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To read this newsletter in other languages, please visit our website.
Para leer este boletín en otros idiomas, visite nuestro sitio web.
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.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى
Hello, Springfield District!
This summer has gone by so quickly! We dropped our oldest off at college on Monday, and I still struggle not to see Finn as the tiny kindergartner I dropped off 13 years ago. It truly seems like yesterday.
Of course, life goes on and we’re already gearing up here for Monday morning and the first football game Friday night! I’m really working to savor these last two years with our Junior before he, too, heads off to college. I know the time will go by in the blink of an eye.
I can’t wait to hear how Monday goes in your house! As a student and later as a teacher, I could never fall asleep the night before school started. A mix of excitement and nerves kept me awake wondering what the next day would bring. I hope all of you have a wonderful first day back!
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 Communications to include all families with students within our district. In my newsletter, I share updates about School Board work, FCPS news, and Springfield District student, staff, and school accolades. 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 essential 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 You Choose site where you can manage all of your subscription preferences including this one.
Welcome back and please keep me in the loop as you and your family navigate this year. I look forward to hearing how things are going! As always, I remain so grateful to serve our amazing community.
All my very best-
Laura Jane
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Click on the image above to view my 2023-24 Back-to-School welcome.
This newsletter includes information on the following issues:
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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August 29 at 10:30 a.m. - Retreat: Policy Governance, Annual Calendar and Calendar Norms, and Review of Proclamation Process
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August 31 at 7:30 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Dr. Larry Bussey Renaming Proclamation, Fiscal Year 2023 Year End Budget, School Board Liaison and Committee Assignments, School Board SY 2023-24 Annual Calendar, Family Life Education Curriculum Advisory Council Appointments, Audit Committee Citizen Member Appointments, Additional Advisory Committee Appointments, Policy 2611 (Procedures for Hearings and Appeals to School Board), etc.
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September 12 at 10:30 a.m. - Forum (tentative): Potential Woodson High School Renaming
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September 12 at 11 a.m. - Retreat: Policy Governance
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September 14 at 7:30 p.m. - Regular Meeting (tentative): Executive Limitations, etc.
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, to watch recorded School Board meetings, or live during regular meetings, 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 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.
 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.
Back-to-School Information
School Starts Monday, August 21st
Monday, August 21, is the first day of school for the 2023-24 school year. FCPS parents, students, and staff members are invited to share their favorite pictures or videos from the first day of school on social media using the hashtag #FirstDayFairfax for a chance to be featured on the FCPS Facebook and Instagram pages.
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!
The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit FCPS’ Attendance web page for tips and strategies.
📅 2023-2024 School Year Calendar
View a printable version of the 2023-2024 calendar or find a list view of the calendar on the FCPS Calendar webpage.
Bookmark the School Year Calendar
Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances:
- Days marked with a blue “H” are student holidays.
- Days marked with an orange “O” are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings if only half marked).
- Days marked in pink are holidays for students, but working days for teachers and staff.
The Islamic calendar is lunar, and the start of each month coincides with the birth of a new moon. The date of Eid al-Fitr is regionally decided, which can lead to unexpected date changes. Eid al-Fitr is currently slated to begin at sunset on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, and last through sundown Wednesday, April 10, 2024. Tuesday is designated a half-O day, and Wednesday is a holiday, with all schools and offices being closed. If the day for Eid changes after the school year begins, the calendar may be adjusted.
🏫 We’re Eager to Welcome You Back to School!
As summer winds down, our schools and staff are looking forward to welcoming students back to our classrooms.
1. Is Your Child Registered Yet?
If you are new to FCPS and have not registered your child for school yet, please do so as soon as possible. Schools are planning playdates, screenings, teacher visits, and back-to-school nights for students to get to know their teachers and each other. Register soon to make sure you don’t miss out!
Also, be sure to sign up for your school’s newsletter and social media channels to learn more about events, celebrations, and deadlines. Find the sign-up links and information on back-to-school events on your school’s website.
2. Sign Up for SIS ParentVUE
Access your student’s attendance records, grades, and assignments at any time with SIS ParentVUE. Caregivers should receive an activation code when they register their child.
Once you have activated a ParentVUE account for an FCPS student, you will keep the same account until the student graduates. Information about students in the same family can be accessed through the same ParentVUE account. Access SIS ParentVUE by using an app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android devices.
Need help creating a SIS ParentVUE account? This video walks through the steps. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.
3. How to Get FCPS and School Communications
Be among the first to know about weather closings, bus delays, and other critical communications from FCPS by providing your cell phone number and email in SIS ParentVUE. Make sure you complete the Emergency Care Form for your child every year and update it when necessary.
To update your contact information in ParentVUE, click the “Online Packets” tab in the upper right of the screen, then select the “Online Verification/Update” form in the drop-down menu. Click “Begin Packet.”
Parents who do not have a SIS ParentVUE account continue to have the option to communicate updates to their student’s school via the normal paper process. They can also print and complete a blank Emergency Care Information Form needed for updates and submit it to their student’s school.
4. Update Immunizations and Records
Immunizations help protect students from serious diseases and are required for public school entry. Many children missed their well check-ups and their recommended childhood vaccinations in recent years because of disruptions from COVID-19. It is critical to catch up to keep children healthy and ready for school.
