November News: Engagement Opportunities, Upcoming Board Meetings, School Board Updates, Superintendent Briefings, Springfield Recognitions, and More

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 11/18/2022 06:39 PM EST

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Hello, Springfield District!

I cannot get over that we are nearly to Thanksgiving break! As always, I am beyond grateful for all of our administrators, staff, students, and families. Spending so much time in our amazing schools these last weeks has been such a lovely reminder of not only all the work it takes to make things go “right” in our school buildings, but also of the incredible rewards that come from all that hard work. Smiling faces, giggles, active and engaged learning, on-time bus arrivals!, amazing band, chorus, and orchestra performances, and plays that knock your socks off, all come as a result of all you put into the work you do for our students and families. THANK YOU!

This month I was excited to join my colleague, Karl Frisch (Providence), at Oakton High school. Principal Jamie Lane gave us a tour of the (almost) completed renovation. The spaces are spectacular and the students are so energized as they begin taking ownership of “their” new building. Last month, several of us were able to speak to the entire senior class and I was beyond impressed by their questions and responses. I cannot wait to see where the next phase of their journey beyond our doors takes them.

Karen Corbett Sanders (Mt. Vernon) joined me as we got the incredible experience of getting to recognize South County MS at its 10th-anniversary celebration. The mighty mustangs were joined by Chairman Jeff McKay, Supervisors Dan Stork and Pat Herrity, and many community members who were a big part of making South County Middle a reality. The presentation of the commemorative resolution and proclamation preceded the South County MS pyramid choral concert, which could have been confused for an episode of America’s Got Talent! Hats off to choral director Ms. Sherlee Glomb and TSSPEC Mr. Greg Pickett for organizing such a spectacular show.

Speaking of talent, I also attended the Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America Luncheon at Lake Braddock SS. I was joined by Dr. Reid who agreed that our future will be in awfully good shape if these are the kinds of students FCPS is putting out into the world! Big thanks to all the students and staff who made this such an enjoyable event and congratulations to Gus Brothers who had the winning dish!

November is also Take Your Legislator to School Month. So far, I have had the opportunity to bring Delegate Dan Helmer to Robinson SS and Senator George Barker to Chantilly HS (with my colleague, Stella Pekarsky (Sully)). It was so fun to get to show off our schools and I look forward to my upcoming visits to South County HS (with Delegate Kathy Tran) and Irving MS (with Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn).

Our legislators aren’t the only folks that I’ve gotten to show off our Springfield District schools to this month. I also had the opportunity to bring Dr. Reid on a visit to Chantilly HS, their CSS site, and its incredible Academy. We had so much fun donning our safety goggles and heading into the auto body shop with former Chantilly graduate turned-teacher, Ryan Byrne. A true highlight was our Air Force send-off from the JROTC cadets! We then traveled down the road to Greenbriar East ES where we got to take part in Glow Day as they celebrated Mexican culture. Principal Dave Pietzman, Assistant Principals Amy Showker, and Charita Eley and their awesome staff were a big part of the most fun visit that I bet Dr. Reid has ever had. Now, she would just like to go back to their glow bowling event to pick up her spare!

As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us not forget our veterans, active duty military, and their families and the many sacrifices they make to protect the ninety-nine percent of us who do not or cannot serve. The gift they and their families give to us cannot be repaid with simple thanks. We owe it to them to ensure that we respect, honor, serve, and protect their families while their loved ones are home and away. To that end, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to recognize our Purple Star schools. The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families. This year we had 17 Springfield District schools earn this distinction, 9 for the first time and 8 who were awarded for the 2nd time.

Congratulations to Cardinal Forest Elementary School, Cub Run Elementary School, Frost Middle School, Irving Middle School, Kings Glen Elementary School, Robinson Secondary School, Silverbrook Elementary School, Terra Centre Elementary School, and West Springfield High School. Also to 2nd-time winners, Key Center, Laurel Ridge Elementary School, Mount Vernon High School, Orange Hunt Elementary School, Powell Elementary School, Rocky Run Middle School, Saratoga Elementary School, and Woodson High School.

Thank you again to each of you for all you do to make our schools and community the amazing place it is. As always, I am beyond proud to serve the Springfield District.

All my very best-

Laura Jane

November school visits to Robinson Secondary, Oakton High School, Chantilly High School and Academy, and Greenbriar East Elementary.

Clockwise from top left: me with Providence District Representative Mr. Frisch and Oakton High School Principal Ms. Lane; Robinson Secondary School Principal Ms. Phillips, me, and Delegate Helmer; Superintendent Dr. Reid and me at Greenbriar East Elementary School, Chantilly Academy Principal Mr. Setter, me, Superintendent Dr. Reid, and Chantilly High School Principal Dr. Poole with a student; Sully Representative Ms. Pekarsky, Senator Barker, Chantilly High School Principal Dr. Poole, and me

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

Upcoming School Board Meetings
School Board Work
Superintendent Board Briefings
FCPS and Community News

FCPS News
Student Opportunities
Community News

Graduation Dates
Springfield District Scene
Family and Student Resources
What’s in a Name?
Quick Links

Upcoming School Board Meetings

November 29 at 11:00 a.m. - Work Session: Rescheduled Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Update and Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities Annual Report
December 1 at 7:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Issuance of School Bonds, etc.
December 6 at 11:00 a.m. - Work Session: Goal 1 and 2 Reports
December 13 at 11:00 a.m. - Forum: To be determined
December 13 at 12:30 p.m. - Work Session: Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Mid-year Budget Review and Strategic Plan Update
December 15 at 6:00 p.m. - Recognitions: Virginia High School League Fall Championship Winners
December 15 at 7:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting: FY23 Mid-year Budget Review, Policy 3290 Parental Notification Regarding Instructional Materials with Sexually Explicit Content, Union Mill ES Playground Replacement

Please note, that 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 channel.

For Spanish speakers, watch recorded School Board meetings, or watch live during the Regular Meetings on YouTube, visit the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the below QR code.

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.

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

Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.

School Board Work

Policies 8220 and 2202

At the November 14 regular meeting, I was pleased to second the motions sponsored by my colleague, Ms. Corbett Sanders, to approve Policy 8220.5, Architectural and Engineering Services, and the recommended revisions to Policy 2202, Eligibility for Enrollment.

Strategic Budget Priorities Motion

Additionally, at the November 14 meeting, the School Board approved a Strategic Budget Priorities Motion.

Local Plan for the Gifted

Lastly, the Board approved the 2022-2027 Local Plan for the Education of the Gifted at the November 14 regular meeting.

Secondary Course Offerings

At the November 3 regular meeting, the School Board voted to approve changes to the list of middle and high school course offerings for the 2023-2024 school year, as recommended by the Course Review Committee and as detailed in the agenda item.

Fairfax County School Board State and Federal Legislative Agenda

Also at the November 3 regular meeting, the School Board adopted the 2023 Fairfax County School Board State and Federal Legislative Program and Priorities with amendments that may be viewed in Board Docs.

