May 2023: Updates, Upcoming Events, and Summer Ideas


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Dear Dranesville Families:

I was so happy to attend the Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship Awards Ceremony last night. Over 30 students were awarded scholarships, among them Kimberley Motta-Sanchez from Herndon High School. I was so impressed with these students. The average GPA was over 4.0, and they all have very impressive plans post-FCPS. Many of them spoke about a teacher or a set of teachers and guidance counselors that changed their trajectory and supported them through their academic journey. During this time of Teacher Appreciation at our schools, this was a real testimony to our professionals in our schools that make a difference in the lives of our students each and every day. I attended a ceremony to honor our retirees last week and heard wonderful stories about educators who went the extra mile to serve our community. I also had the pleasure to spend a morning at Great Falls ES talking with the Social Worker and the Psychologist about the work they are doing. They each work at another school in Dranesville so I was able to hear about the work at three schools at once -Great Falls ES, Spring Hill ES, and Dranesville ES. They are super busy helping students and families deal with difficult issues every day. Please take a moment to thank an educator today!

I was happy to attend the Langley HS PTSA meeting last week. Thanks for the thoughtful questions and for all that our parents are doing to support our students and staff. Everyone is gearing up for Prom and All Night Grad Party already. We had a thoughtful discussion about Fentanyl use and ways to safeguard our students. Please attend the community meeting John Foust and I are hosting next Monday evening at Herndon Middle School. In addition, I will be talking to student leaders at Langley HS to plan an in school event for June.

I loved seeing all of the photos of the successful bike and walk to school days that happened last week. Congratulations on a job well done. I’m looking forward to Chesterbrook ES’s first play this Friday night and hope to see you all at McLean Day on May 20.  

Elaine

HEA event collage

Congratulations to Dr. Zuluaga, Herndon HS's Kimberley Motta-Sanchez, and all the Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship winners


Dranesville Dangers of Fentanyl Community Meeting- May 15

Dranesville Dangers of Fentanyl Community Meeting information

Please join Elaine Tholen, Dranesville School Board member, Supervisor John Foust, Dranesville District, and Fairfax County and FCPS experts for this Dranesville community meeting. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be  available.

Herndon Middle School (901 Locust St, Herndon) 

May 15, 6:30-8:30pm

Topics to include:

  • Facts and dangers of fentanyl presented by County and FCPS experts 
  • Free Narcan training
  • How to talk with your tween and teen about substance use
  • Resources and summer opportunities

Updates


FCPS Updates


School Board Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Public Hearing- May 16

The School Board will hear public comment on the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) Budget on Tuesday, May 16, at 6 p.m., in the auditorium of Luther Jackson Middle School. Registration for speakers now open. Registered speakers will have two minutes to address the Board regarding FY24 Budget.


strategic planning banner

Final Feedback Opportunity on Draft Strategic Plan

Deadline May 17

If you haven’t already, please participate in the final opportunity to provide feedback on the draft Strategic Plan goals, measures, and pillars. Take the survey today! Feedback will be reviewed by the School Board at their May 9 retreat. It will also be discussed at the May 25 Board meeting. The survey will close Wednesday, May 17. Visit FCPS’ website to learn about the strategic planning process.


Volunteer Opportunities

School Board Seeks Audit Committee Applicants

Fairfax County Public Schools invites applications from community members interested in serving on the School Board Audit Committee. Applicants must reside within the boundaries of Fairfax County or Fairfax City.  The Board will appoint two committee members for a term ending June 30, 2025.  

Applicants cannot be a current FCPS employee and must be able to understand general government processes and technical and complex financial reporting issues. Applicants should be knowledgeable about internal controls, financial statement audits, management and operational audits, and risk. The deadline to apply is Monday, May 15, 2023.  Get more information about the Office of the Auditor General and submit an application here.

