Dear Dranesville Families,
Fall is truly upon us. As we wait for the remnants of Hurricane Ian to reach our area this weekend, please keep in mind those that are bearing the worst of it south of us. I certainly hope for a swift recovery.
It is an exciting time for FCPS with our new Superintendent Michelle Reid in full swing. She has already visited the McLean, Marshall, and Herndon pyramids. If you missed those discussions, please join us at Langley High School on October 26 at 6:30 pm. This is a chance to ask her any questions that you may have and a chance to get to know her a bit better. She will also be out talking with students at a McLean Citizen Association event on October 19.
We have started our monthly meetings to work on our FCPS strategic plan. I was especially happy to see all of the opportunities you will have to participate in the process–through surveys and meetings. Please watch my newsletter over the next months for details on this. I am very excited and energized to work on this with you as we continue to be sure our school district is meeting the needs of our current and future students, staff, and community. My big push in this work will be building the best workforce possible so we can give our students the best overall academic experience.
Speaking of workforce, I know several of our schools are still struggling with transportation issues due to a shortage of bus drivers. I have some good news–we have over 30 drivers in various stages of the extensive training program they receive before driving our students. Many of them are slated to drive routes in our area and should be available in the next couple of weeks. I have visited schools at the end of the day to see first hand the delays that are happening and spent time at our Stonecroft Transportation Center to see what is happening there. All of our staff are working as hard as they can to alleviate the issues we are seeing, but they have many obstacles to overcome. I have tried to document what I have observed for senior management and added a few ideas for them to consider–some of which came from you. Thank you for keeping me informed. In addition, I will be spending time with one of our Bus Driver Supervisors soon to see what her early morning organization and bus driving experience is like. I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience these issues are causing many of our families. Please know FCPS is aware of the problem and we will all continue to work on this.
A huge thank you to our custodians as we celebrate them this month. Every school I have visited looks wonderful due to the hard work of these dedicated employees. Please say hello to them next time you are in one of our buildings.
Shanah Tovah to our Jewish community and may all observing Yom Kippur have an easy and meaningful fast. I hope the time off will allow for time together as a family.
Enjoy the falling leaves and our seasonal transition,
Elaine
 My visits to Chesterbrook ES BBQ, Celebrate McLean at McLean HS, Ms. Player, the Langley Madrigals Director, at the 9/15/22 Regular Meeting, Spring Hill BTSN, and my Churchill Road ES visit,
Here are the newsletter topics:
Please see my separate Events newsletter coming out tomorrow, Friday, September 30. I will share many fun weekend events (weather permitting) and upcoming October events.
 My visit to the Dr. Reid's Herndon HS Community Conversation, the Herndon HS Band Showcase with Student SB Rep Michele Togbe, and the Herndon HS Improv event
Save the Date
Evening with Dr. Reid and Our Students- Oct. 19
Sponsored by McLean Citizens Association
On October 19th at 6pm at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean), Fairfax County Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Reid, will be answering questions from STUDENTS. We encourage all students from kindergarten through 12th grade to bring their questions or simply come to meet and listen to our new FCPS Superintendent. This event will be focused on questions from students attending elementary, middle, and high school from within the McLean, Langley, and Marshall Pyramids.
If you have any questions, please email, Jim Beggs, MCA Education and Youth Committee Chair, e-y_committee@mcleancitizens.org
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Canceled- Sunday Oct. 2 MPAartfest
From the McLean Community Center
We're sorry to announce that after consultation with Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) reps and local weather experts and weighing many factors, the decision has reluctantly been made to cancel our 2022 MPAartfest, scheduled to take place this Sunday, Oct. 2. We are exploring the possibility of an alternative community art event later this fall.
FCPS Updates
 My visits to Langley BTSN with Braden Peterson, and my visit to the Langley Club Day
Calendar Reminder
Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism, begins at sundown on Tuesday, October 4, Tuesday is noted as a ½ religious/cultural observance date on the FCPS calendar. Wednesday, October 5, is a holiday for teachers and students. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.
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Special Education Review: Final Report
Prior to the pandemic, FCPS contracted with the American Institutes of Research (AIR) to complete a comprehensive review of our special education programs. AIR has released their final report with recommendations for changes that are actionable, evidence-based, and will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of services for FCPS students with disabilities and their families. For more information on the Special Education Review, visit FCPS’ Office of Auditor General webpage.
The School Board has a work session scheduled to review AIR’s report on Tuesday, October 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Watch the work session live on FCPS’ YouTube Channel or Channel 99.