Permanent Restroom Facilities for 15 FCPS High School Stadiums

Earlier this year, the Fairfax County School Board voted to approve funding for the installation of permanent restrooms at 15 FCPS high school stadiums that currently rely on port-a-potties for student, athlete, and community use.

As part of the FY22 Year End Budget, the district will spend $7.5 million to pay for half of the cost of the permanent bathroom facilities.

FCPS is splitting the cost of the facilities with Fairfax County. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approved its half at its board meeting on October 11, 2022.

The 15 high schools and secondary schools include seven schools which Springfield District students attend: Chantilly HS, Lake Braddock SS, Lewis HS, Mount Vernon HS, Robinson SS, Thomas Jefferson HSST, and Woodson HS. In addition, permanent restrooms will be installed at: Annandale HS, Edison HS, Hayfield SS, Justice HS, Marshall HS, McLean HS, South Lakes HS, and West Potomac HS.

I would like to thank the Board of Supervisors for partnering with us and the advocacy of our FCPS Athletic Booster Presidents in supporting this effort to provide all of our high schools with plumbed restrooms at our athletic stadiums.

The phased installation of the bathroom facilities is slated to start in early 2024 and finish in the summer of 2025.

Superintendent Board Briefings

November 11, 2022

The following Superintendent update to the School Board may be viewed in the November 11, 2022 Board Briefing on BoardDocs.

First Quarter Office of the Ombuds Report

November 7, 2022

The following Superintendent update to the School Board may be viewed in the November 7, 2022 Board Briefing on BoardDocs.

Fresh Foods Report

October 28, 2022

The following Superintendent update to the School Board may be viewed in the October 14, 2022 Board Briefing on BoardDocs.

First Quarter Travel Report

FCPS and Community News

Academic Matters

National Assessment of Educational Progress Assessment

At the November 3 School Board meeting, a new feature was introduced called Academic Matters. During this portion of the Board meeting, updates will be provided on important academic topics. At the November 3 meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid talked about some common misconceptions concerning the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) assessment. Watch the presentation on YouTube.

Here is data from the FCPS Superintendent about two important aspects of students’ academic acceleration since the depth of the pandemic in 2020.

One is clarifying student performance on a national standardized test – the NAEP – where FCPS students were a small sample of all participating students nationwide (less than 2%).

The second is about the school division’s use of federal funding (“ESSER”) for academic acceleration after the pandemic.

About the NAEP data: this information clarifies – even corrects – data and information that you may have heard about (not from FCPS) on student performance and the use of funding for academic success.

It’s important to understand the following about the NAEP data:

The FCPS fall 2022 membership for 4th and 8th grade combined was 26,863 full-time students.

Yet, only 476 FCPS students in 4th and 8th combined took the 2022 NAEP. This means:

1.8% of FCPS enrolled 4th and 8th graders participated in NAEP (compared to 100% taking SOLs)

The Fall 2022 membership puts VA enrollment for 4th and 8th grades combined at 189,783 full-time students.

Only 1.9% of these VA-enrolled students participated in 2022 NAEP statewide (3,600 out of 189,783)

About the use of ESSER funding:

Similarly, information from non-FCPS sources incorrectly focused on reimbursement rates of funds to FCPS – painting the picture that FCPS wasn’t using these needed funds, when in fact FCPS has been and continues to use the funds according to the plans approved by the School Board and the state.

See the presentation slides from November 3 for more information.

The School Board will have a public Work Session about ESSER on November 29.

If you’d like to hear the spoken presentations that accompany this information, you can view the recording of the School Board’s 11/3/2022 Regular Meeting on the FCPS School Board YouTube Channel. This portion of the meeting is agenda item 4.06, which began about 2 hours into the meeting.

FCPS Innovative Assessment Practices

During the Academic Matters portion of the November 14 School Board meeting, Superintendent Reid discussed the innovative assessment practices happening in FCPS as part of our School Division of Innovation designation from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).

This recognition means that VDOE has approved a plan to improve student learning, educational performance, and college, career, and citizenship readiness skills. It positions FCPS as a state leader in innovative practices with the opportunity to impact statewide policy decisions. Watch Dr. Reid’s presentation.

Strategic Planning That Reaches All

FCPS Our Voices, Our Future, Strategic Planning

We are excited to begin the process of developing FCPS’ new Strategic Plan! Now through Friday, November 18, students in grades 3-12 will have an opportunity to be a part of this work by taking the Strategic Plan Student Survey. The survey will allow students to share their thoughts about school and what's important to them. If you opted your child out of taking the survey, they will not be asked to participate.

Schools will be showing a short video to help familiarize students with the concept of a Strategic Plan prior to administering the survey. Students in grades 3-6 will watch this video, and those in grades 7-12 will be shown this version. Visit the Strategic Plan Student Survey webpage for more information.

The strategic planning process is a community-wide effort. There will be many opportunities to share feedback or participate in a community meeting. We want our community to stay informed and be involved. You can help!

Nominate Yourself or Someone Else for the Family Team

We are currently seeking nominations for parents/caregivers who are interested in contributing to Strategic Plan development as part of the Family Team. This team will represent the rich diversity of families that make up FCPS’ community and will focus on identifying engagement and outreach practices that will improve our partnerships with families.

If you are interested in being part of the Family Team or would like to nominate someone else, please fill out this form by Tuesday, November 22.

Sign up to be a Key Communicator

If you are an active member of a community organization or group that people look to for information, please consider signing up to be a key communicator during the strategic planning process. FCPS key communicators should have an interest in sharing information about the school division and encouraging involvement. Key communicators will:

Receive regular updates including news, information, future events, and engagement opportunities.
Share the information they receive with their group in a timely manner.
Encourage group participation in engagement and feedback opportunities where appropriate and possible.

If you or someone from your organization would like to serve as an FCPS key communicator during the strategic planning process, please submit this form by Monday, November 28.

Why Do We Need a Strategic Plan?

FCPS’ last strategic plan was developed in 2015. Since then, we experienced a pandemic that changed the way we think, a shift in technology that has seen eight new versions of the iPhone, and plans developed for the first manned mission to Mars.

Our students are preparing for careers that don’t exist today. In order to keep pace with these needs, we need to rethink our plans for the future—and how we will best serve our students in this new era. Employees, parents/caregivers, students, and our FCPS community must share the same purpose in order to recognize how we can move forward together.

We are all much more motivated and successful when we share clear end goals. Learn more on our Strategic Plan webpage.

How FCPS Develops Its School Year Calendar

In an annual planning process, Fairfax County Public Schools uses input from the community to help develop the school year calendar for the following year. Our framework for creating the calendar is available online to ensure transparency, as we work to build a calendar that is inclusive and equitable.

FCPS parents/caregivers, employees, and students in grades 7-12 were emailed an invitation to take the 2023-24 School Year Calendar Survey. This survey is part of an annual process to gather input from the community to help develop the school year calendar for the following year. Please complete the survey by Thursday, December 1, and make your voice heard! For more information or help filling out the survey, please visit our website.