 Seeking Dranesville Bond Referendum Committee Member

A citizen’s committee supporting the 2023 School Bond Referendum is forming and seeking volunteers. The committee’s general duties will be sharing information that supports passage of the bond to HOA boards, chambers of commerce, and other organizations; and distributing information electronically and in print. Along with the distribution of information, the volunteers will be invited to strategize on approaches and execution at 6 to 9 meetings between late May and Election Day, November 7, 2023.  The meetings take place in the Tyson’s Corner Area.

School Board members are accepting names of interested Fairfax County residents. If interested, please contact Wendy Biliter, before May 12, 2023.


An Update on ESSER Funding, and the Proposal for 2023-24

In the fall of 2021, FCPS received $188.8 million in Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) funding to support the safe operation of schools and address the impacts of COVID-19 on students. 

Last week, Sloan Presidio, FCPS’ chief academic officer, presented the proposed ESSER expenditures for the 2023-24 school year, the last year of ESSER funding. This funding is in addition to the FCPS operating budget and is specifically targeting the impacts of COVID-19. The proposed plan presented at the recent School Board Meeting is intended to maximize the dollars remaining in our funding. At least 20% of the funding must be spent toward unfinished learning. The proposed plan has nearly 80% of ESSER funds allocated to support student learning needs.


Academic Matters

No-Cost Hazel Health Teletherapy for High School Students

At  the April 27 School Board meeting, Superintendent Reid presented on FCPS’ partnership with Hazel Health to offer teletherapy to high school students at no cost. Hazel’s therapists can help students address:

  • Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss
  • Anxiety, worry, fears
  • Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships
  • Academic stress

“Hazel Health has been surprisingly user-friendly for both staff and families,” says Sara Brewer, a school counselor at West Potomac High School. “We were skeptical that it sounded too good to be true, as it offers services for ALL families (including those that need language support for intake services). We were pleasantly surprised that our first referral was processed within THREE days because the family was so responsive and appreciative.”

How to Access Hazel Health Teletherapy Services

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Have you set up your high school student for free mental health therapy?

In order for high schoolers to participate in teletherapy services, caregivers must complete three steps:

  1. Give permission for FCPS to share basic demographic information with Hazel in ParentVUE.
  2. Consent for Hazel Mental Health services.
  3. Students must be referred to therapy by a guardian or designated school staff member. You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting an FCPS school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services.

Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information


Children's Business Fair

My visit with a Children Business Fair entrepreneur


Get to Know FCPS and the Resources Available to Families

Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:

  • School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
  • FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.
  • Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. Learn more on our website.
  • Do You Know About Family Liaisons Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.

There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child ASAP! 


Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Do you have questions or concerns about Fairfax County Public Schools? If so, reach out to the Office of the Ombuds, an independent, impartial, informal, and confidential resource for employees, parents/caregivers, students, and the community. Ombuds staff members are eager to listen and assist with navigating the school division. They will also offer options and resources to help resolve challenges.

Contact the Office of the Ombuds at 571-423-4014, at ombuds@fcps.edu, or via the “Submit a Question” button on their webpage. The team looks forward to serving you!


Parent Resource Center is Now the Family Resource Center

FCPS’ Parent Resource Center has changed its name to the Family Resource Center (FRC) as a way to acknowledge and support the broad diversity of families in our community. The FRC continues to offer a wide range of essential resources and education for caregivers and students including:  

Families can find printable resource guides and details about the center’s free lending library on FRC’s homepage. They may also sign up to receive the FRC newsletter for updates on webinars, resources, and other information. If you have questions, please contact the FRC at frc@fcps.edu or call 703-204-3941.

Upcoming FRC Webinars


Running shoe outline in a circle

 Middle School Athletics Coming This Fall

FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 Advertised Budget allocates funding for middle school athletic activities to support student well-being at no cost to students. Pending budget adoption, this will be the first time FCPS has offered middle school students a chance to participate in extracurricular sports programs. 

Middle schools will start with cross country this fall. Track will follow in spring 2024. Learn more about middle school athletics.


