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Spring is in the air. We are nearly through the 2022-2023 school year and I have seen and experienced so many wonderful things as your At-Large School Board Member. This past month, I had the pleasure of attending the Hughes Middle School AVID College Fair presentations where students researched potential colleges and after high school plans and I attended the Hunters Woods Elementary School Career Day.
I also continue to attend Strategic Plan Community Forums where parents, students and community members provide input to our strategic plan. On April 14, I attended the Special Olympics Unified Sports Championship at Centreville High School where our students shined as they ran track, played games and spread complete joy among all who participated. Special thanks to the Best Buddies who assisted to make this possible. I also want to congratulate our Luther Jackson Middle School Students who were featured in the Patch for their vertical farm that produces food for local families.
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 Coming up on April 17th, I will present an online discussion of the Special Education Comprehensive Review recommendations. Dr. Michelle Boyd, FCPS Assistant Superintendent for Special Services will kick off the discussion with a summary of the work done thus far and the plan to implement the recommendations. Our Auditor General Esther Ko will be on hand to answer questions regarding the implementation of this three year study. I also welcome Mr. Harry Henderson Chair of FCPS Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities, who will assist me in managing the meeting. The purpose is to provide an opportunity to address parent and family questions and allow FCPS staff to hear from our community during this important ongoing work. Please register to attend and submit questions for this discussion. Also below, please find other fun activities such as school plays and possible activities for the summer.
As always, I hope you find this issue helpful and I look forward to seeing you in the community.
 Inside this issue:
Join Me for Special Education Comprehensive Review Virtual Listening Session, April 17, 7:00 - 8:15 p.m.
 Register online to receive Zoom login credentials and instructions to submit questions before and during the event.
Co-Sponsored School Board Forum Topic on School Resource Officers
On April 11, our board heard the forum topic on review of the School Resource Officer (SRO) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This motion, which was co-sponsored with Mount Vernon District Representative Karen Corbett Sanders, helped establish a schedule in accordance with a Virginia Statute that requires a review every two years. The purpose of the discussion was to set up parameters for the review of the MOU. Of particular interest to Board members was the training provided to SROs in compliance with Board directives from 2018. These guidelines were established to make sure our students have positive interactions, that we have clear guidelines for SROs with an opportunity for parent/family involvement when questions arise and the need to review our procedures to maximize school safety while we produce a caring culture for all. The topic was approved and should be reviewed in an upcoming work session.
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SCHOOL BOARD UPDATES
Governance Committee Amendment
On April 13, the School Board approved the Governance Committee amendment to the Strategic Governance Manual regarding Recognitions and Resolutions. This new policy governs how recognitions and resolutions are presented. While I fully agree that the use of board time can be maximized, I did not support the new policy. My concern is that some of those recognitions and resolutions may be the only opportunity for recognition of some sectors of our amazing, diverse community. The newly revised policy limits board comment.
As an At-Large Member who works to make sure our schools are inclusive, board comments on how we support and appreciate our community are not only important, but are an integral part of our work and help members of the community feel included and respected. Going forward, I hope that this policy will be revised to limit the number of resolutions per meeting and allow 2-3 board members to speak on each topic. I will continue to work with my colleagues to make sure that all voices of our community are heard during our board meetings.
School Board Code of Conduct, Standards, and Protocols Policy
On April 13, the School Board approved the School Board Code of Conduct, Standards, and Protocols policy.
Audit Committee Update
At the April 12 Audit Committee meeting, OAG presented on the following agenda items:
In addition to the ongoing Continuous Monitoring, we are currently conducting the IT Cybersecurity and Employee Evaluation Process audits.
April is Autism Acceptance Month
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a group of neurological disorders that affect brain development and can lead to challenges with social skills, language/communication, and behavior. The goal of Autism Acceptance Month is to be more inclusive of the very community it seeks to celebrate. It promotes not just education about the differences of people with autism but understanding and respecting those differences. Below are just a few resources to help you and your family may find helpful:
Start Here: a guide for parents of autistic kids. This booklet by the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, is designed for parents of children who recently received an autism diagnosis.