While COVID-19 vaccinations are not required, many other immunizations are. Check with your student’s healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations.
Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.
Remember to request documentation of your child’s immunizations to provide to their school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation to share with your child’s school.
5. Save the Date: Back to School Nights
The schedule for back-to-school nights is available online by region: Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, Region 6, and Thomas Jefferson High School. Don’t know your school’s region? Search for your school in the Schools and Centers Directory, then click on your school’s name.
6. What is Schoology?
Teachers use Schoology to post their classroom materials online, to provide a secure forum for students to discuss their ideas and collaborate on projects, and to assign and collect homework electronically. It helps students stay organized and it keeps the class connected.
A Schoology parent account gives you access to:
- Your child’s classes.
- Your child’s upcoming assignments.
- School, class, and group announcements.
Parent accounts will be available after Monday, August 21. To access Schoology, parents will need to have an active SIS ParentVUE account. More information on how to log in and use Schoology is available online.
🥗 Preparing for and Paying for Meals at School
According to the Centers for Disease Control, students who participate in school meal programs consume more whole grains, milk, fruits, and vegetables during meal times and have better overall diet quality.
Caregivers can set their children up for school lunch success by providing their students with money to purchase meals at school, sending them with a nutritious packed lunch, or applying for free and reduced-price meal benefits.
Salad Bars at All Schools
Starting the first day of school, every school will have a salad bar available with fresh vegetable and fruit choices.
Paying for meals
School breakfast for students costs $1.75. Lunch is $3.25 for elementary students and $3.50 for middle, secondary, and high school students. Extra food — including milk, water, vegetables, fruits, and entrees — can be purchased (depending on the overall supply at the school).
The best way to purchase meals (and additional food items) is to use MySchoolBucks. Set up your student’s MySchoolBucks account online. If you have questions about MySchoolBucks, your school’s front office staff can help. Purchases made with MySchoolBucks keep cafeteria lines moving more quickly.
MySchoolBucks accounts can be set up to add money to the account as needed automatically. Families with multiple children can use the same MySchoolBucks account. Visit the Food and Nutrition webpage for more information.Be ready on the first day of school by setting up your child’s MySchoolBucks account, looking over the menus, and helping them learn their PIN. You will receive an email from Food and Nutrition Services that includes your child’s PIN.
Packing a lunch
FCPS Food and Nutrition Services is happy to serve all students, no matter their specific dietary needs. However, some families may choose to pack meals to bring to school. Overall, it is important to make sure all students have access to healthy meals to fuel their day of learning. If your child has a food allergy, intolerance, or medical condition that affects their diet, please contact the Office of Food and Nutrition Services so they can work with you to meet your child’s dietary needs.
If you have a young child bringing lunch to school for the first time, consider practicing opening and closing their lunch box. Make sure they can open the containers of the foods you pack by practicing at home first. There will be teachers and monitors available to assist kids during lunchtime, but the more independent your child can be, the more time they will have to enjoy their lunch period.
Food and Nutrition Services provides pre-K and Early Head Start (EHS) students with meals including breakfast, lunch, and snacks daily. Please note that pre-K and EHS students are not permitted to bring in food or beverages from outside per program policy. Nutritious meals and snacks meet dietary guidelines for all students. If your pre-K or EHS child has a food allergy, intolerance, or medical condition that affects their diet, please contact the pre-K and EHS program.
Free and Reduced-Price Meals
As of October 31, 2022, approximately 34% of students in FCPS qualify for free and reduced-price meals. Families in FCPS that are earning less than 185 percent of the poverty level can receive meals for their students at no cost.
Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits throughout the school year. Families are encouraged to complete the application before the start of school. Up-to-date information is available on the Free and Reduced-Price Meals webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.
New Leadership and Restructured Regions
FCPS leaders have spent the summer aligning resources to ensure that every student receives the premier educational experience FCPS is known for. There have been some changes in staff assignments across the regions, and the addition of a new Region 6.
Learn more about the Leadership Team, school regions, and central offices and region leadership.
⚙ Student Technology Resources: Tools and Guidelines for 2023-24
Laptops and Tablets
To ensure equitable access to learning experiences and technology, FCPS students who need a device are issued a laptop or tablet at no cost. Check with your school on specific timelines for checking out an FCPS device. Some schools issue them before school begins, and others will do so during the first week or so of classes.Families who wish to send a family-owned device with their student should opt out of the FCPS device in ParentVUE. For important things to know about our Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) option, please review the BYOD Guidelines. If a student opts to BYOD, he or she will not be issued an FCPS device but may use an FCPS device as needed for testing.
Unless you’ve opted for the BYOD option, an email will be sent to your student’s @fcpsschools.net email account to show they’ve been issued a device. The device should be used only in conjunction with projects relating to FCPS educational programs, not as a personal or social device. It should also only be used by the student it is issued to.
For additional information on caring for the device, please review the Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines. Parents are responsible for the replacement cost of devices or chargers that are lost or not returned to FCPS. Please contact your school with questions about your child’s device.
Device Expectations
The following are expectations for the use of digital devices issued by FCPS to students. Parents with questions should consult their school or classroom teacher.