Summer Bus Pass

Summer Connector Student Bus Pass 

The popular free student bus pass from the Fairfax Connector will continue during the summer! For more information on the program visit this site. Once your student has filled out the application, bring it to your school for the pass. Fairfax Connector Student Pass Application


Four children show off bandaids on their upper arms

Make Sure Your Child Is Up-to-Date on Vaccines

All students are required to be immunized against certain communicable diseases to attend school in Virginia. It is important for all students to receive the required immunizations.

Please talk with your family healthcare provider about whether or not your children are up to date on their vaccines before the new school year begins. Submit updated immunization records to your school as soon as possible. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation.


FCPS Hall of Fame

2023 FCPS Hall of Fame Induction

This distinguished group of 12 individuals spans four decades and represents high schools from across Fairfax County. Visit the Educate Fairfax website to learn about them and see photos from the event

Do you know an outstanding FCPS alum who has made a significant impact in their chosen field and in the community? We're already accepting nominations for next year's class. Click here to access the 2024 nomination form.


Upcoming School Board Meetings

  • Thursday, May 11, 7pm: Regular Meeting
  • Tuesday, May 16, 6pm: Budget Public Hearing 
  • Thursday, May 18, 10am: Budget Work Session

Please note, times and topics are subject to change. 

How to watch meetings and sign up to speak

En Espanol YouTube Channel QR code

 

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español

Para ver las reuniones de 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.


FCPS Tip Line

As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tip Line is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community. To learn more about the tip line, go to the link below.

Online: https://www.fcps.edu/tipline

Text: 888777 Keyword TIP FCPS

Call: 571-423-2020


FCPS Retirement Celebrant

FCPS Retirement Ceremony


Community Updates


Supervisor Foust's Newsletter

Please go here to sign up for Supervisor Foust's informative newsletter for Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.


Report Suspicious Activity to Fairfax County  Police Department

What is suspicious?

Suspicious activity is anything that is unusual or out of place, which can mean a person, vehicle, event or anything that seems off. You are the eyes and the ears for the community, if it does not seem right, it is not. This information helps us develop patterns and connect cases together in order to solve the crime that is occurring in your neighborhood. It is a collaborative effort between you (the community) and the police to make the streets safer.

Report any crime or suspicious activity when it is occurring.

911 for Emergencies OR 

703-691-2131 for Non-emergency


Northern Virginia Opioid Response Survey

Would you like to share your thoughts on the resources needed to address the opioid epidemic in Northern Virginia? The Northern Virginia Opioid Response Network is seeking input on potential uses of opioid settlement funds. Take the survey by Friday, May 12, 2023.


Safe Routes to School Survey

How do students travel to school? How much physical activity are children in Virginia getting? 

If you're a parent or caregiver in Virginia, Virginia Safe Routes to School wants to hear from you! Take the Spring 2023 Parent Survey. The survey takes less than 10 minutes to complete, will be available in both English and Spanish, and will help parents and caregivers understand student travel and physical activity habits.


Traffic Updates

Please be aware of the major roadway construction projects in Dranesville. Travelers are encouraged to visit 511virginia.org for current information on travel conditions and work zones in Virginia. Get alerts about work zones, accidents and other incidents via web, phone, text message or email. Visit 511virginia.org to create and configure your account.

George Washington Memorial Parkway Construction

  • The three-lane traffic pattern is in place. There was confusion for commuters in the afternoon that were trying to go to Maryland from the center reversible lane. New signage is in place before Route 123 that drivers who want to exit in McLean and go to Maryland must stay in the right lane. 
  • Stay updated on the construction by visiting their website.

Route 7

495 NEXT Project

  • Daytime single lane closures, and nighttime single and multi-lane closures (including triple lane closures) on I-495 North and South
  • Daytime flagging operations on Live Oak Drive
  • Daytime and nighttime flagging operations on Lewinsville Road
  • If you have any questions, please visit the 495 NEXT website

2023 Farmers Markets Now Open

Fairfax County operates 10 farmers markets across Fairfax County under the Fairfax County Park Authority. By providing access to locally grown foods, our farmers market program strives to improve the health of Fairfax County citizens, support local food producers and protect the environment.

