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.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى
Hello, Springfield District!
Happy September! I surely hope school has gotten off to a great start in your home. If things are still feeling a bit rocky for your student, make sure you reach out to their teacher. Your teachers want to know if your student is struggling or just feeling unsettled. Every year brings a new transition for our kids and some years go more smoothly than others. Getting an answer other than “Fine” to “How was your day?” from my 16-year-old still feels like a small miracle. I’m now trying “What’s something that went well today?” or “What’s something that made you happy?”. I’ll let you know how it goes. :)
A quick shoutout to the Cherry Run PTA for hosting me at their first meeting of the year. I appreciated the opportunity to connect with you all and hear about all the great things ahead this year!
L’ Shana Tovah to all of our Jewish families! May you have a good and sweet New Year! In our family, we are full of brisket and matzo ball soup and ready to turn our attention to Yom Kippur next week. To all who observe, may you have an easy fast.
Wishing you every happiness as the month brings cooler temperatures and a glimpse of the magic that lies ahead this fall.
I remain so grateful to have the opportunity to represent you and your family. Please let me know how I can be helpful to you.
All my very best-
Laura Jane
This newsletter includes information on the following issues:
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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September 26 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Proclamation/Recognition Changes and Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee and Human Resources Advisory Committee Reports
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September 28 at 6:15 p.m. - Recognitions: Virginia Department of Education Exemplar Award Winners
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September 28 at 7:30 p.m. - Regular Meeting: Strategic Plan Presentation, Emergency Superintendent Succession Report and Review, etc.
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October 10 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Policy Governance
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October 10 at 5:30 p.m. - Public Hearing: Woodson High School Renaming
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October 12 at 6:15 p.m. - Public Hearing: Virginia Department of Education Comprehensive Plan
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October 12 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: West Springfield High School Maintenance Building Naming Proclamation, Global Operational Expectations Report and Review, 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.
School Board Work
Strategic Governance Manual
The School Board approved the proposed revisions to the Strategic Governance Manual at the September 14 regular meeting.
September 14 Proclamations
I was pleased to bring forth (honoring Lake Braddock Secondary School’s 50th Anniversary) and support the following proclamations at the Board’s September 14 regular meeting.
Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube Channel.
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-24 Year-End Review
At the August 31 meeting the School Board approved the revenue and expenditure adjustments as detailed in the agenda item of the FY 2023-24 Year-End Review. We reviewed the prior fiscal year’s final quarter, in a “year-end review” agenda item and financial action. This is an opportunity for the School Board to fund adjusted or additional needs identified by the School Board and Superintendent since the prior budget was adopted. I am happy that we were able to allocate nearly $1 million for Fine Arts Stipends in response to advocacy from many of our educators who shared data about the many hours of effort required at performances, camps, dress rehearsals, competitions, and more to provide for a successful student experience.
School Board Liaison and Committee Assignments
The Board approved its SY 2023-24 liaison and committee assignments at the August 31 regular meeting.
School Board SY 2023-2024 Annual Work Calendar
Also at the August 31 meeting, the School Board approved the SY 2023-2024 Annual Work Calendar.
Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.
August 31 Proclamation
I was pleased to support the following proclamation at the Board’s August 31 regular meeting.
FCPS News
🏗️ Projects Supported by the 2023 Bond Referendum
The 2023 $435 million Bond Referendum — which will be on the ballot this Election Day, Tuesday, November 7 — is expected to fund projects at Franklin Middle School and Armstrong, Bren Mar Park, Brookfield, Centre Ridge, Cub Run, Dranesville, Herndon, Lees Corner, Poplar Tree, Sangster, Saratoga, Union Mill, Virginia Run, Waples Mill, and Willow Springs elementary schools.
The building and renovation of our schools are not funded through the division’s operating budget. Voter-approved bonds allow payment for these projects over time. Read more about the 2023 Bond Referendum. Learn about registering to vote.
Vote on Tuesday, November 7.
Information Session for Substitute Teachers and Instructional Assistants
Learn more about becoming a substitute teacher or instructional assistant at a virtual information session on Wednesday, September 20, from 2 to 3 p.m. Register now.
Visit the Recruitment Events calendar for a list of all FCPS job fairs.
🙋 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.
As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during long breaks from school.
Watch the video above with tips from Fairfax Pyramid principals and visit the FCPS Attendance webpage to help prepare your child for future success.
2023-24 Student Rights and Responsibilities
FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities document (SR&R) explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. In late June, the School Board approved changes to the SR&R for the 2023-24 school year. Updates include a revision of dress code expectations, bystander expectations for students witnessing harmful or unsafe behaviors, bullying, and substance abuse responses. Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s letter to families regarding the SR&R.
Parents/caregivers should talk to their child(ren) about expectations for this school year. Also, please log in to SIS ParentVUE and sign to acknowledge your review of the SR&R, or sign and return the signature sheet to your child’s school by Friday, September 29.
🏫 K-12 Curriculum: See What Your Student Will Be Learning This Year
Families of K-12 students can visit the FCPS Curriculum webpages for an overview of what their child is learning and when they are learning it.
FCPS Accreditation and SOL Data Remain Steady for School Year 2023-24
All 195 Fairfax County public schools are accredited, two with conditions, for accountability year 2023-24, according to data released by the Virginia Department of Education.
Ninety-nine percent, or 193 out of 195 schools, attained “accredited” status and two schools attained “accredited with conditions” status. No Fairfax County public school received a status of “accreditation denied.” For 2023-24, school accreditation designations in Virginia are based on school quality indicators for:
- Academic achievement (English, mathematics, and science)
- Academic achievement gaps (English and mathematics)
- Chronic absenteeism
- Graduation and Completion Index (GCI)
- Dropout rates
- College, Career, and Civic Readiness Index (CCCRI)
Both School Accreditation data and Annual Pass Rate data for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) released simultaneously on September 7, 2023, remain steady and in line with state and local post-pandemic data trends. Testing data for 2022-23 remained flat across the state as a whole this past year.
FCPS saw sharp increases post-COVID to help a return toward baseline levels and is on pace with our multi-year recovery effort. Similar to other divisions in the Commonwealth, FCPS assessment growth has leveled off this year. However, FCPS still made faster progress than other divisions across the Commonwealth in its recovery.
According to research by the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA), a not-for-profit organization that supports students and educators worldwide by providing assessment solutions, professional learning offerings, and research services, the nation should expect a 3-5 year recovery period.
The division recognizes that certain student groups were affected more dramatically by the reduction to in-person support during the pandemic, especially students in the Hispanic, Economically Disadvantaged, and English Learner groups. The division, under the new strategic plan for 2023-2030, will expand targeted academic supports to address the needs of each and every one of our students.
This information will serve as baseline data for FCPS to monitor progress from now until 2030. The strategic plan allows FCPS to continue to emphasize the academic growth and excellence that has long been a point of pride for the Fairfax County community. This plan will be FCPS’ North Star for what we must do to bring excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student.
A continuing challenge for schools across FCPS, and the nation, is chronic absenteeism, which is based on the percentage of students in a school who miss 10% or more of their enrolled days during an academic school year. As part of this work, FCPS will continue to work with families and students to understand the strong connection between attendance and academic performance.
Virginia School Quality Profiles offer a listing of overall accreditation status and annual pass rate data by school on the Fairfax County Public Schools division report. Detailed information about individual schools’ data and outcomes for each school quality indicator can be found by selecting a school name from this division listing.
FCPS Annual Public Notice: Career and Technical Education
FCPS’ Career and Technical Education Program offers a variety of career and technical programs to all middle and high school students. The program areas include the following:
For more information about Career and Technical Education call 571-423-4526 or visit the Career and Technical Education webpage. Visit ADA accommodations for more information or request accommodations.
✔️ Updates on Grading Policies
FCPS’ Grading Policy has been updated for the 2023-24 school year. The following changes were based on input from students, teachers, parents/caregivers, principals, and staff:
- FCPS will maintain the current late work policy. Teachers must accept major assignments up to two weeks late. The maximum deduction for that time period is 10%. The current policy, when applied correctly, balances accountability and flexibility.
- Teachers may now give zeroes for assignments that are not turned in. Students who make a reasonable effort to finish an assignment will get a minimum grade of 50%.
- A rolling gradebook gives students more chances to show they understand the material. Teachers who use a rolling gradebook must use reassessment and grading replacement practices that allow students to update learning from past quarters.
- For teachers using a traditional gradebook, the lowest quarter grade that can be issued is 50%.
In the 2024-25 school year, all grades will be on a 100-point scale, with 50% as the minimum grade for submitted assignments. All high school credit-bearing classes will use the new scale next school year.
SEL Screener Parent Notification and Updates
FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.
The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills like achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students.
Key updates to the screener this year include
- Different versions for students in grades 3-5 and 6-12.
- Fewer topics with more questions to provide schools and families with more data to support planning.
- Additional questions aligned with FCPS’ commitment to educational equity.
Results are mailed home to families after each screening. Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE.
For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact your child’s school.
Please note that the SEL Screener differs from the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey.
Academic Matters
COVID-19 Compensatory Education Plan
At the September 14 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented a Compensatory Education Plan update. Our Compensatory Education Plan provides supports for students with disabilities who experienced pandemic-related impacts to their learning. Over the last several months, compensatory services meetings with currently enrolled and formerly enrolled FCPS families have helped us determine how to best provide that support. Most compensatory services meetings have been completed.
FCPS Enrolled Students
- 30,656 Complete - IEP team held meeting and determined outcomes
- 427 Incomplete - Ongoing conversations or in-process documents
- 621 - Not Started - Continuing to reach out to families
Grand Total: 31,704, 96.7% complete
As our Compensatory Education Plan winds down, we’ll be continuing to engage families to schedule outstanding meetings and address outstanding reimbursement requests.
View the slides.
☀ 2023 Summer Learning
At the August 31 School Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented data from learning programs that took place during the summer of 2023.
Nearly 34,000 students took part in 23 programs at 87 sites across the county. Programs included Extended School Year, High School Credit Recovery, Institute for the Arts, Career and Technical Education summer camps, and others.
Watch the presentation or view the slides.
FCPS Statement on Nondiscrimination: Americans With Disabilities Policy Notice
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex (including sexual harassment, Title IX, and pregnancy), marital status, religion, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information in its programs and activities. These protections apply to students, employees, and other members of the public.
FCPS also provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. FCPS is committed to equal access and equal opportunity in all services and employment; to include its policies, complaint process, program accessibility, religious accommodations, and other Equal Employment Opportunity matters. FCPS prohibits retaliation against individuals who report allegations of discrimination, file a formal complaint, or participate in the investigative process.
Compliance is coordinated by the directors of the following:
- Office of Equity and Employee Relations, Department of Human Resources, 571-423-3070, TTY 711, EEO@fcps.edu regarding equal employment opportunity, discrimination, and sexual harassment issues.
- Office of Special Education Procedural Support, Department of Special Services, 571-423-4290, regarding programs and activities for students with disabilities.
For more information, visit the non-discrimination policy webpage or the non-discrimination/ADA webpage (contact information).
Sexual Harassment Prohibited in FCPS
Regulation 4950 – Sexual Harassment states that no person in Fairfax County Public Schools shall be subjected to sexual harassment. It is the intent of the School Board to maintain an environment free from sexual harassment of any kind.
Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature amounting to or constituting harassment are prohibited. Employees should report complaints of sexual harassment to their supervisors or program managers. Students and parents of students should bring concerns to their school principals.
If, for any reason, an individual prefers not to address their concerns directly with a principal, supervisor, or program manager, they may consult with, or file a complaint with, the Office of Employee Relations by calling 571-423-3070.
Parental Permission to Use Digital Resources
 Some FCPS-approved digital resources require parent/caregiver consent before they can be used by students. Find the list of resources that require consent on the Parent Consent webpage. This page also includes directions for providing permission.
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.
Find more information about FCPS-approved digital resources on the Digital Resources in FCPS webpage.
🔍 Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity
FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.
Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also allows parents to sign up for free access to the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.
Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.
💻 Chromebook Tips
This year, high school and secondary school students are receiving a new Chromebook. These devices feature larger screens than previously issued devices and battery life that easily lasts the school day.
Encourage your child to visit the following helpful links:
If students prefer to use their personal laptop, make sure it meets our minimum requirements. Let your school know your student plans to bring their own device. Please note that we cannot provide tech support on personally-owned devices.
If your student runs into any issues while using their Chromebook, please have them reach out to their school’s tech team for support.
Students may access our student Chromebook FAQs (FCPS Google login required) for more information about using their own device.
✨ 2023-30 Strategic Plan
Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K-12
The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. Each goal has an equity commitment and a set of measures that will be used to evaluate success.
Our first goal in the strategic plan is to help all students develop academic skills, curiosity, and a love for learning. These skills and attitudes are crucial for success from pre-K to 12th grade. Our related equity commitment is to ensure authentic and affirming partnerships with families and key stakeholders through collaborative decision-making that results in each student's success.
Visit FCPS' Strategic Plan webpage to find out how we will measure the success of Goal 1.
Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered
The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. Our equity commitment and a set of measures in each goal will measure our success.
Goal 2 states that every student will be part of a school community that cares for their health, well-being, and opinions. We will listen to students and use their input to guide our decisions. We will respect their individuality, identity, and experiences. We will make sure they feel safe and supported at school.
