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Dear Dranesville Families,

Happy 101st day of school! I hope you and your family are settling into second semester. Each and every day I am learning and getting to know my students, schools, FCPS staff, my fellow School Board members, and our community. I have especially enjoyed visiting schools and attending school events like the Liberty District and the regional One Act competitions. I hope to see you at all the upcoming concerts and plays while spring sports start their season. Before we know it, spring and summer will be here. I have included some information on FCPS summer learning and fun below. 

This week is National School Counseling Week, and I celebrated our school counselors and directors of student at last night’s School Board Meeting. I have added my remarks below to share the history of counselors in schools and all that they do for our system, their schools, students, and families. 

We, as a school board, are taking on the topics of the CIP and the FY25 Budget, and I have shared important updates below. Dr. Reid shared the FY25 Budget last night, and we will begin our discussions as a Board, with the Board of Supervisors, our Virginia legislators, and you in the coming weeks. On February 13, our first Budget Work Session and the first Budget Public Hearing is scheduled (see details below). Also, I moved a CIP amendment to help Coates ES address their expanding capacity with the support of Principal Basdekis and their PTA leaders. I will share updates as I learn more. 

As a piece of the FY25 Budget, I ask for your help to address the findings of the 2023 JLARC report demonstrating the underfunding of Virginia’s school districts both in total funds and flawed state funding formulas. Seeing Virginia 40th out of all 50 states was eye-opening. By addressing the $1,900 per student underfunding, we can bring Virginia in line with our 3 neighboring states of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland and the national average. (https://jlarc.virginia.gov/va-compared-4.asp) FCPS is further harmed by the out-of-date state Standards of Quality formula. FCPS received $3,046 per student in state aid for 2022, while the state average per student allocation was $4,938. Please consider contacting your legislators at Who’s My Legislator? to share your thoughts on providing Virginia students with the funding to help all schools meet their needs and futures. I will be in Richmond with other school board members next week to advocate for JLARC and other educational initiatives.

Each notice of a FCPS student who has suffered an overdose on our campuses is a stark reminder that the dangers of fentanyl and other opioids are not gone. Every family needs to talk with their students to share the facts to help them and their peers stay safe. Consider encouraging your teens to take part in the SAMHSA FentAlert challenge of youth empowering youth against the threat of fentanyl. See more information below on how you can help your students and our community and the FentAlert Challenge.

I hope you get the chance to enjoy the weekend and the many events happening in our Dranesville community.

Robyn

My visit to the Clearview ES Parent Coffee

In this newsletter,

• Updates
• School and Student News
• February is...
• Opportunities and Events
• Summer Opportunities

Updates

FCPS Updates

Calendar Reminders SY2023-2024 calendar February 5-9: National School Counselor Week February 10: Lunar New Year February 14: Ash Wednesday February 15: School Resource Officer Appreciation Day February 19: Presidents Day (Holiday) February 22: School Bus Driver Appreciation Day March 5: Presidential Primary (Student Holiday)

Kent Gardens Boundary Update ~ Google Form

ONLY for families affected by the boundary change

To prepare for the 2024-25 school year and provide a smooth transition to the new elementary school boundaries in the McLean area, FCPS requests impacted families complete the McLean Area Elementary Boundary Adjustment Information Form by February 29, 2024.

All affected families should complete the form, even if you are choosing to attend your newly assigned school. Please understand that families who do NOT respond to the form by the February 29 deadline will NOT be able to access school bus transportation to or from school for school year 2024-25. Families NOT affected do not need to respond. 

The following resources are available to assist you:

• Visit the McLean Elementary Schools Capacity/Boundary Changes (formerly Kent Gardens Capacity Challenges) webpage for detailed information.
  • If you are unsure if your address is impacted, a street listing and map is here: https://www.fcps.edu/facilities-planning-future/school-boundary-adjustments/mclean-elementary-schools.
• The FCPS boundary locator will note addresses impacted with a red box: https://boundary.fcps.edu/boundary/. (Please note current, SY 2023-24, school assignments are reflected in the boundary locator and will not indicate the new school until July 1). 
• If you are unsure of your student's ID number, it can be located at the top of the sent letter or by looking it up in your SIS ParentVue account.

My visit to Chersterbrook ES Open House with Principal Kirkpatrick and their Student Ambassadors

FY 2025 Proposed Budget

Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid presented the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Proposed Budget at the  February 8th School Board meeting.  Dr. Reid’s presentation and other budget documents are available here. Find your School Board member and how to contact them on the School Board Members webpage. 