Feedback Welcome on Family Life Education Changes

The Fairfax County School Board is reviewing recommended changes to the Family Life Education (FLE) curriculum and invites public feedback as part of the review process. In May 2022, the Family Life Education Curriculum Advisory Committee (FLECAC) presented recommended curriculum changes, to go into effect for the 2023-24 school year. Those changes include adopting gender-combined instruction and exploring instruction of gender identity, as well as recommended media and other instructional changes.

The recommendations reflect leading education and child development research and expert advice. According to research cited in the recommendations, these changes will create a more inclusive learning environment, result in higher academic achievement for students, and improve school climate.

Public feedback will be shared with FLECAC and the School Board. FCPS staff and the School Board will consider all feedback but are unable to reply to individuals.

Learn more about the recommended changes. The public feedback form will be open on our website through Thursday, December 1.

Student Performance in Language Arts (Grades 1-6)

In the past, progress reports have indicated if a student has been assessed using materials below, on, or above grade level. This year, teachers will report student progress using a scale of 1-4 on the grade-level language arts standards.

This change will help ensure that caregivers understand how students are progressing toward grade-level standards and reading skills. It will also help teachers communicate about each student’s strengths, and in what areas they need to improve as they progress through elementary school.

Learn more about grading and reporting on our website. Parents/caregivers with elementary school students in grades 1-6 may also refer to the email FCPS sent yesterday.

Translations of progress reports are also available online.

Early Online College Spring Sessions

Early Online College (EOC) allows current high school juniors or seniors the opportunity to take up to two tuition-free college courses at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). EOC courses for the spring semester begin on January 31, 2023, and end on April 24, 2023. Courses are for college credit only. These courses were selected because they meet the requirements for most of NOVA’s associate degrees. They are also courses that are most likely to transfer and count as general education requirements for most colleges and universities.

Learn more about EOC on NOVA’s website.

Post-Thanksgiving COVID Diagnostic Testing

COVID diagnostic testing will be available for FCPS teachers, staff, and students at five locations across the county November 28-30 from 5 to 8 p.m. Testing is for those who are either experiencing COVID symptoms or have been exposed to someone diagnosed with COVID. Appointments are not required, but registration must be completed before testing. Visit the COVID Testing webpage for more information.

Staying Healthy This Cold/Flu Season

Although the community level of COVID-19 in Fairfax County is currently low, cases of RSV, the flu, and other viruses are on the rise. It is still important for students to wash their hands regularly and cover their coughs and sneezes. Please monitor your child’s health daily and keep them at home if they are sick. Visit FCPS' Health and Safety Guidance webpage for more tips.

School Building Asbestos Management Plans Available for Public Review

Asbestos was discontinued in most building materials after 1977, and all schools constructed after 1986, should be asbestos-free. In addition, during school renovations of older schools, FCPS has worked to remove asbestos-containing building material. As per federal requirements, for all schools, even schools constructed after 1986, an inspection for asbestos-containing building material is conducted each year, with an Asbestos Management Plan being maintained for the site.

FCPS has completed the required Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (A.H.E.R.A.) asbestos reinspection and surveillance of all school buildings for Fiscal Year 2023. Updated asbestos management plans for each building are available for review in the main office of every building during regular school hours.

Lewis Leadership Program Reception

From left to right: Manager of the John R. Lewis Leadership Program Ms. March; Chief Equity Officer Dr. King, Superintendent Dr. Reid, family members of John R. Lewis, and Principal Smith with students

Recently, Principal Alfonso Smith hosted a reception at Lewis High School that was attended by family members of the late Congressman John R. Lewis, the school’s namesake, as well as several School Board members. The event was hosted for community partners, staff, and students who have been influential in the creation of the Lewis Leadership Program.

The program adopts the principles of Congressman John Lewis’ life through a curriculum that focuses on government, public policy, leadership, and human rights. Interested students may become more involved through field experiences, guest speakers, service learning, specialized coursework, internships, and university partnerships.

School Improvement and Innovation/ESSER III Plans

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 include

Prevention and mitigation strategies to help keep schools open and safe.
Academic services such as tutoring, after-school programs, and summer learning programs.
Multilingual engagement to ensure all families are informed about their students and schools.
Support for students’ social-emotional needs, such as counselors, psychologists, social workers, and family liaisons.
Professional development for our teachers and staff to ensure schools are welcoming and culturally responsive to all students, families, and employees.

Wondering how ESSER funds are being spent at your school? The Fall 2022 School Improvement and Innovation (SIIP)/Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) plans are available online. Plans will be updated periodically as schools have opportunities to adjust their strategies and budgets.

Play Pays Off as Impact of Middle School Recess is Felt Across County

At the beginning of this school year, Fairfax County Public Schools introduced middle school recess after a pilot program showed this age group does better in the classroom when free play factors into their day.

According to principals, students, and teachers, that decision, along with the move to eliminate cell phone usage, is already paying dividends.

Now, on blacktops and playing fields at schools across the county, pick-up football, games of tag, and huddles of UNO take place each day.

With phones “away for the day” conversations have now replaced texting, social media drama has declined dramatically and friendships are being formed and strengthened.

Read more in the FCPS November 14, 2022, Spotlight.

Help Your Child Have Good Attendance

Just a few missed days here and there, even if they’re excused absences, can add up to too much lost learning time and put your child behind in school. This is as true in kindergarten as it is in high school. How can you help your child attend school regularly?

Talk about the importance of showing up to school every day—make that the expectation.
Help your child maintain routines such as finishing homework and getting a good night’s sleep.
Find out if your child feels safe at school and engaged by their classes. Make sure they are not missing class because of behavioral issues and school discipline policies. If these are problems, please work with your school.
Stay on top of academic progress and seek help from teachers or tutors if necessary. Make sure teachers know how to contact you.
Be aware of your child’s social contacts. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, while students without many friends can feel isolated.
Encourage meaningful after-school activities including sports and clubs.

Looking ahead to the holiday season, if missing school is unavoidable, talk to your child’s teachers in advance to create a plan for making up missed work. But remember, a homework packet cannot make up for the interaction and learning that happens in the classroom.

Visit our website for more attendance resources.

Transportation and Daylight Saving Tips

On November 6, we turned our clocks back an hour for Daylight Saving Time (DST), resulting in darker evening commutes for students and families. With the change in time, extra safety measures should be taken when traveling home from school.

Safe Routes to School (SRTS) encourages “active” transportation to school. Fewer students being dropped off via Kiss-n-Ride, means fewer cars at schools, resulting in a safer school zone and less pollution.

Regardless of your transportation method, consider these safety and daylight-saving tips.

Work for FCPS as a Sub and Receive a Bonus!

FCPS is always looking for kind and caring substitute teachers and substitute instructional assistants to ensure our students continue to thrive when teachers and instructional assistants need to be out of the classroom. Substitute teaching is a great opportunity for future teachers, stay-at-home parents, retirees, college students, part-time employees, and anyone who wants to make a difference.