Share your Feedback
Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) Online Feedback Form
Share your Feedback
In the fall of 2021, FCPS received $188.8 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) funding to support the safe operation of schools and address the impacts of COVID-19 on students. ESSER III focus areas have included resources for prevention and mitigation of COVID, academic services, multilingual engagement, support for students’ social emotional needs, and professional development. Visit the ESSER III webpage for more information.
We are now seeking feedback from the community on actions FCPS has taken to maintain health and safety, ensure continuity of learning, and address the wellness needs of students in accordance with the FCPS ESSER III Plan for Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services. Please provide your input on this form by October 10, 2022.
Save the Date- Public Hearing on ESSER Funding
The School Board will hear public comments on ESSER funding at a hearing scheduled for Thursday, November 3, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Luther Jackson Middle School auditorium. Registered speakers will have two minutes to address the Board regarding ESSER funding. The speaker list will open at Thursday, October 21, 2022 at 6:00 a.m.
Model Policy Comment Period
Share your Feedback
A new proposed model policy (pdf) was recently proposed by the Virginia Department of Education regarding the “privacy, dignity, and respect for all students and parents in Virginia’s Public Schools.” A 30-day public comment period on the model policy began September 26 and closes October 26. You may provide feedback to the Virginia Department of Education on the new drafted policy. If you missed Superintendent Reid’s message regarding the new proposed model policy, please view it on our website.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP) - Engagement Process
Share your Feedback
FCPS engages in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) process on a regular cycle. Communication and engagement are critical to establishing trust, strengthening relationships, and building support for the school community and division as a whole. The Office of Communications and Community Relations and the FCPS Facilities Department conducted a joint review of the CIP communication process this past spring and summer. Please review the community engagement process and share your feedback.
Your Voice is Needed: Strategic Planning
Fairfax County Public Schools is launching the engagement phase that will help us develop our brand new Strategic Plan 2023-2028. The goal is to have the final strategic plan by June 2023. For a more detailed overview, visit FCPS’ Strategic Planning 2023 webpage.
Starting in October, we will be inviting the entire FCPS community to engage in building our shared future. This includes hearing from our parents and caregivers, students, and broader community, as well as surveying students in grades three and above. Many sessions (both in-person and virtual) will occur in November and December. I'll share these opportunities once they are open.
Superintendent Updates to the Board
Dranesville schools will be included in security vestibules design and construction over the next 5 years. McLean High school will receive the bathroom upgrades and the stadium bathrooms.
Security Vestibules
In response to the follow-on motions from 12/19/19 and 5/26/22, staff has evaluated FCPS facilities and identified schools and/or centers in need of a security vestibule. During FY22 year-end, the Office of Design and Construction presented a plan in a legal briefing for the design and construction of vestibules over the next five years with locations from each region.
“That funding be identified either through the capital or operational budgets to provide vestibules for enhanced security at all remaining FCPS schools; and that Dr. Brabrand or his designee identifies a plan to accomplish this initiative over the next three years.”
“I move that the School Board directs the Superintendent to prioritize the completion of the security vestibule program utilizing multiple funding sources to include local, state, and federal funding, and other revenue sources to include grant funding; and to provide the School Board with a plan and proposed schedule to complete the initiative as soon as possible.”
Condition of Bathroom Facilities – Follow-On Motion
In response to the follow-on motion from 2/6/20, staff has evaluated FCPS facilities and identified McLean High School and Whitman Middle School as two schools most in need of student bathroom renovations. The current estimate is approximately $1.5 million per site for a total of $3 million from the state construction grant included in the year-end budget. Bathrooms at these schools will be renovated in the summer of 2023.
“Direct the Superintendent to review the condition of bathroom facilities at those schools that do not have near-term plans for overall renovations and do not provide privacy for all students.”
High School Stadium Bathrooms – Follow-On Motion
In response to the follow-on motion from 2/6/20, FCPS and Fairfax County have collaborated on a scope of work and timeline to renovate these stadium bathrooms. The two agencies agreed to an even cost share of $7.5 million per agency in FY23, totaling $15 million for all project components. The project is expected to take 2.5 to 3 years to implement in phases. The School Board dedicated $7.5M for its share in the FY22 year-end budget.
“Direct the Superintendent to work with the County in examining the economic and equity impact related to the remaining 15 high school stadiums that do not have permanent bathroom facilities, as well as devising a financial plan to address this. The Superintendent is to report back to the Board prior to the completion of the Year-End budget review.”
State Construction Grant – Follow-On Motion
In response to the follow-on motion from 2/10/22, plans were made available in the FY22 year-end for the State Construction Grant. These included: security vestibules, outdoor classrooms, bathroom upgrades, sensory room pilot, interior lock replacement, and non-ADA-compliant early childhood playgrounds.
“I move to direct the superintendent to include and implement a plan for the additional $32.9M dollars that may become available from the state for facilities projects. The plan is needed so that work can begin immediately upon receipt of the funds in July 2022. The plan should include work on safety concerns, bringing older facilities up to the current educational specifications to include but not be limited to privacy in bathrooms, and provision of outdoor classroom spaces and spaces needed to enhance the health and wellness of our students and staff.”
Holistic review of our safety and security protocols and procedures – Follow-On Motion
In response to the follow-on motion from 5/26/22, a plan to contract a third party to review FCPS safety and security protocols and procedures, beginning with an RFP, was presented at the FY22 year-end.
“I move that the Board directs the Superintendent to present a plan for Board consideration to engage with an external third party to provide a holistic review of our safety and security protocols and procedures in all FCPS buildings using year-end funds.”
HVAC Systems and Updates
Thank you to several McLean parents, including Dr. Colder, for helping to bring CO2 monitoring to FCPS.
In 2020, FCPS conducted a survey of all HVAC systems to ensure they provide sufficient outside air ventilation in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the manufacturer’s recommendations. The CDC recommends schools set HVAC systems to bring in as much outdoor air as each system will safely allow. FCPS uses mechanical ventilation instead of opening windows to provide outside air as the air coming through mechanical systems is filtered. Air filters are changed every 90 days.
School HVAC systems average between six and 10 air exchanges per hour, providing more than 100% fresh outside air to the space every hour. Schools do not need to leave classroom doors and windows open to help ventilate the space, but are permitted to open windows for increased ventilation when outside conditions allow.
New safety measures include conducting carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring in schools to identify lack of sufficient ventilation and spending $28.9 million in ESSER funds for HVAC upgrades during the last school year.
FY 2022 Year End Review
The School Board approved the revenue and expenditure adjustments at the September 1, 2022 School Board Regular Meeting.
In recognition of the continued impact the pandemic has had on education and to promote retention of staff, the Fairfax County School Board voted in favor of a one-time bonus for employees. Full-time employees and hourly contracted employees will receive a $1,000 bonus in their paychecks at the end of November. Substitute teachers and other hourly employees will receive a $500 bonus (based on a yet-to-be-determined minimum threshold of workdays).
Budget adjustments will also be made to further fund construction projects and to help cover for the rise in paper, fuel, and electricity costs due to inflation. The School Board also plans to create an incentive to help fill substitute teacher positions, study the start time for middle schools, and engage with a third party to provide a safety and security review for all FCPS buildings. A detailed budget plan is available online.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow! We All Belong
Attendance is an important life skill that will help your child later in life. It’s a good habit to build now to help them graduate from college on time and routinely report to work on time once they have a career. If a student is having a difficult time attending class, please tell a trusted adult at school. There are solutions. Visit our Attendance webpage for resources on attendance.
Help your student succeed by encouraging them to miss as few days as possible. However, do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. So when should your child stay home? Visit our site for helpful ideas regarding absences and how to work with your child and your school.
Understanding the Dangers of Opioid Use
Across the country, including here in Northern Virginia, the opioid epidemic continues to impact communities including young adults, and sometimes school-age children. Tragically, this can lead to devastating outcomes. Learn more about the dangers of opioids and available resources on our website. There are three things you can do now, to support student wellness and increase understanding of the dangers of opioids and fentanyl:
- Talk with children and loved ones in your life about the dangers of drug use, especially opioids. For more information, tips on how to recognize and prevent substance abuse, and available support services, watch this webinar.
- Safely store and dispose of medications to prevent drug misuse.
- Sign up for a Virtual REVIVE! training class to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of opioid overdose and administer naloxone nasal spray to reverse an opioid overdose.
Visit the Student Safety and Wellness webpage for more information about a variety of topics related to student wellbeing. Also, please reach out to your high school's Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist with questions or concerns.
Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS)
Each school pyramid has a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) assigned to provide substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention services. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are part of the FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness.
Key roles of a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist:
- Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug education for students, parents, and the Fairfax County Community
- Intervention services upon violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook or suspected substance use involvement
- Assessing a student’s level of substance use and, if appropriate, making referrals to the Fairfax Community Service Board for additional services or other community resources as appropriate
- Group and individual prevention services for students, staff, parents, and the Fairfax County community
- Most importantly, building positive relationships with students to provide support and encouragement.