Click the image to view all FY25 Proposed Budget documents

Upcoming School Board Budget Meetings

Please note, times and topics are subject to change.

• Tuesday, February 13, 1:45pm: Budget Work Session
• Tuesday, February 13, 6pm: Budget Public Hearing
  • Sign up here to speak.

How to watch meetings

• Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99.
• Recordings of Meetings: Work Sessions and Regular Meetings are recorded and available here after the meeting. 

Coates ES CIP Amendment

I moved this amendment to the FY2025-29 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that passed at last night's School Board Meeting:  I move to amend the CIP to add Coates ES to Table 4: Priority Recommended Boundary Adjustments on page 39 of the Proposed CIP with a Potential Scoping of Fall 2024/Spring 2025. This will allow staff to address the current and projected capacity deficit, student membership growth at the school, and the number of temporary classrooms at the school.

My Feb. 8th SB Meeting Remarks Celebrating School Counselors and Directors of Student Services

As most of you know, this is National School Counselors week and as former school counselor and director of student services in FCPS, I wanted to thank each of our 575 school counselors and the 52 Directors of Student services for all you do everyday for our students. And on their behalf, I want to provide everyone with a brief history lesson regarding this work. 

In 1957 when the Russians launched Sputnik, the US was worried about the future of math and science in the US. Over time the role has been redefined and the word "Guidance" was replaced with the word "School" as the work entails much more than providing guidance or, as we call it, academic advising to our students. 

All school counselors have a master degree in counselor education, which, for many of us, meant committing to full-time graduate school for two years. Our work today is focused on three main domains - Academic, College & Career, and Personal Social Emotional Counseling. In short, we are here to help students and families navigate issues impacting a student’s ability to access the learning environment. 

School counselors and directors of student services are key fixtures in all of our schools. While school counselors start their day with a plan, too often that plan is thwarted by interruptions that require immediate attention. They manage to attend their 504 and IEP meetings, conduct parent/teacher conferences, prepare for and teach classroom lessons, check in with their students, and address issues that arise unexpectedly everyday. Your juggling skills are supernatural!

Tonight I say thank you. Please know that we see you and we celebrate your work. And, to those listening if you only remember thing I say, please address counselors as school counselors moving forward.

School Board Meeting Highlights 

February 8:

• The National Anthem was performed by the Rachel Carson Bella Voce under the direction of Christen Reddig, and Lift Every Voice and Sing was performed by the Mount Vernon Voices under the direction of Chelsea Huber.
• The School Board approved proclamations honoring Black History Month and Custodians and Food and Nutrition Services Appreciation.
• Student Representative Rida Karim presented Student Representative Matters to the School Board.
• The School Board approved the FY 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Program, changes to the Executive Expectations Process, Additional Advisory Committee Appointments, and several contacts.
• Superintendent Reid presented the Proposed FY 2025 Budget to the School Board. Budget documents are available at this link. The School Board will hold Budget Work Sessions on February 13th and February 20th and Budget Public Hearings on February 13th and (if needed) February 20th. Information on the Budget Public Hearings and how to register to speak can be found at this link.
• Superintendent Reid presented Academic Matters and Superintendent Matters.
• Finally, the School Board regular meeting concluded with Board Matters.

Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.

January 25 

• The National Anthem was performed by the Aldrin Elementary School Chorus under the direction of Becky Sowers and Leah Marie Peterson.
• The School Board approved a proclamation honoring Michelle Leete.
• The School Board approved the FY 2025 Budget Priorities Resolution, the Personnel Appointments and Separations, Additional Advisory Committee Appointments, and several contracts.
• Finally, the School Board heard Committee Reports from the Audit Committee and the Governance Committee, before concluding with Board Matters.

Watch the full meeting on the FCPS YouTube channel.

Dr. Reid's Academic Matters- January 25

Access to Advanced Coursework for High School Students

During the Academic Matters segment of the January 25 School Board meeting, Superintendent Reid presented information on FCPS’ academic advising for high schoolers and advanced coursework selection. Advanced coursework is a focus of the division's 2023-30 Strategic Plan’s Goal 3, Academic Growth and Excellence.

Beyond empowering students to pursue their personal interests, exposure to rigorous and college-level coursework through AP, IB, and/or DE participation is correlated with increased high school and college graduation rates and enables students to earn college credits while still in high school. As you can see below, FCPS continues to invest in removing the roadblocks between our students and their opportunities for advanced coursework.