Visit the Strategic Plan webpage to learn more about how we will measure the success of Goal 2.
Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence
The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These five goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. Our equity commitment and a set of measures in each goal will measure our success.
Under Goal 3, every student will learn to use critical and creative thinking. They will meet or exceed academic goals. Students will reach their full potential.
Visit the Strategic Plan webpage for more information. Watch the above video to learn about the many voices that came together to create the plan.
Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity
The 2023-30 strategic plan sets five main goals to create positive change in FCPS. These five goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts. Our equity commitment and a set of measures for each goal will monitor our progress toward those goals.
Under Goal 4, high-quality academics will be available to all students. They will have access to excellent resources that support their success. Visit the Strategic Plan webpage to learn more about how we will measure the success of Goal 4.
🚨 Safety Drills During the School Year
Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance.
By law, the first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill.
Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.
🗺 World Languages Credit Exam
The 2023 World Languages Credit Exam will be administered on November 8, 9, and 13, 2023. Thirty languages will be included: American Sign Language (ASL), Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Chinese (Mandarin), Farsi, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Nepali, Pashto, Portuguese, Punjabi, Russian, Sanskrit, Somali, Spanish, Tagalog, Tamil, Telugu, Tigrinya, Turkish, Twi, Urdu, and Vietnamese.
As a reminder, students who take the exam may earn up to three World Languages credits for levels one, two, and three for the language of the exam. The credits may fulfill the World Languages requirements for the Advanced Studies Diploma.
FCPS intends to transition the World Languages Credit Exam to a digital format through an external vendor that assesses linguistic proficiency. FCPS will be piloting a digital language proficiency assessment during SY 2023-24. When students register for the 2023 World Languages Credit Exam, they will be offered the opportunity to participate in the pilot assessment for the following languages: ASL, Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and Telugu.
Students who are selected to participate in the pilot will take both the FCPS World Languages Credit Exam and the pilot assessment. Credit will only be awarded from the results of the FCPS World Languages Credit Exam. Students who are selected to participate in the pilot will be notified after registration closes on October 5, 2023, and will receive additional information in October/November regarding the logistics of the pilot assessment. Information regarding the pilot will be communicated to selected students through the student and parent contact information on record in SIS.
Registration closes on Thursday, October 5, 2023, at 4:00 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted.
Students can register for the exam with their school counselor. World Languages Credit Exam information is also available online.
🌍 FCPS Hosts 31 Ambassador Teachers in New Global Exchange Program
 Christopher Jones, a sixth-grade teacher at Woodlawn Elementary School, is one of 31 ambassador teachers in FCPS this year. Through Participate Learning, “Global Exchange” teachers have started teaching this year. They all have bachelor’s degrees, some have doctorates. Combined, they have 274 years of teaching experience. Read more about the Global Exchange.
🩹 The Importance of Up-to-Date Immunizations
Immunizations are required by the code of Virginia § 22.1-271.2 for public school entry and help keep students protected from serious diseases. Check with your students’ healthcare providers now to make sure they are up to date on their immunizations. Immunization records can now be updated online in SIS ParentVUE through the Online Verification Update form. To access that form, click Online Packets in the top right of the screen after logging in. Caregivers can obtain an activation key letter to activate their SIS ParentVUE account by contacting their child’s school.
Statewide Outbreak of Meningococcal Disease
One of the required immunizations for students entering 7th and 12th grade is the meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY). The Virginia Department of Health is currently tracking a statewide outbreak of meningococcal disease. The vaccine can protect against the bacteria responsible for this outbreak.
Visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of immunization clinics or contact your family’s healthcare provider. Appointments are required for most clinics.
Remember that you need to provide documentation to your school. Get more information on immunization requirements and the necessary documentation for schools.
😷 2023-24 Health and Safety Guidance for Schools
Although the COVID-19 hospital transmission level (previously the COVID-19 Community Transmission level) for Fairfax County is currently low, COVID-19 cases have risen in Virginia over the last few weeks, and flu season will soon be upon us. Be sure to review health and safety guidance for schools to stay up to date on the best ways to prevent the spread of disease, and for information on when students should stay home from school.
Superintendent Appoints Leader to FCPS Leadership Team
Chief of Facilities Services and Capital Programs - Janice Szymanski
Janice Szymanski was appointed to the newly created position of Chief of Facilities Services and Capital Programs in August 2023.
Szymanski has worked in the K-12 industry for many years, both in the private and public sectors. She has deep project management skills in the school environment and has demonstrated success in delivering large projects quickly and on budget.
Szymanski came to FCPS from her position as executive program manager in the capital design and construction division of the District of Columbia Department of General Services. She led a team to implement large capital projects for the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), managing a six-year budget of over $2.8 billion. She consistently set inter-agency records for efficient, smooth, and timely procurements. In the first half of 2023 alone, she negotiated approximately $300 million worth of contracts with various vendors and worked with the Washington, D.C., facility maintenance team turning over capital work.
Szymanski's work with the district's government has given her extensive experience in working with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials and local politicians. Previous to her role in capital construction, she was director of facility planning and design for the DCPS, and she facilitated all communication engagement for facility projects.
Prior to joining the district government, Szymanski worked as a licensed architect and designed many K-12 schools in the Greater Washington area, primarily in Maryland. In 2022, she moved to Fairfax County and is a proud FCPS parent.
FCPS Business and Community Partnerships
Think Big for Kids Launches Ignite Partnership
The not-for-profit Think Big for Kids, headquartered in Tampa Florida, has officially expanded to our region and their first area school district partner is Fairfax County Public Schools.
The partnership will begin in five FCPS middle schools with monthly workforce awareness showcases at each. The schools selected for the 2023-24 school year with students residing in the Springfield District include Johnson, Key, and Liberty middle schools, with hopes to expand in 2024-25 and beyond.
Multiple area businesses have signed on as showcase presenters and include:
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| Audi |
ICF |
| Bohler |
Microsoft |
| Clark Construction |
Metlife |
| Dominion Energy |
Northern Virginia Community College |
| BloomCatch |
PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) |
| Goodwin Living |
Navy Federal Credit Union |
| GOROVE SLADE |
Trilogy Sound Studio |
| Granicus |
Virginia Tire and Auto |
Think Big’s mission is to help break cycles of poverty by preparing students to excel in today’s workforce. With guidance from Think Big for Kids and FCPS, partner companies will introduce students to different careers, identify general interests, and begin to shape individualized career tracks. With a focus on educational preparedness — whether students are heading straight to work, attending trade school, or navigating college admissions — Think Big for Kids knows that helping students learn about careers helps them discover the pathway to earn it.
