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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 the first month of school has gone well for your family. Principals, faculty, school staff, and families continue to report that they have had an amazing opening, and things are going well. Bus transportation this school year has gone more smoothly than in years past with buses running at 98% on-time so far. Thank you to the transportation office and all school bus drivers.
Last week, I attended a safety meeting organized by Delegate Sullivan regarding pedestrian and bike safety on Kirby Road near Chesterbrook Elementary. Principal Kirkpatrick, parents, elected officials, VDOT, and FCDOT were present for this important conversation. It is my hope that VDOT and FCDOT will work together on viable solutions and get the funding to implement them. We all need to slow down and give ourselves or our students time to get to school on time without rushing.
When discussing and approving the SR&R last spring, I was adamant that I wanted to limit access to the use of cell phones at the HS level. I was pleased when the Governor chose to tackle this issue. I am hearing positive feedback from school staff, teachers, and families on how the restricted cell phone use across our secondary schools is working. I look forward to connecting with our secondary school students on how the transition is going for them. Below is the cell phone-free guidance for schools provided by the Virginia Department of Education.
Let’s hear it for Boys Volleyball! I attended my first match on Tuesday night between Herndon and Langley. The guys were competing, uplifting each other, and most importantly having a lot of fun. It was wonderful to see everyone coming out for this new varsity sport. The play was great as was the fan support. I look forward to attending other Fall sports and seeing the marching band halftime shows this season, and hope to see you there.
Enjoy the fall-like weather and see you around Dranesville,
Robyn
My visit to the Herndon HS Boys Volleball match against Langley HS
In this newsletter,
Calendar Reminders
September 15- October 15: National Hispanic Heritage Month
September 23- 27: Blue Star Welcome Week
Sept. 23- Dranesville Elementary Schools 3-hour Early Release Day
October 3: Holiday | Rosh Hashanah
October 4: Student Holiday/Teacher Workday | Rosh Hashanah
School Year 2024- 25 Calendar
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School Board Updates
What Is a School Board?
The Fairfax County School Board is responsible for running the public schools in Fairfax County. Twelve School Board members are elected by county voters every four years. A student representative serves on the board as a non-voting member and is chosen by their peers each year.
The School Board makes general rules and sets guidelines to ensure Fairfax County Public Schools runs properly. They follow the laws of Virginia and the rules set by the Virginia Board of Education. Understanding their policies and initiatives can help you advocate for positive changes and ensure that the educational needs of all students are met. There are many ways to get involved.
Consulting Services for Boundary Review
The School Board voted to approve the Boundary Review Consultant contract and authorize the Division Superintendent, or the Director of the Office of Procurement Services to execute, deliver, and administer the contract on behalf of the School Board.
Watch the full September 12, 2024, meeting.
September 12th Dr. Reid Academic Matters
During last Thursday’s Academic Matters portion of the School Board meeting, Dr. Reid shared a presentation on school accreditation and accountability changes from the Virginia Board of Education (VBOE). The VBOE has adopted a new Virginia School Performance and Support Framework to report and monitor school performance. The framework involves revisions to the Standards of Accreditation (SOA) and Virginia’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated State Plan.
The new School Performance and Support Framework represents a significant and potentially concerning change in how the state will report school performance and hold schools accountable for student achievement and performance beginning in school year 2025-26, based on student outcomes during school year 2024-25. With shifts in how student academic, readiness, and graduation outcomes are intended to be measured, there is the potential for misrepresenting the overall success of FCPS schools and overidentifying schools as underperforming and needing external support. Please stay tuned for more information to come.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Thursday, September 26, 2024, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
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Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 10:30 a.m.- Work Session
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Thursday, October 10, 2024, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics subject to change.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
FCPS Updates
My August Dranesville visits including Herndon MS, Clearview ES, Coates ES, Dranesville ES, and Herndon ES
Things to Remember When Visiting Schools
We take the safety and security of our students and staff very seriously. All school visitors, including staff members and volunteers with FCPS badges, must enter schools by way of “Door 1.” Upon ringing a school’s front doorbell, visitors will be asked to identify the reason for their visit before the door is opened. All school visitors will need to check ID through the school visitor system in the front office before entering the school.