Regional markets:

  • Herndon Farmers Market- Thursdays, 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
    • Old Town Herndon (By the Red Caboose) 700 Block of Lynn Street
  • McLean Farmers Market- Fridays, 8 a.m. - Noon 
    • Lewinsville Park (1659 Chain Bridge Road, McLean)
  • Reston Farmers Market- Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon 
    • 1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston

SNAP Matching

Fairfax County residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can now DOUBLE their benefits at five of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s 10 Farmers Markets through a SNAP Matching Program. Bring your EBT cards to the SNAP Information Table. Learn more about the program at the Reston Farmers Market.

Fort Hunt Environmental Expo collage

My visit to the Fort Hunt Environmental Expo


School and Student News

Kiss Me Kate HHS

My visit to Herndon HS's Kiss Me Kate Spring Musical


Two FCPS Projects Win Grand Prize at State Science Fair

Sixty-nine students from FCPS participated in the Virginia Science and Engineering Fair. Two FCPS student projects received the Grand Prize award. Read about these winners and other FCPS projects that were recognized


Eight Students Awarded 2023 National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships

Eight Fairfax County Public Schools students have been awarded 2023 corporate-sponsored scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The students are part of a group of more than 840 National Merit finalists chosen to receive scholarships financed by corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations. See the complete list here.

Congratulations to Vivian Feng, a TJHSST Senior from Dranesville, who won the National Merit Senator Charles S. Robb Scholarship and plans to study computer science.


2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program Semifinalists

2023 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, which honors some of the country’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. Read the full list of semifinalists here. Congratulations to Emma E. Cox of McLean  attending Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology.


176 Named to All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra

One hundred seventy-six students representing all Fairfax County high schools have been named to the 2023 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. See the list of students and more information here.


33 FCPS Awards at DECA International Career Development Conference 

Congratulations to 33 FCPS students from six of our high schools who earned DECA’s highest honors at the organization’s annual International Career Development Conference. DECA (a career and technical student organization) prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs to be college- and career-ready. The competitions are designed to simulate real-life business scenarios and test students’ academic understanding and skills development. The full list of students is available on our website. McLean HS’s Sebastian Cohen received top honors for Quick Serve Restaurant Management Series.


McLean Area AAUW STEM Awards

2023 McLean HS winners

McLean Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) partners with McLean High School to select one female student in math, one in science, and one in computer science who have a distinguished record of academic achievement in the field being recognized, and be in her junior year of high school. This year's winners are: Nicoleta Hoffman for Math, Kaitlyn Cole for Science, and Audrey Herlands for Computer Science.

20223 McLean Area Student Inclusion Recognition Award

The McLean Area Branch presents the Student Inclusion Recognition Award to acknowledge high school juniors’ efforts to make their school environment welcoming to students of all backgrounds, heritages, and abilities. The recipient is Lauren Vandivier. Lauren indicated she is committed to helping create a school environment where all students feel included and safe. She has created several activities on behalf of women, ESOL students, parents whose first language is not English, and students who have life-threatening food allergies.

Congratulations to Lauren! I have been working with Lauren and her Raising Student Voices group for over a year to develop student anaphylaxis training for all FCPS HS students.


2023 James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Winners

The Alden at the McLean Community Center has awarded scholarships to 11 local high school students through the 2023 James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition. The James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition encourages artistic achievement and promotes study in the arts by high school students who reside or attend school in the McLean district (Small Tax District 1A, Dranesville). Read more about the winners here.

This year’s first place winners are:

  • Dance- Melina Turnage, McLean HS
  • Instrumental Music- Goldie Woods, McLean HS
  • Theater- Abby Joe, Langley HS
  • Vocal Music- Lily Chopus, Langley HS

Herndon HS

Herndon HS Culinary challenge team

2023 Real Food for Kids Culinary Challenge 

Congratulations to Herndon High School team on winning the Community Choice award and placing 2nd in the School Lunch category of the competition with their dish Bocado de Tostada. The goal of the Culinary Challenge is to blur the lines between school food, restaurant food and home food to create a community culture of healthy food. As the consumers of school meals, this program amplifies the student voice in what gets served in their schools.

