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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

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 Community Members,

As my children remind me continuously, there are just days remaining in this school year! The next School Board meeting (June 13) is actually after school lets out, and between now and then, I’ll be humbled and thrilled to attend five graduations, one last musical (Thoreau’s 42^nd Street), the employee honors event, the Cappies at the Kennedy Center to recognize student achievement in theater arts, Reston Pride festival (June 1), a banquet for the AVID program, and my own kiddos’ 8^th grade year-end school celebrations and a PTO celebration. I am so excited!

Get The Money

This comes on the heels of last week’s apex work to secure the FCPS budget for the upcoming school year (SY 24-25, also our fiscal year), beginning July 1. I hope you’ve already heard that the Board approved a 4% compensation increase for all employees, among other investments that ultimately benefit our students and community. You can see below some specific topics I also looked closely into during this budget development process.

However, did you know that FCPS is missing $568.7 Million dollars from the Virginia Government? And that’s just for this year. Please listen to my remarks from Thursday’s budget vote, here, to learn more. I was glad to see this message picked up by several news outlets, including WTOP, which quoted me saying this core information:  

“ “If you remember any number … it’s $568.7 million. That is half a billion dollars,” said Vice Chair and Hunter Mill District Rep. Melanie Meren. “Think of what FCPS does with what we have now. What could we do if we had half a billion dollars more? I am ready to go and get the money. That has become my mantra. Get the money.””

You can also see what WUSA9 and FFX Now reported.

This is the situation because the State of Virginia has historically, chronically underfunded FCPS by continuing to use outdated staffing formulas that leave school districts around the Commonwealth lacking the meaningful support needed for excellence in public education. Virginia provides less funding per student than many neighboring states including Maryland, Kentucky, and West Virginia.

I'm Hiring!

My incredible Staff Aide of four years, Emma Heisey, is launching into a new and exciting career opportunity, outside of FCPS. June 12, also the last day of school, will be her last day in my office. Emma’s departure is the definition of “bittersweet” for me, and her colleagues. Emma began as my Staff Aide in the height of the pandemic in the summer of 2020, and has been a trusted partner to me in this impactful, emotional, and even unpredictable work. I respect greatly the courage it takes to see the path in life that one desires, and make difficult decisions to travel in that direction towards the future. Emma is doing just this.

And so … I am hiring! Here is the official link to apply via FCPS. This full time position provides flexibility to work in central office and remotely; is mostly done during traditional business hours (but there’s flexibility); includes engaging with the School Board, FCPS Superintendent, and FCPS Leadership Team; and requires a combo of some administrative duties (scheduling); writing; constituent services (calls, meetings, writing); and being a thought partner with me. Many opportunities are available to participate alongside me in my work and advise me – including school visits, community meetings, legislative advocacy, and policy research. I love my work, and am seeking someone who wants to get things done with joy, creativity, and urgency.

OK! Onward to the end of this school year!

School Board Updates and Recent Work

My Work on the FY25 Budget

I voted to approve the budget for the FY 25 school year. Here is information about the budget. Also, here are the Board’s votes on May 23 (scroll down), which include additional Board Member motions to amend or direct the Superintendent.  Three amendments were offered to redistribute and encumber proposed funds regarding the 4% compensation increase – I voted “No” on all three, and all three motions failed. Eight follow-on motions were offered that did not encumber funds, but would direct the Superintendent to do various actions. I did not support most of these motions because I think they are operational in nature, and get too specific in directing the Superintendent how to do her job. The Board’s role is to provide oversight and policy direction. Of the eight motions, three passed.

Also, during the annual budget development process, Board Members can ask questions of the Superintendent’s budget staff to obtain information for Board votes and directives. I submitted several questions, and I’d like to share the answers with you, here. My questions are about the following topics:

• FCPS Hearings Office disciplinary matters (Question #7, Page 8)
• Funding one security staff position at every elementary school (Question #8, Page 9)
• Mental health supports (very extensive response) (Question #16, Page 20-21)
• School counselors, social workers, and psychologists positions available to students (Question #22, Page 28); and relatedly, Question #54, Pages 80-85
• Transportation for middle school afterschool activities (Question #34, Page 43-44)

Updates to the Student Rights & Responsibilities Document

The Board’s recent annual vote to update the Student Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R) raised discussion about cell phones in our schools. I’ve heard from constituents and staff since, and want to share these thoughts and some information with you:

The School Board already banned cell phone use during instructional time for grades K-8, in June 2022. Here are the details of the June 16, 2022 School Board vote. The adopted policy change also stipulated the limited, specific times of use allowed in high school.