The Ignite Partnership agreement was signed in August by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michelle Reid, and Think Big for Kids Executive Director Amy Alley. Supporting the effort is Founder and Chair of Think Big for Kids Tony DiBenedetto, President and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) Victor Hoskins, and Vice President for Talent at the FCEDA Michael Batt. FCEDA was instrumental in luring Think Big for Kids to the region and continues to lead the local steering committee.
Welcome Think Big for Kids and thank you to the FCEDA and each of the supporting businesses and not-for-profits.
If your business is interested in partnering with FCPS through the Think Big for Kids initiative, reach out to Layla Mailoudi, talent specialist, FCEDA at lmailoudi@fceda.org. For information about Ignite Partnerships, contact Jay Garant, director of Business and Community Partnerships for Fairfax County Public Schools at jpgarant@fcps.edu.
Genesys Works Internship Signing Day
 Quiet anticipation reigned at the 2023 Genesys Works Signing Day event in Washington, D.C., as rising high school seniors from all over the metropolitan Washington region earned an internship with a Genesys Works employer partner.
FCPS Ignite Partner Genesys Works' mission is to provide pathways to career success for high school students through skills training, meaningful work experiences, and impactful relationships. This short Signing Day video highlights the day’s events while the students’ comments outline the summer training that helped the students earn their internship.
Students from several schools in FCPS participate in the Genesys Works partnership which expands career pathways and opportunities for youth and fills critical talent gaps by providing training, support, and internships to trailblazing students who have big career aspirations, but may lack access to the networks needed to help them.
According to Genesys Works National Capital Region Program Manager Will Kelland, “Ninety-four percent of the students that start their year-long internships finish them, which is a testament to how much our students both enjoy and find value in their internships.”
Noticeable at the Signing Day event was the size of the Class of 2024 which, according to Kelland, grew by 20% over the previous year.
Thirty-four high school seniors from eight high schools will spend part of their school day and after-school time working at businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
Schools with students residing in the Springfield District include
- Bryant High School (2 students)
- Lewis High School (6 students)
- Mount Vernon High School (2 students)
- West Springfield High School (2 students)
Businesses Providing One or More Internships
| Accenture |
Leadership Fairfax |
| American Alliance of Museums |
Merkle |
| ATCS |
Miller's Supplies at Work |
| Calibre Systems |
Paytech Trust |
| Genesys Works |
Strayer |
| Intelsat |
ST Engineering iDirect |
| Iridium |
SureScripts |
| Kratos Defense |
Transurban |
Businesses looking to engage FCPS and Genesys Works' trained students in meaningful internships should contact Paola Becerra, corporate partnership manager at pbecerra@genesysworks.org.
We’re Open for New Business and Community Partners
Businesses and community groups are encouraged to learn more about our Ignite Partnerships program, which offers eight ways for partners to engage with FCPS.
More important than the tangible benefits of being an Ignite Partner are the intrinsic ones — the value of giving back to the community. That said, our Ignite Partnership Value Proposition offers meaningful incentives for businesses and community groups that satisfy the Ignite Partnership agreement requirement.
Learn more about the Partnership Agreement Process and explore our list of partners.
Educate Fairfax Teacher Grant Portal Open
Apply now for a direct grant from Educate Fairfax, the non-profit that supports FCPS!
Educate Fairfax will fund up to $2,000 for projects that promote work-based learning in K-12 classrooms. Take a look at their website for more information or peek at last year's grants for inspiration:
https://educatefairfax.org/our-impact/teacher-grants/
To date, Educate Fairfax has funded more than $300,000 in teacher grants and impacted 65,000 students across FCPS.
Don't delay! The portal closes on September 22, 2023.
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Student Opportunities
Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
💻 Coursera Career Academy Student Pilot Program
The FCPS Student Pilot Program with Coursera is open for registration. The program, which is sponsored by our Department of Information Technology, allows up to 1,000 FCPS high school students to access the full contents of the Coursera Career Academy.
Through the program, students can explore popular digital jobs and career paths, from marketing to data science, and learn from experts at leading companies, including Google.
Interested students should complete the Coursera Student Interest Form. Once it is submitted, their parent/guardian will be contacted for consent.
Please note: Coursera courses are not recognized by the Virginia Department of Education as industry credentials and do not count toward high school graduation requirements. The pilot program has a limited number of licenses which are available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
If you have any questions, please contact Program Manager Scott Simmons at sfsimmons@fcps.edu.
👟 Healthy Kids Running Series Volunteers Needed
Healthy Kids Running Series is a community-based non-profit that provides a fun, inclusive five-week running series for ages 2-14 designed for kids to get active, feel accomplished, and lay the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. The program runs each Sunday from 3 - 4 p.m. from September 17 - October 15, 2023, at Oakton High School. Student volunteers will need to be at least 14 to volunteer.
Students may sign up to volunteer on the Healthy Kids Running Series Volunteer webpage.
Contact Tiffany O’Neill-Stuermann at oaktonva@healthykidsrs.org with questions.
💗 Teens With Heartsongs 2023 Fall Program
Teens With Heartsongs is a group of high school students who are dedicated to helping our community through philanthropy, volunteerism, leadership, and open inclusive hearts. They are forming High School Home Building Teams across the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area to create homes away from home for Children’s National Hospital patients and their families, keeping families together in times of need. Teens With Heartsongs is looking for passionate, smart, dynamic high school students who want to learn, grow, and be a part of something meaningful.
Volunteers may
- Work with other teens on a student Team to raise funds
- Lead a Team of students at your school, on your sports team, or in another organization by helping to recruit and organize your Team
- Join a group of teens who will shape the Heartsongs organization, oversee the Teams working with Team Leaders, and help facilitate and execute the mission of Teens With Heartsongs.
Fall 2023 Team Leaders begin the week of September 25, 2023, and the full program begins the week of October 9, 2023.
For more information and to apply, visit the Teens With Heartsongs 2022 Fall Program webpage.
👩💻 Girls' Tech Day
Calling all girls in Northern Virginia in grades 6-8! Get ready to engage, connect, and activate! Amazon Web Services (AWS) InCommunities is excited to announce AWS Girls’ Tech Day 2023!
Join AWS on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at the Hylton Performance Arts Center in Manassas, VA from 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. There will be a variety of interactive activities and speaking sessions throughout the day, led by dynamic science, technology, engineering, and math professionals. This is a great opportunity for girls to explore their interests in science, technology, engineering, art, and math in a fun and creative environment.
Registration is required and closes on Monday, September 25, 2023.
🏞 Youth Conservation Leadership Institute
The Youth Conservation Leadership Institute (YCLI) is a program for students in grades 9-12 offered by Virginia’s Soil & Water Conservation Districts. YCLI focuses on volunteer service, environmental stewardship, leadership, and connecting students with environmental issues in their local communities. YCLI students complete a 20-hour project of their choosing throughout the school year, meet with their cohort, and receive the guidance of mentors. Learn more about YCLI and apply by Monday, October 2, 2023
🔬 Steamology Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) Fest
Join Steamology, an FCPS Ignite Partner, for their STEM Fest 2023 on Saturday, October 14, 2023, from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at South County High School (8501 Silverbrook Road, Lorton, VA). Enjoy a fun-filled, educational event that focuses on STEM for students in grades K-8. The event includes free hands-on activities in the areas of robotics, coding experiments, and more!
Questions may be directed to info@steamologyus.org.
🎓 College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Events
High school students and their families are invited to attend the annual FCPS college fair and the postsecondary virtual nights. The college fair will feature admissions representatives from more than 250 colleges and universities from across the United States and abroad. The fair will be held at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena on Sunday, October 15, 4-7 p.m.
The postsecondary virtual nights will be held on Monday, October 16, and Tuesday, October 17, from 5-8 p.m. The virtual event will feature workshops related to the college admissions process, financial aid, and other postsecondary educational opportunities.
Students are highly encouraged to register in advance for these events.
💧 Caring for Our Watersheds Info Sessions
Caring for Our Watersheds is an environmental action challenge that provides an opportunity for students to develop science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) knowledge, environmental literacy, and civic action skills as they create solution-oriented projects to improve their watershed. Groups of ten students (or more!) investigate their community and develop civic action projects to answer the question, "What can you do to improve your watershed?"
Students receive $250 for their classroom for participation. They can apply for $1,000 in implementation funds throughout the year, and they can win up to another $1,000 for their action story in May!
Interested in learning more? Register for upcoming Caring for Our Watersheds information session on
- October 16, 2023, at 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 and 2:30 p.m.
- October 18, 2023, at 4 p.m.
🏛 Virginia House of Delegates and Senate Page Programs
The Virginia House of Delegate and Senate are now accepting applications for their Page Program. The application deadline for the House of Delegates Page Program is Monday, October 16, 2023, at 5 p.m., and the deadline for the Senate Page Program is Friday, October 20, 2023, at 5 p.m.
The House Page Program focuses on civics education, the lawmaking process, and leadership development. As non-partisan staff of the House Clerk’s Office, Pages are an integral part of an institution with a long-standing tradition of providing outstanding support and customer service to state legislators and those they represent.
Each year, the Speaker of the House of Delegates appoints 13 and 14-year-olds from across the Commonwealth to work in the House Clerk’s Office as House Pages during the Regular Session of the Virginia General Assembly. They assist the Delegates and staff in the House Clerk’s Office in performing a wide variety of daily duties required for the successful operation of the House.
The Senate Page Program also appoints 13 and 14-year-olds from across Virginia. Similar to a college preparatory program, the Senate Program combines organized learning activities with day-to-day duties servicing the legislature.
The mission of the Senate Page Program is to facilitate a structured environment in which young Virginians accept responsibility and accountability, develop professional characteristics through strict standards of conduct, and engage in the legislative process through work, observation, and discussion.
Find more information about the Virginia House of Delegates and Senate Page Programs on the Capital Classroom website.
Volunteer Fairfax and 2023 VolunteerFest
Volunteer Fairfax is a resource that may be used to find out about service-learning opportunities in the community. Youth volunteer opportunities may be found on the Volunteer Fairfax website.
In addition, Volunteer Fairfax’s 2023 VolunteerFest, held on Saturday, October 21, 2023, offers a community-wide day of service event with projects happening throughout Fairfax County. The annual event supports nonprofit organizations and government agencies.
Questions may be directed to Hollie Gordon at hgordon@volunteerfairfax.org.
⚙ Congressional App Challenge
The Congressional App Challenge serves as an opportunity for high school students to be more engaged in coding in their Congressional district. Every year, Members of Congress challenge students in their districts to create and submit their original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge (CAC). Each challenge is district-specific.
U.S. Representatives publicly recognize their winning teams, and winning apps are eligible to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives website, House.gov. Additionally, winning students are invited to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Reception in Washington, D.C. Additional sponsor prizes will be awarded.
For more information, visit the Congressional App Challenge website. Apply for the Challenge by November 1, 2023, at midnight.
🌱 Wild Ones Seeds for Education Grant
The Wild Ones Lorrie Otto Seeds for Education Program provides up to $500 in funding for native gardens and habitats tied to hands-on learning. These funds are designated for native plants and seeds for outdoor learning areas that directly engage students PreK-12 in planning, planting, and caring for native gardens. Examples include
- Pollinator gardens
- Rain gardens to improve water quality
- Tallgrass prairies
- Native plant monarch waystations featuring community science activities
- Sensory and natural playgrounds
Learn more and apply for the Seeds for Education Grant by Wednesday, November 15, 2023.
Community News
📚 Public Libraries Resume Normal Hours
Fairfax County Public Libraries resumed normal operating hours on August 28. With this change, the library will be open longer, offering library visitors more time to check out books, attend programs, and utilize the many resources available at each of its 23 branches.
Visit the Fairfax County Library website for more information.
🌱 Healthy Together Fairfax Festival
Enjoy a day of wellness at Healthy Together Fairfax on Sunday, September 24, from noon to 3 p.m. at Franconia Park. The Fairfax County Park Department and other local sponsors will be hosting guided trail walks, meditation sessions, health screenings, and a complimentary lunch.
No matter what type of health you’re interested in — physical, environmental, social, or emotional wellness — there’s plenty to learn and do at this event! Visit the Healthy Together Fairfax webpage for more information.
🎒 Backpack Safety Awareness Month - It’s Time to Lighten the Load
If you've been concerned about the effects that extra weight might have on your child's still-growing body, your instincts are correct. Backpacks that are too heavy can cause many problems for kids, such as back, neck, and shoulder pain, as well as poor posture.
Read about things you can do to help prevent injury on the National Safety Safety Council website.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Fairfax Fiesta
Fairfax County's inaugural Hispanic Heritage Celebration, the Fairfax Fiesta, is taking place on Saturday, September 23, from noon to 5:00 p.m., at the PARC at Tysons (8508 Leesburg Pike). The free event, presented by the Fairfax County Government and Celebrate Fairfax!, aims to provide an extraordinary experience for all ages and backgrounds. Learn more about Fairfax Fiesta.
✪ Blue Star Welcome Week
Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community.
Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 23 - October 1, 2023, and throughout the year! #BlueStarWelcomeWeekFCPS
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Yom Kippur
All FCPS schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 25, for Yom Kippur, the holiest day in Judaism. See the complete school year calendar. Learn more about Yom Kippur on Brittanica.com.
🚲 Walk and Roll to School Day
FCPS will participate in International Walk and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 4, to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools.Students and employees are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work where it is safe to do so on October 4. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school and to work with their school and PTA or PTO to assemble bike trains or walking groups for the event. Schools are encouraged to register online with Walk and Bike to School. Get more information about Walk to School Day.
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Springfield District Scene
The Chantilly Academy Korean World Languages Program was visited by a group of students from Seoul, South Korea. Digitech High School is a unique high school training program specializing in artificial intelligence and game design among other technical specialties. The group visited Korean Level 4 students and their day included a tour and lunch.
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Fairfax Academy Fashion Careers Program students are dressing Miss Virginia, Ashley Williams, for the Miss USA competition this month! To help local students achieve their goals, Ms. Williams is working in collaboration with the program’s Kendall Barry. Read more in the WTOP September 14 article.
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Congratulations to Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Kai Bolme for placing first in his age and weight category at the USA PowerLifting High School Nationals.
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On September 7, the Thomas Jefferson HSST German Program welcomed a group of exchange students from Germany. The students will spend the next week and a half learning what it is like to attend TJ, practicing their English speaking skills, and sightseeing throughout D.C. A group of TJ students will return the trip to Germany next June after the school year concludes.
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Congratulations to West Springfield High School teachers Becky Cousins and Amy Esatto who were presented with an Interact Service Award in recognition of their dedication and outstanding service to the Interact Club at West Springfield High School and the Rotary Club of West Springfield! Way to go!
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Woodson High School Drama made the trip to Edinburgh, Scotland this summer, for only the second time this decade, where they had the international premiere of an original play called “The Yassification of Jesse James by the Coward Samantha Clementine.” The cast and crew of the show featured 17 hard-working Woodson students.
Woodson was one of twenty-five American high schools selected for this opportunity after a competitive application process. The trip lasted around two weeks and Woodson regularly played to sold-out houses.
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W.T. Woodson High School, which opened in 1962, was named for FCPS’ second longest-serving superintendent who led the district from 1929-1961. W.T. Woodson’s views on segregation have been revealed in historical documents, thus initiating requests from community members to rename the school.
On September 12, seven school board members sponsored a Forum Request to initiate a name change and the consideration of Dr. Carter G. Woodson as a new name. As a result, the Fairfax County School Board is initiating the renaming process in accordance with Policy 8170.7- Naming School Facilities and Regulation 8170.8. Students, staff, and community members have the opportunity to engage in the process.
Read more about the Woodson renaming on the Woodson High School Renaming webpage.
🏆 264 FCPS Students Recognized as National Merit Semifinalists
Two hundred sixty-four Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students from 15 high schools have been named Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for 2024. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), which also serves as the Governor’s Regional School for Northern Virginia, has 165 Semifinalists.
All Semifinalists are eligible to compete for 7,500 National Merit Scholarship awards worth nearly $28 million, to be awarded in spring 2024. Semifinalists advance to finalist standing in the competition by meeting high academic standards and other requirements including a recommendation from a high school official.
Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!
Chantilly High School: Tanisha Lanka, Sebastian Nowicki, and Jason Yoo
Fairfax High School: Shivani Kanjerla
Lake Braddock Secondary School: Keita Fogus, Nelson Lattimer, and Seiya Lincicum
Oakton High School: Nicole Deng, Tyler Francis, Sreeja Gudiseva, Amber Zhang, and Kelly Zou
Thomas Jefferson HSST: Neha Asuri, Paige Burke, Santiago Criado, Katherine Jimenez, Brandon Le, David Li, Arvind Ragunathan, and Danielle Riekse
West Springfield High School: Kaylee Wisner
Woodson High School: Gemin Kim, Nathaniel Kurland, and Abbey Moran
See the full list of student awardees.
🌎 Virginia Naturally Schools Recognizes FCPS Schools
Virginia’s Department of Wildlife Resources Virginia Naturally (VAN) Schools program recognizes schools for their efforts in promoting learning opportunities for environmental literacy and responsible citizenship. Because this program encourages schools to innovate and build upon their efforts each year (rather than being a one-time award), FCPS has over a dozen schools recognized over multiple years, including the following schools that Springfield District students attend.
- Carson Middle School, 2 years
- Centreville Elementary School, 1 year
- Daniels Run Elementary School, 15 years
- Hunters Woods Elementary School, 2 years
- Johnson Middle School, 10 years
- Waples Mill Elementary School, 1 year
🏆 Six FCPS High Schools Rank Among Best in the State
In U.S. News & World Report’s annual state and nationwide assessments of public high schools, six Fairfax County public high schools, including three attended by Springfield District students, ranked in Virginia’s top 10.Congratulations to Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), Oakton High School, and Woodson High School! View the full list on FCPS’ website.
TJHSST remains the top magnet school in the country and moved up two spots to become the fourth-ranked STEM school in the country. TJHSST also ranked first as the top high school in the Washington, D.C., area.
League of Women Voters of Virginia Recognizes FCPS Educators
FCPS educators across our division were recently recognized by the League of Women Voters of Virginia for their efforts in encouraging students to register to vote during the 2022-23 school year. The schools with large numbers of new voters registered include the following schools attended by Springfield District students.
- Bryant High School
- Chantilly High School
- Fairfax Adult High School
- Lake Braddock Secondary School
- Lewis High School
- Oakton High School
- Quander Road School
- Robinson Secondary School
- South County High School
- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
- West Springfield High School
Family and Student Resources
🤒 When a Student Should Stay Home From School
Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss.
Help your student succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your student stays home if they are sick. Visit our site for information on when to keep your child at home.
If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff. Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent, and tell school staff why and for how long.
Read more about how families can help form good attendance habits.
🤧 Tips to Stay Healthy This School Year
Flu season is quickly approaching and communicable diseases continue to be present in our schools. We are committed to maintaining a safe environment for in-person learning. Families and staff are encouraged to follow the health practices below to prevent the spread of illnesses and help keep our schools safe:
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Make an appointment to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible. Everyone six months old or older should get a flu vaccine (with rare exceptions). Flu vaccines are widely available at doctors’ and pediatricians’ offices, grocery stores, and pharmacies.
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Get vaccinated against COVID-19 if you have not done so already. As of Tuesday, September 12, updated COVID-19 vaccines are approved for use among those aged 6 months or older for the 2023-24 season. Find out where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine or booster in your community by visiting Vaccinate Virginia or calling 877-VAX-IN-VA or 877-829-4682. Note: Flu vaccines and COVID vaccines can be provided in the same appointment.
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Check with your student’s healthcare provider to make sure they are up to date on their required school entrance immunizations. Immunization records can now be updated in SIS ParentVUE through the Online Verification Update form.
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Check for mild, cold-like symptoms each day, such as fever, runny nose, cough, or shortness of breath. If a child is sick, please keep them home and get them tested for COVID-19 to stop further spread from occurring. Additional guidance on when to keep your child home due to symptoms and illness is available on the FCPS Attendance webpage.
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Don’t forget to wash hands regularly, avoid touching the face with unwashed hands, cover the mouth when coughing or sneezing, and limit the time children spend in large group settings with contagious individuals whenever possible.
The most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 school health practices is available on FCPS' Health and Safety Guidance webpage.
Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our schools safe and healthy.
Substance Abuse Prevention
Each school pyramid has a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist (SAPS) assigned to provide substance abuse prevention, education, and intervention services. Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists are part of the FCPS Office of Student Safety and Wellness. Like school social workers, school psychologists, and school counselors, we do not provide treatment services, but we support students while they are in the buildings. AFTER CHECKING THE NARCAN BOXES IN THE AED BOXES, PLEASE LET ME IF YOU NEED ANY ADDITIONAL BOXES OR IF YOUR SUPPLY IS UP TO DATE.
Key roles of a Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist:
- Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug education for students, parents, staff, and Community
- Intervention services upon violation of the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook or suspected substance use involvement.
- Assessing a student’s level of substance use and, if appropriate, making referrals to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board for additional services or other community resources as appropriate
- Group and individual interventions for students and in addition prevention services for students, staff, parents, and the Fairfax County community
- Building positive relationships with students to provide support and encouragement
Resources:
Free Virtual Parent Support Group
Free Online Narcan Training for Opioid Overdoses (English & Spanish)
Free Lock Boxes for Medications & Firearms
Spiritual Support by Phone for Adults
Spanish Podcast: Tips on How Parents Play an Important Role in Substance Abuse Prevention
Juvenile Court Parent Support Group
For general questions about the FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Program, please contact the Office of Student Safety & Wellness at (571) 423-4270.
💊 Spotlight on Drugs: When a Nap Isn’t a Nap
Overdoses touch people and communities in many ways. International Overdose Awareness Day, August 31st, 2023, is the world’s largest annual campaign to end overdose and remember those who have died without stigma while also acknowledging the grief of their loved ones. An overdose means having more of a drug(s) than the body can handle. Unfortunately, opioid misuse is now the leading cause of unnatural death in Fairfax County according to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. Don’t allow it to go unnoticed in your home, in our community.
Opioids are a class of drugs that include the illegal drug heroin, synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, and pain relievers available legally by prescription, such as Percocet, oxycodone (OxyContin®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), codeine, morphine, and many others (NIH).
Opioids slow the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. When taken in excess amounts or in combination with other central nervous system depressants, they greatly suppress breathing and the heart rate.
Signs of an overdose include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Unresponsive to outside stimulus
- Awake, but unable to talk
- Breathing is prolonged and shallow, erratic, or has stopped.
- For lighter-skinned people, the skin tone turns bluish-purple, for darker-skinned people, it turns grayish or ashen.
- Choking sounds, or a snore-like gurgling noise (sometimes called the “death rattle”)
- Vomiting
- The body is very limp
- The face is very pale or clammy.
- Fingernails and lips turn blue or purplish black.
- Pulse (heartbeat) is slow, erratic, or not there at all
A person may appear as though they are just napping. It may be difficult to tell if someone is napping or potentially overdosing, especially if they are snoring.
If someone is making unfamiliar sounds while “sleeping” it is worth trying to wake him or her up. Many loved ones of users thought a person was snoring, when in fact they were overdosing. These situations are a missed opportunity to intervene and save a life. Snoring and gurgling can indicate that a person is having trouble breathing. With substance use, especially with opioids which slow down the systems of the body, snoring may indicate a serious and potentially life-threatening obstruction of the airway.
In the context of substance use, snoring is not something that should be seen as “normal”. Don’t let someone “sleep it off” if they are snoring; this may be a sign of a significant and life-threatening emergency. You should attempt to wake them immediately.
If they do wake up, then the snoring (airway obstruction) will resolve. If they do not wake up, call 911 immediately.
As we embark on another school year, it is important to bring awareness to our families and students about what to look for regarding substance use. Take confidence in the fact that you know what is normal for your student and what is not in terms of their behavior.
Potential signs that something may be off with your student:
- A student who starts acting withdrawn or seems tired, depressed, or mad for no reason
- Changing friends
- Not caring about personal appearance
- Slipping grades, skipping classes
- Losing interest in favorite activities
- Behavioral or academic trouble at school or with the law
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Not getting along with family members
- Lying or stealing.
These signs do not always mean there is a drug or alcohol problem, but they may be cause for concern. Try to find out what is going on. Do not be afraid to have open and non-judgmental conversations with your student. Get to know their teachers, friends, and their friends' parents. A new school year means new opportunities. Let’s work together to make this year great.
Resources:
Fairfax County Virtual REVIVE Training
REVIVE! trains individuals on what to do and not do in an overdose situation, how to administer naloxone, and what to do afterward, and this course is now being provided online.
During this 60-minute virtual class held via Zoom, participants will learn:
- How to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose.
- How to administer naloxone nasal spray to potentially reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.
- Other knowledge needed to fully respond to an opioid overdose emergency (what to do and not do).
To access the online class, you will need:
- A smartphone, tablet, desktop, or laptop computer equipped with a camera, microphone, and speakers.
Registration will be confirmed via an email, which will contain course log-in instructions for Zoom, how to obtain your REVIVE Kit (2 CPR mouth barriers, vinyl gloves, stickers, instruction card), and NaloxoneUpon completion of the virtual training, only Fairfax County and Cities of Falls Church/Fairfax residents can receive the Revive Kit and/or no-cost Naloxone. If you would like more information on how to obtain Naloxone in your region, or outside the Fairfax-Falls Church area, please contact the Wellness, Health Promotion & Prevention Team at CSBRevive@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Register to attend one of the following trainings.
- Friday, September 22, 2023, at 10 a.m.
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Monday, September 25, 2023, at 1 p.m. (in Spanish)
- Thursday, September 28, 2023, at 11 a.m.
A Great School Year Starts With Mental Wellness
All FCPS high school students can access virtual therapy sessions with licensed counselors from Hazel Health at no cost.
Hazel’s therapists — who specialize in working with teens — can help students address mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss, anxiety, peer and family relationships, and academic stress.
For high schoolers to participate in teletherapy services, caregivers must:
Students must be referred to therapy by a caregiver or designated school staff member.
Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
Fairfax County Virtual Question, Persuade, Refer Suicide Prevention Training
Ask a Question, Save A Life. Three steps anyone can take to help prevent suicide. You can be a resource for someone who might be struggling. Let’s make sure everyone in our community knows how much they matter.
Question, Persuade, Refer (QPR) virtual training is offered free to the community for anyone ages 16 and older.
Learn to recognize the warning signs, how to intervene, and where to refer someone who is in crisis. Are you QPR ready?
Register to attend one of the following trainings.
- Friday, September 22, 2023, at 10 a.m.
- Tuesday, September 26, 2023, at 1 p.m.
Questions? Contact CSB's Wellness, Health Promotion & Prevention team.
🧠 How to Access Free Resources from Tutor.com
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FCPS students continue to have unlimited access to live, 24/7, one-on-one online tutoring services through Tutor.com at no cost to families. Student participation is optional and parents/guardians can opt their student(s) out of accessing the services. Detailed information and FAQs are available on the Tutor.com Online Tutoring Services webpage.
Students can access Tutor.com via a link in Schoology. Additional information about how to log in and access a tutor is provided to families via the following: Elementary - How It Works and Middle & High - How It Works. Questions not answered in the posted resources may be sent to OnlineTutoring@fcps.edu.
Fairfax County Parenting Education Programs
The Fairfax County Department of Families Services offers free parenting education classes to help families develop important skills to grow healthy relationships with their children. The classes teach positive and effective ways parents can interact with their children at every age and stage of development. They help families to:
- Understand what to expect from children at different developmental stages and ages (0-18 years).
- Build strong, positive, respectful relationships between all family members.
- Take charge of their feelings and behaviors, and communicate in non-threatening ways.
- Handle stress and anger better, and find alternatives for yelling and spanking.
To register and find more information, visit the Parenting Education Programs webpage.
Tips for Back-to-School Routines
With the start of school, the Fairfax County Parenting Education Program has tips to help parents with the hustle and bustle of getting kids back into a healthy routine. The Back-to-School Routines series has tips for:
- improving communication in families and establishing expectations to get the school year off to a good start
- ways to establish a routine for dinner time
- Having a regular bedtime routine that makes it easier for children to sleep
- How to have easier mornings
For more information, visit the Parenting Education Programs - Back-to-School Routines webpage.
FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis Family Training
A workshop intended for parents of students with low-incidence disabilities of Autism and Intellectual Disabilities will be presented by the FCPS Applied Behavior Analysis(ABA) training on September 20, 2023. This presentation is entitled Collaboration: Building Successful Home and School Support Teams.
Topics covered will include
- What is collaboration?
- Who’s who within the school system?
- Who do I ask questions?
- How can you facilitate collaboration?
Choose one virtual session on September 20, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Join the training using this meeting link: https://meet.google.com/cgn-udci-kbh
👂 Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Persons Annual Information Fair
Join the Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf & Hard of Hearing Persons for their Celebrate Communication event, the area’s premier information fair for anyone with an interest in or connection to hearing loss. See the latest in hearing assistive technologies, apps, local agency services, hearing aids, cochlear implants, captioning, ASL, and much more! The event will take place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at the Springfield Town Center.
Find out more and register on the Celebrate Communication website.
Jill’s House School Partnerships
Jill’s House is a non-profit organization that offers families raising individuals with intellectual disabilities a break, while their children have the opportunity to experience a variety of activities made just for them.
The weeknight program provides safe overnight stays for individuals with intellectual disabilities ages 6–22. Under the supervision of our trained Client Care Specialists (CCSs) and nurses, each individual has the opportunity to gain independence and peer-to-peer socialization skills. Whether they are swimming in our heated indoor pool, enjoying the music room, playing on the playground, or creating art in the art room, there is an activity for everyone!
For more information on the program, visit jillshouse.org or contact their Intake Department at 703-639-5670.
Register for Free Webinars from the Family Resource Center
The FCPS Family Resource Center (PRC) is offering free webinars. They are
Building Family and School Partnerships for Twice Exceptional (2e) Students K-12
When schools and families collaborate all children succeed. Join Nonye Oladimeji, FCPS Educational Specialist for AAP Twice Exceptional (2e) children as she explores successful ways schools and families can collaborate.
Webinar Highlights:
- How to use your child's strengths and challenges to identify and advocate for their needs
- How to work with your child’s school team to develop strategies to help them feel safe while helping them stretch, struggle, and grow.
- How to collaborate with multiple experts to identify activities both in and out of school that build on your child’s strengths.
- How to partner with school staff to address your child’s social and emotional needs
Friday, October 6, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.
Register for Building Family and School Partnerships for Twice Exceptional (2e) Students K-12
SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!
The Sibshop workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with special needs to:
- Meet other siblings in a relaxed setting.
- Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs.
- Share sibling experiences and receive peer support.
- Play games and have fun!
Monday, October 9, 2023, 9 a.m.- noon at Providence Community Center
Presented by FCPS School Social Work Services
View the individual event page if you would like to share this event with others.
Register for: SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs!
What Your 11th & 12th Graders Are Learning in School About Drugs and How You Can Talk with Them *presented in English
Students in grades 11 and 12 will receive drug lessons about substance misuse. Join Tiffany Jones, FCPS Senior Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist as she helps you understand the curriculum and how you might communicate with your child.
Webinar highlights:
- Find out what your children are learning about drugs in the 11th and 12th-grade drug lessons at their schools.
- Prepare yourself to discuss what they are learning in school about substance misuse.
- Gain practice skills to have important conversations about substances
Friday, October 13, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others. *presented in English
Register for What Your 11th & 12th Graders Are Learning in School About Drugs and How You Can Talk with Them - presented in English
What Your 11th & 12th Graders Are Learning in School About Drugs and How You Can Talk with Them *presented in Spanish
Students in grades 11 and 12 will receive drug lessons about substance misuse. Join Bryan Villalobos and Diana Vera, FCPS Substance Abuse Prevention Specialists as they help you understand the curriculum and how you might communicate with your child.
Webinar highlights:
- Find out what your children are learning about drugs in the 11th and 12th-grade drug lessons at their schools.
- Prepare yourself to discuss what they are learning in school about substance misuse.
- Gain practice skills to have important conversations about substances
Friday, October 20, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others. *presented in Spanish
Register for What Your 11th & 12th Graders Are Learning in School About Drugs and How You Can Talk with Them - presented in Spanish
Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress: A Two-Part Series
Join Dr. Erin Berman, a Clinical Psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Maryland for these important sessions to help children cope with anxiety, depression, and stress.
Part 1 Highlights:
- How to identify a child with anxiety or depression
- The science and biological roots of anxiety in children
- Interventions and considerations in dealing with children with anxiety and depression
- Current treatment options (medications & CBT: cognitive behavioral therapy)
- Strategies and tips for supporting your children with anxiety and depression
Part 2 Highlights:
- Identify stress in children of all ages
- Explain common sources of stress
- Provide strategies for lowering stress levels so that all caregivers can benefit
Part 1: Friday, October 27, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.
Part 2: Friday, November 10, 2023, 10-11:30 a.m. Share this event with others.
Register for Coping Strategies for Anxiety, Depression, and Stress: A Two-Part Series
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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 Centreville High 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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