December News and Holiday Wishes

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 12/20/2022 06:53 PM EST

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Wishing you happy holidays and a wonderful winter break!

Hello, Springfield District!

For our Springfield District families who are receiving this newsletter for the first time, welcome! The distribution list has been updated by the FCPS Office of Communication and Community Relations to include all families with students within our district. In my newsletter, I share important updates about School Board work, FCPS news, and Springfield District student, staff, and school accolades among other things. I hope you will find this information helpful, and I look forward to your feedback.

You should already be receiving FCPS This Week, which has important information about Fairfax County Public Schools. Be sure to subscribe to your child’s school newsletter, as well. If you are not receiving those, make sure you go to the News Your Choose site where you can manage all your subscription preferences including this one.

It’s hard to believe that Winter Break is upon us. The next time I reach out to you, it’ll be 2023! This month has brought so many opportunities to connect with our students, staff, and families. Some of the highlights have certainly been getting a chance to listen to the amazing musicians in our district, from the Fairview ES chorus, the Lake Braddock SS (LBSS) Chorus Masterwork show, and the LBSS band holiday concert, to the Cedar Lane School music show, our FCPS kids are crazy talented! As someone with zero musical talent, I was really blown away by how skilled our students are, many on MULTIPLE instruments!

I had the great joy of getting to see one of my very favorite people, FCPS’ very own, Ms. Joyce Matthews of Braddock ES, recognized by Google for her contributions to elementary STEAM during Computer Science Education Week. How incredibly fortunate we are to have educators like Ms. Matthews and partners like Startfield, Google, and Code VA to help our students soar in computer science and technology.

Another one of my very favorite things this month was getting to be a surprise guest reader at the Oak View ES family book fair. Did you know that the Pigeon is up to new hijinx? He’s now decided to ride a roller coaster! Thank you to all the students and families who came out and took the time to help me read this fun book!

I also had the chance to visit Irving MS, South County HS, Franklin MS, Waples Mill ES, and Centreville ES. As always, our students and staff are doing such incredible things. I am perpetually amazed by the energy and enthusiasm our staff manages to show even on the most difficult of days. On Friday, I got to be a part of the Green Hour of Power at Centreville ES, where every student in the building is outside for an hour working on science, math, sustainable gardening, and all kinds of super cool environmental education initiatives. Even on the last day before a long break, everyone from the smallest kindergartener to the tallest 6th grader was engaged and actively learning. It was such an awesome way to end the week.

I hope this season brings you as much joy as your heart can hold. If like me, you are missing some very special people from your holiday gatherings, I hope you’ll be able to find a moment to reflect and remember what made them so important in your life and share that with someone. Getting to hear stories and jokes from my sister and my dad through the voices of my children is my very favorite gift this time of year. As always, I end this year feeling so very grateful to have the gift of serving the Springfield District.

Happiest of Holidays and Happy New Year.

As always, all my very best,

Laura Jane

Top row: me with Sully District Representative Ms. Stella Pekarsky, Superintendent Dr. Reid, Principal Thirus, Assistant Principal Olinger, and Assistant Principal Correllus at Waples Mill Elementary; Fairview Elementary Chorus Concert; Delegate Filler-Corn, Principal Conley, and me at Irving Middle; me with Hunter Mill District Representative Ms. Meren, and Braddock Elementary teacher Ms. Matthews at the Google Computer Science Education Week event; Second row: guest reading at the Oak View Elementary Family Book Fair Night; me with Principal Lundy at Cedar Lane School; Assistant Principal Forte, Sully District Representative Ms. Pekarsky, me, Principal Douds, and Assistant Principal Killingsworth at Centreville Elementary; Sully District Representative Ms. Pekarsky and me with a Waples Mill Elementary student; Bottom row: Cedar Lane Music Show; Chanukah sweater fun with Centreville Elementary school counselor Mr. Kaiser; Region 5 Assistant Superintendent Ms. Baenig, Principal Wright, Superintendent Dr. Reid, and me at Franklin Middle; Lake Braddock Secondary Children’s Concert; Principal Khoshaba, me, Student Representative Ms. Togbe, and Delegate Tran at South County High

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

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

Upcoming School Board Meetings

January 3 at 12:30 p.m. - Work Session (tentative): Goal 3 and 4 Reports
January 10 at 12:30 p.m. - Work Session: Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and Office of Auditor General Annual Report
January 12 at 6:00 p.m. - Public Hearing: CIP
January 12 at 7:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Fiscal Year 2023 Mid-year Budget Review
January 17 at 11:00 a.m. - Work Session: Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Proposed Budget and School Year (SY) 2023-24 Calendar
January 23 at 6:00 p.m. - Public Hearing: Budget
January 24 at 5:00 p.m. - Work Session: FY2024 Budget (Budget Public Hearing in needed)
January 26 at 7:00 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Goal Reports, University of Wisconsin World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment, etc.
January 31 at 1:00 p.m. - Work Session: SY2023-24 Calendar

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

FCPS' Fall 2022 VHSL State and National Champions

The Fairfax High School Varsity Field Hockey Team with their state championship trophy!

At the December 16 regular meeting, the School Board honored the Fall 2022 VHSL state and national championship teams and performing artists from this past fall season. Among them were the Fairfax High School Varsity Field Hockey Team, West Springfield High School Girls Cross Country Team, the Woodson High School Boys Cross Country Team, the Fairfax High School Chamber Orchestra, the Lake Braddock High School Symphonic Band, the South County High School Chamber Orchestra, the West Springfield High School Madrigals, and the Woodson High School Bella Voce!

The Board was pleased to recognize the students, their coaches and teachers. Congratulations to all who participated!

Read the the December 13 Spotlight for the full list of winners.

Strategic Planning

At the December 13 work session, the School Board was presented with an update of activities surrounding the Strategic Planning development.

The consultants and staff reviewed the work of the planning teams, particularly the Family Team, the Core Planning Team, and the Faith Community/Houses of Worship Team, which include numerous community members.

Please review the work session documents for additional information.

Career and Technical Education Pathways

Also at the December 13 meeting, the Board heard the results of an external review of our career and technical pathway offerings and staff recommendations in response to this report. The report found that FCPS is already doing great work in this space, including our amazing Academies that will have open houses in January (see below). You may view the materials from this work session to learn more.

Goal 1 and Goal 2 Reports

The School Board had a work session on December 6 focusing on the Goal 1 (Student Success) and Goal 2 (Caring Culture) Strategic Plan goals. We were able to discuss a lot of the presented data and it was useful to consider what data was missing and would be valuable to include in the next strategic plan. As a reminder, there will be many opportunities for you to participate in the creation of the new strategic plan that will guide the work of our school system.