Kit for Kids:Our Kit for Kids program is designed to teach elementary and middle school students about their autistic peers. The kit is centered around an illustrated booklet entitled “What’s Up with Nick?” The book is provided along with all learning resources. English and Spanish.
Hire Autism: Finding jobs just got easier with Organization for Autism Research’s Hire Autism program! Hire Autism is a free program led and run by the Organization for Autism Research. Other Employment Resources From OAR.
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April Is Month of the Military Child. “Purple Up” on April 19
Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have more than 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community and recognize their strength and resilience.
To show our support for all military-connected families, we are inviting all Fairfax County students, families, employees, and community members to “Purple Up!” and wear purple on Wednesday, April 19. Why purple? Purple symbolizes all branches of the military as a combination of Army green, Marine Corps red, and Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force blue.
FCPS Alum and Astronaut Dr. Kjell Lindgren Urges Students to Reach for their Dreams
 Story submitted by Devon Rudolph, Editor-in-Chief, Valor Dictus, at Robinson Secondary School.
NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren returned to Robinson Secondary School to speak to students on March 31. Lindgren–a Robinson graduate–talked about his career at NASA, and the advice he would give students aspiring to reach their dreams.
“People will tell you that [some] things are impossible; you will convince yourself that things are impossible,” he said. However, “Part of what NASA does is to make the impossible possible.”
 Students at Luther Jackson Middle School work on vertical farming, an innovative way of growing plants, to supply the school's food pantry. (Emily Leayman/Patch)
Students Grow “Up” with Vertical Farms
Tucked behind Luther Jackson Middle School is a small ordinary-looking shed, but step inside and you’ll see a futuristic farming operation run by engineering students.
Plastic towers are bursting with green spinach and lettuce leaves that will soon be donated to the school’s food pantry. Next to the tower sits a large circular water tank that will house about 50 tilapia fish. The complex ecosystem, known as hydroponics, will allow the fish waste to nourish the plants as the plants filter the fish’s water.
The project has been in the works for two years and is now coming to life.
Proposed Updates to the Student Rights and Responsibilities Document by April 21
FCPS is in the process of updating the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document for the 2023-24 School Year. The SR&R provides clear expectations for student behavior, responses to that behavior, and support that may be needed. Parents/caregivers, please check your email for a link from FCPS regarding a brief survey on proposed changes to the SR&R. The survey will close at 8 p.m., on Friday, April 21.
All responses to the survey are anonymous. The information provided will be used to revise the SR&R document that is presented to the School Board for approval in June.
Academic Matters: Curriculum for Core Content Added to Website
At the March 30 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented updates to curriculum overview on the FCPS website during the Academic Matters segment. Parents/caregivers can see what their students are learning in their core classes by grade level. We hope this information will allow us to better partner with parents and caregivers to support academic success.
As stated on each grade level and course page, the objectives and outcomes for each unit are common across FCPS and based on the Virginia Standards of Learning. The pacing provides an example of how the curriculum can be organized throughout the year. Teacher teams may adjust the pacing or order of units to best meet the needs of students.
Information will be updated at the start of each school year. To access the grade level and/or course pages directly, visit our Academics page.
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Exploring Careers in the Health and Medical Science
Students attending West Potomac Governor’s Health Sciences Academy were recently visited by a host of local businesses and organizations who shared information about health and medical careers and the educational requirements necessary to land them.
The Career Prep Day included a professional guest speakers conference and presentations on associate jobs and specific career pathways, resume writing, tips for interviewing, mock interviews, lessons about online applications, professional communication, dress, and more.
The March event included representatives from:
- The Fairfax County Department of Public Safety and Communications
- Giant Pharmacy/Ahold Corporation
- George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
- Inova Health System
- Pacific Dental Services
What’s an Academy?