You can read further details on this FCPS update about changes regarding cell phone use brought about by the June 2022 vote; and then the FCPS SR&R web page update at that time about SR&R changes.

During that 2022 vote, I proposed a follow-on motion to direct the Superintendent to bring data about cell phone use during instructional time in the forthcoming year: “I move to direct the Superintendent to report to the Board with data about implementation of the cell phone responsibilities portion of the Student Rights and Responsibilities, with quantitative and qualitative data that analyzes the strengths and potential changes needed, for the Board’s use in the next annual reauthorization in 2023.”

This is the kind of data I spoke about needing, during the May 9, 2024 Regular Meeting, and why I abstained from several votes that evening. My votes made on May 9 can be seen here, at the bottom of the page where the motions are listed.

I’ve since learned that the reporting structure for this data from classroom to capture was difficult to conduct consistently. What I tend to hear mostly are anecdotal examples that differ school to school. I’ve observed that the principal of the school plays a key part in how the cell phone policy is implemented.  

Schools are places to learn. First and foremost, as a parent of a teenager and then as an education policy professional, I understand the threat and impact that cell phones, and social media, can have on children physically and mentally. I’m aware of quality books, authors, and movies that convey the serious detriments of over-use of cell phones. I recognize that phones, and social media, are designed to be addictive.  

With this in mind, school is a place to learn to do hard things, in partnership with families during out-of-school time. The current policy on cell phone use graduates students from no use during grades K-8, to limited use in high school (9-12). Banning access further may express to students that they can’t be trusted to learn new skills and do hard things. I want our schools to help students prepare for life after graduation, where the reality of cell phones and social media will be unfettered. 

It’s not the job of teachers and schools to manage cell phone use. The point of the June 2022 action was to remove FCPS educators from being in the position of managing and refereeing use - and use their time and energy on academic instruction. If the policy is not working as intended, then that needs to be examined. As I expressed in my votes, though, I don’t support adding more work to already busy staff to further monitor students securing their cell phones during instructional time, in the absence of data that truly shows the status of the current policy’s success. Which relates to my final point:

Most importantly – schools cannot do this alone. Whether phones are banned, confiscated, or otherwise, the behaviors for healthy use of technology will best come from lessons instilled by parents and family members, at home. Adult behavior is also part of the solution - adults can turn off students’ access during the school day to devices and apps, and not contact students during instructional time. 

FCPS has resources for families as well as educators, who use these materials during lessons on digital citizenship and safe use of online media. When families set the expectation for their students, this is the best chance for positive behaviors that will transfer into classrooms.

Ultimately, when students are engaged in learning, they will not be turning to their cell phones to pass the time. Offering engaging, meaningful instruction must be the focus of staff time and energy. This remains my focus in holding the Superintendent accountable for students’ experiences in FCPS. 

Thoughts on World Language Instruction

During the discussion of Goal 4 of the Strategic Plan at the May 7 School Board Work Session (see materials here, and access the recording here), there was robust conversation about world language instruction. I have been advocating for consistent, quality world language instruction in FCPS since I learned during my first term that only half our FCPS elementary schools offer any kind of language instruction.

At the same time, our Fairfax community has become so wonderfully diverse in the past few decades that engaging with other cultures is a hallmark of our schools – I think the unique and best hallmark, truly. Add to that innovations in Artificial Intelligence and the ability to translate through a cell phone, and this raises healthy, needed discussion about world language offerings in FCPS. It is exactly the job of the School Board to engage in such discussions, evaluate options using limited resources, and hold the Superintendent accountable for delivering education to students per Board directives.

To be clear: I support meaningful and effective world language instruction.

I support such instruction being provided with research-based instructional approaches so that students can most effectively obtain proficiency. I also support having clear measures for any program funded in FCPS, world language or otherwise. 

The current offerings of world language instruction in elementary school through FLES are being offered without any measures of effectiveness toward achieving proficiency. I find this unacceptable. The Superintendent must propose to the Board options for how language proficiency can be achieved, and prove that it is occurring. 