- Pre-K and kindergarten: Students will receive iPads in the first few weeks of school. Teachers will communicate whether the iPads should be kept at school or used at home.
- Grades 1 - 2: Students will be assigned a laptop that stays in school. If devices are needed for schoolwork or projects, or in the event of an extended absence or temporary closure, devices will be sent home with students so they can continue to participate in their classwork.
- Grades 3 - 12: Students will be issued an FCPS laptop for school use. Your child will take their device home with them each day and should come to school each day with their device fully charged.
Check the Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines for tips on charging and shutting down the device at home. All students can take their assigned FCPS device home in cases of expected inclement weather when virtual learning may be necessary.
Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources
Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parental consent before they can be used by students. Parents will receive more information from their child’s school prior to the first day of school. This will include the list of educational technology tools used and explain the process for providing permission. It is critical that parents respond to the request for parental permission so teachers can plan to use the best technology tools with students this school year.
Each digital resource used in FCPS has had an instructional and technical review. Information about the educational technology tools approved for use within FCPS can be found in the online Digital Ecosystem Library.Parents can find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.
Device Activity Report for Parents
FCPS has tools to help parents and guardians know more about their child’s activity on the child’s assigned FCPS device. These tools are provided by Lightspeed, our internet content filtering service, directly to the verified parent or guardian at no cost to families. You may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. If you want more detailed information, sign up for the Internet Use Parent Portal and log in anytime to see more detail about your child’s browsing and “pause” access to the Internet during non-school hours. Find out more about Lightspeed Monitoring and sign up for these services.
Password Recovery
Student password change and recovery are available online for older students. Elementary students will update their passwords at school under the direction of their teachers.
Technology Support
Each school has a Technology Support Specialist (TSSpec: pronounced T-speck) that provides support to the staff and students for FCPS devices at that school. If your child has a technology issue with their assigned FCPS device while at school, they can alert the teacher or visit the TSSpec’s office. If your child is having a technology issue with the FCPS device at home, please visit the Technology Support for Families page for tips on common problems or to enter a support request ticket for your child. Note that FCPS cannot provide tech support for personally owned (BYOD) devices.
Establishing Expectations for Technology Use at Home
The beginning of the school year is a great time to revisit expectations for technology use in the home and to get back into routines that support healthy and balanced lives. FCPS provides helpful resources on our Digital Citizenship website.
Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R)
The 2023-24 Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document includes information about the responsible use of technology. Please log on to your SIS ParentVue account and sign to acknowledge the review of the SR&R OR sign and return the SR&R form to your child’s school by September 30, 2023.
Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms
Fairfax County Public Schools wants all parents to understand its policies regarding surveys, records, curriculum, privacy, and related rights.
In its Annual Notice of Survey, Records, Curriculum, Privacy, and Related Rights and Opt-Out Forms (Annual Notice), FCPS provides explanations of the rights listed above as well as forms that may be used to exercise opt-out choices. Two versions of the Annual Notice are available — a grades K-8 version and a grades 9-12 version. Parents with children at different grade levels should read each applicable version of the Annual Notice because the notices and opt-out rights vary depending on the student’s grade level.
Get more information and view the 2023-24 Opt-Out Booklets.
🚍 Fairfax County Free Student Bus Pass Program
High school and middle school students can sign-up for a free Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card at all FCPS middle and high schools. Applications may be found in school offices or downloaded from the Fairfax Connector website. Parent/guardian approval is required for sign-up and completed applications may be submitted to school offices. Home school/private school students may send completed applications to mlphillips@fcps.edu.
The Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card enables students to ride a Fairfax Connector or City of Fairfax CUE Bus free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week, all year.
Find more information on the Fairfax Connector website.
Anonymous Tip Line Puts Safety First
If you or your child have concerns or information relating to feeling unsafe in any way at school, we encourage you to reach out to a member of the security or administrative team so that we may quickly address the issue. Students and parents may also utilize the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line, which you can access anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).
If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is necessary, please dial 911.
Students, staff, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Concerns that do not impact the safety of our schools—concerns or information about programs, regulations, or policies—can be sent to the FCPS ombudsman online, at 571-423-4014, or ombudsman@fcps.edu.
🛑 Traffic-Related Back-to-School Safety
Back to school also means back to more traffic congestion in the mornings and evenings. Review safety advice from the Fairfax County Police Department on how to keep commuters — and students — safe on the roads.
🔒 Gun Safety and Safe Gun Storage
Providing students and staff with a safe educational environment remains our top priority. Sadly, gun violence continues to impact schools and communities across our nation.
As you may be aware, lessons on gun safety are already built into our curriculum; however, all parents and guardians must talk to their children about the importance of gun safety and safe gun storage in their homes and any homes that their children may visit.
Our website has resources for parents about gun safety as well as detailed information about FCPS safety and security practices in our buildings.
🎒School Supply Drive
To ensure that every child in the school district is prepared for school, Fairfax County Public Schools and Educate Fairfax are once again working with not-for-profit, for-profit, and government entities to provide school supplies to benefit students who otherwise might go without them. Approximately 34% of FCPS students qualify for free and reduced-price meals and struggle to afford basic necessities. Your $10 donation can ensure a student is successful at school, by providing a complete school supply kit of pencils, notebooks, and other necessities, which they otherwise are unable to afford.