National Computer Science Education Week

I was pleased to recognize National Computer Science Education Week, December 5-11, at the December 1 School Board meeting. In FCPS, the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Department provides our schools with resources and training to support the integration of computer science in PreK-12 classrooms so that our students see themselves belonging in computer science careers and build a strong foundation for the needs and demands of tomorrow’s workforce. I celebrate the students and staff alike who embrace computer science learning in Fairfax County Public Schools!

Read the National Computer Science Week Recognition.

National Inclusive Schools Week

Also at the December 1 regular meeting, the School Board approved a National Inclusive Schools Resolution. The resolution recalls the progress schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to our increasingly diverse student population, including those who are marginalized due to disability, gender, socio-economic status, cultural heritage, language preference, and other factors. The resolution additionally reminds the entire FCPS community that education takes on a beautiful shape was all children are included.

Read the National Inclusive Schools Week Resolution.

Learn more about National Inclusive Schools Week. (link to info below)

Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds

The Board had a work session on November 29 focusing on ESSER updates to further explore the ways FCPS has used this federal money to serve our students. You can see the materials from the work session and learn more about ESSER spending in FCPS. Remember that each school is using its funds in a targeted way to help meet student needs at their school - this may look like small group work, before or after school programming, new materials or training. You may view your school’s plan.

Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Annual Report

Also at the November 29 work session, the School Board received the annual report of the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD). This citizen advisory committee is a State Mandated Special Education Advisory Committee.

ACSD provided testimony and presented several recommendations to the School Board. The committee’s work included several Operational Improvements as well as specific actions taken and reports offered to the division. There was also a robust discussion of the committee’s highlighted recommendations. View the committee’s full report and presentation.

Superintendent Board Briefings

December 17, 2022

The following Superintendent update to the School Board may be viewed in the December 17, 2022 Board Briefing on BoardDocs.

FCPS External Auditor’s Report

The audited Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) and Single Audit Report (SAR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022 has been submitted. The ACFR has been audited by Cherry Bekaert LLP, and Cherry Bekaert’s unmodified opinion is presented on page 3 of the Financial Section of the ACFR. An unmodified opinion provides a high level of assurance that the professional, independent examination of financial statements has not revealed any actual or possible material misstatements in those financial statements.

This information may be accessed at the following link: https://www.fcps.edu/about-fcps/budget/financial-reports

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

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

Additional information included are the auditor’s management letter communicating any deficiencies in internal control or other issues or recommendations for improvement as noted during the audit. As indicated in the management letter for FY 2022, FCPS had no deficiencies or recommendations identified by the external auditors.

The ACFR is submitted for rigorous peer review by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) and the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). The FY 2021 ACFR for FCPS was awarded the GFOA’s and ASBO’s Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting, the highest honor conferred by both organizations.

IB Report

In response to a March 2020 School Board Forum, staff have completed a report to address Board questions on possible expansion of the International Baccalaureate program in middle and elementary schools.

Online Course Catalog Accessibility

At the November 2, 2022, Board meeting, the Board passed this follow-on motion:

I move to direct the Superintendent to address concerns of online accessibility of secondary school course offerings to all students prior to its usage with students.

In accordance with the follow-on motion, staff has built additional capabilities into the Course Catalog tool to support both translated content and enhance accessibility for people with disabilities. As a result, the following transition roadmap has been created.

Phase 1 (Available immediately)

All course catalog pages can be translated by families using the Google Chrome browsers built-in machine translation. This tool can support translations across 100’s of languages available via Translate. Instructions will be provided in multiple languages across the course catalog communications to ensure families can easily access translation tool.

Phase 2 (Ongoing over the next 4-5 months)

The newly upgraded FY23-24 Course Catalog is scheduled to be posted on December 16.

Upon release, the development team will pivot to working on the refinements for desired accessibility standards, rolling them out in Agile delivery sprints as they are completed. Completion of the entire list is expected to take 2-3 months from the December go-live date.

November 22, 2022

The following Superintendent update to the School Board may be viewed in the November 22, 2022 Board Briefing on BoardDocs.

2022-23 Quarterly Restraint and Seclusion Report (First Quarter)

FCPS and Community News

Preparing for Winter Weather

Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather closing decisions are made.

FCPS’ inclement weather procedures will remain the same as last year. The first five inclement weather days will be traditional “snow days” with no school activities. After those five days, we will use the flexibility provided by the General Assembly to have unscheduled virtual learning days, whenever possible, to maintain the continuity of learning. Virtual learning on these days will be synchronous instruction, following the inclement weather virtual learning day schedule (includes a two-hour delay).

FCPS’ website is generally the first mode of communication during emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.

Be sure to plan ahead for the winter season. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date in weCare@school, bookmark the FCPS website, plan for childcare, if appropriate, and know what items your child may need to take home before a weather event.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

Your school’s principal will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service's tips on staying safe during cold weather.

If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. The multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and healthcare.

NAGC Congratulates 2022 Administrator of the Year - Dr. Michelle Reid

Congratulations to Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid who was just named the 2022 award recipient of The National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC). Each year, the Association presents this award to a principal or superintendent, outside the field of gifted education, who has made a significant contribution to gifted education in their school, district, or across the nation.

Read the full press release.

Academic Matters

Understanding English Learn Data

During the Academic Matters segment of the December 1’s School Board meeting, Dr. Rich Pollio, director of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Services, shared data around our English Learner students versus students who speak English and another language.

Forty-eight percent of FCPS students speak English and at least one other language. Twenty percent of our students are receiving English language development services. Pollio also discussed the value of community in supporting our English Learners in their journey. View the presentation.

Elementary and Secondary Schools Emergency Relief Funds

At the December 15 meeting, Dr. Reid presented information about how ESSER funds are being used to address learning loss. She mentioned that the rate of FCPS academic recovery is outpacing Virginia as a whole, reading performance is nearly back to pre-pandemic levels after one year and that math performance is progressing. Dr. Reid shared how FCPS is addressing learning loss by using ESSER funding for student academic and wellness support through hourly pay to provide intervention and tutoring support, instructional materials, professional development and summer programming. View the presentation.

Save-the-Date: Strategic Planning Community Forums

FCPS Our Voices, Our Future, Strategic Planning

Strategic Plan development process. The completed schedule and locations for the sessions are posted on FCPS' Strategic Planning webpage.

The community conversations to be held that include Students from the Springfield District are as follows:

Tuesday, January 31, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. - Lake Braddock Secondary School cafeteria (large)
Tuesday, February 7, 6:30 to 8 p.m. - South County High School cafeteria
Wednesday, February 8, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. - Spanish, virtual via Facebook/Zoom
Wednesday, February 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m. - West Springfield High School cafeteria (blue)

Click here for the full list of in-person and virtual forums. Registration links will be available soon.