A high school academy is a center within an existing high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses that integrate career and academic preparation. FCPS has six high school academies and each welcomes business and community partners.
To learn more about high school academy course offerings, visit any of the academy websites.
JumpStart2NOVA Applications Due April 28
 The NOVA Jumpstart program allows graduating high school seniors in the NOVA service area to take two college credit classes for free this summer. The deadline to apply with all documentation is April 28th at 5:00 pm. Additional information can be found online.
Parent Resource Center Workshop Opportunities
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Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options, Wednesday, April 26, at 6:30 p.m. Presented by Career and Transition Services, students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families are invited to this event that provides an introduction to options available after high school. This event takes place at Woodson High School.
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Neurodiversity at High School, Friday, April 28, at 10 a.m. Kristen Haynor, a neurodiversity specialist, will share strategies on setting your child up for success (no matter how their brain functions), advocating for your child, and collaborating with your child’s school. This event is virtual.
Click on the titles above to register.
Online Registration Available at 30+ Schools
Online registration is now available at more than 30 Fairfax County public schools. All FCPS schools will offer online registration beginning in June.
Families can register their students electronically via SIS ParentVUE at schools currently participating in online registration. All parents/caregivers continue to have the option of downloading the registration form bundle or completing paper registration forms. Visit our website for more information on registering your child for school.
Gearing Up for Summer Fun and Learning
FCPS’ Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA/E-IFTA) camps are now open for registration. Tuition is waived for students eligible for free and reduced-price lunch.
Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to give current K-6 students an opportunity to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM); culinary; health; trades; and business and marketing areas. Visit the TAC webpage to register.
CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 7-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Visit the CSA webpage to register.
Institute for the Arts Camps (IFTA)
IFTA is a two- or four-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9, music, self-directed economics and personal finance, and theater. Visit the IFTA webpage to register.
E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four classes every day related to dance, music, theater, and visual arts. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create classes that are fun and engaging. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.
Programs at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)
The FCPS Credit Recovery Academy and Thomas Jefferson Middle School Technology Institute will open registration Monday, April 24.
The Credit Recovery Academy is a three-week program that provides an opportunity for FCPS students to recover one high school course credit, or prep for a selected Standards of Learning or WorkKeys test. Visit the Credit Recovery Academy webpage for information.
The Middle School Technology Institute (MSTI) is a summer STEM program that consists of experiential workshop-style sessions for middle school students in our community to explore STEM at TJHSST. Sessions occur weekly. Visit the TJHSST summer webpage for information.
 Community Meeting on the Dangers of Fentanyl, April 24
Opioid overdoses are on the rise across the country, including in Fairfax County. Most fatal overdoses in Fairfax County in recent years involved fentanyl.
Last month, FCPS hosted a conversation on the dangers of fentanyl. During this impactful event, audience members heard testimonials from individuals affected by the opioid epidemic and learned facts from medical experts and law enforcement representatives.
The conversation will continue on Monday, April 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at Woodson High School. FCPS principals and staff will share what is happening in our schools and update the work to prevent substance misuse and educate our students.
Transportation will be available from select schools throughout the county. Transportation information can be found once you begin the registration process.
Take Action to Continue Medicaid Coverage!
If you have Medicaid/FAMIS/CHIP health insurance, as of March, Virginia began reviewing members’ eligibility for health coverage Coverage will not be terminated before April 30, 2023. Medicaid will not cancel or reduce coverage for members without asking for updated information. In fact, Medicaid may be able to renew your coverage without asking you for anything. If so, you will get a letter in the mail letting you know your health care coverage will continue. If Medicaid does not have all information to renew your benefits, you will get a form or a checklist in the mail to complete and return by a certain date. Please make sure Medicaid has your updated contact information so they can reach you. Update your contact information today online at commonhelp.virginia.gov, or by calling Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 or your local Department of Social Services. Members who do not respond or do not complete the renewal form/checklist will not be eligible to keep their Medicaid health coverage. Members can respond in one of the following ways:
- Online at virginia.gov using the case number and client ID on the renewal form to associate the member's case to a CommonHelp account;
- Call Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 (TTY: 1-888-221-1590). (Have the requested information gathered and ready to give over the phone);
- By completing the form/documents and sending them in the prepaid return envelope by the due date; or
- By completing the form/documents and submitting them by fax or in person at the member's local Department of Social Services.