Contributions may be made online through Educate Fairfax. Donations will be used to purchase bulk school supply kits at highly discounted prices. For more information, visit the Educate Fairfax website.
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FCPS News
📃 Updates to High School Transcripts
To increase transparency on high school transcripts, FCPS has made updates to high school course titles for courses that receive an additional 0.5 or 1.0 weighting.
For all enrolled high school students in the 2023-24 school year and beyond, high school course titles will now reflect:
- An HN (Honors) for any course that has a 0.5 additional weighting.
- An AV (Advanced), AP (Advanced Placement), DE (Dual Enrollment), or IB (International Baccalaureate) for any course that has a 1.0 additional weighting
The new AV label was created to address several college-level courses that previously had a 1.0 additional weighting without a designation.
The course title changes will apply to all weighted courses across all high schools.
Seniors who have already started to enter their senior year course list through any college applications should review their course list to ensure they included appropriate course titles.
Read more about transcript updates.
🏃♀️ Middle School Sports
Is your middle schooler interested in running? FCPS will offer middle school students a chance to participate in cross country this fall and track in the spring of 2024. Learn more about middle school athletics and sports physicals.
Pre-Participation Exams (Sports Physicals) for Athletes
Any students who would like to participate in athletics will need to have a Virginia High School League (VHSL) pre-participation examination (PPE). The physical exam form must be completed and signed by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant.
📝 Central Tutoring: Meeting Student Needs and Watching Students Grow
Last spring, FCPS started advertising for a new kind of tutoring position. As part of a response to pandemic-related learning loss, the Office of School Support and Tutoring Services analyzed the needs of students across the division and pinpointed the schools where there were the largest gaps between what students were achieving and the goals they should be reaching. Starting with the schools with the greatest needs, they began to match tutors to small groups of students.
Cheryl Temple, an adjunct instructor at George Mason University and a retired teacher, liked that Central Tutoring enabled her to help local students and that it was flexible to work with her schedule. She had worked as an intervention teacher and was interested in a similar position.
Read more about why Cheryl became a tutor and why she recommends the job to others!
Are You Interested in Tutoring?
FCPS needs qualified tutors to provide in-person academic support to small groups of students. These tutors will be paid hourly at a rate of $48.58. The position is flexible, and the amount you work and where you work will be based on your availability, qualifications, and the needs presented throughout FCPS. However, tutors must work at least three days a week for a total of 12 hours a week consistently. Email tutor@fcps.edu for more information.
Tutor.com Is Still Free for All FCPS Students
Online tutoring through Tutor.com is still available to ALL FCPS students as a resource for both support and enrichment. Last school year, more than 12,000 students participated in approximately 70,000 tutoring sessions. Tutor.com will remain available to all FCPS students at no cost this school year.
🏆 Community Member Receives First-Ever Equity Award
At the annual Equity Symposium this summer, the School Board’s Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) awarded George Becerra (left in photo) the first FCPS Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award.
The award recognizes staff, students, or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.
Read more about Becerra and the Equity Award.
💻 Chromebooks for Secondary and High School Students
FCPS is changing its high school and secondary student devices to Chromebooks. This device will continue to enable students to use web-based tools like Schoology, Google, and online textbooks. Students will receive a device within the first weeks of school.
If students and/or families would prefer to bring their own device (BYOD), they need to make sure it meets FCPS minimum requirements. Students who use their own device will not receive an FCPS device. Our school tech teams will make sure that students have access to an FCPS device for important tests, such as SOLs. FCPS strives to be financially and environmentally responsible. Students who do not use their FCPS device regularly will be asked to return it.
🎧 Connect with County Leaders Podcast
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On the August episode of the Connect with County Leaders podcast, Dr. Reid was interviewed by Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill. They discussed partnerships already underway between the school division and county government, and the importance of providing safe spaces for students and teachers to collectively build a brighter future for our large and diverse community.
Read more or listen to the episode.
🥙 FCPS Policy for Providing Free or Reduced-Price Meals
Fairfax County Public Schools announced its policy for providing free or reduced-price meals for children served under the National School Lunch and/or School Breakfast programs. Each school and central school nutrition office has a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by any interested party.
Schools With Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
Some schools in the division will be participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) as implemented under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. All students enrolled at these schools will be provided a nutritious meal for breakfast and lunch each day at no charge. Households with students attending these schools will not be required to submit a meal application form for these students to receive meals at no charge. Each home with students attending these schools will receive communication about CEP, including contact information for any questions. Participating schools with attending students who reside in the Springfield District include the following:
- Bailey’s Upper Elementary
- Beech Tree Elementary
- Forestdale Elementary
- Key Middle
- Lewis High
- London Towne Elementary
- Lorton Station Elementary
All Other Schools
In all other schools, household size and income will be used to determine eligibility for free or reduced-price meal benefits. Children from households whose income is at or below the Federal Income Eligibility Guidelines, shown in the chart below, may be eligible for either free or reduced-price meals.
Children who are members of households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits (formerly the Food Stamp Program) or who receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) may be automatically eligible for free meals.
Children who are homeless, migrants, or runaways may also be automatically eligible for free meals.
Foster children, who are the legal responsibility of a welfare agency or court, are eligible for free meals regardless of the income of the household with whom they reside.