FCPS has started offering bonuses for substitutes who are available to teach on high-volume days. Also, substitutes who work more days will earn extra bonuses when they reach 50, 100, or 150 days worked in a school year. Visit the Substitute Teaching Employment Opportunities page for more information.

Substitute Teacher and Substitute Instructional Assistant information sessions are held virtually on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. Candidates will receive a link to the virtual information session via email the Monday before the session. Sign up for an information session.

FCPS Looking for Science Professionals

Are you a science professional looking to give back and inspire future scientists? FCPS School-Based and Regional Science Fairs are looking for you!

Volunteers are needed for:

Judges at High School fairs
Judges at the Regional Science Fair
Organizations to sponsor and judge awards at the Regional Fair

For more information follow the link: https://forms.gle/Wod5zjMwVmJyisRd9

FCPS Seeking Business and Community Partners to Support Career and Technical Education

Career and Technical Education (CTE) offers a variety of business and industry-connected programs to FCPS students at the middle and high school levels. The program areas include the following:

Business and Information Technology
Family and Consumer Sciences
Health and Medical Sciences
Marketing
Technology and Engineering Education
Trade and Industrial Education

Through our Ignite Partnership Program, business and community groups are invited to help expose students to careers and the pathways to those careers. We are currently seeking partners to provide::

Guest Speakers
Work Based Tours
College and Career Fairs
Information Interviews
Explore career pathways and workplace readiness skills.
Develop career interests.
Internships
Service Learning
Externships
Job Shadowing
Career Mentorship

Call 571-423-1225 to learn more about creating an Ignite Partnership. Visit the Career and Technical Education website for more information.

Academy Open Houses

Chantilly, Edison, Fairfax, and West Potomac Academies

Advanced technical and specialized elective courses are available at FCPS High School Academies for students interested in pursuing coursework in a variety of options related to career pathways. Visit the FCPS Academy Website for more information.

Academy Open House Schedule

Chantilly Academy: January 19, 2023, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Edison Academy: February 4, 2023, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Fairfax Academy: February 7, 2023, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
West Potomac Academy: January 18, 2023, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Guidelines on Religious Accommodations for Students

FCPS makes reasonable accommodations so individuals are able to meet their personal religious obligations. Parents, teachers, and administrators are encouraged to consult the Guidelines for Religious Activities for Students. You may also access this information from FCPS’ website by clicking Calendars on the menu, then clicking Calendar of Religious and Cultural Observance Days.

Office of Auditor General Engagement and Office Updates

Current Engagement Updates

At the November 9 Audit Committee meeting, the Office of Auditor General presented the quarterly Audit Recommendation Follow-up as of July 31, 2022, and highlighted the status of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 Community Use Audit Recommendations.
In addition to the ongoing Continuous Monitoring, the FY 2022 Local School Activity Funds (LSAF) Audit and Succession Planning and Leadership Development Audit are currently in process.
At the request of the School Board, OAG serves as the project liaison by engaging American Institutes for Research® (AIR) to conduct an independent, third-party review of FCPS’ special education program in October 2020. AIR presented its Final Report during the School Board’s October 4 work session. View their key findings. Next steps include working with a diverse stakeholder group to develop a comprehensive Special Education Enhancement Plan to address areas of need. The School Board will discuss a framework for the plan at their work session on Tuesday, November 15, at 1:30 p.m. Visit FCPS’ Office of Auditor General webpage for more information.

Promoting a "Speak-Up" Culture at FCPS

A speak-up culture is one in which employees willingly report apparent fraudulent or wasteful activities or staff that abuse their positions. They understand that calling out wrongdoing or bad behavior is necessary for the well-being of the organization, the health of its workplace, and the fulfillment of its mission.

Working with children in a classroom setting, many of us observe the stigma associated with being a “tattletale” and remember what that was like. As adults, we may worry that reporting suspect behavior may disturb work relationships and pose potential career risks. Others may believe that management will not do anything, so why bother?

You should know that the school board supports and encourages employees, contractors, and other FCPS stakeholders to report any suspected wrongdoing to the Office of Auditor General. Employees who make a good faith disclosure of fraud, waste, or abuse within the school system are assured full protection from retaliation by FCPS School Board Policy 1106, Protection Against Retaliation When Engaged in Protected Activity as well as Virginia state law.

FCPS School Board Policy 1107, Fraud, Waste, and Abuse defines wrongdoing as fraud, waste, and abuse:

Fraud: an intentional act of deception, misrepresentation, or concealment in order to gain something of value.
Waste: a thoughtless or careless expenditure, consumption, mismanagement, use, or squandering of resources. Unnecessary costs that are due to inefficient or ineffective practices.
Abuse: behavior that is excessive, deficient, or improper. Also includes misuse of resources, authority, or position for personal interests.

To facilitate sensitive disclosures, OAG operates an anonymous fraud, waste, and abuse hotline that can be accessed 24 hours a day at 571-423-1333. For those who would prefer to report online, a form for submitting complaints anonymously can be found on OAG’s website.

Recent calls to the fraud, waste, and abuse hotline resulted in the detection of suspected fraud, waste, or abuse related to time reporting and use of FCPS assets. Few calls are that impactful, and some have no dollar value at all. But all reports are taken seriously and receive the full attention of OAG’s professional staff who review the allegation and determine the most appropriate way to investigate it and if necessary, take action.

Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline:

(571) 423-1333 (anonymous voicemail)

InternalAudit@fcps.edu (email is not anonymous)

Educate Fairfax Our students. Our strength.

Educate Fairfax Announces Innovators' Fund

At the Leaders & Learners Breakfast, board chairman Cindy Anderson announced a new initiative for the coming year, the Innovators' Fund, aimed at involving the business community in a deeper way with schools by connecting their contributions with students on projects to learn about opportunities, experience next generation subjects, and explore career possibilities.

Educate Fairfax will match the first $50,000 donated to this fund, and at the breakfast, we collected nearly $10,000 of that total!

At the elementary level, the Innovators' Fund will support STEAM equipment, supplies, and education for every school in the district, for both in-school and after-school programs.

At the middle school level, we will support STEAM after-school programs, particularly by connecting students with mentors from the business community.

At the high school level, the fund will help connect student-led innovative ideas with businesses, like a Shark Tank or a start-up company in the school or even an innovation lab learning space for students to explore. The possibilities are endless!

If you’d like to be a part of this exciting initiative and make a direct impact on students at all levels, click here to donate.

Java Coding Lessons for Middle School Students

Fairfax High School’s Roar-botics team is offering virtual Java coding classes for middle school students. Students who are new to Java coding and are looking to learn basic skills and functions may take Java Basics. Those who have experience coding with Java or have taken this course previously and are looking to learn advanced Java functions may enroll in Advanced Java.

The course will consist of 5 classes at a cost of $50 and take place every Friday and Saturday from 5:00-6:00 p.m. from December 2-16, 2022.

Robinson Baseball Youth Winter Camp

Robinson Secondary School baseball is holding a youth winter camp for players 7 - 14. Learn from current and former Robinson players and coaches! The camp will be held on January, 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2023.