For questions, additional help, or language assistance services or large-print, call Cover Virginia at 1-855-242-8282 (TTY: 1-888-221-1590) or email covervirginia@dmas.virginia.gov.
Prom Dress Shop Operated by Centreville High School Now Open
Know a student in need looking for a prom dress? 👗 The Prom Dress Shop at Centreville HS has dresses in Fairfax County, no money needed. The shop is operated by marketing students from Centreville HS and the Fair Oaks Classroom on the Mall and will be open Apr 14-16 and May 5-7.
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Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council Student Team Seeking New Member. Applications due May 3
The Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) is seeking a student member to join the council for the July 2023 through June 2024 term.
EQAC’s primary function is to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for improving environmental protection and enhancement, including preparing an annual report on the state of the physical environment in Fairfax County. Each year, the council also administers the Environmental Excellence Awards to recognize individuals, organizations, businesses and employees for advancing or supporting the county’s environmental goals and policies.
EQAC is composed of one citizen representative from each of nine magisterial districts, four at large members, and one student representative. The council generally meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:15 p.m.
The student member application is open to all interested Fairfax County high school sophomores and juniors who are in good standing. To apply, complete and submit the student application form. All applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3.
Spring Musical "Bright Star" by South Lakes High Theatre, May 4-6
South Lakes High School Theater presents their spring musical, "Bright Star" directed by Mr. Michael Viola.
With soulful bluegrass melodies and breathtaking choreography, "Bright Star" is a heartwarming tale of love, loss, and redemption that will leave you spellbound. This Tony-nominated musical celebrates the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
Showtimes: May 4th, 5th, & May 6th at 7:30pm with a matinee on May 6th at 2:00pm. More information can be found at www.slakestheatre.com
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Herndon High School Band Community Yard Sale
When: April 30, 2023 @ 12pm - 5pm (Rain date May 7th)
Where: Herndon High School Parking Lot
The Pride of Herndon is honored to be invited to march in the Pearl Harbor 2023 Parade! We are hosting a community sale to raise money for our trip! We welcome families, individuals, crafters, businesses, and food vendors to come and sell your items at our sale!
We will provide the location, customers, and advertising. You provide the items to sell! You keep all the profits from sales. One selling spot is equal to 2 parking spaces. You will be responsible for any tents and tables you will need.
Cost per spot: $45
Pay online or mail a check to:
HHSBPA
PO BOX 1293
Herndon, VA 20172-1293
Email to arrange other payment options or to ask questions.
Register online
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FCPS Hall of Fame, April 19
Join Educate Fairfax and FCPS to welcome the second class of inductees into the FCPS Hall of Fame! The Hall of Fame was established to honor distinguished alumni of Fairfax County Public Schools, who are positively impacting the world. This year’s class includes a war hero, a diplomat, a faith leader, entrepreneurs, a brain scientist, philanthropists, non-profit leaders and medical professionals! You can read about them on the Educate Fairfax website.
Educate Fairfax believes that our vibrant and successful school system contributes to a great quality of life here in Fairfax County. By highlighting amazing graduates, we are drawing the connection that tomorrow’s stellar community leaders, business owners, and servant leaders are currently students in our schools right now.
Educate Fairfax is here to make sure all of them have a path to success.
The celebration will be April 19, 2023, and tickets are available through this link.
Come join the ICNA (the Islamic Circle of North America) for a Ramadan celebration at Reston Regional Library. There will be an array of beautiful decor, books, henna, Arabic calligraphy and kids storytime. All ages.
Sunday, April 16, 2023, 12:00pm - 3:00pm, Reston Regional Library.
Did you know Ramadan is observed once a year for a month? It takes place during the ninth month of the twelve-month Islamic calendar, which follows the phases of the moon.
Learn more about Ramadan and Eid-al-Fitr in our fun-filled event. Activities will include making Eid cards, kids storytime, a bingo game and henna.
Sunday, April 16, 2023, 4:00pm - 5:30pm, George Mason Meeting Room, George Mason Regional Library
Submissions for 2023 Congressional Art Competition Due May 1st
Congressman Gerry Connolly is excited to announce the start of his 2023 Congressional Art Competition! This competition is open to all high school students who are residents of the 11th Congressional District regardless of where they attend school; public, private and home-schooled students are invited to participate. Due to space limitations, students may not submit more than two pieces of art.
Verify that you live in the 11th Congressional District of Virginia here.
Students will get the chance to see their art professional as all of the artwork that is entered into the competition will be exhibited at the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, Virginia. The display will be up from May 5th, 2023 to May 21st, 2023.
The first-place winning entry will be displayed for one year in the United States Capitol. The second place entry will be exhibited at the Workhouse Arts Gallery for a year, and with the permission of the artists, additional high-ranking pieces will be displayed in Congressman Connolly’s Capitol Hill and district offices.
Please check Congressman Connolly’s website for information, student entry forms, and competition guidelines. All entries, including the artwork AND entry forms, must be dropped off at Congressman Connolly’s Fairfax District Office by close of business Monday, May 1, 2023.
 Nominations for 2023 Juneteenth Resiliency Award Due May 5
Nominations are now open for the 2023 Juneteenth Resiliency Award for residents ages 13-21. This award recognizes the incredible resiliency shown by young people in Fairfax County who have made meaningful contributions in their lives and in the lives of others.
Juneteenth is an important holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It is a time to reflect on the history, celebrate freedom, appreciate Black culture and encourage continuous self-development.
The Resiliency Award will recognize both youth and young adults who have exhibited true resiliency (also known as grit, determination, dedication, perseverance and persistence) to make meaningful contributions and outcomes in their lives and/or the lives of others in the Black community.
The deadline for nominations is Friday May 5, and the award ceremony will be held on June 6 at the Board of Supervisors meeting. Check online for more information on the Juneteenth Resiliency Award and to submit a nomination.
 Teacher Appreciation Giveaway. Nominations Due April 28.
Five outstanding teachers will win $500 each!
Educators work hard each day to inspire their students to love learning. To celebrate outstanding educators for Teacher Appreciation Week 2023, SignUpGenius is giving a total of $2,500 to teachers who matter most to you.
Nominations will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. EDT on April 28. Submit nominations online.
Fairfax Connector’s New Youth Fare Policy Begins May 1.
Children Under 12 Ride Free with Paying Adult
Your Place in Space Challenge Applications Due October 30
The U.S. Department of Education has announced the launch of the Your Place in Space Challenge. This is the first challenge in the CTE Momentum series, an annual challenge series to prepare high school students for rewarding careers and increase access to career and technical education (CTE). The Your Place in Space Challenge invites high schools to submit designs for a product or service that will contribute to space missions and exploration.
Teams may pursue designs of their choice or find inspiration from one of four suggested areas of exploration — covering topics such as space debris, the International Space Station, space travel, and the environment. Submissions are due by 6:00 p.m. ET on October 30, 2023. An independent judging panel will review submissions based on the challenge selection criteria and recommend up to 10 winners, who will each receive at least $5,000. The Department anticipates announcing the winners and launching the next annual challenge in early 2024.
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The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.
© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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