Children who are members of households participating in WIC may also be eligible for free or reduced-price meals based on the household’s income.
Read the full news story.
🏗️ School Bond Referendum on Ballot Tuesday, November 7
Fairfax County Public Schools will have a bond referendum on the ballot this election day, Tuesday, November 7.
To finance large-scale construction and renovation work, the county sells bonds, which allows the county to pay for these projects over time — like a home mortgage. By maintaining its triple-A bond rating, Fairfax County bonds are purchased by institutional investors at very low rates, saving the county considerable amounts of money that might otherwise be paid in interest. The county estimates that the triple-A rating has saved Fairfax County taxpayers at least $1 billion in financing costs!
Read more about the FCPS 2023 Bond Referendum. Learn more about registering to vote.
Electronic Student Online Verification/Updates in ParentVUE
The Department of Information Technology (DIT) and Office of Student Registration are excited to announce that parents can now update student information online using the Online Verification Update Packet (OVU). Parents can conveniently update phone numbers, emergency contacts, health conditions, and immunization dates for students in grades K-12. Accessible through SIS ParentVUE, the online update feature streamlines registration, improve efficiency, and enhances the digital experience for parents and staff. For more information visit the FCPS website.
Educate Fairfax Grant Applications Open
Educate Fairfax announces the next round of discretionary grants aimed at supporting teachers and students in the classroom.
Educate Fairfax funds innovative classroom projects that focus on career-connected experiences for students. Our goal is to help all of our students realize their potential and envision themselves in a successful future.
Teachers, counselors, and other school-based personnel are eligible to apply for this grant program for the 2023-2024 school year.
Grant amounts range from $1,000 - $2,000, and the application is open from August 14-September 22. Awardees will be notified by November 1, and funding will be provided in November for the second half of the school year.
For more information and to access the application link, please visit the Educate Fairfax website.
FCPS Business and Community Partnerships
The Return on Investment (ROI) of Partnering
No matter how you engage in your community — as an individual or in a group — it is intrinsic to a high-quality life. In more simple terms, sharing your time, talents, and resources is rewarding. It feels good!
A multitude of studies reveal the benefits of community engagement. Here are some we found:
- A study published in Medical News Today suggests that generous people are happier. Happy people are more likely to give, and those who give become happier. It’s a positive cycle.
- A study by the University of Michigan reveals that civic engagement makes people healthier. Research suggests that even chronic pain can be reduced over time by volunteering; which would lower healthcare expenses.
Because people who contribute to the greater good of others, quickly realize the benefits to themselves, we recommend you consider giving to and getting involved in Fairfax County Public Schools.
August is a Great Month for Establishing a Partnership
Businesses and community groups are encouraged to learn more about our Ignite Partnerships program, which offers eight ways for partners to engage with FCPS.
Our Ignite Partnership Value Proposition offers meaningful incentives for businesses and community groups that satisfy the Ignite Partnership agreement requirement. Possibly more important than the tangible benefits is the intrinsic value of giving back to the community.
Learn more about the Partnership Agreement Process and explore our list of partners.
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Student Opportunities
✈ Girls in Aviation Programs
Save the date for Women in Aviation International's 9th Annual Girls in Aviation Day on Saturday, September 23, 2023.
Their youth programs include Aviation for Girls app, AFG Engage E-Learning, AFG Connect News, Aviation for Girls magazine, and Girls in Aviation Day. Each program is designed to reach youth through technology and peer engagement. There are age-appropriate individual tracks, fun activities, hands-on demonstrations, peer group work, and role models to encourage and inspire our participants.
All these youth resources are made available through WAI's free Junior membership for interested individuals under the age of 18.
Youth Well-Being Prize
Are you a young person between the ages of 10 and 29 with an idea of how digital tools can be used to help improve other young people’s well-being? Do you have ideas about how we could creatively use technology to increase young people’s knowledge about issues that impact them? The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is looking for creative innovators with solutions to pressing issues around well-being. Is this you? If so, apply today for the Youth Well-Being Prize Competition! Applications are open now and close on September 29, 2023. To apply, please complete and submit the application form.
Fairfax County Teen Advocates Program
The Fairfax County Teen Advocates Program is for youth ages 12-19 who want to serve as community leaders against dating violence. Teen Advocates participate in campaigns to raise awareness about dating and sexual violence in addition to other issues impacting today’s youth. Advocates also work with their peers and Fairfax County agencies to design fun events, such as the annual Art Contest and Talent Showcase, which engage community members in conversations about tough topics like abuse. After submitting an application and a follow-up conversation, teens chosen as Teen Advocates commit to this program for one year and meet regularly with their regional team and the entire teen program.
Applications are due Friday, September 29, 2023.
Questions may be directed to Debra Miller, Youth Education & Outreach Specialist with Fairfax County Domestic & Sexual Violence Services.
🚀 Your Place in Space Challenge
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 p.m. 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.
🌊 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Student Opportunities Database
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Education launched a new student opportunities database. NOAA has opportunities for students of any level — from kindergarten through high school, undergraduate and graduate, and even recent graduates. The new searchable database contains more than 60 scholarships, fellowships, internships, youth programs, and more across NOAA and its partners.
Community News
👟 5K Run/Walk With Nonprofit Asha-Jyothi is September 17th
As in previous years, Springfield District schools, Carson Middle, Centreville High, Chantilly High, Cub Run Elementary, Daniels Run Elementary, Fairfax High, Fairfax Villa Elementary, Franklin Middle, Frost Middle, Greenbriar East Elementary, Greenbriar West Elementary, Johnson Middle, Liberty Middle, Poplar Tree Elementary, Rocky Run Middle, Stone Middle, Thomas Jefferson High, Willow Springs Elementary, and Woodson High and their communities are invited to participate in the nonprofit Asha-Jyothi 5k at Fairfax Corner on Sunday, September 17, 2023, at 8 a.m. To sign up, participating staff, students, and/or their families must register. Simply enter the code “AJ4schools” and select your school from the drop-down menu. A discounted price of $10 for the 5K will be given to all participants. Schools get 100% of the money if you use the school coupon code AND:
- An additional $500 for 25+ registrations
- An additional $1000 for 50+ registrations
- An additional $2000 for 100+ registrations
Asha-Jyothi, a volunteer-based global nonprofit organization based in Chantilly, is dedicated to supporting the community through health care and education initiatives and has given over $250,000 to FCPS.
Special Education Parent Involvement Survey
All parents of school-aged children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in Virginia are requested to complete the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) annual Parent Involvement Survey.
This survey will remain open through December 15, 2023. Please complete one survey for each of your children who is currently receiving special education services during the 2022-2023 school year. If you have any questions regarding this survey, please contact Chiquita Seaborne, Family Engagement Specialist/Special Projects Coordinator via email at Chiquita.Seaborne@doe.virginia.gov, or call (804) 225-3898.
Labor Day
Friday, Sept, 1, and Monday, Sept. 4, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.
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September 11 Commemoration/Patriot Day
We remember and honor the victims, families, heroes, and survivors of 9/11 and the courage and determination of our nation's first responders. #NeverForget
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Constitution Day
Constitution Day, also known as Citizenship Day, is a holiday that recognizes the adoption of the U.S. Constitution and honors all of those who are citizens, as well as those who have become citizens of the United States. It is observed on September 17—the day on which the constitution was adopted in 1787.
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Springfield District Scene
🐘 Orphaned Elephants and African Geography: How One Chantilly High School Teacher Spent her Summer Vacation
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Petting baby elephants and learning how they can coexist with humans. That’s a highlight of this summer’s break for Frances Coffey, an AP Human Geography teacher at Chantilly High School (at right in the above photo).
As part of the East Africa Summer Institute for Educators, Frances visited Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya, where orphan elephants are raised and eventually reintegrated into a protected wilderness. In addition to petting the baby elephants and watching them be bottle-fed, they learned how the animals are impacted due to human population pressures and environmental changes.
Through this program — which is supported by the United States Department of Education & Bureau of Cultural Affairs' Fulbright-Hays Group Projects Abroad (GPA) grant program — Frances was among a dozen educators from Virginia who spent four weeks in Tanzania and Kenya, visiting nine cities, for immersive and intensive curriculum development. The participants worked with local universities, primary schools, and organizations to gain first-hand experience with East African culture and to develop new curricula through collaboration with local experts.
The institute focused on agriculture, natural resources, and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Frances explained that those goals are “fundamental concepts” in the AP Human Geography curriculum.
Read the full story.
Family and Student Resources
Help Prepare Young Children for School
Families play an essential role in helping children prepare for kindergarten and have a successful school year. Visit the following pages to learn how to actively support your kindergartener:
It’s Not Too Late to Register for Kindergarten!
If your child will be five years old by September 30 and has not been registered for kindergarten yet, check out this easy-to-follow process.
Hazel Health: Virtual Therapy Services for High School Students
Teletherapy services continue to be available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hazel’s highly-qualified therapists specialize in speaking “teen.”
Caregivers must first opt-in their students to access Hazel Health. Then, a caregiver or school counselor, social worker, or psychologist can refer the student to Hazel for services. Learn more on the FCPS teletherapy webpage.
Low-Cost Internet for Eligible Students
The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program to lower internet costs for families with children who have been eligible for free or reduced-price meals within the last 12 months. A qualifying household will receive $30 per month toward internet services and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. Check your eligibility and register at AffordableConnectivity.gov or by calling 877-384-2575.
Parent Information Line Available in Eight Languages
FCPS language lines are available in eight different languages to assist parents who do not speak English as their first language.
A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday. The caller will provide you with the requested information, arrange for you to speak with the appropriate school employee, or connect you with the resource that you are looking to find.
To use the parent information phone lines, please call:
- አማርኛ (Amharic): 571-423-4957
- العربية (Arabic): 571-423-4952
- 中文 (Chinese): 571-423-4953
- فارسی (Farsi): 571-423-4954
- 한국어 (Korean): 571-423-4951
- español (Spanish): 571-423-4950
- اردو (Urdu): 571-423-4955
- Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese): 571-423-4956
The Arc of Northern Virginia's Annual Transition Series
The Arc of Northern Virginia is holding their 2023 Transition Series on September 23 and October 21, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The annual two-day event is an interactive experience designed to educate and empower families and individuals with disabilities as they transition from school-provided services to community-based services for adults.
The cost is $50 per family or $25 per individual. The fee covers the costs of food and materials. There are a limited number of scholarships available if the cost poses a financial hardship. Contact dmonnig@thearcofnova.org for more information.
Registration must be received by the close of business on September 13, 2023.
Registration forms and more information are available at The Arc of Northern Virginia Transition Series 2023 webpage.
Unpacking Gender: How to Talk to Kids and Teens
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services, Domestic and Sexual Violence Services is hosting Unpacking Gender: How to Talk to Kids and Teens workshops on Tuesday, September 12 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Chantilly Regional Library (4000 Stringfellow Road, Chantilly, VA 20151) and Tuesday, December 5 from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Herndon Fortnightly Library (768 Center Street, Herndon, VA 20170). Participants will explore the messages we are taught about gender and how they can affect our relationships and discuss the impact of gender roles and stereotypes.
The workshop is aimed at parents, guardians, family members, and other caregivers interested in learning how to talk about gender with children, teens, and young adults.
The workshops are free, but registration is required.
For more information and to register visit the Unpacking Gender: How to Talk to Kids and Teens visit the Family Services Community Corner Calendar webpage.
Questions may be directed to Debra Miller at Debra.Miller@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Parent Advocacy Handbook Available Online
The Parent Advocacy Handbook is for parents and guardians -- a child’s first teacher and advocate. It is believed that parents and guardians should advocate and support their children’s academic, social, and emotional growth from preschool through high school, and beyond.
The handbook contains answers to the many questions parents may have about the school system and how they can best advocate for their students at the various stages of their school experience. Information and resources within the handbook are designed to help parents and guardians:
- Learn about their rights and responsibilities as an FCPS parent or guardian.
- Learn more about what is going on in the student's school.
- Gain skills to advocate for your student at school.
- Learn how to monitor and help your student at home.
- Find extra help and resources.
The Parent Advocacy Handbook was created by the Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) - a Fairfax County School Board advisory committee - and produced with the generous support of the Board. It is not intended to be, nor is it, a complete guide to all programs and practices within FCPS. In addition, information may change as policies and regulations are revised or updated. For additional, up-to-date information on FCPS programs and practices, always consult the FCPS website or speak with school or system administrators or staff. The handbook is available online and can be accessed in several languages.
FCPS Special Education Handbook for Families
 The Special Education Handbook for Parents includes details of the special education process. This process occurs sequentially, over a period of time, with each step building upon the previous step(s).
It is important for families to understand how the special education process works, so they can effectively participate and collaborate with school staff members in making appropriate decisions regarding their child’s educational needs. Families are an integral part of the decision-making team.
The Special Education Handbook for Parents is available in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Urdu, and Vietnamese. Contact the Parent Resource Center (PRC) at 703-204-3941 or prc@fcps.edu with any questions.
Office of the Ombuds
The FCPS Office of the Ombuds provides an independent, confidential resource for students, families, community members, and employees seeking informal help to answer questions, resolve concerns, and voice complaints regarding FCPS matters.
Examples of services the Office of the Ombuds provides include sharing strategies for parents to improve communication with, and between, school and home; helping to resolve disagreements between parents and schools or disputes involving employees in the workplace, and providing ideas to foster parent participation in Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings. However, the Office of the Ombuds does not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice.
Contact the Office of the Ombuds by using the "Submit a Question" button at the top of the Office of the Ombuds webpage, by calling 571-423-4014, or by emailing ombuds@fcps.edu.
Register for Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center
The FCPS Parent Resource Center (PRC) is offering free parent webinars. They are
New School Year, New Strategies:
How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year
Students' grades are typically lowest in the first quarter of the year because many find it hard to start the new year with confidence. It's crucial to help your child start back strong because it could set the tone for their best year yet! Join Author and Educator Ann Dolin, M.Ed,. to uncover strategies to instill greater confidence in your child at the start of the school year.
Webinar Highlights:
- How to increase your child's likelihood of earning good grades in the first quarter and beyond
- Strategies to establish a motivated, positive outlook towards school (for the whole family!)
- Proven techniques to effectively set up (and keep up with!) your family's weekday routines and busy schedules
September 8, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Share this event with others
Register online for New School Year, New Strategies: How to Plan, Persist, and Achieve Academic Success This Year
Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud
Are you working harder than your children to solve their problems? Do you need strategies to help children make their own decisions? Join Dr. William Stixrud while he discusses his book, The Self-Driven Child.
Webinar highlights include:
- Learning how to support the development of resilience in your child
- Understanding the elements of a healthy mental life
- Supporting your child's decision-making skills
- Learning how to help your child deal with stressful situations
- Learning how to make your child feel loved, trusted, supported, and capable
Friday, September 15, 2023, 10 - 11:15 a.m. Share this event with others
Register for Meet the Author Series: The Self-Driven Child by Dr. William Stixrud
Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners
Twice-exceptional (2e) learners are students who have the ability to think, reason, and problem-solve at very high levels, and they also have special education needs. 2e students’ learning and behavior profiles are often complex, with strengths and needs occurring on a continuum.
Join Nonye Oladimeji, FCPS AAP Twice Exceptional Specialist, to learn more about the characteristics of twice-exceptional learners.