For more information email Head Baseball Coach, Mike Gallagher, at mtgallagher@fcps.edu.

Red Flag Gun Law in Virginia

Prevent a Gun Tragedy, Speak Up! www.fairfaxcounty.gov/topics/red-flag

Virginia’s Emergency Substantial Risk Orders (ESRO) law prevents individuals who show signs of being a threat to themselves or others from purchasing, possessing, or transporting any kind of firearm. If you know of someone with a gun acting in a way that concerns you, speak up to prevent a gun tragedy.

To request an ESRO in Fairfax County, call the police non-emergency line at 703-691-2131. If there is an immediate danger, call or text 911. Learn more about Red Flag Laws on the county government website.

Holiday Events With The Fairfax Carolers

The Fairfax Carolers are ready to sing at your event!

Just in time for the holidays! The Fairfax Carolers are now scheduling 30-minute entertainment slots for holiday parties, craft shows, work events, luncheons, etc. Donations requested. To schedule, please contact Choral Director, Juliana Woodill, at jcwoodill@fcps.edu.

Lewis High School Band 2022 Tiny Tots Concerts

John. R. Lewis High School 2022 Tiny Tots Concert

Join the Lewis High School Band for one of their annual Tiny Tots Concerts! The concerts will feature favorite holiday characters and seasonal selections.

Admission is $2.00 per person and concerts will take place as follows:

Tuesday, November 29, 2022: *10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 30, 2022: *10:00 a.m.

*Please note that reservations are required for the morning performances.

For further information email lancertinytots@gmail.com.

Woodson High School Band 2022 Holiday Tunes for Tots

W.T. Woodson High School Band Department Presents 2022 Holiday Tunes for Tots

Looking for a festive activity for you and your tot? Join the Woodson High School Band Department for their 2022 Holiday Tunes for Tots! The shows will be held in the gymnasium at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, and Thursday, December 1, 2022. Admission is $5.00 per person.

Questions? Call Alice Lee at 703-599-4367 or email holidaytunesfortots@gmail.com.

Chantilly High School Performing Arts Tiny Tots

Chantilly High School Performing Arts Department Presents Tiny Tots

http://www.chantillyhsdrama.com/

Join the Chantilly High School Performing Arts Department for holiday family fun at a Tiny Tots performance! The suggested donation is $5.00 per ticket and concerts will take place on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at 9:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., and 12:45 p.m.

For more information and tickets scan the QR code above or visit the Chantilly High School Drama webpage.

FCPS American Education Week, Celebrating all who work in our public schools

American Education Week - November 14-18

For American Education Week we celebrate ALL who work in our FCPS community: our bus drivers, cafeteria workers, counselors, support staff, teachers, leadership, and more! Learn more from the National Education Association.

Want to recognize someone from our school who goes above and beyond? Submit a nomination to FCPS Cares.

Native American Heritage Month

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. It is also a time to raise general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.

Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

National Family Engagement Month

Families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. More than 35 years of research shows that the most effective way to increase student achievement is for families to be actively involved in the education of their children. Strong parental and family support is vital to the well-being and success of students. FCPS has many resources for families designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.

The national standards for family-school partnerships include welcoming all families, communicating effectively, supporting student success, speaking up for every child, sharing power, and collaborating with the community.

Visit the links below for workshops and classes for families, and digital and printable resources for early childhood, mental health, military families, special education, multilingual supports, and wellness topics.

Digital Citizenship Resources
Multilingual Podcasts
Parent Education Advocacy Training Center (PEATC)
Parent Information Phone Line (available in eight languages for parents who do not speak English)
Parent Resource Center Digital Resources
Parent Resource Center Webinar Registration and Schedule

Family Liaisons

Did you know that every school has a family liaison? Family liaisons welcome families who are new to the school and community and help them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can also help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.

If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit the Family Liaison webpage for a list of region representatives.

Happy Thanksgiving!

As a reminder, schools and offices will be closed from November 23-25. Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Classes will resume on Monday, November 28. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

National Special Education Day

National Special Education Day is recognized each year on December 2 and commemorates President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students with special needs!

Inclusive Schools Week

Inclusive Schools Week has celebrated the progress that schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to an increasingly diverse student population, including students who are marginalized due to disability, gender, socio-economic status, cultural heritage, language preference, and other factors. The week also provides an important opportunity for educators, students, and parents to discuss what else needs to be done in order to ensure that their schools continue to improve their ability to successfully educate all children. This year, the Inclusive Schools Week’s theme is “Unity Within Our Community.”

Bodhi Day

Bodhi Day, Thursday, December 8, is the Buddhist holiday that commemorates the day that the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni), experienced enlightenment, also known as bodhi in Sanskrit and Pali. The school calendar recognizes many religious and cultural observances (O days) during the school year. There is school on these days, however, the School Board has directed that tests, quizzes, field trips, graduation, homecoming, or FCPS-scheduled athletic events will not be held on these observance days.See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

Class of 2023 Graduation Dates

It's hard to believe that our spring graduations are just over six months away! Be sure to save the date!

School	Date	Time	Location
Centreville High School	Monday, June 5, 2023	2:00 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Lake Braddock Secondary School	Monday, June 5, 2023	7:30 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
West Springfield High School	Tuesday, June 6, 2023	2:00 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Woodson High School	Tuesday, June 6, 2023	7:30 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Fairfax High School	Wednesday, June 7, 2023	9:00 a.m.	Fairfax High School
Chantilly High School	Wednesday, June 7, 2023	2:00 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Robinson Secondary School	Thursday, June 8, 2023	7:30 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
South County High School	Friday, June 9, 2023	9:30 a.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Oakton High School	Friday, June 9, 2023	2:00 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Thomas Jefferson HSST	Saturday, June 10, 2023	7:30 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Mount Vernon High School	Monday, June 12, 2023	9:30 a.m.	Eagle Bank Arena
Lewis High School	Monday, June 12, 2023	2:00 p.m.	Eagle Bank Arena

Please note that graduation and transition ceremony dates for alternative schools and centers have yet to be determined.

Springfield District Scene

Congratulations to the Chantilly High School Boys Cross Country Team for finishing 3rd in the VHSL State Championships!

The Fairfax High School Varsity Field Hockey Team won the VHSL State Championship! Way to go ladies!

The winning continues with Fairfax Golf’s Josh Duangmanee placing second in the VHSL Individual State Golf Championships! Fantastic!

Additionally, Fairfax’s Chamber Orchestra was selected to perform at the 2022 National Conference of the National Association for Music Education in Richmond! Way to go!

Congratulations to Katherine Johnson Middle School for being recognized as a Virginia Naturally School for the ninth year in a row! I’m so proud of their commitment to increasing environmental awareness and stewardship!

I’m so proud of the Lake Braddock Secondary School Middle School Chamber Orchestra and Director Clayton Allen who will be performing during the 2022 National Conference of the National Association for Music Education this Friday, November 18! Great job!