Herndon HS Band 75th Anniversary Concert-  May 25  

Herndon HS 75th Anniversary band concert

Langley HS

Langley’s music program received the “Blue Ribbon School” award from the Virginia Music Educators Association. Langley HS is one of only four Middle and High schools to have this streak for over ten years. Langley's band was also named a “Virginia Honor Band” by the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association.


McLean HS

Congratulations to McLean HS It’s Academic Champions- 2 years running! Viewing dates on WETA yet to be shared.

We are excited to share the outstanding achievements of the McLean Highlander Math League in the Purple Comet Math Meet, an international, online competition. Our school had 4 teams participate in this competition, and one of our teams, earned an impressive 5th place out of 604 teams worldwide, and 2nd place among teams from Virginia.


Collage Clearview ES STEAM night and Going Green Club at Carson MS

My visit to the Clearview ES STEAM night and the Carson MS Going Green club. Thank you to the Herndon HS Robotics and STEM club for helping out at Clearview ES STEAM Night.


Churchill Road ES

Congratulations to the Churchill Road Chess Team who finished in second place (out of 12 teams) in the Elementary Team Chess League this year.


Haycock ES

Congratulations to all our 6th grade students who will be moving on to the national level of the National History Day competition!


Herndon ES

Herndon ES held their 26th Annual Career Day. For 26 years, counselor Tiffany Bryant has been pouring her heart and soul into this event to give our students in PreK to 6th grade a broad view of careers. We had over 50 presenters come and engage with our eager students.  Thank you to all who took the time out of their busy day to be with us!


Events and Opportunities

Events

Army STEM helicopter demo at McLean HS

McLean HS – football practice field (right next to our baseball field)

May 11, 12:00-5:00

The Army is flying in two helicopters, Apache and Blackhawk, for display. Students will be able to view both helicopters. Also, they are bringing in their STEM trailer. Students will be able to enter the trailer for hands-on demonstrations.


TJ Techstravaganza- May 13

TJ Techstravaganza, a free STEM activity fair that provides fun, hands-on labs and demonstrations for K-8 students will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 10am- 4pm at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology(6560 Braddock Rd, Alexandria) Students can register online.


Student Volunteer Opportunities

May 13 & June 17

Help restore a mature oak tree grove at the Great Falls Grange Park (9818 Georgetown Pike Great Falls) by planting and caring for natives that help oak trees thrive. The project, sponsored by the Great Falls Citizen Association, will include tasks like spreading mulch, removing invasives, planting native plants, and watering the seed islands.  

Please go to the IMA website to learn more and to sign up. (Go to the IMA website, click on "IMA workday calendar" for listings of workdays and sign up.) Please wear garden gloves and bring a rake if you can. The next workdays are Saturday, May 13 and June 17,  9- 11:30am.


MCC Governing Board Election- Absentee Voting

Fifteen Dranesville Small District 1A residents are running for seats on the board. Five adults are vying for three vacant adult seats, and 10 teens are vying for two vacant student seats (one for the Langley HS and one for the McLean HS boundary areas). Absentee voting is available through May 17, 5p.m.. For more information, visit MCC’s website, www.mcleancenter.org. 


McLean Day Logo

McLean Day- May 19 and 20

Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean

T.G.I.F. Carnival Rides- May 19, 2-10 p.m.

Purchase tickets on Cole Rides website here

McLean Day Festival- Saturday, May 20, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Bring the family and enjoy the fun at McLean’s biggest annual festival. Enjoy music, games,  exhibitors, gourmet food trucks, large and small carnival rides and much more! Ride tickets are sold onsite or may be purchased in advance online. Remember to vote for the adult and youth candidates for the MCC Governing Board.

For more information, visit the McLean Day event webpage.