On the other hand, if FLES is to be delivered to provide multicultural experiences and exploration, then the program goals and measurements should make this clear, and the purpose of the program should be clearly articulated to students, staff, and families. What I consistently hear from constituents, including students, is that they expect students to learn a world language through FLES and this isn’t happening. There is clearly a misconception of what the program is to be doing, and this should be addressed by the Superintendent.

As I said in my public remarks, I also observe that learning about cultures and heritage is happening in our schools through myriad ways: outright instruction, classroom activities and projects, field trips, and afterschool activities – including incredible multicultural events that I personally make a point to attend (I was at Fox Mill ES’ Matsuri event recently, which was the most incredible iteration I’ve yet seen of this annual event). I see school communities prioritizing recognition, celebration, and learning about cultures. FLES is not the only avenue to make that happen in today’s classrooms and schools. Evaluating the program’s intended purpose and impact is warranted.

Community Input via Advisory Committees

This time of year, the School Board hears reports from our public advisory committees. I’m grateful to Hunter Mill constituents who have and continue to serve on these committees, by appointment of the full Board. Some unique work I’d like to highlight is that of the Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE). This public-private partnership provides instructional opportunities and career experience in residential construction and auto sales, and also program enhancement grants and student scholarships. See the FATE report here. See all reports delivered to the School Board at the public work session on May 21, here.

The School Board voted that the standing Public Engagement Committee (PEC) further clarify information that all Advisory Committees will use to conduct their work for the Board, including: the draft Advisory Committee Operating Manual, related sections of the Board’s Strategic Governance Manual, and Policy 1710. Ultimately the School Board will vote on this content, no later than June 27.

2024-25 Student School Board Representative Chosen

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. Sawant has three main focuses as student representative: increasing student engagement with the School Board, identifying and tackling academic recovery, and addressing student alcohol and drug abuse. I look forward to working with our new Student Representative to the School Board, who will begin July 1! And I thank Ms. Karim for her dedicated service as the Student Representative this year - she’s put much effort into her role.

Academic Matters

Green Teams Connect Schools and the Environment

During the Academic Matters segment of the April 25 School Board meeting, Superintendent Reid presented on FCPS’ Get2Green initiative, which has been the division's comprehensive stewardship and sustainability program since 2009 and is embedded in all four pillars of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan. Green teams are active at many schools with student-driven stewardship activities such as reducing waste, planting and maintaining wildlife habitats, conserving energy, and tending edible gardens. Get2Green: Provides support through resource teachers, student green teams, and outdoor learning experiences. Encourages student voice and belonging by creating spaces where young people's opinions are valued. Has been recognized with several awards, including the Virginia Association of Counties Environmental Achievement Award.

Personalized Pathways to Leadership Development

Since 2022, when I voted with the School Board to approve it, the Lewis High School Leadership Program has offered personalized pathways to leadership development for success during and after high school. One important aspect of this program is that teacher and student voices are central to the instructional design and implementation. So far, the program has provided students with:

• 59 field trips
• 73 guest speakers
• High-Quality Work-Based Learning (HQWBL) credits this school year – by 103 students!

View this short video to see how learning comes alive when students feel their contributions matter and are connected to larger topics in their lives.  

May Is...

Jewish American Heritage Month

May is designated Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize the history of Jewish contributions to American culture and acknowledge the diverse achievements of the Jewish community in the U.S.. Additionally, May 6, is Holocaust Remembrance Day, called "Yom Hashoah", in Hebrew. Shoah is the Hebrew word for “catastrophe". This day provides opportunity for learning, and so I share the following: The remembrance annually marks the anniversary of the Warsaw ghetto uprising, in Poland. This is personal to me - some members of my husband's family survived the Ghetto, but most did not. As such, my husband is a first generation Holocaust survivor; my children are second generation survivors. The effects of the Holocaust continue within my family each day. On April 19, 1943, the Warsaw ghetto uprising began after German troops and police entered the ghetto to deport its surviving inhabitants. Jewish insurgents inside the ghetto resisted these efforts. This was the largest uprising by Jews during World War II and the first significant urban revolt against German occupation in Europe. A month later, by May 16, 1943, the Germans had crushed the uprising and deported surviving ghetto residents to concentration camps and killing centers. Read the Holocaust Remembrance Day Proclamation, which was read at the School Board's April 25 meeting.

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.