For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270. For school specific information, email Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist Kelly Rankin for McLean and Langley HSs - krankin@fcps.edu and Diana Vera, for Herndon HS- dpvera@fcps.edu
DEA Warning on Rainbow Fentanyl
The DEA has issued a public warning educating the community about rainbow fentanyl. These particular pills are targeted to youth and young adults by its colorful candy-like appearance making them look harmless. Rainbow Fentanyl resembles playground chalk before it is pressed into pills and has been found in 18 states and are sold as low as $17 per pill. Learn more in this DEA Rainbow Fentanyl Press Release.
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Family Engagement Survey Results
FCPS administered its second Family Engagement Survey in the 2021-22 school year to better recognize, understand, respect, and address family strengths and needs in our school communities. View survey results here. Key findings include:
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91% responded that “My child feels safe at school.”
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90% feel their school welcomes families of different backgrounds and cultures.
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90% feel the information provided by their child’s school is easy to understand.
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89% feel welcome at their child’s school.
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89% feel their school is safe.
You can watch the September 13, 2022, Work Session on Family Engagement Survey Results here.
The Social Emotional Learning Screener
What Every Family Needs to Know
Join the Parent Resource Center for this webinar. Social and emotional learning competencies are foundational skills for success in school and beyond. Students will participate in the SEL Screener in the fall and spring this year. The screener provides valuable information that guides planning and learning opportunities for families, staff, students, and school communities.
Join us in an informational session to learn more about SEL in FCPS, the role of the SEL Screener, and how families and schools might partner to foster skills over time.
Highlights include:
- Learn about SEL in FCPS
- Unpack the SEL Screener: What it is and how it's used?
- Understand student results
- Explore ways to continue conversations about SEL at home
Presented by: Lisa Phifer, FCPS Educational Specialist, Trauma Informed SEL, and Jaynie Van Sant, FCPS Social and Emotional Learning Systems Specialist
October 7, 2022 10-11:30 a.m.
Register for The Social Emotional Learning Screener - What Every Family Needs to Know
2021 Fairfax County Youth Survey
The Fairfax County School Board and the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors work together to administer the Fairfax County Youth Survey. The county has posted the results for the 2021 survey and has an article 5 Things to Know from the 2021-2022 Youth Survey on their website with five top takeaways.
The survey is anonymous and voluntary and is given to all students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12 each fall. It provides a wealth of information about a variety of topics related to our youth that influence their physical and mental well-being from sleep and nutritional habits to substance abuse behaviors to symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts.
The results provide a snapshot of our youth in Fairfax County but also serve as a barometer of our own effectiveness as a community in fostering healthy choices in our young people.
The survey is anonymous and voluntary. Visit our website for more information on the upcoming Fairfax County Youth Survey.
FCPS Policies and Regulations
Virginia’s Standards of Quality require all school divisions to notify the public annually of the availability of the school system's policies. Policies, regulations, and notices are available on our website.
FCPS Strategic Plan Progress
The School Board voted to direct the Superintendent to develop a project management plan which will facilitate the re-engagement of students, families, community, staff and Board and county partners in the development of a strategic plan focused on student success and the realization of the FCPS promise for every student in Fairfax County. Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.
Increasing Home-based Internet Access for Free and Reduced-Price Eligible Students
 The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a new FCC program to lower internet costs for families with children who have been eligible for free or reduced-price meals within the last 12 months. A qualifying household will receive $30 per month toward internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Families can check their eligibility and register at AffordableConnectivity.gov or by calling 877-384-2575.
Visit our Free and Reduced-Price Meals website for more information on the criteria to be eligible and how to apply.
Digital Expectations At Home
It is highly encouraged to establish digital expectations at home. Establishing expectations can begin as a family conversation about device and media use and being transparent, consistent and predictable. Conversations can cover technology consequences (good & bad), what is age appropriate, how parental controls will be used and why, what will happen if rules are broken. etc. Families can visit the FCPS Digital Citizenship: Establishing Expectation at Home webpage and the Family Engagement Toolkit from Common Sense Media for additional resources.
Need Tech Help?
Resources for parents and students using FCPS technology are available online. Visit this website for quick help resetting passwords; accessing Schoology, Google, Zoom, or activity reports; and basic computer use questions. If your questions are not answered on that page, look for the link to submit a help ticket.
Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First
If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, the FCPS Office of Safety and Security has a safety tip line that you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020). If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.
Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Gun Violence Prevention and Secure Gun Storage
Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our top priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.
As you may be aware, lessons on gun safety are already built into our curriculum; however, it is critical that all parents and guardians talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in your homes, and any homes that your children may visit. Our website has resources for parents about gun safety as well as detailed information about FCPS safety and security practices in our buildings.
Emergency Substantial Risk Order (ESRO) Law
On July 1, 2020, the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Emergency Substantial Risk Order (ESRO) law, commonly referred to as a “red flag law,” went into effect, making Virginia the 19th state to enact such legislation. To learn more about the ESRO please go to this Fairfax County Website.
FCPS Career and Technical Education Opportunities
FCPS’ Career and Technical Education Program offers a variety of career and technical programs to all students at the middle and high school levels. The program areas include the following: Business and Information Technology; Family and Consumer Sciences; Marketing; Health and Medical Sciences; Technology and Engineering Education; and Trade and Industrial Education.
For more information about Career and Technical Education and the program areas, please call 571-423-4526 or visit the Career and Technical Education website. For more information on ADA accommodations or to request accommodation, please go to the ADA accommodations website.
Parent Advocacy Handbook Available Online
The Parent Advocacy Handbook is for parents and guardians -- a child’s first teacher and advocate. The handbook is available online and can be accessed in several languages It is believed that parents and guardians should advocate and support their children’s academic, social, and emotional growth from preschool through high school, and beyond. The Parent Advocacy Handbook was created by the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) - a Fairfax County School Board advisory committee - and produced with the generous support of the Board. It is not intended to be, nor is it, a complete guide to all programs and practices within FCPS.
2022 Special Education Parent Involvement Survey
Share your Feedback
All parents of school-aged children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in Virginia are encouraged to complete the Virginia Department of Education's (VDOE's) annual Parent Involvement Survey. The survey will remain open through December 16, 2022.
Parent Involvement Survey - English
Parent Involvement Survey - Spanish
Parent Involvement (Indicator 8) Survey - Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions regarding this survey, please contact the Family Engagement Specialist/Special Projects Coordinator, Chiquita Seaborne, at Chiquita.Seaborne@doe.virginia.gov or at (804) 225-3898.
FCPS Special Education Handbook for Families
The Special Education Handbook for Parents includes details of the special education process. This process occurs sequentially, over a period of time, with each step building upon the previous step(s).
It is important for families to understand how the special education process works, so they can effectively participate and collaborate with school staff members in making appropriate decisions regarding their child’s educational needs. Families are an integral part of the decision-making team.
The Special Education Handbook for Parents is available in Arabic, English, Korean, Spanish and Vietnamese. Contact the Parent Resource Center (PRC) at 703-204-3941 or prc@fcps.edu with any questions.
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FCPS Parent Resource Center
The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) offers a welcoming and engaging environment for families, educators, and community members. It provides access to information and resources to support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
Throughout the year it offers family and educator webinars. You can watch past webinars at the PRC YouTube channel. To join the PRC email list and receive notices of upcoming webinars, sign up for their News You Choose newsletter.
Upcoming sessions include:
 FCPS language lines are available in eight different languages to assist parents who do not speak English as their first language. Click the photo to be directed to the FCPS Parent Information Phone Lines website.
New Issue of Audit Buzz
The September 2022 Issue of Audit Buzz is now out. OAG recently hired two staff members including Mounia Chehab, Auditor III and Brittany Hamilton, Auditor I. Find out more about these auditors in the September Audit Buzz.
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Upcoming School Board Meetings
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October 4 at 10 am - Work Session: AIR Special Education Report; Legislative Program
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October 6 at 7pm - Regular Meeting- Cooper Band playing the National Anthem and receiving a recognition
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October 11 at 11am - Work Session: Fiscal Forecast and Strategic Budget Planning
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October 20 at 7pm - Regular Meeting
Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on any School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
Próximas reuniones regulares de la Junta Escolar
- 4 de octubre a las 10am - Sesión de trabajo: Informe de Educación Especial AIR; Agenda Legislativa
- 6 de octubre a las 7pm - Reunión regular
- 11 de octubre a las 11am - Sesión de trabajo: Previsión fiscal y planificación estratégica del presupuesto
- 20 de octubre a las 7pm - Reunión Regular
Cómo ver las reuniones e inscribirse para hablar
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones del Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las Reuniones Ordinarias en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR
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To watch recorded School Board meetings or to watch live during the Regular Meetings on YouTube, please go to the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the QR code.
FCPS Cares
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.
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Community Updates
Traffic Updates
Please be aware of the major roadway construction projects in Dranesville. Travelers should expect potential delays when traveling in the area, and are encouraged to visit 511virginia.org for current information on travel conditions and work zones in Virginia.
Prepare for more construction activity on northern section of George Washington Memorial Parkway
Drivers will see more construction activity along the northern section of the George Washington Memorial Parkway between the Route 123 interchange and I-495 starting around Sept. 26.
Drivers should prepare for daily closures to occur as needed:
- Northbound lane closures may occur between 7 a.m. and 2:45 p.m.
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Southbound lanes closures may occur between 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Drivers can view construction updates on the project webpage or opt-in to receive email updates (about traffic impacts, meeting notices and project milestones) by emailing gwmp_superintendent@nps.gov.
Route 7 Update
Please see the project website for information on upcoming lane shifts and other roadway impacts. Work will center around these areas:
- Area 1: Reston Avenue to Colvin Forest Drive (Except Baron Cameron Avenue Intersection)
- Area 2: Baron Cameron Intersection
- Area 3: Difficult Run Area (Colvin Forest Drive to Faulkner Drive)
- Area 4: Faulkner Drive to Jarrett Valley Drive
- Including the work to reconfigure the Lewinsville Road intersection.
495 NEXT Project
With school now back, the project team urges Langley High School, Cooper Middle School, and Churchill Road Elementary School students and parents to pay extra attention when approaching and traveling through work zones. Unlike normal road conditions, work zones involve large equipment, traffic pattern changes, lane closures, uneven pavement and variable speed limits.
If you have any questions or concerns, please visit www.495NEXT.org; send an email to 495NorthernExtension@VDOT.Virginia.gov; or call the Project Inquiry Line: 703-592-6430.
Emergency Preparedness Month
Community Emergency Response Guide
Fairfax County faces many hazards. Some are difficult to predict; a few strike without any warning at all. In the past several years, our community has responded to major storms, hurricanes and power outages. Be prepared for any natural disaster or emergency. Download a PDF copy of the Community Emergency Response Guide (CERG), available in multiple languages: English (PDF) | Spanish (PDF) | Korean (PDF) | Arabic (PDF) | Mandarin (PDF) | Vietnamese (PDF)
Sign up for Fairfax Alerts!
When an emergency strikes, you need access to information on the latest threats in your area, and guidance on what actions to take. We recommend having three ways to get information during an emergency. There are several ways to get information during emergencies in Fairfax County. Learn more about emergency information access here.
The best method to use is to sign up for Fairfax Alerts, a free opt-in service that provides emergency notification to you by email, text, or “reverse 9-1-1” calls. Other sources of information include this emergency information blog. You can also follow Fairfax County on social media and get links to specific county agency/department social media channels on our social media hub.
League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area
 The High School Voter Registration and Education Recognition at the Sept. 15 Regular Meeting
I had the honor of sponsoring the High School Voter Registration and Education Recognition on September 15th that thanked the League of Women Voters of the Fairfax Area, the Fairfax County Office of Elections, Fairfax County Council of PTAs, and the FCPS Instructional Services Department social studies team and teachers to provide voter registration opportunities and nonpartisan information about voting to eligible students.
The League of Women Voters of Virginia recently recognized the following FCPS high schools for registering a large number of students to vote last school year: Chantilly High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Herndon High School, John Lewis High School, Lake Braddock Secondary School, Marshall High School, Robinson Secondary School, South County High School, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, West Springfield High School, Westfield High School, and Woodson High School.
New Metro Map Released
 Metrorail map released last week ahead of the Silver Line Phase II extension opening later this fall, potentially in November. Learn more at this DCist article here.
 Dr. Reid at the Marshall HS Community Conversation
Superintendent Community Conversations
Dr. Reid will be hosting Superintendent Community Conversations across the division this fall to get to know our communities. Events are being scheduled at high schools in each pyramid. Schools will share registration information with families and employees in advance of each event. See the list of events that have been scheduled. Look for emails from your Langley pyramid school on how to register and for translation and child care opportunities.
The Langley High School meeting is October 26 at 6:30pm.
Old Firehouse After School Program
Now accepting students 5th through 9th grade
The Old Firehouse’s After School Program (OFC) at 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean, is now open to 5th through 9th grade students for the 2022-23 school year! The OFC provides a safe atmosphere for participants to meet for recreation and personal development. Professional and experienced staff members organize and facilitate activities each day, ensuring that participants do not have to return home to empty houses. Participants can enjoy their time at OFC after school and during the summer.
For more information on the program, transportation, and registration, visit www.oldfirehouse.org or call OFC at 703-448-TEEN (8336).
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Two Hundred Thirty-Seven FCPS Students Are 2023 National Merit Semifinalists
Two hundred thirty-seven students from 18 Fairfax County Public Schools are among the semifinalists named by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for 2023. The semifinalists represent 18 high schools from across the county ,including 132 semifinalists from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. All semifinalists are eligible to compete for 7,500 National Merit Scholarship awards worth nearly $28 million, to be awarded in spring 2023. Merit Scholarship winners will be announced next spring. Review a complete listing of Fairfax County Public Schools 2023 National Merit semifinalists online.
Congratulations to the following Dranesville District students:
Herndon High School: Alec Agayan
Langley High School: Josephine Amspaugh, Ethan Bhatia, Michael Dzwonczyk, David Han, Ashley Khang, Eliana Lafleur, Stephanie Ma, Shriya Mani, Connor Oakes, Sumrath Pahwa, Alexander Pomper, Shaan Sabharwal, Jason Zhang
McLean High School: John Apigian, Noah Chin, Shubham Dey, Everly Johnston, Yeonsu Ju, Sianna Khandhar, Kristina Knauss, Genavive Lotfi, Anna Raymond, Emanuel Rouvelas, Donghwa Shin, Zaylie Tamashiro, David Vergano, Michael Wang, Benjamin Woods, Emma Yang, Ethan Ye, Olivia Zhang
Thomas Jefferson HSST: Bradley Cao, Liam Carey, Ellie Chen, Katelyn Chen, Audrey Czarnecki, Vivian Feng, Khushi Garg, Grace Guan, Keira Hansen, Alan Hsu, Timothy Johanson, Mariska Kassi, Sungjoon Kim, Sophia King, Brian Lai, Jean Lavigne Du Cadet, Elliott Lee, Alex Li, Derek Li, Elina Liu, Johanna Lohmus, Vihaan Mathur, Connor McKenzie, Katherine Merrill, Mulan Pan, Keenan Powell, Prisha Ray, Andrew Shi, Anisha Talreja, Dante Valencia, Claire Wang, Alexander Yao, Angela Zhang, Isabella Zhu, Lilian Zhu
Westfield High School: Srihan Kotnana
 Dr. Reid with the Marshall HS Custodian team at the Marshall HS Community Conversation
Celebrate Custodian Appreciation Week
Week of October 3-8
October 2 is Custodian Appreciation Day. Thanks to our custodians, we all have a clean, safe place to learn, teach, and work. Across the division, Fairfax County Public Schools employs more than 1,300 custodians, field custodians, and building supervisors.
Please thank your school's custodians for all the work that they do to keep our schools and grounds in great shape!
McLean HS
Mr. Jeff Brocketti on Wheel of Fortune!
On September 26, McLean High School's Physics/ Astronomy teacher, Jeff Broketti, competed on fan-favorite TV show Wheel of Fortune! Read more at this FFXNow News Story.
Congratulations Olivia Zhang
McLean High School senior, Olivia Zhang, is a 2022 Diana Award recipient for her work with Cancer Kids First. This accolade is awarded to a young person aged 9-25 years for their social action or humanitarian work worldwide.
Congratulations Ellen Pan
Congratulations to McLean HS’s Ellen Pan! She has written and illustrated her own children's book - A Journey to Perfect Teeth. Her book is a shared journey that children experience from losing teeth to braces. We are quite proud of Ellen!
Congratulations Herndon MS Principal Ms. Vereb!
Herndon MS Principal Monika Vereb was named by ACSD as one of ASCD's 2022 class of emerging leaders. The ASCD Emerging Leaders program contains a diverse group of educators who have been in education for 5 to 15 years and who have made an impact as leaders in their schools, districts, and communities. Emerging leaders gain access to networking and learning opportunities and are prepared for future leadership roles, including opportunities within ASCD.
Congratulations to Chesterbrook ES's Teacher Mrs. Strubhar
A Finalist for Northern Virginia Magazine's 2022 Teacher of the Year
"The kindergarten classroom at Chesterbrook Elementary is full of magic and wonder when Leanne Strubhar is leading the way."
Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of the members of our community whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre, la FCPS reconoce y celebra las historias, culturas y contribuciones de los miembros de nuestra comunidad cuyos antepasados vinieron de España, México, el Caribe y América Central y del Sur.
Visit Fairfax has put together an extensive list of events, restaurants, music, dance, and more that our community can experience in celebrating the dynamic richness of Hispanic Heritage Month.