TÜRKIYE and SYRIA Charity Chess Tournament

Rachel Carson Middle School, in partnership with TJHSST, is hosting a charity chess tournament to support children in Türkiye and Syria who were affected by the recent earthquakes. All proceeds of the event are donated directly to UNICEF. Please go to this website to learn more and sign up for the tournament.

Rachel Carson Middle School (13618 McLearen Rd, Herndon) 

May 20, 2023, 10 am-4 pm


Gear Up for Engineering at Colvin Run Mill

Come out for a fantastic activity-packed day at Colvin Run Mill on May 20, 12- 3 p.m. Explore 19th century engineering and observe the mill in operation. Learn more about the Colvin Run Mill event here.


Colvin Run ES's 20 Year “Dragonversary"

Are you a Colvin Run alum?  CRES PTO invites you to their 20 year Dragonversary Fundraiser and Gala on Saturday, May 20. Visit their gala website to learn more.


Bug Fest- May 27

Are you a bug enthusiast? Do you have a passion for creepy-crawly creatures? If so, don’t miss Bug Fest at Lewinsville Park on Saturday, May 27, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. The entire family will love this program designed to appeal to learners of all ages who love insects! Learn more  about Bug Fest here.


Opportunites

Students Mentoring Students

We are Humanitas4all, a student-run, nonprofit organization dedicated to providing enrichment opportunities to students in low-income communities, and our goal is to connect high school mentors to young students across Virginia. We are launching a few in-person tutoring programs for the summer and are looking for some instructors!  Email: 4humanitas@gmail.com


Work for the FC Park Authority

The Park Authority is looking to fill various positions at sites across Fairfax County. You can spend your summer gardening, working on a farm, or at a waterfront park. Be a camp counselor, a manager on duty, an amusement operator or part of our maintenance team. There are so many ways to put your talents to work and develop a wide range of new skills. Learn more here.

Open Hire event on Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Herrity Building in Fairfax. Come and meet current staff, submit applications, interview and potentially walk away with a job! Giveaways and prizes will be offered throughout the day. Can’t make it to the Open Hire? No worries! Apply now at the Nature and History Jobs webpage.


English Empowerment Center (EEC)- 2023 Summer Courses

New Name. Same Mission-The English Empowerment Center, formerly Literacy Council of Northern Virginia, provides beginning-level English classes for adults so that they and their families may survive, thrive, and participate in the community. Class Locations and Registration Information

In-Person Classes: Alexandria, Annandale, Falls Church, Herndon, and Lorton: Sign up for in-person English classes by attending any in-person registration event starting May 15.

Online Classes: Begin the sign-up process for online classes by completing this interest form: https://bit.ly/OnlineInterestForm. Staff will follow up to complete the enrollment process.


Take Back the Forest – through May 30

The Park Authority is committed to reducing invasive plants in our parklands and we need your help! This effort, part of the Invasive Management Area (IMA) Volunteer Program, targets the removal of invasive plants during the beginning of the growing season to allow native plants to flourish. Anyone can participate and be an environmental hero! For more information about Take Back the Forest or the Invasive Management Area (IMA) Volunteer Program, visit the Invasive Management Area website.


May is…

  • Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions. 
    • On Saturday, May 20, the Asia Heritage Foundation will host its 18th annual Fiesta Asia street fair, representing 20 different Asian cultures with performances and a marketplace on Pennsylvania Ave., Washington D.C.
    • The City of Fairfax will host a one-day, outdoor, family event on Main Street in Historic Old Town Fairfax City on Sunday, May 21, from noon to 6 p.m. (Rain date is June 4.) The event will highlight Asian heritage through food, arts and crafts, education, and performances. Learn more about the Asian Festival on Main.
  • Mental Health Awareness Month: Wear Green- Green is the national color of mental health acceptance, representing hope, strength, support, and encouragement for people who live with mental illness. Show support and recognition of Mental Health Month by wearing something green at least once a week throughout May.
  • Jewish American Heritage Month: May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S. Better Hearing and Speech Month
  • Internal Audit Awareness Month The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) observes May as the “International Internal Audit Awareness Month”.  