Webinar Highlights:
- What does it mean to be twice-exceptional (2e)
- What are the characteristics of twice-exceptional learners
- How to identify and support twice-exceptional students
Tuesday, September 19, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Register for Characteristics and Needs of Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners
Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions
- Do you have a child who is bossy, melts down over changes in plans or transitions?
- Acts like a sore loser when playing games?
- Wears the same clothes and eats the same foods?
- Likes to say, "That's not fair!" and won't stop following you until they prove a point?
Calm Parenting podcast founder Kirk Martin explains why all of these behaviors have the same root...and similar solutions.
September 29, 2023, 10 - 11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.
Register for Who's the Boss? 5 Ways for Families to Help Kids with Big Emotions
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Tips from the Healthy Minds Blog
Managing Back-to-School Anxiety
The start of any new school year tends to bring about a mix of emotions for students. Many students will feel excited about the return to school. Most will also feel increased worry about the year that lies ahead. Even children who typically adjust well to change and new situations often feel this spike in their anxiety. Fortunately for most, this anxiety will fade fairly quickly over the first couple of weeks. However, for others, it may persist and have a larger impact on a student's social and academic performance.
Here are some ideas for parents to help ease their children's anxiety with this transition back to school.
Stay Informed
- Having a solid understanding of the plans at your school for the coming year will help you to better address any of your children's concerns. Read e-mails and participate in any activities that your school may offer as a means to share information.
- Have your children take advantage of any open house opportunities provided by your school to give them a chance to take that first small step of entering the school building.
- If you have unanswered questions, reach out to your school for support.
Maintain Open Communication
- Consistently check in with your children and keep open lines of communication to gauge how they are feeling. Make sure your children know that you are available to talk if they have concerns about the return to school...or about any concerns that arise during a school day.
- Give your children space to express themselves and validate their feelings. Taking the time to listen allows parents to more clearly understand what their children are feeling most anxious about. It then provides an opportunity to offer acknowledgment of their concerns and a chance to direct children towards thinking of something they can do about it.
- Let your children know that it is normal to feel anxious in new situations. Remind them of times they have started something new and overcome fears in the past. Emphasize that learning to adapt to changes leads to a growth mindset, greater confidence, and resiliency.
- Avoid talking about your concerns in front of your children as they will pick up on your anxiety and likely incorporate your worries into their thoughts about school.
- Let your children know you care. If your children are anxious about school, consider sending personal notes in their lunch box or book bag to let them know you are thinking about them.
Demonstrate an Optimistic Outlook
- Set the tone. Children absorb their parent’s anxiety, so demonstrate optimism and confidence for your children.
- Model a growth mindset by recognizing that we all have the capacity to change, grow, and develop. When children see growth mindsets in action around them, they are much more likely to internalize and apply this way of thinking for themselves.
- Reframing events and circumstances into a more favorable view go a long way in promoting a more hopeful outlook.
- Let your children know that it is natural to be a little nervous anytime we start something new, but that they will be fine once they become familiar with their classmates, teachers, and school routines.
Model Positive Coping and Problem-Solving Skills
- Children naturally learn through observing others in their environment. Demonstrate coping and problem-solving behavior whenever you can. While children learn through observing actions, they need to observe the language in use too. A great way to do this is to verbalize the steps you are taking to handle a problem of your own...and when a problem is still not easily fixed, let them see how you respond to that disappointment in a healthy way.
- If the first few days upon returning to school are a little challenging, try not to overreact. Young children in particular may experience separation anxiety or shyness initially, but teachers are trained to help them adjust. If you drop them off, try not to linger. Reassure your children that you love them, will think of them during the day, and will be back. Remain calm and positive.
Reinforce Children's Ability to Cope
- Talk with your children about ways to manage a difficult situation on their own. Work through examples of challenges faced during prior school years and how your children met them.
- When your children get stuck using the same strategy that is not working, encourage them to ask themselves, “What is a different way I could try this? How else could this be done?”
- Encourage your children to tell you, a teacher, or another trusted adult at school if a problem persists. Asking for help is another way of growing and adding new ideas to one’s toolbox.
Remain Flexible
- There is one thing that is certain...not everything is going to go as planned. Prepare your children for this. Let them know that things may change, but you will be there to provide them with information as you have it and support them along the way.
Establish Your New Routine
- Establishing a predictable, consistent routine is a way to feel some certainty during uncertain times. It can make us feel more secure and in control. Start small with a daily “to-do” list or expand upon what you may have already put into place. Just do your best to be consistent.
Reestablish Connections
- Find ways to get your children reacquainted with peers they may not have interacted with recently. Arrange a time for your children to get together with some of their classmates before school starts to help them re-establish positive social relationships.
Know that Resources are Available
- If your children experience anxiety from transitioning back to school that they are struggling to cope with, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Besides the classroom teacher, many other support staff at school are available to assist including the school counselor, school psychologist, or school social worker.
The Healthy Minds Blog shares information related to youth mental health and wellness for an audience of parents, educators, and community-based providers. Articles include tips and strategies for increasing wellness and resiliency, as well as fostering success at home, at school, and in the community.
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What’s in a Name?
Each month I feature a different Springfield District school from the What’s in a Name video series. This month let’s learn about the history behind Fairview Elementary School’s name.
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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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