Congratulations to Oakton High School’s Boys and Girls Cross Country Teams who finished 2nd and 4th place respectively in the VHSL State Championship!

Orange Hunt Elementary School is doing an outstanding job supporting its military families which comprise one-third of their families. I am thrilled about their work to ensure students are aware of all that goes into military service! Way to go! Read the Veteran’s Day Spotlight for more information.

Shout out to Robinson Secondary School’s Varsity Cheer Team for placing 4th in the VHSL State Championships!

Congratulations also go to Robinson’s Golf Team for also placing 4th in the VHSL Team State Championships and to Katie Vu for tying for 3rd place in VHSL Individual State Golf Championships!

Kudos to South County High School’s Golf Team for finishing in 3rd place in the VHSL State Championships!

At the National Consortium of Secondary STEM Schools (NCSSS) national conference in Atlanta on November 4th, TJ Space was named the 2022 Innovative STEM Student Program of the Year for its work in finishing the TJREVERB project that will see a CubeSat launched to the International Space Station later this month. Fantastic!

Congratulations to the West Springfield High School Girls Cross Country Team for winning the VHSL State Championship! In addition, Aidan MacGrath, placed 3rd! Great job ladies!

After a blind audition of former music educators from the state, the West Springfield Madrigal Choir has been selected to perform at the next Virginia Music Educators Association Conference in Richmond on November 18, 2022! Way to go!

Congratulations to Woodson High School’s Boys Cross Country Team for winning the VHSL State Championship!

Additional congratulations to the Woodson Girls Cross Country Team for placing 3rd at the VHSL State meet and to the Varsity Cheer Team for making it to States for the first time in school history and for placing 5th in the VHSL State Championships!

More kudos go to Woodson Chorus’ Bella Voce, directed by Amy Moir, who were selected to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association Conference in Richmond!

Multimedia VHSL State Championship Winners

Six Springfield District schools placed in the top three at the VHSL Multimedia State Championships.

Congratulations to the following staff and students!

Chantilly High School

Luc Nguyen and James Steck and the Andromeda staff - trophy class, Magazine Division
Kristine Brown and The Purple Tide staff - first class, Newsmagazine Division and Online News Division
Luc Nguyen and the Odyssey staff - first class, Yearbook Division

Kristine Brown and The Knightly News staff - trophy class, Broadcast Division

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Theresa Poquis and The Lair staff - trophy class, Yearbook Division

Andrea Kernus and The Morning Bru staff - first class, Broadcast Division

Oakton High School

Erin Khun and the Opus staff - trophy class, Magazine Division and second place, Literary Magazine Concept Packaging

Robinson Secondary School

Jess Mayes and the Carousel staff - first class, Magazine Division
Adrienne Forte and the Above and Beyond staff - trophy class, Yearbook Division

TJHSST

Virginia Pendleton and the Threshold staff - trophy class, Magazine Divison
Erinn Harris and the tjToday staff - trophy class, Newsmagazine Division
Erinn Erris and the tjToday Online - trophy class, Online News Division
Erinn Harris and the Techniques staff - trophy class, Yearbook Division

Erinn Harris and the TJTV NEWS staff - first class, Broadcast Division

West Springfield High School

Alexa Whitlock and the Symposium staff - first class, Magazine Division
Beth Leone and The Oracle staff - first class, Newspaper Division and second class, Online News Division
Melissa Morgan and the Olympian staff - first class, Yearbook Division

Students to Perform at Virginia Music Educators Association Conference November

The Virginia Music Educators Association will sponsor three honor groups at the state music conference November 17-19 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Students throughout the Commonwealth went through a rigorous audition process to compete for a position in these groups.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District students for their selection!

2022 All-Virginia Jazz Band

Chantilly High School: Keith Scroggs

2022 Virginia Senior Honors Choir

Centreville High School: Jackie Copeland

Fairfax High School: Abril Tello Cornejo

Lake Braddock Secondary School: Siam Salam

West Springfield High School: Catherine Browne

For more information read the November 7, 2022, FCPS Spotlight.

Virginia Distinguished Purple Star School for Supporting Military Connected Students

Schools Receive 2022-2023 Purple Star Designation

Seventeen Springfield District schools have been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children as 2022 Purple Star Schools. The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families.

Congratulations to first-time achievers Cardinal Forest Elementary School, Cub Run Elementary School, Frost Middle School, Irving Middle School, Kings Glen Elementary School, Robinson Secondary School, Silverbrook Elementary School, Terra Centre Elementary School, and West Springfield High School!

Bravo to second-time recipients Key Center, Laurel Ridge Elementary School, Mount Vernon High School, Orange Hunt Elementary School, Powell Elementary School, Rocky Run Middle School, Saratoga Elementary School, and Woodson High School!

Read the full November 2, 2022, news release.

FCPS Receives $2 Million Grant from DoDEA Supporting STEAM

The Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) Military-Connected Local Educational Agencies for Academic and Support Programs (MCASP) has awarded a $2 million grant to FCPS to support a “Code UP!” project.

Code UP! will provide programming in 8 Springfield District schools, all of which have 10% or more military-connected students and a high percentage of students qualifying for free and reduced-price meals. Curriculum resources developed through this program will benefit students division-wide.

This five-year grant will increase student access to Computer Science (CS) and Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM) learning experiences to advance math learning goals and spark interest in STEAM and CS careers.

School year 2022-23 is a planning year, followed by four years of program implementation (SY24-27).

Participating schools include Halley Elementary School, Keene Mill Elementary School, Kings Glen Elementary School, Kings Park Elementary School, Rolling Valley Elementary School, South County High School, South County Middle School, and White Oaks Elementary School.

Learn more in the November 1, 2022, news release.

Educate Fairfax Grant Winners

From garden projects to 3-D printing, to visiting colleges and exploring new careers, the Educate Fairfax 2022-2023 grant winners are doing it all. They awarded funding to 52 projects (20 in the Springfield District!) - that's over $82,000 in investments to help students and teachers unlock new skills, expand their horizons, and find future success.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District schools!

Cardinal Forest Elementary School: Cardinal Forest Garden/Outdoor Classroom
Centreville Elementary School: STEM/STEAM Preparing our Youths for the Future
Centreville High School: Exploring College Campuses
Chantilly Academy: Music4Life Guitar Project
Chantilly High School: I’m a Graphic Designer
Fairfax High School: Cyberpatriot Competition
Greenbriar East Elementary School: Program and Play
Lewis High School: College and Career Exploration (CCE) Club College and Career Visits
Key Center: Key Café
Kilmer Center: Kilmer Center Tiger Marketplace
Lake Braddock Secondary School: Exploring Careers in Biotechnology
Lewis High School: Lewis Studio Production
Liberty Middle School: Heavy Equipment Construction Management Simulation
Mountain View High School: Mountain View Theater Without Borders and The Career Readiness Discovery and Exploration Project
Orange Hunt Elementary School: STEAM Exploration
Quander Road School: The Road T-Shirt Company
Rolling Valley Elementary School: Rolling Valley Robotics/STEM Team
Terra Centre Elementary School: Terra Centre ES STEAM Night
Woodson High School: I Scream, You Scream, WE all Scream for Ice Cream
West Springfield High School: Taking a Tour of Your Future Through Business Partnerships

The full list of winners and project descriptions may be found on the Educate Fairfax website.