First Strategic Planning Family Team Meeting

Saturday, December 3, the Family Team gathered at Marshall High School for their first strategic planning meeting. All parents/caregivers who were nominated or expressed interest in joining the Family Team were invited to attend. Participants engaged in thoughtful conversations about student achievement data and began crafting a collective vision for the school division. The Family Team will have three more sessions between January and February.

Learn more about the strategic planning process on the FCPS website or email strategicplan@fcps.edu.

Proposed Process for Special Education Enhancement Plan

FCPS will be developing a Special Education Enhancement Plan to help inform our work to increase outcomes for students with disabilities. On November 15, FCPS staff shared their proposed process for developing the plan at a School Board work session. This process includes many opportunities for community feedback and collaboration from a diverse group of internal and external stakeholders such as FCPS employees, parents/caregivers, students, and content experts. View the presentation on YouTube. Get more information on BoardDocs.

Outdoor Learning Spaces Coming Soon

FCPS received $6.05 million from a Virginia state construction grant, which is earmarked for outdoor learning spaces. Outdoor classrooms will be built at all middle and high schools not currently slated for renovation. Schools going through renovations will have an outdoor learning space added through that process. A limited number of elementary schools across the division will also receive outdoor learning spaces.

These spaces will include permeable pavers—a strong, durable surface that still allows for stormwater to drain into the ground beneath them—for classroom area and walkway access and raised garden beds, at least one of which will meet accessibility standards issued under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Outdoor learning spaces will also feature an electrical outlet, hose bib, rain barrel, native garden area, fixed bench, and secure storage. Schools will be responsible for movable seating and plants.

FCPS' Get2Green team will provide professional development and connect with community partners to support schools in designing, planting, and using these spaces. Construction will begin in summer 2023 and be completed within two years.

Speed Cameras Target School Zone Safety

On December 6, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted to launch a pilot program that will have 10 speed monitoring devices (speed cameras) installed throughout the county. These cameras will be in nine school zones and one construction zone. Thanks to our county partners for helping to improve the safety of our students and staff.

Studies show that speed camera enforcement is effective in improving safety by reducing speeding, accidents, and injuries. Read more about the school zone speed camera pilot program.

Elementary School Salad Bars

Salad bars will begin to return to elementary schools as a part of lunch service starting on February 1, 2023. The elementary schools that had a salad bar installed prior to the onset of the pandemic and have Title I designation will be prioritized. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services is currently working with vendors to source salad bar menu items and will start collaborating with administrators for a successful transition back to this pre-pandemic program enhancement.

Military Families Connections

Fairfax County Public Schools honors our military community and believes connecting with one another is invaluable. We have military-connected families and students enrolled in every school across the division and would like to build on our opportunities to gather.

Blue Star Families is committed to strengthening military-families by connecting them with their neighbors to create vibrant communities of mutual support. We would like to encourage our FCPS families to consider joining Blue Star Families of the National Capital Region (NCR) to grow our network. You will find that the National Capital Region Chapter offers many opportunities for families to connect!

To register to become a member, visit Blue Star Families and click on “Join Now” on the right-hand side of the page. You may also wish to visit the National Capital Region Chapter page for more information on events, and to read their monthly chapter newsletter.

For more information, please contact Meredith Ayala, FCPS Family Partnerships Specialist, mlayala1@fcps.edu, or Julie Riggs, Blue Star Families NCR Chapter Director, dc@bluestarfam.org. We look forward to connecting with you!

High School Academy Open Houses

FCPS high school academies will hold open houses for interested students beginning in mid-January.

A high school academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses that can prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in Academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, and/or internships with local businesses.

Learn more and find the calendar of Academy Open Houses.

Proposed Capital Improvement Program Highlights FCPS’ Continued Commitment to High-Quality Facilities

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) outlined plans to build three new elementary schools and to acquire land that will be used for a new high school during the School Board meeting on Thursday evening.

Other projects include three new and/or repurposed school facilities, the renovation of 25 schools, and the relocation of modular buildings. Timelines for capital projects will be posted on CIP project web pages on the FCPS website.

These projects, presented as part of FCPS’ proposed FY 2024-28 Capital Improvement Program (CIP), represent a commitment to providing equitable access to high-quality public school environments for all students.

The CIP reflects a $205 million investment approved by Fairfax County voters in the bond referendum of November 2021.

Funding allocations to FCPS from bond sales have increased in recent years due to positive collaboration and partnerships of the Joint CIP Committee of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the School Board. FCPS leadership appreciates the continued support from Fairfax County leadership.

The new facilities will reflect current research and best practices regarding safe and effective learning spaces for students and serve as a reflection of FCPS’ desire to continue to serve all students.

Voters will have the opportunity to approve additional bond funding for school projects included in the CIP in November 2023 which supports the division’s ability to continue to work through construction and renovation needs.

The Proposed CIP was presented to the Fairfax County School Board at the December 15 meeting. The full proposed CIP may be viewed in full on the FCPS website.

FCPS is currently reviewing its engagement process around capital projects to ensure increased transparency and accountability. The progress of each approved project may be found online. Project web pages will keep the public informed of the details and progress of the project, including upcoming engagement opportunities, recordings or minutes from past engagement sessions, project details and timings, progress updates, and more.

The proposed CIP will be discussed at the January 10, 2023 School Board work session. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2023. The School Board is scheduled to take action on February 9, 2023.

Upcoming School Bus Driver Job Fairs

Join one of our school bus driver job fairs and learn how to become part of the FCPS team! The job fairs will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on:

Friday, January 6, at Lorton Center.
Wednesday, January 18, at Stonecroft Transportation Center.

In addition to a $3,000 signing bonus for all new drivers, FCPS also offers competitive pay, excellent retirement plans, health and dental plans, paid training, and other benefits.

Learn more about upcoming school bus driver job fairs. If you have questions, please call 571-423-3000 or email driveforfcps@fcps.edu.

Hiring Now! Food and Nutrition Services

From Food Services van drivers to managers-in-training, FCPS has many job opportunities related to food and nutrition. Benefits include paid training and school holidays off, and some positions offer full-time benefits for part-time work. See Food and Nutrition Services job opportunities to apply. Call 703-813-4800 with any questions.

View all current job openings.

Fairfax County Public Schools Work-based Learning

Seeking Industry Professionals for Instruction to Industry I2I - A Career Expo for High School Students

The Office of Counseling, College, and Career Readiness (CCCR) in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is teaming up with school divisions across the Northern Virginia region, to present a multi-day virtual career exploration fair for all interested high school students on February 13, 2023 – February 16, 2023.