New- Teacher-Referred Tutoring in Schoology

A new Teacher-Referred Tutoring program feature provides targeted support and extends student learning. Teachers can now refer students for tutoring with their specific needs already identified. Students can get extra support — on their own schedule — and reinforce their in-class learning. Encourage your child to click the Tutor.com icon in Schoology for homework help, concept review, writing support, and test prep. Look for session referrals from students’ teachers on the Tutor.com portal homepage.

Instruction 2 Industry  Student Career Exploration  In February, school divisions across the region will team up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Career Expo event. This Northern Virginia regional event invites high school students to connect virtually and in person, with more than 60 local industry professionals from in-demand career fields. Students should register today on the Instruction 2 Industry Events page. These free career exploration events aim to provide students with opportunities to prepare for tomorrow’s workforce today.  Virtual sessions will be held Monday, February 5 - Thursday, February 8, 4-7 p.m., and the in-person Career Expo and Job Fair will be held Saturday, February 17, 1-4 p.m., in the North Hall of the Dulles Expo Center.

Magnet School Application and Lottery Information

The Magnet Program registration will be open from March 5- April 12. Learn more about the FCPS Magnet Programs here. To learn more about the programs and the registration process, families are encouraged to attend one of the Parent Information Nights:

• Hunters Woods Elementary, February 12, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. (In-person)
• Bailey’s Primary, February 13, 2024 at 6 p.m. (In-person)

Lightspeed Parent Report on Student’s FCPS 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 offers parents the ability 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 here.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service! Ombuds staff engage with staff, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.   The ombuds is available to help resolve disagreements involving employees in the workplace or between parents and schools. Ombuds staff do not change or make decisions, policies, or regulations; take sides; or provide legal advice. Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints may call 571-423-4014, email ombuds@fcps.edu, or visit their webpage.

Upcoming Family Resource Center Webinars

Behavior Solution Series for Elementary and Secondary Families – Join FCPS Behavior Intervention Services staff for help encouraging positive communication and behavior at home. Webinars will be held at 10 a.m.

• Elementary Webinars:
  • Proactive Strategies for Effective Communication, February 16 
  • Taming Tantrums and More, March 15
• Secondary Webinars:
  • Proactive Strategies for Effective Communication, April 19
  • Taming the Teen-Aged Brain, Friday, May 31

How to Handle Disappointing Grades: Ways to Uncover the Reasons Behind Your Child’s School Performance and How to Help- Join Ann Dolin for new strategies to tackle these sticky situations while preserving your relationship with your child. February 23, 2024, 10-11:30 a.m.

FBA/BIP Essentials for Families- Does your child have concerning behaviors at school? Did you know that there is a process to identify and support your child at school? February 29, 2024, 6:30-8 p.m.

Food and Nutrition News

Starting in March, FCPS will introduce new and exciting menus that will offer more hot options and parfaits at breakfast, and new items at lunch such as Sweet Thai Chili Chicken Wings and Asian-Inspired Dumplings. Also in March, FCPS cafeterias will display new menu cards on each food service line that provide detailed information on the included food group(s) and information to assist students in knowing which food items meet their cultural and philosophical dietary preferences. This aids students in making informed decisions on the foods they choose to eat. The Menu Card Poster will share how to read the menu cards.

Staying Healthy This Cold/Flu Season

Cases of RSV, the flu, and other viruses often rise this time of year. It is important for students to wash their hands regularly and cover their coughs and sneezes. Parents/Caregivers, please check your student before they come to school. If they complain of not feeling well, check their temperature, talk with them, and assess their physical well-being. Just a minute or two in the morning may save you a trip to school later in the day to pick up a sick student. Visit FCPS' Health and Safety Guidance webpage for more tips.

Free COVID-19 Rapid Tests 

Residential households are eligible to receive free at-home COVID-19 test kits. If an order has not been placed for your address since the program reopened on September 25, you may place two orders now.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Please note, times, and topics are subject to change. 

• Tuesday, February 13, 12:30pm: Forum- Boundary and Capacity
  • See details here.
• Tuesday, February 13, 1:45pm: Work Session
• Tuesday, February 13, 6pm: Public Hearing
• Tuesday, February 20, 12:30pm: Forum
• Tuesday, February 20, 1:45pm: Work Session 

How to watch meetings and sign up to speak

• Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are live-streamed on the FCPS website and televised on FCPS Cable Channel 99.
• Recordings of Meetings: Work Sessions and Regular Meetings are recorded and available here after the meeting. 
• To watch School Board meetings dubbed in Spanish, you can visit the FCPS en Español YouTube channel.
• For information about signing up to speak at a regular meeting or at Public Hearings, click here.
• Latest schedule of School Board Meetings

Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.