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World Languages Credit Exam Registration
Registration for the 2022 World Languages Credit Exam is now open! This assessment will be administered on November 3, 9, and 10, 2022. Students who have experience with languages other than English can earn up to three high school credits through this assessment. Thirty languages will be included: American Sign Language, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin), Farsi, French, German, Greek, Gujarati, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Tigrinya, Turkish, Twi, Urdu, and Vietnamese. Please reach out to your school counselor for more information and to register. Registration closes on Thursday, October 6, 2022, at 4:00 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. Additional credit exam information can be accessed here.
Election Day High School Student Program
Are you at least 16 years old, live in Virginia, and actively enrolled in high school? Would you like to learn more about the electoral process and earn service-learning hours that can be applied towards the Seal of Excellence in Civics Education? The Office of Elections is offering you the opportunity to serve inside a Fairfax County polling place as an election page for the upcoming November election.
An application and mandatory training are required to participate. Applications and more details about the Election Page responsibilities can be found on the website for the Fairfax County Office of Elections: Election Day High School Student Program.
Applications received by Friday, September 30, will receive priority in the assignment process. The application deadline is Friday, October 7. After this date, the portal will close, and no additional applications will be accepted.
Students who will be 18 on or before the November Election and are registered to vote may work as an Election Officer. See additional Election Officer information and applications.
Middle School Student Opportunities to be a Virginia Legislative Page
HOUSE OF DELEGATES PAGE PROGRAM APPLICATION
Thank you for your interest in the House of Delegates Page Program. The online application for the 2023 Legislative Session is now available. Please click here to verify your date of birth, create an account and access the online application portal.
The deadline to complete and submit online applications is Monday, October 31, 2022, at 5 p.m. (EDT). Applications will not be considered after the submission deadline.
If you have further questions on the application process or overall program, please email HousePageSupervisor@house.virginia.gov or contact House Information and Communication Services at (804) 698-1500.
Page applicants must be 13 or 14 years old on January 11, 2023, to be eligible.
SENATE OF VIRGINIA PAGE PROGRAM APPLICATION
The application for admission to the Senate Page Program class of 2023 is now available. Click here to access the application form. The Senate Clerk's Office staff will confirm receipt of applications within three business days. Due to circumstances beyond our control, we are not offering an online application this year. We appreciate your understanding.
The deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. Monday, October 17, 2022. Applications that are postmarked October 17 will be considered on time; however, make every attempt to avoid a last-minute submission.
If you have further questions, please e-mail: pageinfo@senate.virginia.gov
Employment and Self-Sufficiency Program for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
ServiceSource Virginia offers a specialized program to assist individuals on the Autism spectrum in obtaining employment and increasing self-sufficiency. The program is designed to increase the participation of individuals with Autism in the labor market, with a focus on young adults transitioning out of high school. The program is called Autism Bridge to Learn and Empower (ABLE).
Services include:
- Weekly Soft Skills Groups
- Resource navigation
- Assessment to explore vocational interests, strengths and abilities
- Resume development, job application support, networking with employers and interview preparation for volunteer work, internships and permanent employment in the community
- Job coaching support to enhance social and communications skills for employment success
Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible, program participants must be 16 years of age or older, reside in Northern Virginia, have a documented diagnosis on the Autism spectrum and be motivated to explore vocational interests and gain independence through volunteer work, internships or employment in the community. Find more information.
Secondary World Languages Basal Resources Committee Opening
Apply Now
FCPS is engaging in the RFP and basal resource adoption processes for Secondary World Languages. The process, governed by FCPS regulation 3004.5, will include both a community review period and a deep review by a committee made up of representatives from a variety of stakeholder groups. The Dranesville District can appoint a member to the committee. The World Languages Basal Resources Committee will be tasked with reviewing instructional material. World Languages is seeking appointed community members that can read, listen, write and speak Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Latin, and Spanish.
Appointed representatives must be able to meet 4- 8:30pm on meeting dates listed below. The in-person meetings will be at Pimmit Hills (7510 Lisle Ave. Falls Church, VA 22043) on the following dates as assigned by language groups:
- French, German, Spanish and Spanish for Heritage Speakers Instructional Resource Review Committees: November 7, 14, 29; December 5, 7 and 12
- Arabic, Chinese, Japanese and Latin Instructional Resource Review Committees: November 7, 21, 30; December 6 and 12
Please reach out to Wendy Biliter at wmbiliter@fcps.edu by October 6, 2022 with an email explaining your level of language proficiency and why you are interested in the Committee opening.
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.
© 2022 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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