This annual event offers a virtual venue for students to connect with industry professionals from in-demand career fields across the region.

Employers and industry experts from all career clusters are needed to provide various sessions to support students. Refining career interests and future pathways are the necessary steps to meaningful postsecondary planning.

The Work-Based Learning (WBL) Team in the office of CCCR is actively seeking volunteers from our business community who are willing to participate in this event.

If you are interested in participating in this event, complete the Google Form before 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 3, 2023.

For additional information, please review the I2I event site on the FCPS website or reach out to the FCPS WBL Team at workbasedlearning@fcps.edu.

Take Precautions To Prevent RSV This Season

This year’s flu season is already showing early, an indicator that this season may be worse than recent years, so don’t delay in getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 to help prevent serious illness in your home. There are also increasing numbers of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases, which may cause serious illness and hospitalization in children and older adults.

Pediatricians and healthcare providers are already seeing high volumes of patients with respiratory illnesses seeking care. Across Virginia, emergency department and urgent care clinic visits involving patient diagnoses of RSV have quadrupled since early September and remain high.

To enjoy the holidays and protect yourself and your family against flu, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses, take the following steps:

Make an appointment to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine (with rare exceptions). Flu vaccines are widely available at doctors’ and pediatricians’ offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you have not done so already. Get boosted if you have been vaccinated and it has been at least 2 months since your last vaccine dose. Bivalent booster doses are available for vaccinated individuals five years and older. Find out where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster in your community by visiting: vaccinate.virginia.gov or call (877) VAX-IN-VA or (877) 829-4682.
Parents/caregivers of sick children should keep students home from school and other activities to help limit the spread of infection.
Adults who become ill are also encouraged to stay home to limit the risk of spreading illness and contact their healthcare provider for evaluation, testing and/or guidance. There are treatment options for both COVID-19 and influenza; people are encouraged to seek care quickly and talk to their healthcare provider about possible treatment options.
Don’t forget to wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and limit the time children spend in large group settings with contagious individuals whenever possible.

The increases in respiratory illnesses are a good reminder to Virginians to get vaccinated, take simple prevention steps, and seek appropriate medical care and guidance if you become sick.

COVID Diagnostic Testing in January

COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing in January for FCPS teachers, staff, and students

Mark your calendars! COVID diagnostic testing will be available for FCPS teachers, staff, and students at five locations across the county January 3-5 from 5 to 8 p.m. This 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.

Get Free At-⁠Home COVID-⁠19 Tests This Winter

Residential households in the U.S. may order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here's what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address
One order includes #4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests (COVID.gov/tests has more details about at-home tests), including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates)

Order on the USPS website.

Office for Civil Rights Resolution Agreement

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has entered into a Resolution Agreement with the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights (OCR) regarding compensatory education for students with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic. FCPS has created a plan to determine whether compensatory education is owed to students with disabilities due to the Pandemic Period, and will actively work with parents, guardians, and eligible adult students with disabilities to make the determinations discussed in the plan. Learn more in the FCPS December 14 announcement.

Impacted families will be contacted directly with the next steps. Questions can be emailed to ocr2022resolution@fcps.edu.

Office of Auditor General Engagement and Office Updates

Current Engagement Updates

At the December 14 Audit Committee meeting, Office of Auditor General (OAG) presented the following agenda items (full agenda and reports may be found on BoardDocs):

FY 2022 Local School Activity Funds (LSAF) Audit
FY 2022 Continuous Monitoring Quarter 3 and Quarter 4 Results
FY 2023 Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) III Continuous Monitoring Results
FY 2023 Legal Audit with Management Responses
OAG FY 2022 Annual Report (School Board Work Session presentation scheduled on January 10, 2023)

In addition to the ongoing FY23 Continuous Monitoring, the FY23 Succession Planning and Leadership Development Audit and the FY23 IT Cybersecurity Audit are currently in process.

What is Auditor Independence?

Have you ever wondered: “Why should we rely on audit reports?” One important reason has to do with auditor independence. It assures the reader that the auditor is not compromised by a prior or existing relationship with the audit subject. An auditor’s independence is a prerequisite of every audit.

The Office of Auditor General (OAG) carries out its audits in accordance with something called GAGAS (generally accepted government auditing standards). GAGAS, also referred to as the Yellow Book, (yes, it is really yellow!) provides a roadmap for government auditors to follow in the areas of independence, transparency, accountability, and quality throughout the audit process. According to GAGAS, auditors and audit organizations must be independent from an audited entity… no exceptions.

You may ask “How independent must an auditor be?” After all, internal auditors are employees of the organizations they audit. According to GAGAS, auditors should avoid situations that could lead reasonable and informed third parties to conclude that the auditors and audit organizations are not independent and thus are not capable of exercising objective and impartial judgment on all issues associated with conducting the engagement and reporting on the work.

OAG maintains auditor independence in several ways. This is through: (A) OAG’s place in the organization (particularly its reporting relationships); (B) performing procedures to assess any threats to independence prior to each audit engagement; and (C) being objective and exercising professional judgement throughout the engagements.

Maintaining Organizational Independence

FCPS goes to great lengths to protect the independence of OAG auditors. FCPS Policy 1105, Auditor General Authority, indicates that the office shall be independent of the administration in the performance of its functions. Independence, in fact and appearance, permits an internal auditor to render the impartial and unbiased judgments essential to the proper conduct of any audit.

To assure independence, the office reports to the School Board through its Audit Committee.

The Audit Committee is comprised of four school board members and two citizen members that meet on a monthly basis. Its role is to promote, maintain, and enhance the independence and objectivity of the internal audit function of the school division by ensuring broad audit coverage, adequate consideration of audit or review reports, and appropriate action taken regarding audit recommendations. The Audit Committee serves as the Board’s liaison with OAG by:

reviewing the annual audit plan prepared by OAG and submitting its recommendation to the School Board for approval;
mediating the auditors’ relationship with management;
reviewing audit reports and management responses, and reporting to the Board monthly;
following up on the implementation of internal audit recommendations;
monitoring progress against the approved annual audit plan;
acting as a representative for School Board member requests for ad hoc reviews;
periodically reviewing audit-related policies for approval by the Board; and
assisting the Board with the evaluation of the auditor general in accordance with Human Resources guidelines, policies, and regulations.