Community Updates

The Board of Supervisor's Davis Center's 40th Anniversary Recognition

Food Insecurity Resources for Families 

Food insecurity impacts more than 60,000 Fairfax County residents. There are many resources available to support those who need food assistance. Find out how to receive or offer support on the Fairfax County website, or view their Human Services Resource Guide for assistance with food, clothing, housing, and other services.

Opioid Overdoses Continue- Ways to Help

Community members are asked to stay vigilant and take steps to help curb fatal and nonfatal drug overdoses. A significant area of concern here in Fairfax County and around the country is a growing number of opioid overdoses involving youth. This article provides many facts and resources for you as a parent or community member to help keep everyone safe.

This is a communitywide problem and requires a comprehensive approach to prevent future overdoses and connect individuals experiencing opioid and substance misuse to treatment and support services. Take action today.

• Talk with your youth and other loved ones who are impacted by substance misuse about the dangers associated with drug use.  Have a short, judgment-free talk about stress, mental health, peer pressure, and substance use.
• Start talking about medication safety early by advising young children not to take any pills without asking you first.
• Only take pills prescribed by your doctor from a licensed pharmacy. Never buy pills from social media, online, on the street, or from unlicensed pharmacies.
• Review more action steps you can take and tips for parents/caregivers from the U.S. DEA.
• Learn more about fentanyl in the Fairfax Health District by watching this short video from the Fairfax Health Department and viewing materials from community events on local trends and prevention strategies:  
• What Your 11th & 12th Graders Are Learning in Schools About Drugs & How You can Talk with Them (fall 2023 – FCPS Family Resource Center) English/Español
• Opioid Townhall (April 2023) on youth opioid use and Fairfax County’s response plan 
• Preparing Families for Difficult Conversations about Alcohol & Drugs (2023 - Parent Resource Center) English / Español
• What Parents Need to Know About Drugs and Their Students with Disabilities (2023 - Fairfax County Special Education PTA)
• Webinar on Youth Substance Use Trends (Spring 2022 FCPS and Fairfax County Government)
• Sign up for a REVIVE virtual training class on how to recognize the signs and symptoms of an opioid overdose and administer naloxone nasal spray to reverse an opioid overdose. After completing the training, individuals 18 and older will receive Narcan, fentanyl test strips and treatment information.
• Safely store and dispose of unwanted medications to prevent opioid misuse from ever starting.  
• Help raise awareness by sharing resources from the Fairfax opioid communications toolkit and this fact sheet on fentanyl in the Fairfax Health District.
• Encourage youth to participate in SAMHSA’s Fentanyl Awareness Youth Challenge (see below for more details) and develop a community strategy to educate their peers about fentanyl and fake pills. Submissions are due February 26, 2024. 

Traffic Calming Information Session- Feb. 21

The McLean Citizens Association (MCA) will host a citizens information event regarding the Fairfax County traffic calming program. County officials will discuss how roads can be eligible for the program and what communities can do to obtain traffic calming. HOA representatives will discuss their experience in attempting to obtain traffic calming in their neighborhood.

• Wednesday, February 21, 7:30 PM
  • MCC - Community Hall (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean)

GW Parkway Inclement Weather Planning

Thank you for your patience during the weather-related closures in January. As the winter season continues, the NPS may shift the reversible lane schedule or close the parkway for inclement weather forecasts. Closure and re-opening information will be shared via news outlets and email. Sign up to receive GWMP Rehabilitation Project updates and traffic impacts. 

 As a reminder, the northern section of the parkway: 

• Will close for storms forecasting 2 or more inches of snow or any amount of freezing rain or ice. Drivers will need to seek alternate routes. 
• Will remain open for storms forecasting fewer than 2 inches of snow and no freezing rain or ice.

McLeanToday.org Website  Volunteer and Event Information The McLean Revitalization Corporation (MRC) is the proud sponsor of McLean Today. The McLean Revitalization Corporation's (MRC) mission is to facilitate the economic growth and revitalization of the Community Business Center (CBC) of downtown McLean. The goal of the new website is simple: To inform, inspire and connect Greater McLean. Check McLeanToday.org for the latest on the many activities, events and services found in Greater McLean.

School and Student News

My visit with Herndon High School's Principal Noto

Dranesville TJHSST Student Finalist Among Nation’s Top 300 Teen Scientists

The Regeneron Science Talent Search 2024 (STS) is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science and math competition for high school seniors. Dranesville’s TJHSST student David Cao has been named a top 40 finalist in the competition and will participate in the Finals Week competition from March 7-13! Finalists are each awarded at least $25,000, and the top 10 winners will receive awards ranging from $40,000 to $250,000. Eight of the 300 scholars are students in Fairfax County public schools: one from Madison High School and seven from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Read more about David and the other students here. Congratulations David  and good luck!