Muslim American Heritage Month

Muslim American Heritage Month is a time for celebrating the history, contributions, culture, and an enhanced understanding of the diverse population of Muslim Americans. Muslim Americans are one of the most racially-diverse faith groups in the nation, a diversity reflected in the student body of Fairfax County Public Schools where three of our ten most widely spoken languages are Muslim-majority languages Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the individuals who died while serving the U.S. military. Memorial Day 2024 occurred on Monday, May 27. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.

Children's Day

Children’s Day, celebrated on May 5, is one of the most popular holidays among South Korean children. This holiday grants a day off for everybody in South Korea, so it’s a great opportunity for parents to spend time with their children. Learn more about how Children’s Day is celebrated in Korea.

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is recognized as Children's Mental Health and Wellness Month to enhance public awareness of the importance of positive youth mental health and wellbeing. FCPS recently provided information regarding how the division is addressing student behavioral health needs in the budget. That information can be found on page 80 of the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Question Responses document (question #54).

Sources and Resources

• The Anxiety Toolkit for Teens
• Talk, They Hear You
• Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences

National School Nurse Day

National School Nurse Day occurred on Wednesday, May 8. It is a day to recognize the many contributions that school nurses make to student health and learning.   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. They are advocates who bridge healthcare and education by supporting student health and readiness to learn. School nurses are essential to our community and work tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of their students.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

• Thursday, June 13, 7pm: Regular Meeting
• Thursday, June 20, 7pm: Committee Report Work Session
  • Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee (ACE)
  • Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC)
  • Facilities Planning Advisory Council (FPAC)
  • Human Resources Advisory Committee (HRAC)
• Monday, June 24, 5pm: Committee Report Work Session
  • Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD)
  • Advanced Academic Programs Advisory Committee (AAPAC)
  • School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC)
• Tuesday, June 25, 10:30am: Work Session
• Thursday, June 27, 7pm: Regular Meeting

Accessing Board Meetings

The work sessions and regular meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.

Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.

Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.

For Spanish speakers, watch recorded School Board meetings or to watch live during the Regular Meetings on YouTube, you may visit the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the QR code.

Hunter Mill Happenings

As Vice Chair of the Virginia School Board Association’s (VSBA) Northeastern Region, I helped convene Board Members (SBMs) from 13 school divisions!

The meeting provided SBMs with an opportunity to network and build relationships, and to hear remarks from guest speaker, Dr. Lisa Coons, the state Superintendent of Public Instruction.

The event was a success in that it was well-attended, and SBMs expressed much enthusiasm for working together on shared concerns - namely, securing needed funding from the state, and sharing lessons learned about the new collective bargaining process.

Community Conversation at Terraset ES

I joined community members and FCPS staff for the Superintendent's community conversation, held at Terraset Elementary. A main discussion point was about services for special education students, particularly that specially trained staff have large caseloads of students, making it difficult to offer each student all that is needed. I was glad very specific points were made for the Superintendent to hear. Also, staff at Terraset shared about their use of the practice of "conscious discipline", which (in a nutshell) focuses on the adult learning how to prepare themselves to then appropriately engage with a child who has not yet learned to regulate their own behavior. It's being applied in Kindergarten classrooms with much success. There was much interest in this by the Superintendent.

Virginia State Rowing Championships

I was back at the water to cheer on the Madison HS Crew team in the Virginia State Rowing Championships! I learned more, too, about the status of crew teams at our 25 FCPS high schools - just 14 have crew clubs. For Hunter Mill students, the opportunity is really only at Madison - Oakton has a team, but only 6% of students at Oakton HS live in the Hunter Mill district (but, go Cougars!). So I’ve got work to do to bring this opportunity to more students living in Hunter Mill, who attend these schools: South Lakes, Herndon, and Westfield and Marshall. This is a sport that the Superintendent is seeking to bring to all our high schools eventually, and I’m a huge supporter of this. Crew is a prime example of what team work, individual hard work, and persistence can achieve!

The Next Generation of Public Policy Professionals

I recently visited with alumni from Duke University and its Sanford Institute of Public Policy, from which I earned my Master’s degree in 2002. I was thrilled to see an FCPS grad and constituent whom I met 5 years ago at Oakton HS’s annual candidate day, who is now also a new Duke Grad! She’ll be exploring public policy work in DC, and I am so proud to know her.

Hunters Woods' International Night

Students, families, and staff re-ignited the International Night tradition at Hunters Woods Elementary School. Students shared their heritage through performances, and I enjoyed the Polish national anthem; a Taiwanese trick yo-yo demonstration, Irish and Indian dancing; and a Moroccan drum parade! One presentation was particularly unique, by student, Yug, who shared modern facts about India. His witty and entertaining presentation updated my knowledge since my own visit there 15 years ago! I hope you will view Yug’s presentation here.  

Fox Mill's Annual Matsuri Japanese Cultural Festival

Fox Mill Elementary held its annual Matsuri Japanese cultural festival - this time in its newly renovated school! So many rooms were filled with activities, including crafts, games, and vendors. Students and professionals performed music and dance in the gym, and an array of food was offered in the cafeteria. Tickets to the event sold out! Two sixth grade students were my tour guides through it all, sharing much knowledge and pride

Rachel Carson's Annual Charity Chess Tournament

Rachel Carson MS' recent charity chess tournament was a student-led effort that raised over $2,000 to support the Children's Miracle Network, an organization that helps recovering children hospital patients. As Principal Gordon Stokes put it, ‘Chess is a great opportunity for students to come together and learn skills such as focus and motivation. By organizing this event, students have been able to learn valuable life lessons and spread chess to others.’”

Thomas Jefferson Team Wins Second at MathWorks Challenge

A team of students from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology placed second in the MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge. They were chosen from nine finalists from US, England, and Wales.  The M3 Challenge, held by the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics and sponsored by MathWorks, involves participants using mathematical modeling to solve a real-world problem. This year's challenge had participants work to solve the crises of homelessness and affordable housing shortage. The team, including Hunter Mill student Rishabh Prabhu, won $15,000 in college scholarships as the runner-up during the competition's final Monday in New York City.

Marshall HS Student Selected for STEM Excellence Award

Hunter Mill constituent and Marshall High School student, Gabriela Konde, has been selected as the 2024 recipient of the STEM Excellence Award, given annually by the McLean area branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW).  The award is presented to a female student or team from a high school in the McLean area with an outstanding project in the field of engineering that was entered in the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair. Konde’s project was “Optimal Sound Frequencies for Targeted E. coli Biofilm Eradication on Medical Devices.” In addition to receiving the STEM Excellence Award, Konde was selected as a first-place category winner in microbiology, which qualified her to attend the Virginia State Science Fair. There she again took first place in her category (and fifth place overall), making her eligible to attend the International Science and Engineering Fair in Los Angeles.

Thoreau MS Shines at Music in the Parks Competition

Thoreau MS' Music Department was awarded top spots at the annual “Music in the Parks” competition, held at Hershey Park. In total, they won 8 trophies, six 1st place, one 2nd place, and "Best Overall Band"! Special thanks go out to Mr. McNamara (choir), Mr. Smith (band), and Ms. Yacovissi (orchestra) for all their hard work planning and preparing these young musicians!

South Lakes Awarded by State Board of Education

South Lakes High School has earned Virginia Board of Education's (VBOE) Continuous Improvement Exemplar Award! This recognition recognizes and rewards schools that exceed minimum requirements or show continuous improvement on academic and school quality indicators. To qualify, a school must invest in student engagement as evidenced by meaningfully increasing graduation rates and decreasing dropout rates of students for the past three years.

FCPS' John R. Lewis HS and West Potomac HS also received the Continuous Improvement Exemplar Award. Sangster ES and Thomas Jefferson HSST earned the 2023-2024 VBOE' Highest Achievement Award.

Hunter Mill Leaders Recognized by Virginia PTA

Two amazing Hunter Mill leaders have been recognized by the Virginia PTA and the Fairfax County Council of PTAs: Aldrin ES Principal, Shane Wolfe, has been named a 2023-2024 Power Partner and Erin Gibbens has been named Volunteer of the Year for her service with the South Lakes HS PTSA! I so appreciate everything that these two individuals do for our community and I look forward to celebrating them!

First-Class Awards: Celebrating Champions of Inclusion

The First-Class Awards are presented each year to recognize and celebrate the efforts of educators, administrators, support staff, and students who demonstrate excellence in all facets of education related to disability. I'm very proud to share the following awardees that serve students from the Hunter Mill District: Elementary School Administrator Emily Cope, Principal, Hunters Woods ES Middle/High School Teacher Jessica Magarelli, Special Education Teacher, Westfield HS Todd Utter, Adapted PE Teacher, Westfield HS Middle/High School Support Staff Lisa DeCandia, Instructional Assistant, Westfield HS Specialty Program Staff Chad Clayton, Principal, Davis Career Center

FCPS Students at Virginia FBLA State Leadership Conference

Twenty-four 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.

Two hundred students from FCPS high schools competed in 55 events ranging from 3-D Animation and Accounting to Cyber Security, Computer Problem-Solving, and Public Speaking. FBLA is the largest career and technical student organization in the world. Each year, the organization helps over 200,000 members prepare for careers in business. More information about FBLA is available online.

Congratulations to the following Hunter Mill students for winning first place awards:

• Connor Johnson, Entrepreneurship (South Lakes HS)
• Vikas Kotla, Entrepreneurship (South Lakes HS)
• Aneesh Mandapati, Entrepreneurship (South Lakes HS)
• Jeasmitha Rajesh, Business Plan (Westfield HS)
• Maneesh Vaddi, Introduction to Business Procedures (Westfield HS)
• Harika Valluri, Business Ethics (Westfield HS)

Students Named National Merit Scholarship Winners

Twenty-seven students from seven Fairfax County high schools have been named winners of $2,500 scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Scholarship winners are part of a group of approximately 2,500 National Merit finalists chosen to receive scholarships in 2024, primarily financed by the NMSC. Congratulations to Hunter Mill student winners, Pranav Elavarthi (computer science) and Mihir Kulshreshtha (finance), both from Thomas Jefferson HSST!

 2024 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards

FCPS student writers won 31 Gold Key awards in the 2024 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards competition. In all, 259 Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mentions were earned by FCPS students, including many from Hunter Mill! Gold Keys are automatically forwarded for consideration at the national level of the Scholastic Writing Awards.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, is the largest, longest-running recognition program of its kind in the United States. Writing categories include critical essay, dramatic script, flash fiction, humor, journalism, novel writing, personal essay and memoir, poetry, science fiction and fantasy, short story, and writing portfolio.

7th Annual SEPTA Awards Ceremony

Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) hosted its 7th annual Awards Ceremony earlier this month to thank teachers and staff for their incredible work this year. Congratulations to the over 200 nominees and following award winners from Hunter Mill:

• Outstanding Secondary Administrator
  • Maria Irby (Rachel Carson MS)
• Outstanding Co-Teaching Team
  • Parwana Fazelyar, Madalin Flynn & Heather Garcia (Terraset ES)

Upcoming Events and Opportunities to Engage

Family Life Education Materials Available for Review

The recommended Family Life Education instructional materials are available for community review through Monday, June 10, at 4:30 p.m. View details and a feedback form.

Thoreau Drama Presents 42nd Street: Youth Edition

Come enjoy Thoreau Drama’s adaptation of the ultimate show-biz musical! 42nd Street: Youth Edition celebrates Broadway, Times Square, and the people who make the magic of musical theatre.  Don’t miss your chance to see our talented Thoreau Eagles in action! Purchase tickets here. Show Days & Times Thursday, May 30th @ 7:00pm Friday, May 31st @ 7:00 pm Saturday, June 1st @ 2:00pm and 7:00pm

FCPS Summer Extravaganza 

Stop by Woodson High School on Saturday, June 1, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., for the FCPS Summer Extravaganza! Families are invited to take part in engaging educational activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire growth. In addition to learning activities, enjoy tips and helpful information for families. Enjoy face painting, food, music, a moon bounce, a petting zoo, storytime, 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.

Annual Reston Pride Festival

The annual Reston Pride Festival at Lake Anne Plaza is coming up on Saturday, June 1! Doors open at 12pm and entertainment will be provided until 6pm. The festival will offer our community access to vendors, performances, speakers, fun, festivities, and much more. I will be providing brief remarks during the opening ceremonies and hope to see you there! Since 2018, Reston Pride has operated as a grassroots organization serving Northern Virginia, focused on ensuring a truly inclusive Reston region through engagement with the community. They serve to provide quality cultural education and resources about LGBTQIA+ history and culture to LGBTQIA+ persons and their allies.

Liberty Amendments Month Events Beginning Soon

The Town of Vienna's fourth annual Liberty Amendments Month starts on June 15 and runs though July 15. Each week focuses on one of the Constitutional amendments that extends rights and liberties to US citizens who originally were excluded from the Constitution. The Opening Ceremony is on Saturday, June 15, from 11am-3pm at First Baptist Church in Vienna. View the full events calendar here.

Family Fun Run/Walk at South Lakes HS

Additional Information of Interest

Superintendent Names New Chief Human Resources Officer

Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid has named William Solomon — who currently serves as executive director of Talent Acquisition in Houston Independent School District (ISD) — Chief Human Resources Officer, effective June 3. William comes to FCPS with a track record of transformative leadership in Houston, one of the largest school divisions in the country. He spearheaded projects that had a positive impact on teacher recruitment, such as improving the accuracy of vacancy projections, decreasing the time to hire, expanding the use of visa programs, and increasing the volume of role-qualified applicants. With our new Chief, plus the Board-approved Human Resources Management (HRM) system, I have very high expectations for a stronger, clearer, and more customer-service oriented HR experience for our staff and potential hires. Our staff is what makes public education work!

Calling All Alumni and Friends!

Educate Fairfax is proud to introduce FCPS Alumni & Friends, an online network of alumni, teachers, parents/caregivers, and community members with ties to Fairfax County Public Schools. Whether you are a recent FCPS graduate or you’ve returned to Fairfax to work or raise your own family, this network will celebrate our alumni and friends of FCPS through stories, news and events, reunions, homecoming, and other activities. It’s also a great way to rekindle old friendships and build new ones. I signed up - have you? As an alumni or friend of FCPS, please sign up to stay connected with our public schools!

Family Summit Resources Available Online

Did you miss the FCPS Family Summit in April? Videos of the welcome session, guest speakers, service awards, and online special education resource fair are now available. View this YouTube playlist to find helpful information on parenting, opioids, accommodations, special services, and other topics. Read about the speakers and sessions on the Family Summit webpage.

Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow. We All Belong Here!

In FCPS, we all belong. From the first day of school, to the last day of school, every child matters. If your student is having a hard time finishing the year strong and attending school, please contact a trusted adult at school—a teacher, counselor, or administrator. Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

Resources for Newly Registered Families

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. FCPS 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. You may contact [family liaison’s name], our family liaison, at [email and phone number].   There’s an easy to follow five-step process outlined for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible!  Register Your Children Online Online registration is available for new and returning (re-enrolling) FCPS families! Apply today to help us plan for the 2024-25 school year.

Years of Service Recognized at FCPS Retirement Ceremony

FCPS' annual Retirement Ceremony, We Honor You, was held on Wednesday, May 1. Retirees, along with their family and friends, FCPS' Leadership Team, and members of the School Board, attended the catered event. Each of the 180 retirees who attended had a profile read by a member of the Leadership Team and received a gift.  Those honored represented more than 4,200 years of service with FCPS. Thank you to all our newly retired staff members for all the ways you have supported and empowered our students and families, each other, and our division over the years. You've made an invaluable impact on our community. View the ceremony program, photos, and video.

Student Opportunities

FCPS Job Certification Student Program with Coursera 

High school students now have the opportunity to access the full contents of the Coursera Career Academy. This program is designed to open doors to digital career pathways and provide invaluable learning experiences directly from industry giants like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. Program Benefits: Explore a variety of popular digital careers from marketing to data science. Learn from experts at leading global companies. Earn valuable micro-credentials that can enhance your resume. Access over 27 professional certificates, expanding your skill set in multiple fields. Interested? Complete the Coursera Student Interest Form.

Scholarships, Awards, and Postsecondary Planning

Naviance Student provides middle and high school students with individual Academic and Career Plan resources to explore and prepare for postsecondary college and career planning options. 

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.

Colleges and Universities Still Accepting Applications

The National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) has released their annual list of colleges and universities that are still accepting applications from prospective freshmen or transfer students for fall 2024. Users may narrow down the list of schools by state and view whether a school still has financial aid, as well as unfilled housing.  NACAC provides an enrollment deposit fee waiver request form that is considered by some institutions for students experiencing significant financial hardship. Students and families may contact their school counselor or college and career specialist with any questions. Students who still need assistance completing the FAFSA or VASA financial aid forms can schedule a free appointment with our partners at College Access Fairfax. Email Appointments@CollegeAccessFairfax.org. All FAFSA or VASA help that your school or College Access Fairfax provides is free.

Where We Belong Student Art Contest

June is Immigrant Heritage Month. Celebrate our diverse community by showing off your creativity and participating in a new art contest! Open to students in grades kindergarten to 12th grade who live or study in Fairfax County, participants are asked to create artwork in a medium of their choice based off one of the following prompts: - We all belong in Fairfax County. - This is my family portrait. - This is where I am from. - We celebrate the contributions of our immigrant community members. All art should be submitted via the online form, which will be open from May 15 - June 15, 2024. Winners will be announced June 21, 2024 and winning artwork will be displayed in a traveling exhibit throughout Fairfax County.

Broad Water Innovations College Scholarship

Broad Water Innovations has established a $2,500 scholarship for college students who have applied to, or are enrolled in, a program in natural resource conservation and/or environmental studies. The deadline for application submissions in June 15, with the award announced in July. Read more here. BWI is a land trust formed in 2013 that focuses on serving as a conservation easement holder and Long Term Steward of Wetland, stream, and species migration banks.

Become a Student Ambassador for Virginia's Environment

Would you like to be a Student Ambassador for Virginia's Environment (SAVE)? Applications for 2024-25 Student Ambassadors are open!  Applications are due by June 15th, and selected ambassadors will be announced in August.  The SAVE program is for high school juniors and seniors who are passionate about the mission of having a shared responsibility to end littering, improve recycling, and beautify communities. Student Ambassadors are expected to organize and implement two litter cleanups and host a school-wide or community educational project or event.

Summer Camps and Learning Programs

Reston Runner's Youth In Motion Summer Program

Registration is now open for the Reston Runners' Youth In Motion Program! It is a non-profit, non-competitive summer youth running/fitness program. The program is 8 weeks—7 sessions at the track and an end of season celebration and race at Lake Fairfax Park. The program offers fun activities for up to 300 participants, ages 4-13 years old, and is entirely staffed by volunteer coaches.

Broadway Summer Camp at Hughes Middle

Broadway Summer is a one-week musical theatre intensive with a strong focus on healthy singing for the developing voice. The camp will run July 29 -  August 3 at Hughes Middle School.  As young singers begin to develop their voices, it is paramount they learn proper singing technique, breathing technique, and appropriate application of both in the musical theatre genre.  Broadway Summer combines these elements into a comprehensive one-week intensive program culminating in the performance of a Broadway Show.  All music and material used is professionally edited and adapted for the teenage voice.

Institute for the Arts Summer Classes

Do you have plans for your children yet this summer? Do they love the Arts? Secondary school kids can learn Photography, Guitar, Cake Decorating, Painting, Stage Combat, Acting, Stone Carving, and much more! Create your own schedule! Kids in grades 2-5 can sign up and take classes in Art, Music, theatre, and Dance daily. Institute for the Arts and Elementary Institute for the Arts will be at Lake Braddock this summer starting July 8th through the 26th.  Monday through Friday 8:30-2pm.  Transportation is available.  Tuition assistance offered for students who qualify.  Enroll today while seats are still available!

Additional Summer Learning Opportunities

Visit FCPS' 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

Job Opportunities

Come Work With Me and the Fairfax County School Board!

Three positions available:

First, as shared above, I’m seeking a Staff Aide to be my go-to person to help me serve our Hunter Mill constituents! Position is open until filled, and the desired start date is around mid-to-late June/ early July. Please note that while the position says “Subject to Yearly Renewal,” the intention is for this position to be permanent. 

Next, 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 position reports to the Head Clerk, and works collaborative with an additional Deputy Clerk.

This high-level job is fast-paced; includes working with legal and policy matters; and requires strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills. While the job requires traditional workweek hours in FCPS Central Office in Falls Church (off of I-495), responsibilities will include at least two weeknights a month, and an occasional weekend day (perhaps 3-4 annually, scheduled in advance).

Finally, we are also looking for a full-time Support Technician I. This position will provide wide-ranging meeting support, including setting up and breaking down meetings, assisting with proclamations, preparing minutes, handling exhibit files, and other duties as assigned. The position may require flexible hours. Please note that while the position says “One Year Only,” the intention is for this position to be a permanent position in the office. 

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 via my website (click "Submit a Question"). 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.

Best,

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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

E-mail: Melanie K. Meren |  Phone: 571-423-1082 | Facebook | Twitter

Emma Heisey, Staff Aide, 571-423-1070, eheisey@fcps.edu