Summer Events and Camps


Events

FCPA Summer Entertainment Schedule

The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is gearing up for another fantastic season of the Summer Entertainment Series with more than 180 live performances at 18 locations throughout the county! This year’s event schedule features entertaining family-friendly performances and features for residents of all ages.

Summer Concerts

Friday Night Live!- Herndon Rocks

Every Friday May through August on the Herndon Town Green  Concessions open at 6:00pm. The band plays from 6:30 – 10:00pm. The Town Green is located behind the Herndon Municipal Center at 777 Lynn Street in Historic Downtown Herndon, VA. It is adjacent to the W&OD Trail and the Herndon Fortnightly Library. Learn more and view the schedule here.

  • Friday, May 12, 6pm- Shake the Room

Summer Concerts in the Park- McLean Community Center

Bring a picnic, your mom, your dog, and your dog's mom to this free concert in McLean Central Park's Gazebo, in McLean Central Park. See the schedule here. First concert June 11.

  • Sunday, May 14, 5pm- Ocean Celtic Quartet

Great Falls Concert on the Green

Pack up the family, a blanket, lawn chairs, and a picnic dinner - or grab takeout at a local restaurant! Join us at the gazebo for a laid-back evening of good music and good times with your neighbors. This is a free community event for all ages. See the schedule here. First concert May 28.


Camps

FCPS Summer Programming

FCPS offers a host of Summer Learning opportunities. Click Here for More Information on FCPS Summer Programming. Below are a few in detail:

Tech Adventure Camp

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a weekly exploratory camp designed to give students the opportunity to explore STEAM, culinary, health, trades, business and marketing areas. The camp is open to students in grades K-6 during the 2022-23 school year. Visit the Camp webpage to register.

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

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.

2023 Hughes VIP Summer Camp Registration

The VIP Camp will be held at Hughes Middle School this summer for rising 7th and 8th graders attending the following middle schools: Carson, Herndon, Cooper, Hughes & Longfellow Middle Schools. Contact your school’s after school specialist to learn more.


Fairfax County Camps


Fairfax County Park- Parktakes

Check out Fairfax County's Park Authority PARTAKES summer programs that are currently open for registration for Fairfax County residents! Classes and camps are offered for kids at varying price points throughout the county at the various Fairfax County community facilities.

2023 Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp

NCS's 2023 Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp is a wonderful opportunity for children and young adults with disabilities ages 5-22 to be involved in up to three weeks of a safe and fun summer program. The summer will be packed with special events, art activities, sensory play, games, sports, outdoor play, music activities and more. Learn more and register through TRACERS.

FC Girls Fire and Rescue Academy Summer Camp

The 2023 Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department’s Girl Fire and Rescue Academy Summer Camp is taking place June 20-23 and June 27-30. The camps are open to rising 7th-12th grade students and is free of charge. Each camp will be limited to 24 applicants, so apply today! Spots are first come, first serve. Applications are due by May 19, 2023. Find more information on the Girls Fire and Rescue Academy website.

Teen Police Academy

The Teen Police Academy is opened to all Fairfax County High School students (public, private or home schooled) entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grades during the 2023-2024 school year. Students will learn about patrol, crime scene investigation, different types of careers in law enforcement, SWAT, police vehicles and much more. Learn more at their website.

Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement 

This class is for female Fairfax County High School students (public, private or home schooled) entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grades during the 2023-2024 school year. Meet today's women leaders in law enforcement. Explore what it takes to become a police officer and skills you will need to learn in the police academy. Learn more at this website.


Other Camps

Vienna Summer Strings

Vienna Summer Strings prides itself on meeting the needs of every string (violin, viola, cello, bass) musician who participates. Musicians are placed in an ensemble of similar age and skill. Camp will be at Thoreau MS June 26-July 14 Learn more and register here.

Langley HS Sports Summer Camps 

Learn from experienced Langley coaches! Registration is now open for the 2023 Langley Summer Sports Camps through the online shop (except boys basketball with a separate link here). 


FCPS Cares

FCPS Cares

The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.


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.

© 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia