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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.
ይህንን ዜና መፅሄት በሌሎች ቋንቋዎች ለማንበብ፤ እባክዎን ድረ ገፃችንን ይጎብኙ።
이 소식지를 다른 언어로 읽으려면, 우리 웹사이트를 방문하시기 바랍니다.
.يرجى زيارة موقعنا الألكتروني لقراءة هذه النشرة الإخبارية بلغات أخرى
Dear Community Members,
With the first quarter of the school year completed, we are really moving along this year! You can see below academic performance data that the Superintendent shared in recent public School Board meetings. FCPS continues to be a strong school system, and I will continue working to ensure that all students receive the opportunities they need for success.
Tomorrow, November 7, is a big day for our community – it is Election Day! In Virginia, we vote every year. Polls are open from 6am -7pm, at your assigned voting place. (Not sure where to vote? Look it up here.) This is a two-sided ballot, where each voter selects 14 county or state officials to represent their interests on the array of matters that determine our quality of life in Fairfax: education funding and programs, health care access and quality, gun violence prevention, environmental protections and quality, emergency management services (police, fire, medical), libraries, parks, care for senior citizens, roadways and transit – and even more! The school bond is also on the ballot, which is the primary way that renovations and school construction is funded. And if you’re in the Town of Vienna, note that you’re also voting for the Town Council Members and Mayor – bringing your selection of representatives to 21! You don’t want to miss this opportunity to share your opinion about leadership in your community. For more information visit the Fairfax County Office of Elections information page.
Recent Work
Two Percent Raise Effective for All Employees January 1, 2024
At the October 26th Regular Meeting, I was eager to vote yes to approve a 2% mid-year pay increase for all employees effective January 1, 2024.
The unusual timing of the vote was required because of the delayed approval of state budget legislation by Virginia’s Governor and General Assembly. This vote follows three consecutive years of pay increases approved by the School Board.
Our staff must be appropriately compensated for the work they provide to educate our students, keep students safe and healthy, transport them to and from school, and fulfill the many operational duties required to run the 11th largest school division in the nation.
It’s important to be clear about how FCPS is able to manage this compensation increase. The total cost of the proposed 2% raise for all employees in FCPS is $30.5M. The state contributed $5.3M or approx. 17% of the required funds.
Because the state’s calculation metrics place a greater burden on divisions like FCPS, the division needed to secure $25.2M to actualize the 2% adjustment. This is not a state match, but rather the responsibility for funding depends largely on local funds.
In summary, FCPS reallocated $14.4M from a state reimbursement for support positions and $10.8M from the staffing reserve to secure this well-deserved pay increase for our staff, and to remain competitive with surrounding jurisdictions such as Arlington, Alexandria and Loudoun who will also provide similar compensation raises in January 2024.
I will also continue my advocacy to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, which transfers revenue to FCPS annually, and to state General Assembly Members to fully fund our public schools in Fairfax. This report on public education funding in Virginia released in July by our state General Assembly shows clearly that state government severely underestimates the cost to deliver education in Virginia, and leaves the burden of funding on localities like Fairfax County and its tax-paying residents. Specifically:
- Funding for VA schools is below national and regional averages.
- Virginia students receive less funding than estimated needs.
- Funding formulas don't meet what's needed in actual practice.
Many of these findings validate concerns and mirror recommendations made annually by myself and colleagues, as stated here in the Fairfax School Board's annual Legislative Program.
In October, the School Board also voted unanimously to rename W.T. Woodson High School and had Work Sessions to review and discuss our Community Schools program and Strategic Governance Executive Expectations, a structure that will allow for regular and transparent oversight over the Superintendent.
Academic Matters
FCPS Pass Rates and Accreditation Outcomes
During the Academic Matters segment of the October 26 School Board meeting, Superintendent Reid discussed FCPS’ annual pass rates and accreditation outcomes.
Reading, mathematics, and science pass rates for FCPS are up by an average of almost 9% since the 2021-22 school year. FCPS’ annual pass rates on state assessments continue to be higher than the state average by an average of 5%.
The Virginia Board of Education determines accreditation ratings based on school quality indicators, which include state assessment results and achievement gaps, graduation and dropout rates, and participation in college/career readiness programs.
For the 2023 accreditation ratings, 99.5% of our schools are accredited (compared to the state average of 89%). The remaining 0.5% are accredited with conditions.
Algebra Access
Dr. Reid also shared an update on our 2023-30 strategic plan’s initiative to increase the number of students who successfully complete Algebra 1 by eighth grade, one of the measures of Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence. Our Algebra Access Network Improvement Community (AANIC) is working to increase the diverse representation of students who participate and are successful in the rigorous mathematics opportunities available at FCPS. AANIC’s work is collaborative and supported by data, as they learn how we can best implement their findings division-wide.
As you can see below, this approach starts with FCPS’ youngest learners and extends across multiple departments.
Successfully completing Algebra 1 paves the way for an advanced academic trajectory — including Dual Enrollment courses, Advanced Placement (AP), and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses — that supports postsecondary success for our students. A recent study from the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) found that completing Algebra 1 by eighth grade led to 30% more ninth graders and 16% more 11th graders taking advanced courses. This work matters!
SAT Outcomes
During the Academic Matters segment of the Thursday, October 12, School Board meeting, Dr. Reid shared SAT outcomes and opportunities for FCPS students. View the slide presentation.
As in years past, the FCPS class of 2023 average score of 1181 was higher than the state average (1113) and the global average (1028). The percentage of FCPS seniors taking the SAT has also remained consistent, despite the sharp decrease in participation statewide. Read more about the class of 2023 Fairfax County SAT data.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Thursday, November 9, 7:30pm: Regular Meeting
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Cedar Lane School Gym Renaming
- Performance Review: Superintendent Relationship with the School Board (Executive Expectation 8) Report
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Tuesday, November 14, 10:30am: Work Session
- Strategic Plan Goal 3 Baseline Report
- Fiscal Year 25 Budget Priorities
- Fiscal Forecast
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Monday, November 20, 7:30pm: Regular Meeting
- Strategic Plan Goal 3
- Legislative Program
Accessing Board Meetings
View this link for a comprehensive list of upcoming meetings and associated information.
Click here for meeting logistics, agendas and handouts (to view the slides and materials, scroll down to the bottom of the page).
Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99. Meeting recordings can be found on FCPS YouTube. For more information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting, click here.
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For Spanish speakers -- to watch recorded School Board meetings or live Regular Meetings on YouTube, you can visit the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the QR code.
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Hunter Mill Happenings
Student Advocacy at Madison's Community Conversation
Students from several high schools teamed together to share specific remarks and questions to Superintendent Reid, while she hosted a Community Conversation at Madison High School. These students are no strangers to advocacy. Several have been conducting advocacy and galvanizing their peers for years – I communicated with two of these leaders consistently when they were previously at Rachel Carson Middle School, and still continue to do so. The students asked the Superintendent what FCPS’ plan is to meet the Joint Environmental Taskforce (JET) directives of our Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) – including obtaining more electric buses, installing solar panels on schools – and were especially articulate about the need to incorporate climate change curriculum into every year of science education, K-12. YES!
South Lakes Ensemble Performs at School Board Meeting
I was thrilled to welcome the South Lakes High School Treble Ensemble to the October 26 School Board meeting, to sing the National Anthem. It was a gorgeous delivery! I was glad to say hello to student Grace, whom I’ve gotten to know through SLHS performances. Thank you to teacher Ms. Jessica Irish, for instructing students to achieve musical heights – and working late that evening.
National Merit Commended Scholars
Congratulations to the many Hunter Mill students that have been recognized as National Merit Commended Scholars!
Semi-Finalists and Commended Scholars from Madison High School are pictured on the right.
The National Merit Scholarship Program is an annual academic competition among high school students for recognition and college scholarships that began in 1955. High school students in the United States enter the National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®), which serves as an initial screen of over 1.3 million entrants each year, and by meeting published program entry and participation requirements.
See the full list of students.
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Seahawks Named District Champions with Undefeated Season
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Friday night lights shined on Hunter Mill students from South Lakes HS and Westfield HS.
In the end, South Lakes football finished the regular season unbeaten for the first time in program history, as they defeated Westfield 28-24. It was a well-matched competition throughout the whole game!
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Reston Teen Helps Remove Performing Arts Barriers
August Rivers, a senior at South Lakes HS, worked with other students to create "Reston Stars", providing scholarships to students for performing arts camps, lessons, and other programs.
Rivers has enjoyed honing his craft through theatre enrichment programs, including those outside of school. He recognized that those opportunities can be expensive and doesn't want students to miss out due to financial reasons.
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Davis Center Celebrates 40th Anniversary
The Davis Career Center recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary! During the celebration, a first-year Davis student named Christian was invited to perform by Principal Chad Clayton. Below is a video of Christian playing the piano and singing “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban. You can view his amazing performance here.
Christian’s dad shared that Christian taught himself to play piano before he could talk and the family discovered he has perfect pitch when he began singing with his fourth grade chorus. With much love and support, Christian began his singing career while he was at Sunrise Valley Elementary School and continued throughout his time in Hughes Middle School and South Lakes High School. He recently graduated from South Lakes, where he earned All-District honors for all four years!
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2023 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards
The annual awards, founded in 2001, honor county youth, coaches and parents in each magisterial district for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Instituted by the Fairfax County Athletic Council, this program aims to support the tradition of amateur athletics in cultivating teamwork, leadership, good sportsmanship and community service. Read more about the award here.
Congratulations to the Hunter Mill District winners!
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Female Athlete: Noor Atiya, Langston Hughes Middle School, Reston Youth Basketball — Basketball
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Male Athlete: Andrew Carroll, Premier Athletics Club — Soccer
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Coach: Randy McCargo, Vienna Youth Inc. — Football
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Parent: Amber Kluesener, Vienna Girls Softball League — Softball 6 7
Upcoming Theatre Performances in Hunter Mill
James Madison HS' MAD Drama presents: Deadwood Dick; or A Game of Gold (November 9-11).
The lure of the Old Western world of heroes, of black hearted villains, and of the never ending "Game of Gold" is still with us. Taking the most exciting situations, the most colorful characters and the most amusing dialogue from these novels, Tom Taggart has fashioned a hysterical melodrama. Long lost daughters, stolen gold mines, kidnapped heroines and hairbreadth escapes abound! Purchase tickets here.
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South Lakes High School Theatre Arts presents: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (November 9-11).
Playwrights Peter and Hans Bloedel reimagine Washington Irving's classic story. In this rendition, Ichabod Crane, Sleepy Hollow's latest schoolmaster, encounters romance, quirky locals, and the eerie legend of the Headless Horseman with a poetic twist.
With original puppetry, elaborate hair & makeup, and gothic soundscapes, this is a reimagined classic for a new generation. Don't miss this spellbinding spectacle! Purchase tickets here.
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South Lakes Basketball - Late Night at the Byrd: November 18
Late Night at the Byrd is a welcoming event for the Boys and Girls basketball programs this year hosted by the South Lakes Athletic Leadership class. It is a free event but there will be a donation option to South Lakes Athletic Leadership class. Members of the South Lakes community are invited to join to see events such as:
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- 3 Point Contest
- Dunk Contest
- Dance Team performance
- Raffle Prizes
- Contests with fans
This is a chance for people to meet with teams, get autographs and take photos with the players! The event is on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 7pm at the Wendell G. Byrd Gymnasium, please enter at door 4. Every middle school and elementary school child must be accompanied by an adult. The event will end by 8:30pm. Boosters will have concessions and gear store open in gym lobby!
For more information, please contact Mr. Cincinnati at decincinnati@fcps.edu
Honoring Hunter Mill Administrators and Assistants
Celebrating Employee Excellence
FCPS Excellence Awards recognize employees who have exhibited extraordinary achievement in one of four areas: Growth, Impact on Others, Innovation, and Student Achievement.
Congratulations to all recipients including:
- Impact on Others Individual Award Recipient, Chrissy Kelley (Systems of Support Advisor, South Lakes HS)
- Student Achievement Individual Award Recipient Quinton Tucker Jr. (Learning Disabilities Teacher, Terraset ES)
- Growth Team Award Recipient, Madison HS MAD Wings Team (Heather Allen, Beth Blankenship, Loveisa Clark, Miguel Fernandez, Maria Frantzen, Maya Gueron, Anita Hartley, Virginia Keel, Janice W. Metz, Penelope Panzer, Michael Rath, Derrick Rauenzahn, and Marit Rowland)
See the full list of Excellence Awards recipients.
Advanced Placement School Honor Roll
The College Board announced that 17 FCPS secondary and high schools have been named to the Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Four levels of distinction are offered: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness. See the list of schools including:
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Herndon High School (Bronze Distinction)
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Westfield High School (Silver Distinction)
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Madison High School (Gold Distinction)
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Oakton High School (Platinum Distinction)
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Thomas Jefferson High School (Platinum Distinction)
More information about the AP School Honor Roll is available online.
A Casino in Reston?