Top Awards in Regional MATHCOUNTS Competition

Student teams from Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) won five of the top seven awards in the Northern Virginia Regional MATHCOUNTS competition, held recently at Chantilly High School. Approximately 375 sixth- through eighth-grade students from 45 elementary, middle, private, and home schools competed at the events as school teams and as individuals. Read more here.

Congratulations to these Dranesville school teams and students:

Northern Virginia Chapter- Team awards:

• Longfellow Middle School: Yeeyung Li, Michelle Lin, Alice Wang, Shunyao Yan; Patti Freeman, coach. (First)
• Cooper Middle School: Andrew Du, Erick Schellhaas, Leo Wang, Ray Zhao; Lisa Walsh, coach. (Second)

Northern Virginia Chapter- Top-scoring Students in Each Chapter:

• Shunyao Yan, Longfellow Middle School. (First) 
• Ian Cheng, Colvin Run Elementary School. (Third)
• Leo Wang, Cooper Middle School. (Fourth)
• Garidkhuu Batkhuu, Longfellow Middle School. (Fifth) 

Congressional App Challenge

The annual Congressional App Challenge encourages students to create unique mobile apps to help solve real world problems. Nearly every member of the House of Representatives holds their own contest for members of their district. Here are the winners from the Northern Virginia districts:

• In Representative Gerry Connolly's District 11, TJHSST juniors Aahil Valliani, and Arya Bharath, along with Zohran Valliani from Cooper MS placed second with their app Snap Quiz. 
• In Representative Don Beyer's District 8, junior Archi Marrapu won for his app VOYCE.
• In Representative Jennifer Wexton's District 10, junior Arjun Babla won for his app Scribe.

Dulles Airport’s Youth Art Walk FCPS Student Art on Display  The Youth Art Walk is a joint initiative between The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Social Impact, Fairfax County Public Schools, and the McLean Project for the Arts. Student artwork, including the Haycock students’ in the photo, is on display near the TSA Precheck security checkpoint. Read about the current display here.

2023 Awards of Communication Excellence

The 2023 Awards of Communication Excellence celebrate the creation of excellent website, newsletter, and social media content that informs and engages readers.

Langley HS won in the category of website. The Langley High School website's success is attributed to collaborative teamwork. Administrative Assistant Nancy Ayoub posts announcements and events while SBTS Lindsey Fisher maintains the rest of the website. School Counselor Hannah Martenson joined the mix this year and enhanced the Student Services content, making this section a model for other high schools. Langley also offers extensive Student Life & Activities content and Advancement Placement information.  

Westfield HS won in the category of Social Media! "Westfield’s Instagram is fun, bright, and student-centered. The Bulldog spirit shines through, and their engagement metrics are an indicator of that. They are not afraid of jumping on a trend, with their 'Hi Barbie!' reel earning more than 400 likes."

Cooper MS

Congratulations to Cooper’s Kid’s Lit Teams who came 2nd at nationals in Connecticut!!  Read more here.

Herndon MS

First ever Math-STEM Fun Night: February 15: 6- 8pm. We will have Robotics Team demonstrations & Math-STEM hands-on activities led by Herndon High Students! The first Chesapeake, NOVALabs, and Abacus teams will also be ONSITE! Pre-Registration is required to save your spot! Any student younger than 7th grade must be accompanied by an adult. 

Langley HS

Congratulations to Langley freshman Zayan Durrani on winning an international photography award, Young Travel Photographer of The Year (14 yrs & under)! You can check out his winning images of Litli-Hrutur volcano, Iceland here.

Longfellow MS

Nine members of our Debate Team competed in a recent tournament. Ashley Yan and April Sheng placed in the top 10 for best individual speaker. They also placed in the top 10 for best team, along with their teammate Leena Melkote. Congratulations to our team!

McLean HS

Congratulations to the McLean Math League for winning second place out of 108 teams in the Berkeley Math Tournament team round and placing sixth overall. Chengbo Kan won second place in the Integration Bee, with Daniel Kim placing tenth in the General category and Aiden Feyerham placing seventh in the Discrete category.

February is...

Black History Month

February is Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about Black History month. Learn more about Black History Month here.

Black History Month Celebration

Fairfax County’s Black History Month Celebration will be held on Friday, February 23, at 5:30 p.m., at the Government Center(12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax). This year’s theme is The Value of Telling Our Stories. It will include performances, activities, discussion, and light refreshments.

Other Fairfax County Celebrations and Events

•  Fairfax County Park Authority Black History Month events 
• Celebrate and Honor Black History Month With Fairfax County Public Library including "A Mighty Long Way: My Journey to Justice at Little Rock Central High School" Sunday, Feb. 25, 2 p.m. Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean) Carlotta Walls LaNier, youngest member of the Little Rock Nine was a key protagonist in one of the most gripping watershed moments of the Civil Rights Movement. She delivers powerful keynotes that reflect on history while inspiring hope for the future. Registration to attend is required.  Register and learn more here.

Career and Technical Education 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 middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the CTE website.

Board of Supervisor Career and Technical Education Month Recognition

Academy Open Houses 

Is your child interested in architecture and construction, information technology, or health science? A high school Academy is a center within a high school that offers advanced technical and specialized courses to prepare students for postsecondary education and/or career fields. Students enrolling in Academy elective courses will be provided with opportunities to participate in a variety of career experiences including shadowing, mentoring, or internships with local businesses. Learn more and view the calendar of Academy open houses.

Open House Details

• Fairfax County Firefighting Program - March 4, 6:30-8 p.m.
• Spring Village Construction - February 17, 12-2 p.m.
• Spring Village Construction - March 2, 12-2 p.m.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

The purpose of Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month is to raise public awareness about the impact of dating violence on youth, educate young people about healthy relationships, and encourage the community to get involved to disrupt cycles of violence among teens. Dating violence is a pattern of harmful behaviors that can be used to exert power and control over a dating partner, and this can happen in different ways. Many teens experience some form of intimate partner violence even before graduating from high school. Learn more here.

National School Counseling Week- February 5-9 

National School Counseling Week highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

Lunar New Year- February 10

It is a celebration of the arrival of spring and the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar, which begins on Feb 10, 2024 this year. The number of celebration days with different names varies depending on the country. China’s Lunar New Year is known as the Spring Festival, or Chūnjié in Mandarin, while Koreans call the holiday Seollal and Vietnamese, Tết. Lunar New Year is a celebration of community. During this time, families gather to eat feasts and practice cultural traditions. Read more about Lunar New Year and its animal symbols in National Geographic Kids. and learn about lunar new year at the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art.

Ash Wednesday- February 14

Ash Wednesday is a holy day of prayer and fasting in many Western Christian denominations. It marks the beginning of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ash on their foreheads. Ash Wednesday derives its name from this practice. Read more about Ash Wednesday in Britannica.com.

Presidents Day- February 19

Presidents Day is a time to honor and remember the birthdays and achievements of the country's most distinguished leaders, and to reflect on the role of the president in shaping the nation's history and development. All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 19, for Presidents Day. Learn more about Presidents Day in Britannica.com. 

Leap Day- February 29

From the Old Farmer's Almanac, adding an extra day every four years keeps our calendar aligned correctly with the astronomical seasons, since a year according to the Gregorian calendar (365 days) and a year according to Earth’s orbit around the Sun (approximately 365.25 days) are not the same length of time. Without this extra day, our calendar and the seasons would gradually get out of sync. Learn more at National Geographic Kids.

Opportunities and Events

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.

I'm Determined- 2024 Youth and Family Summit

The Youth and Family Summit is a three-day event held each June and sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education and the Partnership for People with Disabilities. Youth with disabilities from across the Commonwealth meet to network and discuss issues of importance to youth and young adults with disabilities. Applications are due February 11.

One Water Art Contest

Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG) is joining regional water utilities to host its annual art contest with the theme of protecting our source water. Local student artists in grades 9-12 can submit their art or short video which captures the importance of protecting our local water sources. The submission deadline is Monday, February 12, 2024. Learn more about the One Water Art Contest and submit your entry

FentAlert: Empowering Youth for Safer Choices - SAMHSA Fentanyl Awareness Youth Challenge

How can young people be a part of the solution to increase awareness about the risks of fentanyl?

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) wants you to pitch your idea that educates youth in your community about fentanyl and fake pills, and prevents overdose. Your idea could include any innovative ways to reach youth on this topic like social media posts, vlogs, podcasts, video journals, etc. In this Challenge, we are seeking the best ideas from U.S. youth, aged 14-18, on a community strategy to increase youth awareness, education, and prevention around the dangers of fentanyl, especially the hidden dangers of fake pills and other contaminants that can lead to drug overdose deaths. Learn more about the FentAlert Challenge here. Submissions are due February 26, 2024 6 p.m. ET.

These are the facts:

• Among adolescents age 10-19, from 2019 to 2021:
• Monthly drug overdose deaths increased 109%. 
• Deaths involving illicitly manufactured fentanyls increased 182%. 
• About 90% of these deaths involved opioids and 84% involved illicitly manufactured fentanyls.
• Counterfeit pills were present in nearly 25% of these deaths.
• Two-thirds of those who died had one or more potential bystanders present, but most didn’t provide overdose response (many bystanders were in another room or didn’t know that drugs were being used).
• Criminal drug networks are mass-producing fake pills, and falsely marketing them as legitimate prescription pills. They are made to look just like prescription drugs such as oxycodone (Oxycontin®, Percocet®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), and alprazolam (Xanax®); or stimulants like amphetamines (Adderall®).
• 7 out of 10 fake prescription pills (seized by the DEA) contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl.
• Xylazine (often known as “tranq”), is a central nervous system depressant and animal tranquilizer that has been showing up in combination with fentanyl and has been involved in a growing number of overdose deaths.

MCC Governing Board Youth and Adult Seats

The McLean Community Center is looking for district residents to serve on its Governing Board: four adult board seats and two youth board seats. All candidates must be residents of the MCC’s tax district (Small District 1A-Dranesville). One youth candidate from the area served by Langley High School will be elected, and one youth candidate from the area served by McLean High School will be elected. Completed Candidate Petitions must be returned to MCC by 5 p.m. on Monday, March 11. Learn more here.

Sorensen Institute's 2024 HS Leaders Program

The Sorensen Institute for Political Leadership is seeking civic-minded students from across Virginia to apply to the 2024 High School Leaders Program (HSLP). The HSLP curriculum covers the foundations of public policy and effective civic engagement, while connecting students with peers of different backgrounds and philosophies from around the state. Applications are due Monday, March 25, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. Click here to apply and learn more about the HSLP.

NVSWCD College Scholarship

NVSWCD is offering a $1,000 scholarship to graduating high school seniors or college freshman pursuing a degree in natural resource conservation or a related field. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the VASWCD Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 1. Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.

Great Falls Youth Native Habitat Garden Grant

The Great Falls Garden Club in partnership with Friends of the Great Falls Library is sponsoring a $300 Youth Native Habitat Garden Grant to be awarded to a student in Grades 5 -11 who lives in the 22066 zip-code. On February 15, application materials will be available on-line at GFGardenClub.org and at the GF library. Also, the Great Falls Garden Club will be hosting a free workshop on Sunday, March 10: 1- 3pm at the Old Forestville Schoolhouse (9812 Georgetown Pike, Great Fall)s on how to plant and maintain a Native Habitat Garden. Submissions are due April 15.

NPR Student Podcast Challenge 

The sixth annual Student Podcast Challenge is now open and will close on May 3, 2024. Our judges will choose winners in three categories: grade four, grades five through eight, and grades nine through 12. As in the past, entries must be submitted by a teacher, educator, or mentor who is 18 years or older. After years of listening to student podcasts, we've learned that shorter is better. Learn more about the contest here.

Library of Congress- Braille on Demand Program

Events

Stuff the Bus- 2/10 and 3/2 A Fairfax County Fastran bus will visit local grocery stores to collect donated food and household items. Since launching in 2011, the campaign has collected more than 281,500 pounds of food to benefit local non-profit food pantries, resulting in 200,000 meals for those in need. Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Herndon Safeway (413 Elden Street, Herndon) benefitting LINK. Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., McLean Giant (1454 Chain Bridge Road, McLean) Benefitting: SHARE of McLean

Colvin Run Mill Maple Syrup Boil Down

Join us on Saturday, Feb. 10 and on two Sundays, Feb. 18 and Feb. 25, for a Maple Syrup Boil Down. Choose times between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This program is tailored for groups, families and children aged 6 and older. Register here.

McLean Community Center Events

• “Animaniacs” in Concert!- Saturday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m. Voices and Songs of the Iconic Animated Series LIVE on Stage

• Buckets ‘N Boards- Friday, Feb. 23, 7 p.m.: a hilarious, high-energy and interactive percussion show

 DIVERSEartLANGLEY Art Exhibition- Feb. 12

The exhibition with the driving question: What does freedom mean to you? is on Monday, Feb. 12 in the Langley HS Main Hall (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean): Exhibition Viewing 6-7:30 pm and Discussion 7:30-8:30 pm.

2024 FC Teen Job Fair- March 2 and March 9

Looking for a job or volunteer opportunity? All students are invited to attend the 2024 Fairfax County Teen Job Fair Series and Career Building Workshops sponsored by Springfield District Supervisor Herrity with FCPS kicking off Saturday, March 2-  11am- 1pm at Chantilly HS and on Saturday, March 9- 11am-1pm at West Springfield HS. At each fair, students will have the opportunity to engage with employers offering part-time, full-time, seasonal, and volunteer positions. Students will also be able to attend career-building workshops like Resume Building and Interviewing 101. For more information, or to register, please visit the Teen Job Fair webpage.

Save the Date

Bands on the Run- April 21

Calling all runners and walkers! Our 5th Annual Bands on the Run 5K is on Sun., Apr 21 at 8 am! This event is open to the entire community and benefits the Langley HS and Cooper MS bands. All ages are welcome. Stay afterwards and enjoy live DJ music, refreshments and sponsors’ tables. Learn more here.

SCC Spring Speaker- Jeff Selingo Fireside Chat- April 29

Monday, April 29- 7- 9:30p.m. Plan to join The Safe Community Coaliation (SCC) for a fireside chat with Jeff Selingo at The Alden Theatre(1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean). Jeff Selingo has written about higher education for more than two decades. His latest book, Who Gets In & Why: A Year Inside College Admissions was named among the 100 Notable Books of the year by the New York Times. See the SCC website for more information.

McLean Day Festival- May 18 McLean’s biggest festival is accepting applications for McLean Day 2024! Local businesses, artisans, community organizations, and crafters are invited to apply for exhibitor booths to promote their products and/or services. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Learn more about exhibiting or volunteering here.

Summer Opportunities

FCPS Summer Learning and Fun

Career and Technical Education

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Visit the TAC webpage to register. 

CTE Summer Academy (CSA) is a week-long enrichment program that allows students in grades 6-11 to dive deeper into CTE program areas, develop skills, and begin career exploration. Visit the CSA webpage to register.

Institute for the Arts Camps

IFTA is a two- or three-week summer enrichment program for students currently in grades 6-11. Students select from nearly 90 classes in art, dance, health and physical education 9 (graduation requirement), music, and theater. Visit the IFTA webpage to register. 

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. Visit the E-IFTA webpage to register.

Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. During the self-directed course, students work independently to complete the requirements. Students must register by Friday, May 24. For more information, see the Summer Learning information page.

Summer Online Campus

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program. Registration ends Friday, June 7. Math, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible students.

Additional Summer Learning Opportunities

Please go to the following website Summer Learning information page to learn about these summer opportunities:

• Credit Recovery Academy/ Extended Learning
• English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)
• Self-Directed Economics and Personal Finance

Here is a list of a few non-FCPS summer opportunities.

Inspire Summer 2024

Send your high schooler to UVA Northern Virginia this summer! Applications for Inspire Summer 2024 are now available. Whether it's college essay writing, coding, or forensic science, we offer a diverse range of courses. Seats are limited and the priority deadline is February 23, 2024—apply here.

Fairfax County Parks Spring and Summer Camp Registration- Now Open

Spring and Summer Camp Registration is open! Spots fill up fast! See the full listing of camps, as well as multiple ways to search and tools to use that will make enrolling easier. Learn more about the camps and how to register here.

Herndon Summer Camp Registration in April

Registration for our summer camps start April 3 for Town of Herndon residents and April 9 for non-residents. Don't let this opportunity slip away! Your child will have unforgettable memories and make new friends. Learn more here.

Youth Conservation Camp for HS Students

Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, held July 14-20 on the Virginia Tech campus. This one-week program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach high school students more about the natural world. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply and may receive a partial scholarship from NVSWCD. Applications are due Friday, April 26. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp, including how to obtain an application. 

McLean Community Center Summer Camps

Registration is now open. Check out our Summer Camp Guide to find some Olympic-sized opportunities for your child to win gold this summer! McLean Community Center is offering a wide variety of enriching camp programs this summer, including: Camp McLean; Old Firehouse Summer Camp trips; Camp Shakespeare; and weeklong camps.

McLean Project of the Arts Summer Camps

Don't miss the opportunity for your kids to spend a fun and imaginative week in both half-day or full-day camp sessions for ages 6-13. Taught by experienced classroom art teachers in our Emerson Gallery and DuVal Studio, camps begin the week of June 24 and continue through the week of August 5. Learn more here.

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

The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.

© 2024 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

E-mail: Robyn Lady  |  Phone: 571-423-1087

Staff Aide: Wendy Biliter | Phone: 571-423-1068