Assessing Threats to Independence Prior to Engagements

Prior to beginning an audit, the audit team must assess the following threats to independence:

Self-interest threat: The threat that a financial or other interest will inappropriately influence an auditor’s judgment or behavior.
Self-review threat: The threat that an auditor or audit organization that has provided non-audit services will not appropriately evaluate the results of previous judgments made or services provided as part of the non-audit services when forming a judgment significant to a GAGAS engagement.
Bias threat: The threat that an auditor will, as a result of political, ideological, social, or other convictions, take a position that is not objective.
Familiarity threat: The threat that aspects of a relationship with management or personnel of an audited entity, such as a close or long relationship, or that of an immediate or close family member, will lead an auditor to take a position that is not objective.
Undue influence threat: The threat that influences or pressures from sources external to the audit organization will affect an auditor’s ability to make objective judgments.
Management participation threat: The threat that results from an auditor’s taking on the role of management or otherwise performing management functions on behalf of the audited entity, which will lead an auditor to take a position that is not objective.
Structural threat: The threat that an audit organization’s placement within a government entity, in combination with the structure of the government entity being audited, will affect the audit organization’s ability to perform work and report results objectively.

At the commencement of each engagement, auditors are required to certify there are no known impediments to independence using the OAG Auditor Assignment & Independence Statement. If one or more of these threats is present for any audit engagement, the auditor should document and report the potential conflict to the assigning supervisor or the Auditor General. For all identified threats, OAG will evaluate the significance of the threat, both individually and in the aggregate, and apply safeguards to eliminate or reduce the threat to an acceptable level. OAG will not accept any engagement where threats to independence cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level.

Being Objective and Exercising Professional Judgement During Engagements (Trust But Verify!)

Auditors must be objective, free from bias and use professional judgment in planning and conducting the engagement and in reporting the results. Professional judgment includes exercising reasonable care and professional skepticism.

Reasonable care includes acting diligently in accordance with applicable professional standards and ethical principles.
Professional skepticism includes being alert to, for example, evidence that contradicts other evidence obtained or information that brings into question the reliability of documents or responses to inquiries to be used as evidence.

Have a question for OAG? Contact OAG at internalaudit@fcps.edu. Questions submitted will be consolidated and answers will be provided periodically through the “Knowledge Hive”.

Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline:

(571) 423-1333 (anonymous voicemail)

InternalAudit@fcps.edu (email is not anonymous)

Educate Fairfax Annual Fund Drive Underway

As 2022 comes to a close, please consider a year-end gift to Educate Fairfax, the independent 501(c)(3) charitable organization that supports FCPS.

Educate Fairfax works alongside teachers, principals, administrators, and leadership to keep our diverse school division robust and innovative. During its annual year-end appeal, Educate Fairfax is raising funds for its four focus areas: Innovative Classroom Grants, Kids in Need, Literacy, and Employee Recognition.

Your $100 contribution can provide emergency basic needs to a student in need. Or a $250 donation will allow a teacher to purchase books for their classroom library. Find more information about Educate Fairfax and its impact.

Make your tax-deductible contribution through a secure donation portal. Thank you in advance for your support.

Winter Break Camps at the Fairfax County Park Authority

Are you looking for ways to keep your child busy this winter break? If so, look no further! The Park Authority offers 39 winter camps at many locations throughout the county during the weeks of December 19 and 27. Choose your own adventure from among camping experiences focused on athletics, dance, robotics, engineering, cooking, science, nature and many more.

Search the Park Authority’s entire collection of winter adventures at the Camps website. Space is limited, so register today! Enrollment fees apply.

Take a Hike! First Hike Photo Contest

Ring in the new year with a hike on Fairfax County trails! Even better, take a great photo and win a prize.

The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and the Fairfax County Park Foundation are teaming up once again to present the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest this New Year’s weekend, Saturday, December 31, 2022 through Sunday, January 1, 2023. The contest joins countless First Day Hike programs throughout America’s state parks and is open to hikers and photographers of any age and skill level. It’s a great way of getting out and enjoying the new year with friends, neighbors and family.

Participation is simple. Visit any FCPA trail on December 31 or January 1. You may find one near you on the Trails website. Take a photo to commemorate the experience and submit it on the First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest website before midnight on Sunday, January 1, 2023. The photo submission link will be posted on the First Hike website by 5 a.m. on Saturday, December 31, 2022.

The contest is open to amateur and professional photographers. Only one photo entry per person will be accepted (multiple family members may submit photos individually). Photos must be taken on a FCPA trail.

Not sure what trail is right? Go to the Trail Buddy webpage to find a FCPA trail near you. You can also find a selection of fun hikes at the First Hike Fairfax website. Photos must be in JPG or PNG format, and contest submissions must clearly indicate the date and FCPA park or trail where the photo was taken. Participants must adhere to all park rules and safety protocols; photos depicting violations of rules or protocols will be disqualified. Visit the First Hike website for full contest rules.

National Public Radio’s Student Podcast Challenge

National Public Radio’s (NPR) Student Podcast Challenge will open for entries on January 6, 2023 and close on April 28, 2023. The judges will choose winners in two categories: grades five through eight and grades 9 through 12. Entries must be submitted by an educator or a student leader who is 18 years old or older. Read more on the NPR website.

One Water Art Contest

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) is joining regional water utilities to host its second annual art contest with the theme of protecting our source water. Local student artists in grades 9-12 can submit their art which captures the importance of protecting our local water sources. The submission deadline is Sunday, January 22, 2023. Learn more about the One Water Art Contest for high school students and submit your entry.

U.S. Global Change Research Program Enlists Student Artists

Students can help others understand climate change and inspire people to take action through art. The U.S. Global Change Research Program is looking for youth ages 13-17 to submit artwork related to the topic of climate, people, and nature. Student art will help readers of the Fifth National Climate Assessment see how the climate is changing and what that means for the people, places, and activities that students love. Submissions are due January 27, 2023.

2023 Gap Year Fair

Undecided? Take a Gap Year YouTube video

Watch the video to meet an FCPS student who took a gap year!

FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at West Springfield High School from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m., by Julia Rogers, Founder of EnRoute Consulting and Gap Year Association Board President. Immediately following the presentation, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 7:15 to 9:00 p.m., with representatives from over 40 programs offering gap year opportunities. Students and their families are invited to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available.

Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event. For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs.

**In the event of inclement weather on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, the Gap Year Fair will be held on Thursday, February 2, 2023, at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

State Education News

Accreditation System and Standards of Learning Scores

The Virginia Board of Education is considering many topics that will have an impact on FCPS students, including revisions to the state accreditation system and standards of learning cut scores. Additional information about these topics may be found at https://www.doe.virginia.gov/about-vdoe/communications/superintendent-s-memos/2021/2022.

History and Social Studies Standards

The VA Board of Education was also considering newly revised draft standards for history and social studies. At its November 17 meeting, they called for another draft of revised history and social studies standards. I encourage you to stay informed about actions at the state level as they will impact your student in FCPS. View the agendas for Board of Education meetings.

Teacher Apprenticeship Planning Grants

The Virginia Department of Education is awarding $143,000 in grants to nine universities to develop teacher apprentice residency programs in partnership with nearby school divisions.

The programs will allow divisions to hire classroom aides, paraprofessionals, substitutes, and other unlicensed school employees as teacher apprentices and provide a mentored pathway for them to complete the coursework required to become fully licensed teachers.

“The Apprenticeship Planning Grants build on existing residency programs and local grow-your-own recruitment programs as a means of expanding the teacher pipeline,” Balow said. “The grants and the partnerships are also aligned with the objectives of Governor Glenn Youngkin’s September executive directive on addressing teacher shortages in the commonwealth’s public schools.”

Universities receiving grants and partnering with FCPS include George Mason and Virginia Commonwealth University. Read more in the press release.

Chanukah

Happy Chanukah to all who celebrate! This Festival of Lights is an 8-day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple, and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple's menorah for 8 days.

Learn more about Chanukah.

Winter Break

As a reminder, winter break will be held from December 19 to January 2. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2023. See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

Winter Break: Setting up for Success

For many, the winter break brings great opportunities for relaxation, rejuvenation, and moments of joy. Even so, the changes to routine and time away from friends and school staff can be stressful for some students. As you make plans for your time away from school, consider the tips below for you or your student:

Maintain key parts of your routine. While some flexibility is helpful, particularly to do activities you enjoy and can’t regularly take part in, routines generally help us to feel less anxious and more prepared to tackle the day. Perhaps maintaining your regular sleep schedule, eating habits, or workout routine would help you to be at your best. Staying connected to close friends and family may also help. Take note of what works best for you and your student, maintaining some of those activities during the break.

Cultivate Joy. The break can bring both large and small moments of joy. Although many are able to spend time with loved ones or enjoy a special meal, that is not always possible (and sometimes not enough). Consider how you might create small moments of joy in between bigger events. Treat yourself to a few extra moments to savor your favorite cup of tea, call a favorite friend, or enjoy your favorite song on the radio. Try to build in time for activities that energize you or help you to relieve stress, whether that is listening to music, being creative, cooking your favorite meal, or watching a movie alone to recharge.

Prepare to return. As your student gets ready to return to school, ask them what they are most and least looking forward to. Be excited alongside them for the good things and gently help them work through any worries they may have. Make sure they can find anything they need for the first day back.

Visit the Student Safety and Wellness webpage for more information about a variety of topics related to student well-being.

Christmas

A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus, and is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world.

Learn more about Christmas.

Kwanzaa

Happy Kwanzaa to all who celebrate! Kwanzaa is an annual week long celebration of African American culture and heritage. Friends and family gather each day to give thanks, exchange gifts, and share feasts.

Learn more about Kwanzaa.

National Mentoring Month

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are.Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Happy New Year!

I wish you all a very happy, healthy new year!

Three Kings Day

Three Kings Day (January 6), also known as the Epiphany, is a Christian celebration that commemorates the Biblical story of the three kings who followed the star of Bethlehem to bring gifts to the Christ child. This marks the official 12th day of Christmas.

Learn more about Three Kings Day.

Orthodox Christmas

Many Orthodox Christians in the United States celebrate Christmas Day on or near January 7 in the Gregorian calendar. It is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who they believe to be the son of God.

FCPS Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I Have a Dream

Martin Luther King Day

As a reminder, schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 16, 2023, for the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.

Learn more about Martin Luther King Jr.

See the complete 2022-23 school year calendar.

Springfield District Scene

Exciting learning opportunities are taking place at Chantilly Academy! Claude Moore Scholars in partnership with Inova Health System are providing tools and resources to prepare students as the next generation of health care workers through classroom and hands-on experiences.

Chantilly Academy students with anatomage table

The Anatomage Table is the most technologically advanced 3D anatomy visualization and virtual dissection tool for anatomy and physiology education and is being adopted by many of the world’s leading medical schools and institutions. The Anatomage Table is the only fully segmented real human 3D anatomy platform. Users can visualize anatomy exactly as they would on a fresh cadaver. Individual structures are reconstructed in accurate 3D, resulting in an unprecedented level of real accurate anatomy, dissectible in 3D. Anatomy is presented as a fully interactive, life-sized touch screen experience, in operatory bed form. The Table allows for exploration and learning of human anatomy beyond what any cadaver could offer. We are grateful to the foundation for providing such an innovative tool for learning.

Congratulations to Chantilly High School Cadet Nathan Good for receiving the Air Force Chief of Staff (CSAF) Flight Academy scholarship! The CSAF offers a Flight Academy opportunity to Air Force Junior ROTC cadets worldwide. This scholarship (worth between $20K - $25K) pays for a cadet to attend an 8-week flight academy program over the summer that grants the cadet a Private Pilot’s license upon completion. This is an extraordinary opportunity and is also highly competitive!

Check out the FCPS Spotlight which features Lake Braddock Secondary School’s auto technology teachers, Dominic Prakahs and David Plum.

Lake Braddock Secondary School auto technology teachers, Dominac Prakash and David Plum

Together they have over 50 years of teaching experience in FCPS!

Congratulations to Lake Braddock Girls Varsity Basketball head coach, Liz Reed, on 100 career wins! Wow!

Way to go to Lake Braddock Debate Team’s Caleb Sharman who recently earned an invitation to the prestigious Tournament of Champions Invititational at the University of Kentucky this spring! You’ve got this!

I’m so excited about Rocky Run Middle School’s Warriner Exchange Program! Students from Warriner recently stayed with Rocky Run host families while attending classes, going on school trips, and visiting local places of interest. This spring Rocky Run students will travel to Oxfordshire, England to enjoy the same experience. What a wonderful opportunity for students, staff, and parents!

Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson HSST Space! On Tuesday, November 22, NASA launched the TJ REVERB CubeSat from the Kennedy Space Center as part of the SpaceX-26 Commercial Resupply Service Mission en route to the International Space Station. The launch is the conclusion of seven years of hard work by students and instructors at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Read more on TJHSST’s webpage.

Family and Student Resources

Multicultural and Language Resources for Families

During National Family Engagement Month, the Office of Family and School Partnerships would like to remind families of some of the resources available to them:

Bilingual community liaisons support student registrars by providing families with information about school and community services offered in Fairfax County. Liaisons are available to help families speaking Spanish, Korean, and Arabic. Once registered at a school, families can contact their family liaison for assistance.
Early literacy programs are available to Fairfax County residents for parents of children up to 5 years old. These programs help prepare children for school and build confidence in parents as their child’s first teachers. They also help parents become active partners in their child’s education. Programs are available in African-Heritage, Arabic, Spanish, and Korean.
Parent Information Phone Lines are available in eight languages for parents who speak languages other than English.
A Multilingual Family Podcast is produced by the offices of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), Family and School Partnerships, and Professional Learning and Equity. It covers important information for parents in English, Spanish, Arabic, and Korean.
ESOL services are available in Fairfax County for students as well as adults. Information on spring classes will be posted in March 2023.

Additional resources are available on the Family Engagement webpage.

Mental Health, Coping and Addiction

One in four Americans suffers from a mental illness. Almost 3 in 5 people with mental illness will receive no treatment or medication. In 2019, an estimated 47.6 million adults (19% of the country) had a mental illness, but only 43% received any kind of mental health care (Johns Hopkins). There are many reasons why a person may turn to drugs or alcohol initially, including using these mind-altering substances as a coping mechanism for stress, difficult emotions, physical ailments, and other issues. Drugs and alcohol can provide a temporary respite from reality and everyday life. They can enhance pleasure and decrease inhibitions and anxiety. Drug use can be an unhealthy coping mechanism. Coping mechanisms are habits formed over time that serve to help a person manage situations or stress levels. Not all coping mechanisms are maladaptive or destructive; however, addiction is both.

Before using drugs as a coping strategy here are some recommendations for a healthier mindset. The goal is to identify the “void” or issue and work towards healing. In the meantime, experts recommend diet and exercise as great places to start. See your Primary Care Physician and a therapist if needed. Quality sleep is also a major factor in a healthy mind. Surround yourself with good people and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at: (571) 423-4270.

Resources

Pyramid Drug & Alcohol Presentation for Parents and Guardians

The FCPS Office of School Safety and Wellness are hosting pyramid-wide events for FCPS parents and guardians.

Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations about Alcohol & Drugs

What knowledge and information do you have to engage in meaningful conversation with your children about drugs?

You will:

Understand basic information about alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and opiods
List what you can do as a caregiver
Identify and connect with community resources

Springfield District parents and guardians may attend the following pyramid events. Adults only please.

Pyramid	Date	Time	Location
Woodson High School	Tuesday, January 17, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Woodson High School Lecture Hall
Cedar Lane School	Wednesday, January 18, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Madison High School Lecture Hall
Chantilly High School	Monday, January 30, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Chantilly High School Lecture Hall
Fairfax High School	Monday, January 30, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Fairfax High School Library
Lake Braddock Secondary School	Tuesday, February 2, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Lake Braddock Secondary Lecture Hall
Robinson Secondary School	Tuesday, February 2, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Robinson Secondary Recital Hall
West Springfield High School	Monday, February 6, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	West Springfield High School Library
Thomas Jefferson HSST	Monday, March 6, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Annandale High School Library
Centreville & Mountain View High Schools	Tuesday, March 7, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Centreville High School Lecture Hall
Mount Vernon High School	Tuesday, March 7, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Whitman Middle School Library
Oakton High School	Tuesday, March 7, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Oakton High School Lecture Hall
Quander Road School	Tuesday, March 7, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	West Potomac High School Library
Lewis High School	Tuesday, March 14, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	Lewis High School Library
South County High School	Thursday, March 16, 2023	6:00-8:00 p.m.	South County Middle School Lecture Hall

Register for Free Webinars from the Parent Resource Center

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

Neurodiversity: What Do You Mean We are All Neurodiverse?

All human beings are neurodiverse. There is infinite variation of thinking and experiencing the world due to our identities, experiences, and brain wiring that is a valuable form of human diversity (Büdy, 2021; Singer, 2019). This webinar examines the brilliance and advantages of neurodiversity and the different ways brains may function as it relates to neurodivergence or neurotypicality.

What is the relationship between neurodiversity and student relationships and engagement?
How can we use asset-based language?
How can we reflect on individual mindsets towards inclusion for all students?

Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist.

January 12, 2023 at 6:30 p.m.: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

January 13, 2023 at 10 a.m.: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Social-Emotional Milestones in Early Childhood

The first five years of life are a period of incredible growth in all areas of a child’s development. Social and emotional development includes the child’s experience, expression, and management of their emotions, and the ability to establish positive and rewarding relationships with others. Join us for this important webinar to learn about the social-emotional developmental milestones in early childhood.

Webinar Highlights:

Identify social-emotional skills that develop in early childhood
Discuss strategies to support children in their social-emotional development
Explore concepts of attachment, temperament, and self-regulation and their impact on social-emotional development

Presented by Naomi H. Grinney, LCSW, Infant Mental Health Specialist, IMH-E® Clinical Supervisor/Behavioral Health Senior Clinician Infant-Toddler Connection of Fairfax – Falls Church

January 20, 2023 10-11:30 a.m.

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

Morning Meeting and Responsive Advisory Meeting: Building Positive Classroom Communities through Social and Emotional Learning

Join us to hear about how teachers and school staff are building positive schoolwide and classroom communities through social and emotional learning.

During this session, families will:

Learn about the evidence-based Responsive Classroom practices of Morning Meeting and Responsive Advisory Meeting.
Understand how teachers are using these practices to engage students in learning that is challenging, developmentally appropriate, and supportive of the whole child.
Learn new tips so you can continue these responsive practices at home.

The presenter is Ivette Robles, FCPS Curriculum Resource Teacher, Office of School Improvement and Supports.

Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at 10-11:30 a.m.

Register for Morning Meeting and Responsive Advisory Meeting: Building Positive Classroom Communities through Social and Emotional Learning

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

ستراتيجيات ووسائل لدعم الأسرة للتعامل مع الضغوطات النفسيةسلسله 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.

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.

استعرض هذه الصفحة الخاصة بالمعلومات عن الندوات إذا كنت ترغب في المشاركة مع الاخرين لدعوتهم للتسجيل .

Meet the Author Series All Cats are on the Autism Spectrum by Kathy Hoopmann

Cats take a playful look at the world of autism, and these fun feline friends will strike a chord with all those who are familiar with children on the Autism Spectrum.

Join Kathy Hoopmann as she celebrates the diversity within this neurodiverse community by reading from her book and answering audience questions.

Thursday, February 9, 2023, 7 - 8 p.m.

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

Neurodiversity at Elementary Schools

How can families partner with schools?

Strategies to set your child up for success
How to advocate for your child
Tools for collaborating with your child's school

February 10, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Presented by Kristen Haynor, FCPS Neurodiversity Specialist

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

Supporting Mental Health Through Play

Join us for a 2-part interactive session designed for parents, caregivers, and educators to discover how incorporating more unstructured play & sensory foundational activities to support all young children’s development, including children with special needs and mental health concerns.

Session #1 Highlights: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

The power of unstructured play in creating opportunities to build executive functioning skills
Differences in play experiences over the past 30-40 years
Benefits and Ways of incorporating unstructured play into a child’s day

Session #2 Highlights: View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.

Angie Voss’ “power sensations” (movement & touch)
Reflecting on our own temperaments, including sensory preferences, in order to provide a “goodness of fit” for our child or student
Creating an environment where all young children can thrive

This webinar is presented by Early Childhood Special Education Assistant Director, Amber Gant, with George Mason’s Training and Technical Assistance Center.

Session 1: February 17, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m.

Session 2: February 24, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m.

Multilingual Family Podcasts

FCPS Advanced Academic Program Continuum of Services

Hosts discuss the FCPS Advanced Academic Program (AAP) Continuum of Services. Hear about the different levels of services for elementary and secondary students. All students from Kindergarten to grade 12 receive instruction to develop critical and creative thinking skills as part of AAP instruction. The goal is to build upon students’ individual talents and skills to maximize their academic potential as learners. Equity of access to the services is a priority within FCPS. For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/advanced-academic-programs.

Listen and subscribe

Parent Resource Center Virtual Math Week Coming Soon

$FCPS Family Math Week Coming Soon$

Come together as a community for students in K-8 for 5 nights the week of January 9, 2023, with delightful math games and stories - all on your own time and from the comfort of your own home. All content will be available for free directly to all families in English and Spanish.

Through rich story-based mathematics experiences, math week offers families an opportunity to experience math, literacy, history, and geography in a positive way. The games and stories feature several countries including Lesotho, Madagascar, Ghana, and China.

All content will be available completely free on the website starting January 9, 2023. To access the games, families will be able to simply click on the day of the week and find their child's grade and language. View the website at anytime for explanations and videos.

Families can play for as little as 15 minutes or replay over and over lasting more than an hour on any given night. For families that want to reduce screen time, we will have physical print options for access to the content and games as well.

Use the games and stories on our website or dust off your favorite math game and play it as a family.

Any and ALL math experiences outside of a normal week count. Our goal is for FCPS to experience 1,000,000 minutes of math outside of the school day. Join the Parent Resource Center for family math fun!

Tips From the Healthy Minds Blog

Promoting Mental Wellness Over Winter Break

Fairfax County Youth Survey (FCYS) data suggest that as many as a third of FCPS students are experiencing levels of stress so high that they feel “tense, restless, nervous, or anxious, or are unable to sleep at night because their mind is troubled all the time.” The holidays can be a time to reduce stress, but they can also contribute to it. Here are some tips for making winter break a positive time for the young people in your life.

Encourage a sense of gratitude. Holidays and family time are the perfect opportunity to talk with young people about the things they are grateful for. According to the FCYS, students who disagree that they have much in life to be thankful for are more than twice as likely to report persistent sadness or hopelessness than students who agree they have much to be thankful for.

Harvard’s Making Caring Common Project offers some practical tools on helping kids develop gratitude.

Promote social connectedness. Because most young people are constantly surrounded by others at school, it can be easy to assume they don’t ever feel lonely or isolated. But the truth is that young people regularly report loneliness, and that can translate to other emotional and physical health problems. Take time over the break to truly connect with the young people in your life; ask about their interests and show them you care.

Sandy Hook Promise has a list of eleven simple things you can do to end social isolation among young people.

Take time and slow down. Holidays can be just as stressful as school and work. Take time to relax and make time to just be present with your family and loved ones.

The Child Mind Institute provides some simple tips for introducing mindfulness into your holidays.

Fostering an Attitude of Grace

The field of positive psychology has been gaining momentum for the past decade. It places a focus on promoting strengths and virtues in individuals instead of solely on treating deficits and disorders. Through the study of happy, healthy individuals, several qualities have been found that help people lead a more positive and fulfilling life. One of the top qualities is gratitude. Experiencing and expressing gratitude is associated with many potential benefits including:

Experiencing more positive emotions such as joy, love, and happiness.
Increased helpfulness and empathy.
Experiencing fewer negative emotions such as bitterness, envy, and resentment.
Decreased depression and anxiety.
Increased feelings of connectedness and improved relationships.
Improved goal attainment and academic achievement.
Better physical health.
Greater satisfaction in life.

Here are some ideas for how parents or guardians can foster an attitude of gratitude in their children:

Model practicing gratitude. Ensure that your children see you acting gratefully. Openly express thanks to family members, friends, neighbors, and strangers. Children watch the actions of significant adults in their lives and tend to incorporate those actions into their own ways of functioning.
Teach an attitude of gratitude. Talk to your children about the importance of gratitude. They should not simply know to say thank you, but also "why" they should say thank you. Gratitude is an acquired virtue and parents need to offer consistent support to help children understand and develop it.
Highlight the positives. Help your children see the many positive aspects of their lives, especially in comparison to others who may be less fortunate. Help them be mindful of people, events, activities, and things they should be grateful for. Tell your children what you are thankful for in your life. Consider having your family participate in volunteer opportunities to help others in need.
Encourage gratitude thinking. Help your children identify all those individuals who help them along the way. Have your children say “thank you” in person or by writing a note to someone such as a teacher, counselor, or coach who has made a particular difference. Also, encourage children to write a thank you note to relatives or friends after receiving gifts and to include why they are thankful for those gifts.
Share gratitude daily. Make time in the morning or at dinner for the family to share at least one thing for which each person is grateful. This can be balanced with one thing that was difficult that day, but starting with gratefulness reinforces positive connections and resources. Other ideas include using a journal before bedtime to write down three things you are thankful for each day or even having a gratitude box in your house where family members can place written messages of gratitude (these can be nice to review at another time on a particularly difficult day).
Recognize grateful behavior. Specifically identify and recognize grateful behavior or language in your children. This helps to reinforce its continued use. For example, “That was thoughtful of you to thank your friend for helping you complete your homework. Way to go. I am sure it made him feel good and made your friendship stronger.”
Use visual reminders. Put notes on the refrigerator, bedroom door, or in the lunchbox to share something for which you are grateful or to offer a reminder to your children to be thankful for good health, family, friends, and more.

Scholarship Opportunities

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 December 31, 2022 - April 6, 2023:

1) Happy Holidays Scholarship - $1,500 - 1 Award (Deadline: December 31, 2022)