Serious consideration is being given by decision makers in Fairfax and the state for placing a casino in Reston. Such an enterprise would place serious strain on local infrastructure that includes our schools and roadways. For these and other reasons, I oppose the placement of a casino in Reston.
Here is further information: Local media has reported about a potential gambling casino being built in Hunter Mill District along Metro's Silver Line. This relates to state legislation from the 2023 General Assembly session earlier this year: SB 1543 and HB 2499. Organizations such as Reston Association and Reston Citizens Association have also voiced their strong opposition. The General Assembly reconvenes in January for its 2024 session that runs during the first weeks of the new year.
I hope you will remain aware of developments and opportunities to voice your opinion on the matter.
Help Shape the Future of Wiehle Avenue
From the Fairfax County Department of Transportation:
On Monday, Nov. 13, 5:45 to 9 p.m. you are invited to participate in a collaborative workshop to reimagine the Wiehle Avenue corridor from Sunrise Valley Drive to the W&OD Trail in Reston. Ideas gathered at the meeting will be further refined and studied, culminating in a recommendation for an improved Wiehle Avenue. The event takes place at 1900 Reston Metro Plaza, 2nd floor conference room. A light dinner and refreshments will be provided. Register to attend.
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November Is...
National Family Engagement Month
This month reminds us that families are children's first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers. Strong family support is vital to student well-being and success.
FCPS has many resources designed to increase engagement and partnerships with families while fostering academic success and social-emotional growth.
Additionally, every school has a family liaison who welcomes and orients families and helps them understand the school's culture, policies, procedures, and practices. They can help connect families to resources in the community. Family liaisons might also assist a family in transitioning to a new school and encourage family-school partnerships to help ensure their student's success and healthy development.
If you have questions or would like more information, ask your school office to connect you with your family liaison or visit FCPS’ website for a list of region representatives.
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Veterans Day
Veterans Day provides a great reason to pause, reflect, and recognize the extraordinary sacrifices our Veterans and their families have made on our behalf, and we thank them for their service. Learn more about the history of Veterans Day at va.gov.
In celebration of Veterans Day, the Fairfax County Park Authority is extending its gratitude to our U.S. Armed Forces personnel. On Saturday, Nov. 11, veterans, active-duty military and their families can enjoy complimentary access to various activities, including Rec Center admission, carousel rides at Clemyjontri Park, camping at Lake Fairfax Park and wagon rides at Frying Pan Farm Park. Learn more here.
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Native American Heritage Month
Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native Americans. It is also an opportunity to raise awareness about historical challenges they have faced and how tribal citizens have worked to conquer them.
Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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All Saints Day and DÍa de Los Muertos
Día de los Muertos is an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. Wednesday, November 1, and Thursday, November 2, are observance days this year. Watch this video to learn more about Día de los Muertos.
While Día de los Muertos is largely celebrated in Mexico and Latin America, it also coincides with All Saints Day (November 1) and All Souls Day (November 2). These days are celebrated by Catholics, Anglicans, and some Protestants worldwide to honor those who have passed.
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National Career Development Month
By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every FCPS middle and high school. Each school's course options are based on the needs of the populations served. Learn more about Academies and Specialized Programs.
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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.
TJHSST Freshman Application Process is Open
Current 8th grade students with an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2028 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
Applications must be started by 4 pm on Wednesday, November 15, and the deadline to submit the application is Friday, November 17, at 4 pm.
Application requirements:
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• Resident of Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church City, Arlington County, Loudoun County, or Prince William County;
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• Completion of a full-year course of Algebra 1 or currently enrolled in a full-year course of honors-level Algebra 1;
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• Enrollment in honors science;
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• Enrollment in honors social studies or English/language arts or identified as a "Young Scholar;"
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• 3.5 or higher unweighted GPA in all core academic courses.
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Application Components include the Student Portrait Sheet, Problem-Solving Essay, GPA (Core), and Experience Factors.
Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information.
National STEM Challenge for 6-12 Grade Students
The 2024 National STEM Challenge is a great opportunity for 6-12 grade students to show their talents! Your mission? Craft a STEM project that tackles a real-world challenge. Choose from one of the 2024 themes listed and use the scientific method or engineering design process.
Entries for the National STEM Challenge must be submitted by Sunday, November 12. For additional details and official rules, visit https://loom.ly/kFfNELs.
NOAA Marine Debris Art Contest
Get your art supplies ready because the NOAA Marine Debris Program Art Contest is almost here! Students in grades K-8 from the United States and U.S. territories can submit their artwork that answers how marine debris impacts the ocean and Great Lakes and what you are doing to help prevent marine debris. Submit your artwork and you could see it featured in NOAA’s 2025 Marine Debris Calendar! Learn more about the NOAA Marine Debris Art Contest and apply by Friday, December 15, 2023.
In 2022, Ella, a Floris Elementary School student earned a spot for this current year's calendar!
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Additional Information of Interest
Provide Feedback on FCPS’ SR&R
Please join the Chief Equity Office for a virtual meeting regarding FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) Regulation. The event will be held on Thursday, November 9, from 6-7:30 p.m. You may register at this link.
Your feedback will help ensure that FCPS policies align with our mission and values. It will also help us identify any specific considerations that need to be addressed for the 2024-25 school year. Language interpretation will be available in Spanish, Korean, and Arabic. A Certified Deaf Interpreter will be available as well. Visit the SR&R webpage.
Life in the Community Resource Fair: Nov. 9
Moving on to Life in the Community Resource Fair is designed for students with developmental and intellectual disabilities who need continuing support after they exit FCPS. Learn about supported employment options, day support programs, recreation/leisure activities, residential living options, travel training supports, advocacy, funding, and more! There will also be an in-person exhibitor fair. Register for the Resource Fair here.
Thursday, November 9, 2023, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Annandale High School (4700 Medford Dr., Annandale)- Cafeteria
Community Review of Elementary Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources
Fairfax County Public Schools will adopt new Elementary School Language Arts Basal Instructional Resources for the 2024-2025 school year. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers met in August to review the initial list of state-approved materials for grades K-3. The committee will reconvene in January to review a second list of state-approved materials for K-5.
Public review of the recommended materials is an important part of the resource selection process. The Elementary English Language Arts basal instructional resources may be accessed in person and online from November 15, 2023, until noon on December 15, 2023.
Materials may be viewed at the Pimmit Hills Center - Room 207 at 7510 Lisle Avenue, Falls Church, VA 22043. Materials will be available to review Mon-Thur, 9 am to 9 pm.
Digital Materials can be accessed via the Elementary Language Arts Basal Resource Review website during the public review period.
All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and with the School Board before the vote at a School Board Regular meeting.
Upcoming College Access Fairfax Events
Plan to attend a virtual workshop on Paying for College or Scholarship 101. College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of virtual workshops for students and their parents. To attend a workshop, please click on the appropriate Zoom link below.
Paying for College - an overview of the financial aid process
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Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 7 p.m., ZOOM LINK
Scholarship 101 - an overview of the process for applying for outside scholarships
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Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 10 a.m., ZOOM LINK
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Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 7 p.m., ZOOM LINK
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Opening in December
The FAFSA is required to determine a student's eligibility for financial aid. Families of current seniors should be thinking about completing a financial aid applications in order for students to be eligible to receive financial help to cover the costs of post-secondary education. Despite the late opening of the FAFSA, there are many things families can do now to prepare.
The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) program is available for students unable to complete the FAFSA . Find out which aid option is right for your family on the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.
Lynette Henry Named Executive Director of Educate Fairfax
The Chief Experience and Engagement Office announced the selection of Lynette Henry as the new executive director of Educate Fairfax, effective Wednesday, November 1.
In alignment with FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, Lynette will be responsible for building on the foundation’s work and growing its contributions in support of excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student.
Lynette had been serving as the manager of FCPS' College Success Programs, where she supervised programming and services districtwide to increase access to resources and opportunities for student populations most in need of these services.
Lynette’s motto is, “Imagine the Best for Every Child … and Make It Happen!”
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FCPS Buildings Benefit All Community Members
In addition to our students and teachers, we estimate millions of visits by students and community members each year to Fairfax County public schools. Most of the public meeting and recreational facilities available in the county are FCPS facilities. FCPS works with the Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and with the Fairfax County Park Authority to ensure that school facilities and athletic fields are available to the public after school hours.
The 2023 Bond Referendum will be on the ballot in November. Vote on Tuesday, November 7.
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Repurpose Your Halloween Pumpkins for Wildlife
Wondering what to do with your pumpkins now that Halloween has passed? Learn how you can recycle pumpkins to help wildlife.
Job Opportunities
Contacting Me
I prioritize responses to Hunter Mill constituents, so please be sure to identify yourself as such if you contact me. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.
To contact me, it is most helpful to please use the official School Board contact form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. Thank you for your cooperation.
Please take good care,
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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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