadline: April 15, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be currently attending or planning on attending a post-secondary institution no later than the Fall of 2022.
  • Have a GPA of 2.5 or greater.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/28169/global-lift-equipment-scholarship 

19) Odenza Vacations Scholarship - $500 - 1 Award (Deadline: May 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be between the ages of 17 and 24 on September 1st.
  • Submit an answer to the essay question prior to the deadline.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/28334/odenza-vacations-college-scholarship 

20) LM Scholarship - $500 – 1 Award (Deadline: May 1, 2022)

To be eligible for the scholarship a student must:

  • Be currently enrolled or expect to be enrolled in a degree program by Fall 2022.
  • Have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit an answer to the essay question prior to the submission deadline.

Applications can be found by going to:

https://scholarshipguidance.com/scholarships/28083/lm-scholarship-program 

 

George Washington University HCOP Program

For high school students interested in a health career, GWU is now accepting applications for their Health Career Opportunity Program (HCOP). This program offers scholarships/stipends, mentors, education, and advice for students interested in embarking on the journey of becoming a health professional. HCOP is a federally funded program by HRSA and its mission is to develop and guide individuals with disadvantaged backgrounds through the educational pipeline of a health profession.

  • Early decision submission deadline - Tuesday, February 22
  • Regular decision submission deadline - Tuesday, March 22

If you have questions about our program or would like a presentation, please reply to this email or contact  GWHCOP@gwu.edu.  For more information about HCOP, visit http://smhs.gwu.edu/hcop

 

Free 1st Stage Theatre Tickets for High School Students

The Youth Engagement Subscription (YES Pass) is a free season subscription to 1st Stage's 2021-2022 Season for all high school students who live in Fairfax County or attend a Fairfax County High School.  This offer also applies to the Fairfax County High School classes of 2019 and 2020.  Sign up for a YES Pass.

 

National Wildlife Federation logo

National Wildlife Federation Photo Contest

The National Wildlife Federation’s Wildlife Photo Contest is accepting entries through March 27, 2022. Students between the ages of 13-17 may enter in the Young Habitat Photographers category. The entry fee is waived for students at registered Eco-Schools. Learn more about NWF’s National Wildlife Photo Contest and how to get a fee waiver.

 

Journalism Education Association logo

SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest

The Sigma Delta Chi Foundation of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Journalism Education Association (SPJ/JEA) want to increase high school student's knowledge and understanding of the importance of independent media to our lives.

Deadline: February 19, 2022.  More information.

 

Envirothon Competition for HS Students

As we determine best practices for reaching Zero Waste goals in Fairfax County, let's engage our high school students' voices! This year’s Envirothon Special Interest topic is “Waste to Resources” and the Oral Presentation question has just been announced! Visit the VA Soil and Water Conservation District’s Envirothon competition page to explore resources on waste and other competition topics and to learn how to participate in the Envirothon competition. Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District (NVSWCD) provides training trunks on aquatics, forestry, soils, and wildlife available teachers to borrow. Each trunk is full of dozens of valuable resources like guides, hands-on tools and equipment, and specimen samples. NVSWCD will also be hosting local training and will be providing more details soon. Contact Ashley Palmer to learn more.

 

Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo Event

The Office of Counseling and College and Career Readiness is hosting the upcoming Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event for high school students. Join us for our upcoming regional career exploration event and participate in live virtual sessions held every night starting on Monday, February 14 through February 17. You will learn about a wide variety of potential career paths and post-secondary options that will prepare you for the next chapter of your educational journey. The registration window opened on January 24.

For more information: 

Instruction 2 Industry graphic

 

Summer Learning Opportunities

Now is a great time to plan your child’s summer learning. Many students participate in summer learning opportunities to advance academically, to sharpen their skills, to learn something new, or to participate in fun fine arts and Career and Technical Education camps, institutes, and academies. 

Fairfax County Public Schools summer learning opportunities include a Credit Recovery Academy that offers credit recovery courses, intervention classes, and test remediation classes; programs and institutes at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology that provide credit accrual and enrichment opportunities; and Online Campus courses and classes. Career and Technical Education will offer Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance. Elementary and secondary Fine Arts and Career and Technical Education enrichment camps, institutes and academies will also be offered.

Details about 2022 enrichment camps and institutes, Online Campus, and Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance are now available on the FCPS Summer Learning webpage. Information about other programs will be posted as it becomes available.

Enrichment Camps & Institutes

CTE Summer Academy: Current grades 7-11

Dates:

  • Session 1: Monday, July 11 - Friday, July 15
  • Session 2: Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22
  • Session 3: Monday, July 25 - Friday, July 29

Time: 8:30 am – 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday (Early drop off begins at 7:30 am)

CTE Summer Academy is a weekly enrichment program that allows students to dive deeper into CTE program areas, and encourages skill development and career exploration. Students choose 4 classes to personalize their summer learning experience. Students may register for more than one session and learn all summer long.

Registration: Monday, January 31 - Friday, June 17

 

Tech Adventure Camp: Current grades 2-6

Dates: 

  • Session 1: Monday, July 11 - Friday, July 15
  • Session 2: Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22
  • Session 3: Monday, July 25 - Friday, July 29

Time: 8:30 am - 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday (Early drop off begins at 7:30 am)

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a weekly exploratory camp designed to give students the opportunity to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, and computer science areas. Students rotate through 5 themed classes each week. Themes change weekly. 

Registration: Monday, January 31 - Friday, June 17

 

Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA): Current grades 2-5

Dates: 

  • Session 1: Tuesday, July 5 - Friday, July 8
  • Session 2: Monday, July 11 - Friday, July 15
  • Session 3: Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22
  • Session 4: Monday, July 25 - Friday, July 29

Time: 8:30 am - 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday

E-IFTA is a weekly arts institute for students who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students attending E-IFTA rotate between classes in dance, music, theatre, and visual art. Class content changes every week, so students may attend one or more sessions.

Registration: Session 1: Tuesday, March 1-Tuesday, June 21

 

Institute for the Arts (IFTA): Current grades 6-11

Dates: 

  • 2-week session: Tuesday, July 5 - Friday, July 15
  • 4-week session: Tuesday, July 5 - Friday, July 29
  • *IFTA HPE 9: Tuesday, July 5 - Tuesday, July 26 *IFTA HPE 9 classes from June 27 - July 1 are held virtually via Zoom

Time: 8:30 am - 2:00 pm, Monday - Friday

IFTA is a comprehensive arts enrichment and academic program. Students take 4 classes which they choose from among 90 selections. Options include dance, music, theatre, visual art, and fashion classes. Students entering grade 9 may take the Online Health & PE (HPE9) course and students entering grades 9-12 may take the Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance course as one of their 4 classes. 

 Registration: Tuesday, March 1 - Tuesday, June 21

 

Secondary Academic Opportunities

Online Campus: Current grades 7-12

Dates: 

  • Non-SOL courses: Tuesday, June 21 - Wednesday, July 20
  • SOL courses: Tuesday, June 21 - Wednesday, July 21
  • IFTA HPE 9: Tuesday, July 5 - Tuesday, July 26
  • HN Geometry: Tuesday, June 21 - Thursday July 29
  • Algebra 2 Head Start: Monday, July 18 - Friday, July 22

Time: Synchronous lessons will be between 8 am – 2 pm and will last 60-90 minutes daily.

These courses provide opportunities for credit recovery and acceleration for eligible middle school and high school students. 

Registration: Tuesday, January 18 - Friday, June 10

 

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance: Current grades 9-12

Dates: 

  • Session 1: Monday, April 18 - Friday, June 17
  • Session 2: Monday, June 27 - Friday, July 29

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance requires students to complete work without direct teacher support. Students will access content for this course through FCPS Schoology. The course was updated in September 2020. The course features updated curriculum, interactive modules, and exit tickets. Students will read through 14 modules, complete 140 exit tickets, 14 module tests, and a final exam. This is an online course and does not meet face-to-face. Students may only take this course as "Pass/Fail."

Registration: 

Session 1: Tuesday, January 18 - Friday, April 8

Session 2: Tuesday, January 18 - Friday, June 3

 

Fairfax County Public Access Station 2022 TV & Radio Teen Summer Camp

Fairfax County’s public access station (FPA) offers students interested in Television and Radio production a great outlet to learn, experience, and create.  This summer, the FPA is offering several camp programs to choose from which include: radio, television studio, television field, and video editing options. Depending on the camp, this can be a one-week or two-week camp designed to certify participants in the use of our studio production facilities.  Once properly trained, participants can begin volunteering and earn production experience throughout the year by helping in the various public access programs created at FPA or even working towards creating a show of their own. For more information on the camps, check out the FPA Camp Booklet or their website, fcac.org.


Health and Safety News

Universal Mask Requirement Remains

FCPS remains committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all of our staff and students and requires everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask inside our buildings and on our school buses, except when alone in a room. This includes staff, students, and visitors. Read the FCPS Mask Regulation for more details.

Our layered prevention strategies, including universal mask-wearing, help to keep COVID-19 transmission in our schools low and our classrooms open for learning. It is especially important to protect our most medically vulnerable students who deserve the same opportunity to safely access in-person instruction as their peers. 

 

Health Reminders

  • Review the Daily Health Screening. When in doubt, keep your child home if they have any illness. This is not just about COVID, but it is also cold and flu season. Your child may return the next day if they are feeling better and, if they had a fever, are fever-free for 24 hours.

  • Students demonstrating any of the following symptoms at school will be sent home from school:   Fever (100.4 or greater) - Chills – Cough – Shortness of breath – Loss of taste/smell – Sore throat – Fatigue – Muscle aches – Runny Nose/Congestion – Stomachache – Diarrhea – Nausea/Vomiting – Headaches.  

  • Please make sure your child has a properly fitting mask and remind them to wear it over their mouth and nose.

  • To best curb this surge, please put an extra couple of masks in your child’s backpack in case they lose theirs during the day.

  • Please do not send your child to school if they have been identified as a close contact to a COVID case. Your child’s principal will reach out to you with further instructions for your child’s return.

Find answers to questions about FCPS Health and Safety policies and COVID-19 procedures which includes all current updates.

COVID-19 graphic

Navigating the COVID Surge

Recently, Dr. Brabrand shared FCPS’ plan to navigate the current COVID surge and our commitment to provide safe in-person learning for our students. We are all working together to put our students first. Thank you to every FCPS employee and all our families for your continued support. 

Details and updates about our plan to provide continuity of instruction during the COVID surge can be found on our website.

 

Changes to Quarantine and Isolation

A lot of new and updated information is available for schools and families due to the current COVID-19 surge and recent changes to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. Previously FCPS shared how the new CDC recommendations for quarantine and isolation periods would affect students and staff

The Health and Safety Guidance Document on our website is your source for the most up-to-date information. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance for isolation and quarantine in late December, with an update January 4. This guidance reduces isolation and quarantine to five days. The VDH states that school districts may choose to continue more stringent isolation and quarantine requirements or may implement the new CDC guidance.

Isolation and Quarantine

We follow the CDC definitions of isolation and quarantine. Understanding the difference is helpful when determining what you need to do following a diagnosis or being named a close contact.

Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick. When you or your child has tested positive for, or been medically diagnosed with, COVID-19, the instruction is to isolate.

Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who are exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick. When you or your child has been exposed to a COVID-19 positive individual, the instruction may be to quarantine.

New Guidance for Returning to School After Quarantine, Pause, or Isolation

FCPS will adopt the new guidance with one exception:

  • FCPS will adopt CDC’s recommendation for quarantine for students and staff.
  • FCPS will adopt CDC’s recommendation for isolation for staff.
  • FCPS will NOT adopt CDC’s recommendation for isolation for students as we are unable to implement the required physical distancing protocols during meals.

Return Guidance for Students with COVID-19

Students who are COVID-19 positive are able to return to school when ALL of the following criteria are met:

  • Student completes at least 10 days of isolation from symptom onset for symptomatic students or 10 days since testing positive (day test administered) for COVID-19 for asymptomatic students, AND
  • Student is fever free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication, AND
  • Student’s symptoms have improved, AND
  • Student submits the FCPS Isolation Letter with the return date to their attending school

Return Guidance for Students who are Close Contacts to School Related Exposures

Asymptomatic students who are close contacts and required to quarantine are able to return to school when all the criteria for one of the two options below are met:

  • Option 1:
    • Student completes five days of quarantine, AND
    • Student is asymptomatic, AND
    • Student is able to wear a face mask at school- Day 6 thru 10; AND
    • Student submits FCPS Pause Letter with the return date to their attending school
  • Option 2:
    • Student completes ten days of quarantine, AND
    • Student submits FCPS Pause Letter with the return date to their attending school
    • Students with mask exemptions will need to utilize Option 2 to return from quarantine.

Some students and staff may be exempt from quarantine if they meet the CDC criteria, are able to wear a face mask, and are asymptomatic:

  • Students must complete the FCHD vaccination survey, and receive a clearance email from the FCHD prior to resuming in-person learning and activities.
  • Staff must complete the Fully Vaccinated Exemption Form

Return Guidance for Students who are Close Contacts to Community Related Exposures

FCPS will no longer require Return to School documentation for a student deemed a close contact in the community, outside of the school environment. FCPS recommends that families adhere to the Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) quarantine guidance, as appropriate. If families have questions regarding COVID-19, they are encouraged to consult their physician or the Fairfax County Health Department

Updated Health and Safety Guidance Documents

The best source of the most up-to-date information, including how students return to school after quarantine or isolation, is available on the Health and Safety Guidance Document on the FCPS website.  

FCPS staff should refer to resources on the Employee Hub for updated guidelines to return to work.

This new guidance went into effect on January 10. More information is available on our website.

Updates and Answers to Common Questions:

The First Step if Your Child Tests Positive or Receives a COVID-19 Diagnosis

If your child tests positive or receives a COVID-19 diagnosis, please notify your school so they can provide you with the FCPS Isolation Letter, which will include the anticipated return to school date for your child. 

The process for returning to school after a COVID-19 positive test, diagnosis, or exposure is outlined on our website.

Fully Vaccinated Students with School-related Exposures Can Be Exempt from Quarantine

Fully vaccinated students with a school-related COVID-19 exposure can be exempt from quarantine. Parents or guardians will receive the vaccination survey link in the FCPS Pause Letter provided by the school when the student is identified as a close contact. This survey is only available to school-related cases. 

Who Provides Clearance Letters

The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) will no longer provide return to school/work letters in most cases. FCPS pause letters will now serve as return documentation for students that are close contacts. The FCPS pause letters will provide the steps students will follow to return to school. 

The FCHD will provide clearance emails ONLY to students who are exempt from quarantine (see above).

Medical Questions About COVID-19

If you have questions about COVID-19, please contact your child’s physician or the Fairfax County Health Department at 703-267-3511 (9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends). You may email ffxcovid@fairfaxcounty.gov (monitored 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays).

 

COVID-19 Vaccinations

School COVID-19 vaccine clinics graphic with picture of girl in mask

Students who are vaccinated against COVID-19 are better able to avoid missing out on important in-person learning.  A high rate of vaccination among students and staff makes our schools safer for everyone.

There are many opportunities to get the COVID-19 vaccine in Fairfax County, including

  • Pediatric and Family Medicine Providers: call your child’s doctor to make an appointment.
  • Pharmacies, grocery stores, and urgent care facilities: visit vaccines.gov (www.vacunas.gov) to search for a vaccine appointment.
  • Health Department Vaccination Centers: visit the website to make an appointment, or call 703-324-7404 if you need assistance.
    • Fairfax County Government Center, 12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, 22035
    • Mount Vernon District Office (Gerry Hyland Government Center), 8350 Richmond Highway, Alexandria, 22309
  • Tysons Community Vaccination Center, 7950 Tysons Corner Center, Tysons: Visit here or call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682, TTY users call 711). Appointment assistance is available in English, Spanish, and more than 100 other languages.
  • Inova Children Vaccination Clinic: visit here to make an appointment for their weekend clinics at the Inova Center for Personalized Health, 8100 Innovation Park Drive, Fairfax.
  • School-located Vaccine Clinics: The Fairfax Health District and Fairfax County Public Schools are hosting COVID-19 vaccine clinics at several county schools. Visit this webpage for details.

 

Get Boosted and Remember to Update Your Vaccination Status

To be considered up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccination, individuals over age 18 should be boosted according to new guidance by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).

Individuals over the age of 18 are considered up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccination if they have:

  • Booster (3rd dose) with a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
  • 2nd Dose of the initial series of Pfizer is within the last 5 months.
  • 2nd Dose of the initial series of Moderna is within the last 5 months.
  • 1st Dose Johnson & Johnson is within the last 2 months.

View our list of community resources for information on vaccination opportunities. Or, visit the Virginia Department of Health’s (VDH) website which includes available locations throughout Virginia, call center (assistance available in more than 100 languages) for questions and appointments, and information on how to retrieve a copy of your vaccination record.

 

COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 test tube graphic

Introducing Test to Stay

FCPS has been accepted into a pilot program for Test to Stay run by the Virginia Department of Health. Test to Stay is a practice that allows close contacts of individuals with COVID-19 who are exposed at school to remain in the classroom instead of quarantining at home. It requires close contacts to take a COVID-19 test every morning for 5 days after the exposure. If the test is negative, they are allowed to stay in school. They must also wear a mask and remain without symptoms for 10 days after the exposure. More information is coming soon, as the Test to Stay program is implemented across the Commonwealth.

Screening Testing

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) COVID-19 testing program provides screening and diagnostic testing to students and staff. For students, parental consent is required. Register via the secure online portal

This optional, random, student screening/testing is available for students who are NOT vaccinated against COVID19. This is a mitigation strategy to prevent the spread of COVID19 by identifying possible positive cases. 

If you wish to sign your student up for this optional program, parents/guardians will need to preregister and provide consent for services in the LTS online registration portal prior to service delivery. If your student is already vaccinated you may disregard this message.  

LTS is the contracted vendor for FCPS student testing. Having problems registering? LTS Contact information for IT support/registration support: fcps@lts.com (NOT affiliated with FCPS and FCPS cannot assist with this process as technical support)

More information is available on the Return to School - COVID-19 Testing webpage

Diagnostic Testing

Drive-through COVID-19 diagnostic testing is now available for all students and staff. Diagnostic testing is provided for those who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19. Appointments are not necessary, however, registration in the online portal must be completed in advance.

You can review your testing information and results on the FCPS COVID-19 testing portal. Please log back into the fcpstestingsite.com portal, using your fcps.edu email if you are a staff member or personal email if you are a parent, and enter your password. 

Due to the recent COVID surge and the volume of tests being processed at labs nationwide, some test results have been delayed and are experiencing longer than normal turnaround times.

Locations and Schedule (Subject to Change)

Mondays

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Thursdays

Fridays

Saturdays

* Denotes Drive-Through Testing Site

** Replaced Stonecroft Transportation Center Location and Denotes Drive-Through Testing Site

* Please note: In the event of inclement weather, COVID-19 testing sites will follow school schedules. If schools are closed, testing sites are closed. If schools are delayed, all testing sites will open at 10:00 am. 

Up-to-date information may be found on the Return to School - COVID-19 Testing webpage.

 

Free Home COVID-19 Tests Available

Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID-19 tests, completely free. Visit covidtests.gov to order your free at-home tests and find free testing locations in your area.

 

Guidelines for School Visitors, Volunteers, and Guests

We ask guests to follow a few guidelines to help keep our schools safe and healthy. If you are visiting, please review the health and safety guidelines for visitors in advance to prepare.


What’s in a Name?

Each month I will feature a different Springfield District school from the What’s in a Name video series. This month let’s learn about the history behind Hunt Valley Elementary School’s name.

Picture of Blue Prints for Sydenstricker Chapel (Hunt Valley) Elementary School

Click above to learn more about the history of Hunt Valley Elementary School’s name.


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.

© 2020 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia