English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية  | فارسی | اردو

Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.

Dear Dranesville Families:

I hope you have had time to enjoy the May flowers and the warm weather. It is a busy time at all our schools with proms, graduation prep, and lots of standardized testing. A lot of high schools are still in need of AP proctors so please volunteer if possible. Speaking of testing, remember that Tutor.com’s tutors can help 24/7 with those last-minute questions or to prepare students for their tests. Please also make sure your students get a good night’s sleep prior to exams. If you have or will have a middle schooler and support later start times, please attend one of the upcoming Community Forums to learn more and share your thoughts.

I have been quite busy over the past few weeks doing school visits- from experiencing Herndon MS Robotics to an AI Symposium at TJ and McLean High School’s musical Anatasia, to seeing my first MS track and field meet at South Lakes HS and attending Herndon HS’s distracted drivers simulation. I also visited Longfellow MS and attended SEPTA’s event on Storytelling as an Advocacy Tool for the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Community. I am continually impressed by the work happening in and out of our schools and the staff and school leaders who guide our students. I am bummed that I was not able to attend more spring musicals and hope to do so next year.

Yesterday, I visited Langley HS and attended their PTSA meeting. There were great questions: expanding MS sports, SR&R including vaping and cell phone usage, budget, and staffing. One parent asked what my top three priorities were, and I shared on the academic side literacy/numeracy and pre-K for all students. My third was to save money/address spending. One way forward on this is the holistic view of the county wide Boundary Policy which has not been altered in 38 years. By looking at the policy, we can look at capacity issues both over and under, long commutes, fewer buses, more sleep for students, and find ways to save taxpayers money. Based on the February Forum, the Governance Committee has been reviewing Policy 8130.  The latest draft  can be found here. The next Governance meeting is scheduled for May 20th and is open to the public. Once the policy has been approved by the Board, the next step is operationalizing this new policy.

Next week is teacher/staff appreciation week! It’s amazing to see all the ways our schools and PTA/PTSAs/PTOs are sharing the love and support for their teachers and school staff. I know how hard our staff work and can’t thank them enough for all that they do! I can’t believe graduations start in just over 4 weeks. I hope you find time to enjoy with your students and see you around Dranesville.

Robyn

In this newsletter,

• Updates
• School and Student News
• May is...
• Opportunities
• Events

My visit to McLean HS's Spring Musical, "Anastasia"

Updates

FCPS Updates

Calendar Reminders May 3: School Lunch Heroes Day May 3: Orthodox Good Friday- Student Holiday May 5: Orthodox Easter May 6-10: Teacher & Staff Appreciation Week May 7: National Fentanyl Awareness Day May 8: National School Nurse Day May 8: Bike, Walk, Roll to School Day May 27: Memorial Day Holiday- no school Calendar for 2023-24 School Year  Calendar for 2024-25 School Year

2024 Dranesville Students' Graduation Schedule

School Board Updates

School Board Meeting Highlights - April 25, 2024

The School Board approved proclamations honoring Autism Affirmation Month and Holocaust Remembrance Day. The School Board honored 2023-2024 National Board Certified Teachers (NBCT), including 14 educators who achieved status as an NBCT and 21 educators who renewed status as an NBCT.

Key Votes

Strategic Plan 2023-30 Goal 2 Baseline Report: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered

The School Board voted to approve the Goal 2 Baseline Report as the Division's starting point for the work toward achieving the goals in our Strategic Plan 2023-30.

2024-25 IDEA Special Education Annual Plan

The School Board voted to approve the 2024-25 Special Education Annual Plan/Part B Flow-Through Application, Section 611, and Section 619 (Preschool), Part B, grant funding application, as detailed in the agenda item.

Advisory Committee Operating Manual

The School Board voted to send the Advisory Committee Operating Manual, the related sections of the Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710 to the Public Engagement Committee (PEC) and direct the PEC to gather feedback from the Board’s advisory committee chairs and bring final recommendations to the board for a vote no later than June 27, 2024.

Watch the full meeting.

Dr. Reid's Academic Matters

April 25, 2024 School Board Meeting 

Superintendent Dr. Reid presented on FCPS’ Get2Green initiative during the Academic Matters segment. View the presentation slides.

Get2Green is FCPS’ sustainability program, and supports green teams at schools with hands-on environmental projects to improve the sustainability of the school and community. Green teams are active at many schools with student-driven activities such as reducing waste, planting and maintaining wildlife habitats, conserving energy, and tending edible gardens.

April 11, 2024 School Board Meeting 

During the Academic Matters, Superintendent Dr. Reid recognized 10 years of Portrait of a Graduate (POG) at FCPS. POG helps set students up for personal and academic success by building skills in communication, collaboration, ethical and global citizenship, creative and critical thinking, and being goal-directed and resilient. 

Give Your Feedback on the Budget

We are now in the middle of the annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback: 

• Tuesday, May 7: The County Board of Supervisors adopts its budget, tax rates, and transfer amount to FCPS. 
• Tuesday, May 14: The School Board holds a public hearing on the FCPS budget.
  • Wednesday, May 15: Hold for second Budget Public Hearing
  • To speak at the Budget Public Hearing, click here.
• Thursday, May 23: The School Board adopts FCPS’ approved budget.

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2025 Advertised Budget and see the full Budget Development Calendar

Megan Sawant new Student SB Representative

Megan Sawant, a junior at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), has been elected by the countywide Student Advisory Council (SAC) to serve a one-year term as student representative to the Fairfax County School Board, beginning July 1. Sawant will participate in School Board meetings as a nonvoting member, filling the position currently held by Rida Karim, a junior at Woodson High School. She will be the 54th student representative to the School Board. Read more about her here.

Upcoming School Board Meetings 

• Tuesday, May 7, 11:30 am: Forum

• Tuesday, May 7, 1 pm: Work Session

• Thursday, May 9, 7 pm: Regular Meeting 

• Thursday, May 14, 6:30 pm: Public Hearing: Budget

• Thursday, May 15, 6:30 pm: Public Hearing: Budget (if needed)

All times and topics subject to change.

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.

FCPS Updates and Resources

2024-25 FCPS PreK & Early Head Start Program The FCPS PreK and Early Head Start program is accepting applications for SY 2024-25. FCPS PreK and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying income-eligible children ages six weeks to four years living in Fairfax County. Watch this video to learn more (also available in Spanish).  Pre-K prioritizes children who turn 4-years-old by September 30 and also accepts applications for 3-year-old children. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools - Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood - and accepts applications from pregnancy to 2 years old. Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Space is limited and based on income and educational risk factors, not first come, first served. Apply online, by email fcpsprekoffice@fcps.edu, or in person at FCPS’ Leis Center (7423 Camp Alger Ave., Falls Church). For questions about your application or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).

Registration for 2024-2025 School Year

Kindergarten

Registering your child early helps schools prepare and ensure they have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. After determining which school your child will attend, parents/caregivers may prepare for registration by gathering documents, and completing forms. For details and language support, please visit the Kindergarten Registration page.

Register Your Children Online

Online registration is available for new and re-enrolling FCPS families. Apply today to help schools plan for the 2024-25 school year.

Note: Registration is not required for currently enrolled FCPS students. 

Resources for Families New to FCPS

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

• School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.

• Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family involvement.

• Family Engagement Resources – FCPS works to connect, strengthen, and support our families, schools, and communities. 

• Do You Know About Family Liaisons? – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.

Our Schools, Our Future: Community Conversations Continue

Join Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid for Our Schools, Our Future – A Community Conversation. Your voice matters! Share your thoughts about FCPS and bring your questions to a conversation on:

• Wednesday, May 8, 6:30-7:30 pm, Hybla Valley Elementary School.
• Thursday, May 16, 6:30-7:30 pm, Poe Middle School.
• Tuesday, May 21, 6:30-7:30 pm, Katherine Johnson Middle School.

Pre-registration for a Community Conversation is not required but will help FCPS plan. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided for all events based on staff availability. Events are open to all. 

Community Forums on MS Start Times

FCPS is exploring options for adjusting middle school start times and invites the public to be part of the process. All forums will deliver the same presentation and provide the same feedback opportunities. Register for an in-person forum by clicking on one of the following dates: 

• Monday, May 6, 6-8 pm, Whitman Middle School.
• Monday, May 13, 6:30-8 pm, virtual forum. 
• Monday, May 20, 6-8 pm, Hughes Middle School.
• Wednesday, May 22, 6-8 pm, Frost Middle School.

While registration is not required, it does help with planning. Language interpretation and childcare will be provided. Learn more about the project exploring middle school start times.  

May Webinars and Events for Families

The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars for adults to support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Upcoming events include:

• Friday, May 10, 10-11:30 a.m. – Apego: Creando una relación con mi hijo donde se sienta seguro y protegido. (presentado en español)
• Attached: Creating a Relationship With My Child Where They Feel Safe and Secure (Presented in Spanish) 
• Tuesday, May 14, 10-11 a.m. and Wednesday, May 15, 7-8 p.m. – COVID-19 Compensatory Services Partnership Between FCPS and Varsity Tutors
• Friday, May 17, 10-11:30 a.m. – Meet the Author Series: “The Breakthrough Years” by Ellen Galinsky
• Friday, May 31, 10-11:30 a.m. – Behavior Solution Series for Secondary Families: Taming the Teenaged Brain

Click the linked titles above to register. 

FCPS Ombuds Provides Confidential Guidance

The Office of the Ombuds engages 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 questions answered, offer options to resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.  Anyone seeking assistance from the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email ombuds@fcps.edu, or visit their webpage where you may Submit a Question.

Online Special Education Resource Fair

A virtual fair with asynchronous training for families and community members who have students with disabilities.  Additionally, an online exhibit hall will highlight FCPS offices and programs, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. 

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, parents/caregivers can refer their children for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the Teletherapy webpagefor information on how to opt your child into this service.

FCPS Safety Tipline

• Tipline phone number is 571-423-2020.
• Text your concerns to 888-777; keyword TIP FCPS
• Online: Quick Tip Electronic Form (through SchoolMessenger)

Learn more on the FCPS Safety Tipline website.

Work for FCPS

School Board Deputy Clerk

We seek a Deputy Clerk to help ensure our elected School Board meets its mission to provide an excellent education to our 182,000+ students and maintain its status as a top employer for our 45,000 educators and staff. This  job is fast-paced; includes working with policy and legal matters; requires strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills; and will require flexible hours that may include weeknights and occasional weekends. See the job listing here and please share with others.

Shift Gears Into a New Career at the FCPS Bus Driver Job Fair

The Office of Transportation Services will be hosting bus driver job fairs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the following dates:

• Friday, May 17, at Lorton Center (8101 Lorton Rd, Lorton)

• Thursday, May 23, at Stonecroft Transportation Center (4641 Stonecroft Blvd, Chantilly)

Driving for FCPS is a great opportunity for stay-at-home parents, retirees, college students, and career switchers to earn income with benefits. No registration is needed. Apply today! Call 571-423-3000 or email DriveForFCPS@fcps.edu with questions.

Cook Up Your Next Career: FCPS Food and Nutrition Job Fair

Food and Nutrition Services will host a  job fair on Wednesday, May 15: 1 - 2:30 p.m. at the Office of Food and Nutrition Services (6840 Industrial Rd, Springfield). No registration is needed. For more information or general questions, call 703-813-4800 or email WorkForFNS@fcps.edu.

April Audit Buzz Newsletter In this issue of the Audit Buzz, we provide an update on current engagements, discuss “The Vital Role of Hotlines in Combating Fraud, Waste, and Abuse” in the Knowledge Hive; and promote the upcoming Internal Audit Awareness Month. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on the Office of Auditor General's (OAG) website.

April events: SEPTA Storytelling author event; Herndon ON meeting; and SCC Appreciation Supper

Community Updates

Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter

Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Dranesville Dispatch newsletter here to keep up-to-date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.

Six Lanes on Route 7 Now Open

Drivers along nearly seven miles of Route 7 (Leesburg Pike) now have three travel lanes in each direction between Reston Avenue and the Dulles Toll Road (Route 267).  Route 7 is now continuously at least six lanes for about 20 miles from Leesburg to Tysons.

The improvements from Reston Avenue to Jarrett Valley Drive included:

• Widening Route 7 from four to six lanes
• Improving access management at 19 intersections
• Adding shared-use paths along both sides of Route 7
• Replacing the bridge over Difficult Run
• Reconstructing the Lewinsville Road intersection with the displaced left-turn lane from eastbound Route 7 to Lewinsville Road
• Building a new pedestrian underpass at Colvin Run Mill Park 

Spring Hill Rec Center Gets a Solar Charge

The Fairfax County Park Authority’s (FCPA) Spring Hill Rec Center is turning over a new leaf during Earth month 2024 with the activation of a brand-new 307-kilowatt solar photovoltaic array installed on the natatorium and gymnasium roofs as part of a multi-faceted project to enhance the energy efficiency of the popular rec center. The new solar array, the largest to date in the Park Authority, generates enough energy to power 33 homes annually, and is expected to reduce the center’s electricity needs by 13 percent.

Fairfax County 2024 Farmers Markets

The Fairfax County Park Authority is ready for the 2024 Farmers Market season! Find locally grown produce, delicious baked goods and prepared foods as well as family-friendly activities at all ten markets around the County. A full list of farmers markets is here. 

Farmers Market Opening Days in Dranesville

• Herndon Farmers Market (765 Lynn St., Herndon): May 2/ Thursdays 8am-12pm
• McLean Farmers Market (1659 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean): May 3/ Fridays 8am-12pm

Parents' Ultimate Guide to Snapchat

From Common Sense Media, while Snapchat is popular with teens for its disappearing messages and fun filters, families may worry about safety and hidden features. This Common Sense Media article offers a guide for families, explaining how Snapchat works, potential risks, and how to keep teens safe while using the app. 

School and Student News

My visit to Herndon HS's distracted driver simulator event

FCPS Students Take Top Honors at Virginia FBLA State Leadership Conference

Twenty four Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students won first place awards at the 2024 Virginia Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference held recently in Reston. More than 100 students placed in the top four in their event and qualified to compete in the FBLA National Leadership Conference in Orlando in June. A complete list of winners is here.

Students Win Big at State Science Fair

Six students from three Fairfax County high schools won grand prize awards at the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair. They have qualified to compete at the international level in May. These students were among nearly 80 students from FCPS who participated in the state fair. Read about their projects and the additional students awardees.

Here are the Dranesville student winners:

• Langley HS:
  • Shirya Jaddu- Biomedical Sciences, Biomedical Engineering, and Translational Medicine
  • Ben Doan and Lang Xiong- Material Science
  • Shumvobi Mitra- MicrobiologyNeha 
• Thomas Jefferson HSST
  • Neha Chandran and Srimaye Peddiniti- Physics, Math, and Astronomy

Students Selected for 2024 All-Virginia Band, Orchestra, and Chorus 

One hundred eighty-one FCPS students have been selected to perform at the 2024 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra event which will take place April 18-20. Students throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for positions within these ensembles. Participants will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors and collaborate with fellow musicians during the event, which is free and open to the public. Congratulations to all! Read more here.

All-Virginia Band- Dranesville students:

• Langley HS: Clare Colligan; Henry Lin; Elliot Pomper; Glenn van Valkenburgh; Marianne Wang

• McLean HS: Luke Callanen; Tyler Jeong; Alex Kirby; Clara Marks; Fintan Murphy; Jaeger Schweikert; Goldie Woods; Muyang Zhang

• Thomas Jefferson HSST: Calvin Hodor

All-Virginia Orchestra- Dranesville students:

• Langley HS:  Finn Fitzgerald; Jayden Lee

• McLean HS: Kian Choi; Ryan Chun; Alexandra Glass; Livia Nhan; Rishi Vinod

• Thomas Jefferson HSST: Daniel Yeum

All-Virginia Chorus- Dranesville students: 

• Langley HS: Anna Cox; Audrey Headricks; Cleia Jones; Dominika Loisha; Maya Sachdev; Ashraya Suri

• Marshall HS: Jacob Lee

Congratulations to 6th Grade All County Chorus 

Thanks to the student singers and the elementary school music teachers for supporting our sixth graders in the All County Chorus concert last weekend. Well done! 

Science Olympiad- 2024 Virginia Team Results

Congratulations to all our hard-working teams at States. You can find the full results on Duosmium. Good luck to the teams moving on to Nationals - Longfellow MS, Cooper MS, TJHSST, and Langley HS!

Division B team standings:

1. Longfellow MS
2. Cooper MS
3. Haycock ES

Division C team standings:

1. Thomas Jefferson HSST
2. Langley HS
3. Fairfax HS

2024 Macdonald Scholarship Competition

First-Place Winners Melina Turnage (Dance), Lea Kung (Instrumental Music), Samantha Carey (Theater) and Alex Valencic (Vocal Music). Photo by Oxley Photography

Twelve young local artists were awarded the 2024 James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship by the McLean Community Center. The James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition encourages artistic achievement and promotes study in the arts by high school students who reside or attend school in the McLean district (Small Tax District 1A, Dranesville). Read more here.

Clearview ES

Clearview 5K, Fun Run, and Walk- A celebrated community tradition, the Clearview 5K and Fun Run takes place Saturday, May 11, at 8 a.m. (rain or shine) and open to participants with all modes of mobility. Walkers are encouraged to join us, and wheelchairs and strollers are welcome. Remember to invite a neighbor or other community member to run, walk, or roll with you. Advanced registration is available here, or sign up the day of the race.

Colvin Run ES

Congratulations to Callie H. (5th grade) for being selected as 1 of 15 student artists across DC, Maryland, and Virginia to have their artwork featured on a DMV Metrobus beginning on April 22 in celebration of 2024 Earth Day for her artwork, Dream-hicle! Read about the bus wraps here.

Haycock ES

Congratulations to our Odyssey of the Mind Team-Penelope Y, Madelyn C, Devan S, Madeline Y, Yuna C, and Noa H represented Haycock this weekend at the Odyssey of the Mind State tournament and received 3rd place.

State National History Day Competition- Congratulations to our 6th grade students who participated in the Virginia NHD Competition in Richmond. They represented Haycock incredibly well, and we are so proud of all of them.

My visit to Herndon MS Robotics Scrimmage

Herndon MS

Josue Benavidez, a Herndon MS 8th grader, received the Distinguished Teen Volunteer Award at the 38th Annual Mayor's Volunteer Appreciation Reception. He was nominated by Cornerstones and Opportunity Neighborhoods. Josue's proactive approach to volunteering, evident in his involvement with the ON Herndon Team and Leadership Team Meetings, showcases his commitment to enhancing the community and advocating for issues relevant to his school and peers.

Langley HS

2023-24 State Debate Championships- Congratulations to the Langley Debate Team for being the Class 6 State Champion! See all the winners here. Langley also won 2 individual awards:

• Class 6 Public Forum: 2nd place- Ahaan Shah and Sahil Gubbi
• Class 6 Lincoln- Douglas: 1st place- Vishwa Rakasi

McLean HS

U.S. Army Orchestra Young Artist Competition- Ms. Smith and the MHSO are extremely proud of violinist Ryan Chun, who recently won 1st place in the Strings Division of the 2024 U.S. Army Orchestra Young Artist Competition. In addition to Ryan's success, we are also proud of MHS student, Goldie Woods! She received an honorable mention for her harp playing. 

TJHSST

TJHSST's MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge team (Rishabh Chhabra, Om Gole, Rishabh Prabhu, Laura Zhang (Dranesville), Victoria Zhang (Dranesville)) has made it to the finals. They compete against 5 other HS teams. Learn more about the challenge here.

My visit to the Get2Green Symposium

May is...

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month People with ancestral roots in Asia and the islands of the Pacific have been integral to the story of America. In 1992, May was designated Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month to celebrate their heritage and contributions.

Jewish American Heritage Month May is a national month of recognition of the history of Jewish contributions to American culture, acknowledging the diverse achievement of the Jewish community in the U.S.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month Since its inception in 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been a cornerstone of addressing the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. While most people will struggle with a mental health challenge at some point in their lives, there are still some reluctant to seek help because of stigmas associated with mental health.  May 9th is National Children's Mental Health Awareness Day.

School Lunch Heroes Make Lunch Awesome

Friday, May 3, is School Lunch Hero Day. Between preparing healthy meals for America’s students, adhering to strict nutrition standards, navigating student food allergies, and offering service with a smile, school nutrition professionals, like Mijin Lee, food services kitchen manager at Oakton Elementary School, are true heroes. Read more here.

Orthodox Good Friday (Teacher Work Day) - 5/3 Friday, May 3, is Orthodox Good Friday, and a teacher work day. Millions of Orthodox Christians commemorate Good Friday, also known as “Great Friday” to remember the events leading up to Jesus' crucifixion. There will be no school for students that day.

Orthodox Easter - 5/5 Many Orthodox Christians in the United States celebrate Easter according to the Julian calendar. It is a time to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe to be the son of God. Learn more about Easter in NatGeo Kids.

Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week- 5/6- 5/10

Since 1984, National PTA has designated one week in May as Teacher Appreciation Week. National Teacher Day began in 1953 when former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt proposed that Congress set aside a day to acknowledge the work of educators. Since 1985, NEA has celebrated National Teacher Day on the Tuesday of the first full week of May. FCPS follows the NEA and National PTA dates of scheduling Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week the first full week of May.

Fentanyl Awareness Day- May 7

Watch this video to learn more about counterfeit pills, and share the information with teens and young adults in your life. Visit the Fentanyl Awareness Day website for more resources on what you can do to help raise awareness of the dangers of fentanyl including a conversation guide, fast facts, and social media posts you can share.

Walk and Bike to School Day- May 8 The official Bike Month has been celebrated since 1956 to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and encourage more people to give biking a try. Fairfax County has an extensive network of both paved and natural surface bike trails. You can access a map to all the trails in Fairfax county online.

National School Nurse Day- May 8

National School Nurse Day is Wednesday, May 8. FCPS appreciates the role of School Public Health Nurses (PHNs) for their contribution to the health and welfare of all our students. Professional school nurses support the needs of students through their delivery of healthcare, contributions to local school communities, and promotion of safety, prevention, and wellness throughout the year. 

Memorial Day Holiday 5/27 All schools and offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, for the Memorial Day holiday. Learn about the history of Memorial Day.

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.

Not Too Late to Apply for College Financial Aid

Nationwide, as many as 30% fewer graduating seniors have completed and submitted a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), according to recent news reports. Many schools rely upon the FAFSA form to grant students financial aid award letters.

Families who have questions or persistent technical issues filling out the FAFSA might consider scheduling a free appointment with our partners at College Access Fairfax; email appointments@CollegeAccessFairfax.org. All FAFSA help provided by your school or College Access Fairfax is free.

Sports Physicals Fundraisers- May and June

Did you know? FCPS only provides the athletic training personnel, not the supplies HSs need to help your kids. The money earned through these physicals ($50) is used to purchase the supplies to help our student-athletes stay healthy and play to their highest potential. Additional donations or ‘sponsorships’ for student-athletes who may not be able to afford this opportunity are welcome. The physicals currently on file expire on June 30th, a new physical performed after May 1 is needed for next school year. Register at any HS through the 2024 Athletic Physical Registration.

Apply for 2024-25 EQAC Student Member 

The Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC)is seeking a student member to join the council for the July 2024 through June 2025 term. Interested high school sophomores and juniors are encouraged to apply by May 6.

Girls Fire and Rescue Academy The FC Fire and Rescue Department is excited to announce the 2024 Girls Fire and Rescue Summer Camp. The academy is open to rising 7th through 12th grade female students for the 2024 - 2025 school year. Participants should be Fairfax County residents. During the academy, campers will experience physical training, fire/EMS simulations, and more fun-filled experiences. The program is completely free of charge. Uniforms and safety gear will be provided. To apply, visit  this webpage. Applications due by Friday, May 17.

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

FC Parks Summer Camp Registration

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 Open

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

Scholarships and Awards

Scholarship and award opportunities are available in Naviance throughout the year. Opportunities are updated on a regular basis and self-nomination opportunities are posted in Schoology in addition to being listed in Naviance. Students and parent/guardians can access Naviance by using this link: https://www.fcps.edu/naviance.

FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) trainings

The University of Maryland, College Park is offering FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) trainings for parents of youth between the ages of 9-20! Sign up here.

The Youth Mental Health First Aid training will allow parents to:

• gain the expertise needed to support youth mental well-being,
• acquire skills to help you recognize and address common signs of mental health issues in young people,
• enhance your understanding of mental health challenges prevalent among diverse youth in your community, and
• effectively interact with adolescents in crisis and connect them with appropriate resources.

2024 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Award

Nominate an Athlete, Coach, or Parent for the 2024 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Award.  The awards program, founded in 2001, honors 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. Nominations for this year's awards are due by August 1, 2024. To nominate an athlete, coach or parent, visit Stephen A. McLaughlin Fairfax County Champions of Character Awards.

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.

Spring HS Musicals

• Westfield HS- Freaky Friday: May 2-4
• South Lakes HS- Big Fish: May 2-4
• Marshall HS- Legally Blonde: May 3-4
• Herndon HS- Fiddler on the Roof: May 3-5
  • Promo: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/qCRmMgiUNLM
• Longfellow MS- Annie Jr: May 9-11

Herndon Big Truck Day- May 3

On May 3: 9am- 7pm, Big Truck Day at Town of Herndon Public Works/ Maintenance Complex (1479 Sterling Rd., Herndon) is  an opportunity for children their parents to see the town’s big trucks and heavy equipment on display. The event is free; however, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for communities in need. For more information visit the town’s website,  call 703-435-6860; or email public.works@herndon-va.gov.

Celebration of Acceptance- May 3

NCS is hosting a mental health awareness and inclusion event tailored for teenagers aged 13-19. Join us on Friday, May 3rd from 12 to 3pm at James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd, Falls Church)! Click here to find out more!

Celebrating 135 years of Schoolhouse in Great Falls On Saturday, May 4: 10 am – 2 pm, there will be fun, educational, and interactive programs for children and adults alike at the Forestville Schoolhouse next door to the Grange (9818 Georgetown Pike in Great Falls). The programs will celebrate the 135th year of the opening of the schoolhouse. It is be part of other events at historic one-room schoolhouses in northern Virginia, sponsored by the Historic Schoolhouses of Northern Virginia Association.  Forestville school programs are free and open to all; no reservations needed.

Spring Farm Day- May 4

Frying Pan Farm Park (2709 West Ox Road, Herndon) Saturday, May 4: 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. (2-Adult) Watch sheep shearing and antique farm equipment demonstrations. See cow and goat milking demos and hands-on farm activities. Register here.

First Herndon Friday Night Live Concert- 5/4

Even in our 30th season, we still get really excited to be back on the Green with all our Herndon friends, listening to great, live music.  Where is the event held? Herndon Town Green (rear of the Herndon Municipal Building 777 Lynn St., Herndon) This week we kick things off with the Friday Night Live! debut of Three Sheets to the Wind 6:30-10pm. Learn more here.

(the) Unruly Theatre Project Events

(the) Unruly Improv is The Alden’s professional teen improv company dedicated to bringing comedic performances to the community. UTP won 1st place at Improvicon of Northern Virginia in both 2022 and 2023—and were the only teen group competing.

• Improvicon: Saturday, May 4, 7 p.m. This event is a real deal competition of multiple improv groups throughout Northern Virginia. The show features audience participation and the hottest NOVA improv comedy groups! Learn more here.
• (the) Unruly Theatre Project: Friday, May 10, 7-8 p.m. Come enjoy a night of laughs on us! The Old Firehouse (1440 Chain Bridge Rd, McLean)

Great Falls Grange Student Volunteer Opportunities

We are inviting student volunteers to work at the Great Falls Grange, planting and maintaining our Oak Tree Grove (a demonstration garden with emphasis on growing native plants). These hours would support student community service  needs. Once volunteers sign up, our Grange coordinator will send more details in advance on what we will be doing, what you should bring with them, weather forecast, etc.  Sign up for your desired dates:

• Saturday, May 11, 9- 11:30 a.m.
• Sunday, June 9, 9- 11:30 a.m.

TJ Techstravaganza- 5/18 Put the annual STEM activity, Saturday, May 18, 10am- 4pm, for students of all ages event at TJ on your calendar.  Register here.

McLean Day Festival- May 18 May 18: 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. (1659 Chain Bridge Rd. McLean, VA) Come to McLean’s biggest annual festival! Great music, gourmet food trucks, games, petting zoo, amusements, large and small carnival rides and much more. Residents of Dranesville Small District 1A  can vote for their favorite MCC Governing Board candidates- adults and youth. The festival will be held rain or shine.

Rise Up Concert- May 18 

May 18 will mark Herndon UMC’s third annual Rise Up! concert (701 Bennett Street, Herndon), and we are dreaming big this year–partnering with the Fairfax County Community Services Board and the National Alliance on Mental Illness to host a “Day of Hope” for our community that will include free resilience education classes and a resilience fair where people can connect with local mental health and wellness resources. Learn more here.

• 5- 7 pm FREE Classes & Resilience Fair
• 7 pm Rise Up Concert

FCPS' Summer Extravaganza-  June 1

Don't miss a day of family fun and learning at FCPS' Summer Extravaganza! Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., where students will be able to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. There will be learning activities, tips, and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, story time, and student performances — all at no cost! Visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage for more details and register to attend. Registration is not required, but it's helpful for planning purposes.

"Mama, I'm a Big Girl Now!"- June 8, 7 p.m.

Tony Award winner Marissa Jaret Winokur and Tony nominees Kerry Butler ("Xanadu," "Mean Girls") and Laura Bell Bundy ("Legally Blonde") reunite onstage for the first time in two decades for a funny and fabulous evening of the best of Broadway. Learn more here.

FCPS Cares Program Recognizing employees who go above and beyond FCPS Cares is an opportunity for parents, staff and community members to recognize those who go above and beyond to help others and show they care. Please submit your story so we can all acknowledge the outstanding work of FCPS.

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