FCPS Excellence Awards

Clockwise from left: Region 4 Assistant Superintendent Ms. Gros, Superintendent Dr. Reid, and Lake Braddock Secondary School teacher Ms. Mendez; Region 3 Interim Assistant Superintendent Dr. Taylor, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ivey, Superintendent Dr. Reid, and Key Center teacher Ms. Young; Superintendent Dr. Reid, Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Smith, Region 5 Assistant Superintendent Ms. Baenig, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Ivey, and Frost Middle School counselors Mr. Joo, Ms. Gibas, Ms. Dunn, Ms. Balderston, and Ms. Avina

FCPS’ Excellence Awards, held on October 13, 2022, at Fairfax High School, celebrated the efforts and achievements of employees whose job performance produces exceptional results that support the mission and vision of FCPS. The Excellence Awards recognize multiple pathways to results by using nomination categories based on the school system’s goals including Growth, Impact on Others, Innovation, and Student Achievement. Congratulations to the following employees:

Growth Category

Individual Winner

Stephanie McCrone, 5th-grade teacher, Kings Glen Elementary School

Team Winner

Kristin Nicole Avina, Kate Balderston, Megan Dunn, Larkin Gibas, and Daniel Joo; counselors; Frost Middle School

Impact on Others Category

Individual Winners

Jessica Mendez, emotional disabilities teacher, Lake Braddock Secondary School
Vanessa Rutherford, resource teacher, Robinson Secondary School

Innovation

Individual Winner

Diane Young, peer counseling teacher, Key Center

Student Achievement

Individual Winner

Molly Paolicelli, English for speakers of other languages teacher, Lewis High School

Find out more about this year’s recipients and the celebration online.

Family and Student Resources

Resources for Military Families

We are highlighting resources for military families in honor of Veterans Day and Military Family Appreciation Month. FCPS’ Office of Family and School Partnerships provides resources and support for military families transitioning to or from our school division.

Tips to help ease a military-connected student’s transition to a new school in FCPS include:

Inquire about your school's student-led peer transition support program, such as a Student Ambassador Program, and welcoming practices.
Contact your school's school counseling office for information on student registration; standardized testing; academic and career planning; course selection; course and grade placement; absences related to deployment; graduation requirements; and social and emotional support.
Contact your previous school's record’s office to request transcripts and other school records, so they can be shared with your new school.
Consider asking your child’s former teacher to write a summary including information about subjects and topics covered; curriculum used; and your child’s strengths and areas for growth. We encourage parents and caregivers to share the teacher summary, as well as insights on their child’s development, talents, and interests, with their child’s teacher and school counselor.
Contact your school’s Student Activities Office for information about participation in extracurricular activities and sports eligibility.

For more information, please contact Meredith Ayala, family partnerships specialist. We also encourage you to sign up for the military-connected families newsletter.

Tutor.com

Do your students need homework help or feedback on their writing? How about a practice quiz to get ready for a test? Try Tutor.com - it is open to FCPS students in all grades, on-demand, 24/7, at no cost to families. Tutors are available in multiple languages. Learn more.

Every session is personalized to meet the needs of the student from remedial to advanced levels. Sessions focus on conceptual learning and critical thinking—not quick answers. Learn more at FCPS’ Tutor.com webpage.

In-person Tutoring Options

The Parent Resource Center compiles a tutor list containing the names of current FCPS employees who hold a valid and current teaching license in Virginia. These employees have contacted the Parent Resource Center to offer their services, and the tutor list is updated monthly during the school year.

For a list of tutors, please email The Parent Resource Center at prc@fcps.edu.

Register for Free Webinars from the Parent Resource Center

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

Meet the Author Series: The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers: The Secret to Loving Teens Effectively by Dr. Gary Chapman

Socially, mentally, and spiritually, teenagers face a variety of pressures and stressors each day. Despite these pressures, it is still families who can influence teens the most, and The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers equips parents to make the most of that opportunity.

Join Dr. Chapman as he shares his insights and thoughts about loving our teens.

December 2, 2022, 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Register for Meet the Author Series: The 5 Love Languages of Teenagers: The Secret to Loving Teens Effectively by Dr. Gary Chapman

View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:

Meet other siblings in a relaxed, virtual setting.
Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
Play games and have fun!

Saturday, December 3, 2022 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center

Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services. There is only an in-person option.

Register for SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person, and Virtual Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!

إستراتيجيات ووسائل لدعم الأسرة للتعامل مع الضغوطات النفسية

سلسله ندوات مجانية من جزئين مقدمه باللغة العربية عبر الانترنت

الجمعة الموافق 9 ديسمبر/كانون الأول 2022، الساعة 10 صباحاً

الجمعة الموافق 3 فبراير/شباط 2023، الساعة 10 صباحا

يسر مركز موارد الأباء بمدارس فيرفاكس بالتعاون مع مكتب الخدمات العائلية في منطقة شمال فرجينيا، أن يدعوكم للانضمام لنا في ندوة عبر الإنترنت من جزئين حول التعامل مع الضغط النفسي (التوتر) والعلاقات الأسرية.

الجزء1:

دور ولي أمر الطالب في فهم تأثير الضغط النفسي على العائلة.
العوامل النفسية والاجتماعية التي تؤدي الي الضغط.
أثر الضغط النفسي على طريقه التفاعل بين أفراد الأسرة.
مهارات التكيّف والتأقلم التي تساعد العائلة على التعامل مع الضغوطات النفسية.

الجزء 2:

أثر الضغوطات النفسية على الأطفال.
كيف يمكن أن يتصرف الأطفال الذين يعانون من ضغوطات نفسية.
استراتيجيات لمساعدة العائلة على دعم أطفالها الذين يعانون من ضغوطات نفسية.

تقديم الأخصائيات بمكتب الخدمات العائلية في منطقة شمال فرجينيا

ساره العامري، مستشارة مُجازة في الصحة العقلية، تتحدث لغتين ومشرفة برنامج.

هنادة زين الدين، مقيمة واستشارية، خدمات الصحة العقلية تتحدث لغتين.

للتسجيل عبر الانترنت.

Manejando el estrés serie de 3 partes

Part #2: Estrategias de manejo del estrés 16/12/22 at 10:00 a.m.

¿Qué es el autocuidado?
¿Por qué es importante el autocuidado?
Cómo practicar el autocuidado.
Técnicas de relajación
Gestión del tiempo

Presented by:

Aynalem (Nalem) Valdes, MS.Residente en Consejería de Salud Mental en Servicios Familiares del Norte de Virginia, Centro Multicultural
Ana Stevenson, MS. Trabajadora Social Clínica Licenciada en Servicios Familiares del Norte de Virginia ,Centro Multicultural

Compartir este evento con otros.

Registro Manejando el estrés serie de 3 partes

IEP Palooza and Community Resource Fair

Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA) and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) are excited to invite parents, older students, FCPS staff, and others to two free special events at Annandale High School on Saturday, December 3. IEP Palooza will educate attendees about special education by presenting a simulated Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting. Guests may also attend breakout sessions about different components of an IEP. A Community Resource Fair will happen at the same time, giving attendees the opportunity to learn about valuable community programs and resources related to Medicaid Waivers, disability services, respite care, health care, case management, and adjustment for newcomers. CE Recertification Credits are available for FCPS Staff. Register in advance.

Tips From the Healthy Minds Blog

Together We Shine

The theme of this year's National School Psychology Week from November 7-11, 2022 was “Together We Shine.” The theme’s concepts provide a framework for our schools to highlight both the importance of students’ and staff members’ individual strengths and attributes and the power of bringing together our ideas and actions as a school community.

We have all faced difficulties created by the pandemic, social injustice and inequity, economic stress, and challenges to mental and physical health. Feelings of isolation and disconnection have been particularly challenging. For some, it has been a time of real darkness, and finding light is critical to building resilience and hope. Connecting with others and establishing a sense of being appreciated and respected within our community empowers students and adults to find purpose and possibility.

“Together We Shine” honors the hope we feel after several challenging years and emphasizes the power of our collective efforts to overcome difficulties to ensure that all our students can thrive in school, at home, and in life. School psychologists, teachers, and other school personnel continue to work with students and families to reestablish their sense of being valued parts of a greater whole. While we all have our own individual strengths and attributes, we shine even brighter when we all bring our ideas and actions together to uplift the community. Through collaboration, we can empower students and adults to find purpose and possibility, all while fostering resilience. This is especially important for those who are or who feel marginalized, unrecognized, or at risk.

Help your children shine and learn more about school psychologists in the November 3 Healthy Minds Blog.

Be SMART and Set Goals

We often set goals to improve something in our lives. Goal setting is the process of planning for the future which requires us to think about what we want to achieve and how we can get there. Setting and working towards well-defined personal goals of any kind have been shown to have many positive outcomes.

No matter if your goals are large or small, the SMART approach to goal setting is a widely accepted strategy that increases the likelihood of achieving your desired outcome. Check that your goals meet the SMART criteria to increase your chances of reaching success.

Read the October 26 Healthy Minds Blog to learn about the SMART approach to setting and achieving goals.

Challenge Success Research-based Strategies for Student Well-being

Challenge Success offers research-based tools, tips, and strategies to provide students and families with current insights into healthy development for children of all ages. Current research includes tips to incorporate downtime for the well-being of students. Reach the below recommendations for more information.

peatc, Parent Educational Advocacy Training

Learning Opportunities for Families

The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center (PEATC), in collaboration with the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), presents the following training opportunities:

Currently Open

Transition University - Fall 2022 is a free, self-paced online course that focuses on providing parent-friendly information to help make transition planning easier. The fall edition of this course will be open through November 29, 2022. Participants who complete the full course will receive a certificate of completion showing 7.5 hours.

IEP University (IEPU) is a free, self-paced online course for families and professionals that provides useful and accurate information about IEP development and meetings. This course will be open through November 20, 2022. A certificate of completion for 6 hours will be provided for all who complete the training.

Early Childhood Academy (ECA) is a free, five-week online program that will assist families in supporting their child's early learning and development. Participants who complete all sessions will receive a certificate of completion with 9 contact hours. This program opened on November 14, 2022, and closes on December 19, 2022.

Coming Soon

Building Strong Parent Advocates is a free training that provides information to help families build solid foundations in understanding the special education process while empowering them to be their child's best advocate. This program can be accessed anytime between November 21, 2022, and December 12, 2022. Participants who complete the training will receive a certificate of completion showing 6 hours.

Turning 18 in Virginia: What Individuals with Disabilities Need to Consider is a free webinar that provides information to families about navigating this age change with their students. An 18-year-old is legally considered an adult in Virginia and can make legal, financial, medical, and educational decisions in their life. For some individuals with disabilities, this will not be an issue. Others may need support. This workshop will share basic information about things that need to be considered as your loved one turns 18. Presented in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Prince William. The webinar will take place on December 9, 2022, at 10:00 a.m.

Scholarship Opportunities

National Honor Society Scholarship

Since 1946, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) has awarded more than $21 million in scholarships to outstanding NHS seniors. This year, we are awarding $2 million in scholarships to 600 students. Each year, scholarship recipients are selected based on their demonstration of the four pillars of NHS: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character.

Visit the NHS website for information and apply today. The deadline to apply is November 30, 2022.

American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program

The American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program (ALHSOSP) Program is a series of competitive oratorical events that culminate with the award of scholarships applied to a student’s attendance at any college or university in the United States.

The Program’s purpose is to enable high school students to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution of the United States; to nurture and further develop their leadership qualities and foster their ability to think and speak clearly and intelligently; to help them prepare for acceptance of the duties, responsibilities, rights, and privileges of American citizenship; and to give students an opportunity to earn - through the competitive process - contributing scholarship awards.

The American Legion Post 177, located at 3939 Oak St, Fairfax, VA 22030, is sponsoring the local competition and representing this program to Fairfax High School, Robinson Secondary School, Trinity Christian High School, and Woodson High School.

Local Level Awards (all cash awards):

1st Place: $300
2nd Place: $200
3rd Place: $100

Students have a chance to advance to District, Regional, State, and National Levels, with award potentials of up to $25,000!

Students who are interested in participating should send an email expressing their interest in competing along with their mailing address, phone number, and email address to Mr. Jeff White, Post Commander Post 177, at jwhite@fairfaxpost177.org (with a copy to Mr. Paul Sturm at paulsturm01@gmail.com). The deadline is December 16, 2022.

Please see this flyer for full details and information: ALHSOSP.pdf. Details for the national level are available at https://www.legion.org/oratorical.

DEWALT Trades Scholarship

Stanley Black & Decker has established the DEWALT Trades Scholarship to assist individuals attending a two-year college or vocational-technical school who are pursuing a trade degree/certificate in an industry aligned with the Stanley Black & Decker Trade Goals – including but not limited to Construction, Industrial, Motor/Power Sector, Mechanics, and Technology.

This program is administered by Scholarship America®, the nation’s largest designer and manager of scholarships and other education support programs for corporations, foundations, associations, and individuals. Eligibility for individual programs is determined at the sole discretion of the sponsor, and eligible applications are reviewed by Scholarship America’s evaluation team.

Read more about this opportunity online. The deadline to apply is February 8, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. CT or when 1000 applications have been received.

Scholarship Guidance

Below you will find a list of scholarship programs from Scholarship Guidance’s weekly scholarship newsletter. These scholarships are awarded during the 2022-2023 school year and all students are eligible.

Scholarship Deadlines between November 30, 2022 - May 31, 2023:

1) Nitro Scholarship - $2,000 - 12 Awards (Deadline: November 30, 2022)