When outside, visitors are not permitted to visit school buses or playgrounds or to observe students from parking lots or other areas on school campuses.
See Something, Say Something
FCPS takes the safety of our students and staff very seriously. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners who work swiftly and thoroughly to investigate when there are safety concerns in our schools.
The first step that you should take if your child shares a safety concern with you is to contact authorities. If your safety concern is an emergency, please call 911. FCPS Office of Safety and Security also has a safety tipline that you can access anonymously online, by text, or by phone.
If your student heard rumors and needs to talk to someone, please speak with your student's counselor. The National Association of School Psychologists has a resource to help you identify when your child might be struggling, and how you can have difficult conversations with them about school violence.
If you have concerns about programs, regulations, policies or other topics that do not impact the safety of our schools, please contact the FCPS ombuds online, at 571-423-4014 or ombuds@fcps.edu.
FCPS Tipline
If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is needed, please dial 911.
As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tipline is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community.
School administrators encourage students, staff, and community members to report school safety issues, such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tipline users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Immunization Updates - September 30 Deadline
Starting Monday, September 30, students who have not provided proof of immunization will not be allowed to attend school.
Please check with your health care provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up-to-date on the immunizations required by Virginia. You may check your child’s immunization compliance and submit their immunization record in SIS ParentVUE. Records may also be delivered to your school’s front office.
Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invites you to share your questions or concerns regarding Fairfax County Public Schools. Your voice matters! Registration for the September 23rd event is open, and additional registration links will be shared soon. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all, but please register for planning purposes.
Community Conversations will be held 6:30- 7:30 p.m.:
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Monday, September 23, Newington Forest Elementary School
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Monday, September 30, Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School
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Monday, October 14, Fairhill Elementary School
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Monday, October 21, Virginia Run Elementary School
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Wednesday, October 30, Herndon Middle School
Cell Phones Off, Learning On
Thank you for helping to support the FCPS cell phone policy by waiting to call or text your child about non-urgent matters until the school day is over. In case of an emergency, it is always best to contact the school’s front office to reach your child during class time.
The FCPS Cell Phone Policy webpage has usage policies by grade level, and you can share your feedback on the current cell phone policy.
Cell Phone Storage Pilot
Starting school year 2024-25, select FCPS middle and high schools will be phone-free during the school day in order to limit classroom disruptions and improve student engagement and learning. Middle school students will receive locked storage pouches. High school students will place their cell phones in central storage units located in each classroom. You can share feedback on the pilot here.
Dranesville students' schools in pilot:
Virginia Executive Order #33- Cell Phone-Free Education
Executive Order 33 directs the Virginia Department of Education to provide guidance to school boards on cell phone-free education policies and procedures. School boards will establish local cell phone-free education policies and procedures before the end of this year that will be implemented in 2025.
After listening to and reviewing the thousands of comments and suggestions from Virginians on how to bring cell phone-free education to our children’s schools, VDOE has published final guidance for school divisions on policies and procedures to be implemented to establish cell phone-free education and remove cell phones from Virginia’s public school classrooms.
Portrait of a Graduate
A goal of FCPS is to provide opportunities for students to demonstrate learning in authentic ways and support students in the development of skills that employers are seeking for the workforce. Portrait of a Graduate attributes are:
- Communicator
- Collaborator
- Ethical and Global Citizen
- Creative and Critical Thinker
- Goal-Directed and Resilient Individual
Results from the 2023-24 Fairfax County Youth Survey
The Fairfax County Youth Survey was taken by nearly 40,000 FCPS students in grades 6, 8, 10, and 12. There were significant strides in several key areas including lowered levels of mental health challenges (rates of stress, sadness, and markers of mental health crises) and substance use — the lowest recorded rates in the last 10 years.
The 2023-30 Strategic Plan
FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.
Goal 1: Strong Start, Pre-K - 12
The first goal in the strategic plan focuses on each and every student having a strong start in FCPS. Whether they're joining us in preschool or in high school, we want our students to be set up for success. See how Goal 1 is being put into practice.
Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered
As part of the second goal, we want each and every student to feel like they belong and have the support they need to thrive. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services' updates to lunch menus align with FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal #2 - Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. The new menu options reflect the many voices and cultures represented around every FCPS lunch table. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.
Fueling Student Success: New FCPS Food Options
Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias. New menu items were either favorites at last year’s food show — including Korean BBQ wings, sweet Thai chili wings, chicken tikka masala, and barbacoa street tacos — or were tested with student focus groups and tastings. View our school menu to see all the new options and when they will become available.
Special Diets
Did you know that FCPS does not provide meals containing pork? Also, did you know that we offer vegetarian and vegan options for lunch at every school, every day? If your student needs pork-free or vegetarian meals (which do not contain meat, poultry, or fish but may contain dairy and/or eggs), you do not need to fill out a Dietary Accommodation form, as we have those options available at all schools. Please note that while FCPS is not a peanut-free kitchen, our peanut butter products are individually wrapped to prevent cross-contamination.
Does your child require a dietary substitution or accommodation? If so, please click on one of the options below:
Lightspeed Parent Report on Child’s Device Activity
FCPS has tools to help parents know more about their child’s activity on any FCPS device. These tools are provided at no cost to families by Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service.
Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites your child visited. The report also 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.
When a Student Should Stay Home From School
Whether students miss school because of illness or any other reason, missing school leads to learning loss. Help your child succeed by encouraging them to attend as many days as possible, but do make sure your child stays home if they are sick. Visit FCPS’ website for information on when to keep your child at home.
If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their teacher so that support can be provided if needed. Also, keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.
Family Resource Center Events/Webinars
Click each date to register for the event or webinar.
Setting Limits and Dealing With Dramatic Resistance
Nurturing Adolescent Growth: A Comprehensive 4-Part Series on Teen Development and Well-Being
SIBSHOPS: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs
SIBTEEN: An Exciting, In-person Workshop for Brothers and Sisters of Children with Special Needs
Benchmark Advance: the New K-6 Language Arts Curriculum
Family Literacy Program
The Family Literacy Program is part of the Office for ESOL Services in FCPS. It is designed to empower and connect Multilingual Learner (MLL) families to their community and with their children’s school. Adult learners acquire basic English language skills while learning how to understand, participate, and support in their children’s education in FCPS.
FCPS Family Academies- Welcome Families!
The FCPS Family Academy is where families like yours can learn and get support for their child's school journey. We know that as a parent or caregiver, you're important in your child's education. The Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. The Family Academy also includes information about resources available to help you ensure your student has what they need to succeed.
September Audit Buzz
In this issue of the Audit Buzz, we provide an update on current engagements; discuss Delayed Deposits in the Knowledge Hive; highlight recent events; and introduce a new hire. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on Office of Auditor General's (OAG) website.
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Community Updates
Kirby Road Pedestraian Meeting organized by Delegate Sullivan
Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up-to-date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Type O blood Donors Needed
Multiple traumatic incidents and other medical emergencies have left our region’s blood inventory for Type O blood critically low. Inova Blood Donor Services needs all blood types, but a boost to the supply of Type O will help patients in need significantly. Call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit inovablood.org to schedule an appointment.
Bike Helmets Required for Youth
In Fairfax County, Virginia, Fairfax County Code Section 82-6-38 states that anyone under 15 years old must wear a protective helmet while riding or being carried on a bicycle. Wearing a helmet can protect against head injuries, facial breaks, abrasions, and some concussions.
Speed Camera Program Ready to Expand
Slowing down drivers and improving traffic safety are the objectives of the Speed Camera program, which includes the installation of photo monitoring devices (speed cameras) in school zones. There are currently nine cameras operational throughout the County including Chesterbrook ES. Following the pilot’s success, countywide photo speed enforcement will move forward in two phases. Phase 1, which will begin over the next few months, will include 50 additional photo speed enforcement cameras distributed between school and work zones.
Phase 1: Dranesville students' schools:
From the FC Police Department,
Back to School Safety Tips
Pedestrian Safety:
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Use Crosswalks and Follow Signals: Always cross at designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals. Make sure to look both ways before crossing the street, even if the signal indicates it’s safe.
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Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as using a phone or listening to loud music while crossing streets.
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Bike Safety: For those cycling to school, remember to wear helmets, use bike lanes when available, and signal your turns. Ensure your bike is equipped with lights and reflectors for visibility.
School Bus Safety:
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Wait for the Bus Safely: Stand back from the curb while waiting for the bus. When the bus is approaching, wait until it has come to a complete stop and the doors are open before boarding.
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Board and Exit Quickly: Get on and off the bus quickly and carefully. Once on the bus, stay seated and keep the aisles clear.
Stranger Danger Awareness:
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Know What to Do: Teach children to never accept rides, gifts, or invitations from strangers. If approached by a stranger, they should seek help from a trusted adult or go to a safe place.
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Report Suspicious Behavior: Encourage students to tell a teacher, school official, or parent if they see anything suspicious or feel uncomfortable.
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 What to do when reporting suspicious activity
- DO NOT confront the person and/or vehicle.
- Call the Police
- Give a detailed description of the person and/or vehicle.
- Take a picture or video recording if able to do so safely
Report any crime or suspicious activity when it is occurring.
- 911 for Emergencies OR 703-691-2131 for Non-Emergency
Order Free COVID-19 Tests- Coming Soon
COVIDtests.gov will re-open at the end of September. Households across the country can order four additional over-the-counter COVID-19 tests for free. These tests will detect the currently circulating COVID-19 variants and are intended for use through the end of 2024. You can also find instructions on how to verify extended expiration dates for any tests you may already have.
191 FCPS Students Named 2025 National Merit Semifinalists
Congratulations to the McLean High School's Class of 2025 National Merit Semifinalists
One hundred ninety-one students from 19 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) are among the semifinalists named by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for 2025. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), which also serves as the Governor’s Regional School for Northern Virginia, has 81 semifinalists.
All semifinalists are eligible to compete for 6,870 National Merit Scholarship awards worth nearly $26 million, to be awarded in spring 2025. Semifinalists advance to finalist standing in the competition by meeting high academic standards and other requirements including a recommendation from a high school official.
Congratulations to the Dranesville semifinalists:
Herndon HS: Harold Kim.
Langley HS: Katie Chen, Ariaana Downing, Emily Hur, Zelmay Jan, Danna Jia, Arnav Ketineni, Amy Key, Jayden Lee, Ethan Liu, Bryce Myers, Lindsey Newberg, Brendan Oakes, Vishwa Rakasi, Riley Seewer, John Wu, Raymond Zhang.
McLean HS: Anaya Batish, Aria Colaco, Andrew Egorin, Lisa Hu, Phoebe Jang, Axel Lundback, Rachel Noh, Blake Powell, Peyton Rydzewski, David Sheng, Jakob Siyoni, Thanh-Hoa Tran-Luu, Lauren Wood, Aileen Wu, Eric Xue, Claire Yan.
Thomas Jefferson HSST: Claire Chen, Andrew Choi, Niels-Oliver DeChaine, Claire Guo, Deven Hagen, Mandy Huang, Sophia Huang, Chris Jia, Hudson Keeler, Abigail Lee, Justin Lee, Sophia Lin, Jasmine Ma, Phoebe Pan, Patrick Shi, Simon Thomas, Anna Wisniewski, Anthony Xu, Vivian Xue, Leah Zhang, Victoria Zhang, Alan Zhu.
Congratulations to the Langley HS Class of 2025 National Merit Semifinalists
NWF EcoSchools Updates
Congratulations to the 2023-2024 National Wildlife EcoSchool recognitions! The 22 Green Flag recipients earned at least 100 points during the school year addressing sustainability action. The new platform for EcoSchools ensures that all students are able to engage in environmental stewardship throughout their preK-12 FCPS experience. Green Flags are awarded yearly with new action plans developed at the beginning of each school year.
Congratulations to these Dranesville 23-24 Green Flag recipients:
- Green Flag recipients:
- Aldrin ES
- Haycock ES
- Lemon Road ES
- Silver Award Recipient
Attendance All-Stars: Dranesville Elementary Sees 14-Point Drop in Absenteeism Amid Flurry of Efforts
Dranesville Elementary School Principal Jamie Gadley knows it’s tough for students to learn if they’re not present in their classrooms when the instruction occurs. Reeling from the pandemic, Dranesville saw its share of chronically absent students — those missing 10% or more of school days — skyrocket, like many schools nationwide.
Principal Gadley took action immediately, enlisting an attendance team consisting of school counselors, front office staff, and a family liaison to systematize the school’s approach to encouraging daily attendance. Students deemed chronically absent, missing 18 or more days in the 180-day school year, went from 20.6% of Dranesville students in 2022-2023 to just 6.9% in 2023-24.
“We looked by name and story — we had almost 140 students who were chronically absent in 2023. We learned 36 of them were due to family vacations,” Gadley said. “Some families just needed us to ask that they not schedule that amazing vacation during school time. Others needed to hear that we welcome and want students to be present for as much of the school day as possible. Students can go to their dentist appointment and return to class.”
Attendance Champions Challenge…Because Every Day Counts!
Through the Attendance Champions Challenge, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) invites schools and 501(c)(3) community organizations to engage young people between the ages of 13 and 19 to identify new ways of understanding barriers to school attendance and engagement, as well as propose creative solutions that build on evidence-based strategies. Young people are also invited to directly submit their ideas to the DOE. The submission deadline for the Attendance Champions Challenge is November 29, 2024, at 9 p.m. (ET).
Building Resilience Through Basketball: Trick Shots with Mr. Noel
“Are you ready to fail?” asks Patrick Noel, a physical education teacher at Colvin Run Elementary School, as he prepares to teach young students a basketball trick shot. Because, he tells them, “You are going to fail a lot more than you are going to succeed.” It may seem like a curious approach to teaching but for Noel, building resilience and determination is critical for successful young lives.
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Churchill Road ES
Eleanor H., a 6th-grader at Churchill Road Elementary School, won the City of Fairfax 2024 election sticker contest for her “Future Voter” sticker design, which celebrates diversity in the community and the city’s future electorate.
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FCPS Partners and Their Work in Dranesville Schools
FCPS has been and continues to work hard to develop and renew some high-value business and community partnerships.
The Capital One Coders is back this year at Herndon Middle School to teach students the language of coding. Now in our 11th year, we’re 100% in-person again at all four schools.
EduTutorVA will be providing high impact tutoring at Hutchison Elementary School. Along with tutoring, this not-for-profit leads a Tutors to Teachers element where their undergraduate and graduate tutor students are encouraged to apply for teaching jobs in FCPS.
Suicide Prevention
The Importance of Suicide Prevention
Schools play a key role in suicide prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is one of the leading causes of death for young people aged 10-24. When school personnel, families, and communities take an active role in suicide prevention, lives can be saved.
Fairfax County continues to respond to community needs and expand crisis services. At the Merrifield Crisis Response Center (open 24/7) at the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health, operated by the Community Services Board (CSB), walk-in emergency behavioral health assistance is available day and night, 365 days a year.
Call/Text/Chat 988 or Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
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Free 24/7 support for anyone experiencing emotional distress or suicidal crisis
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When people call, text, or chat 988, they will be connected to trained counselors that are part of the existing Lifeline network. These trained counselors will listen, understand how their problems are affecting them, provide support, and connect them to resources if necessary.
No-Cost Mental Online Therapy for All High School Students
Is your high schooler experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? Do they seem withdrawn or uninterested in their usual hobbies? Parents/caregivers can refer their children for free weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.
Preparedness Month
National Preparedness Month reminds us to prepare for unexpected events that could change our lives in an instant. Be safer and more prepared with emergency preparedness steps such as make a plan, build an emergency kit, stay informed and get involved. Have kids? Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Kids shares information on disaster preparedness.
Individual and Family Preparedness
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Fun Facts
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Remembering 9/11 and Patriot Day
With the 23rd anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country. The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, was a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.
All FCPS students are encouraged to participate in service learning as it supports Portrait of a Graduate (POG) attributes and social and emotional learning (SEL) skills. Middle and high school students can learn more about service learning by logging into their Naviance account to access x2VOL.
Constitution Day and Citizenship Day- September 17
On September 17 each year, schools honor Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Constitution Day commemorates the signing of the Constitution on September 17, 1787, and recognizes “all who, by coming of age or by naturalization, have become citizens.” Constitution Day Fun Facts
National Voter Registration Day is also on Tuesday, September 17. Learn more about registering to vote. In-person early voting is available in Fairfax County from Friday, September 20- Saturday, November 2. Email earlyvoting@fairfaxcounty.gov with questions.
Blue Star Welcome Week!- September 23 - 27
Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and FCPS is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community.
Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 23 - September 27, 2024, and throughout the year!
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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.
Great Leadership Opportunity for 9th-11th Graders
The Fairfax County School Board is now accepting applications from 9th-11th graders in good academic standing for the Student Leadership Development Program. The program is for students interested in pursuing futures in law, government, or public policy. Interested students must submit applications to their principal before September 30, 2024.
Selected students will work directly with School Board Members and the School Board Clerk’s office to learn the ins and outs of how FCPS is governed. They will also develop and debate their own policy proposals and acquire details about the process for running to be Student Representative on the School Board.
2025-2026 Basal Resources Adoption: Social Studies
Dranesville Opening
Are you interested in participating in the review of potential K-12 social studies resources? FCPS is engaging the basal resource (e.g. textbooks, online materials) adoption process for Social Studies, and I am seeking a Dranesville community member to participate on the review committee. The process may lead to identified social studies resources (e.g. textbooks, digital materials) for some or all grade levels and courses in school year 2025-2026.
Committee members must be able to meet on the following dates and times for a total commitment of 20 hours. All the meetings will be held at the Pimmit Hills Adult Education Center(7510 Lisle Ave, Falls Church).
- October 29, 2024, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
- November 6, 2024, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm
- November 13,2024, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
Please fill out this form by September 30 to share why you would like to be a representative and why you would be a great fit for this committee. Please email my Staff Aide at wmbiliter@fcps.edu if you have any questions.
Traveling Players Ensemble
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Auditions for (the) Unruly Improv Troop
(the) Unruly Improv is The Alden’s professional teen improv company dedicated to bringing comedic performances to the community. Members audition to be in the company and are paid for each performance or workshop they do for the community. UTP won 1st place at Improvicon of Northern Virginia in both 2022 and 2023—and were the only teen group competing!
Auditions are for 9th- 12th graders. Prepared monologues are not needed. Headshots and resumes are not necessary but welcome. Preregistration is recommended.
- Open Auditions: Sept. 24 and 25, 7-9 p.m.
- Call Backs/Interviews: Sept. 26, 7 p.m.
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NVSWCD Conservation Poster Contest
Calling all student artists! The 2024 Conservation Poster Contest theme is "May the Forest Be With You, Always." This contest is open to all K-12 students in Fairfax County, and scouts are eligible to earn a poster contest patch. Additionally, this year features a digital poster contest open to students in grade 7-12. The application deadline is Friday, September 27, 2024.
World Language Credit by Exam
This year's World Languages Credit by Exam will be administered at each FCPS middle, high, and secondary school. The World Languages Credit by Exam is an optional test for students in grades 7-12 who can speak and write (type) proficiently in a language other than English. Based on the results of the exam, they can earn 1, 2, and/or 3 passing world language credits.
Registration is now open and closes on Friday, October 4, at 4 p.m. Late registrations will not be accepted. Please contact your student’s school counselor to register for the exam.
Virginia State House and Senate Page Program
House Page Program
The Virginia House of Delegates Page Program invites you to explore and learn more about this popular program for youth focusing on civics education, the lawmaking process, and leadership development. As a non-partisan staff member of the House Clerk’s Office, Pages are an integral part of an institution with a long-standing tradition of providing outstanding support and customer service to state legislators and those they represent. Each year, the Speaker of the House of Delegates appoints 13- and 14-year-olds from across the Commonwealth. The application is due Friday, October 18, 2024 at 5 p.m.
Senate Page Program
The Senate Page Program is a dynamic, engaging and educational experience that honors and preserves the tradition of service to the legislature. The mission of the Senate Page Program is to facilitate a structured environment in which young Virginians accept responsibility and accountability, develop professional characteristics through strict standards of conduct and engage in the legislative process through work, observation and discussion. Applicants seeking admission must be 13 or 14 years of age on the first day of session (second Wednesday in January) and a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia. The application is due Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.
Virginia Earth System Science Scholars (VESSS)
This program focuses on the challenges of the next generation of scientists and engineers to become part of the solution to the societal issues faced by the impacts of climate change. This program engages 11th and 12th grade students in real-world investigations of the Earth and its systems using the latest research and data from NASA. Applications for VESSS are open until October 24, 2024.
The Congressional App Challenge
The Congressional App Challenge is an opportunity for high school students to engage in coding. Every year, Members of Congress challenge students in their districts to create and submit their original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge (CAC). Each challenge is district specific. The deadline for submission is October 24, 2024, by 12 p.m.
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NASA TechRise Student Challenge
NASA invites students in grades 6–12 to submit science and technology experiment ideas to fly on a high-altitude balloon. The 2024–2025 TechRise Challenge provides participants with hands-on insight into the payload design and suborbital flight test process, with the goal of inspiring a deeper understanding of space exploration, Earth observation, coding, electronics, and the value of test data. Sixty winning teams will be selected to build their proposed experiment. The submission deadline is November 1, 2024.
 Students in grades 7 through 12 are eligible to participate at NCS Teen Centers and Drop-in Sites. Most programs and activities are free, although some activities and field trips may require a fee to participate
Student Program with Coursera Career Academy
Students may explore exciting career paths and gain access to over 30 professional certifications from industry leaders, all at no cost. Browse the FCPS Student Academy Catalog and join the program. First, obtain permission from parent/guardian to access Coursera and complete the Student Interest Form (FCPS student email/log-in required for this form). Questions? Email Scott Simmons at sfsimmons@fcps.edu
Note: These courses are not VDOE-recognized industry credentials and do not contribute to high school graduation requirements. This limited program operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Learn, discover and explore at the Maker Lab at the Herndon Fortnightly Library. Make something new with a variety of tools and equipment including a 3D printer, sewing and embroidery machines, Cricut and Cameo cutting machines, robotics, and more. The Maker Lab hours are subject to adjustments or closures for special events and programs.
The Library of Congress will host monthly Family Days throughout the fall and winter season, including programming focused around Hispanic Heritage Month, Halloween, Veterans Day and winter holidays. Each program includes a creative activity, connections to Library of Congress collections, a chance to talk to staff experts and a guide to using Library resources at home.
Alden Theatre 24-25 Season
The Alden's 2024-2025 season brings some truly memorable, beautiful, hilarious, awe-inspiring, joyous events. The season comprises an eclectic and exciting mix of world-class performers in music, dance, musical theater and family entertainment. Tickets are on sale now!
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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.
Salsa In the Park- September 20, 4:30 p.m.
 Join us in celebrating Latino Conservation Week at Alabama Drive Park (1100 Alabama Drive, Herndon)! Groove to the rhythm with Fairfax County Park Authority, Defensores de la Cuenca, and Opportunity Neighborhoods with salsa dancing and salsa making. Dive into fun with green actions and learn how to live a healthy, eco-friendly life. Enjoy a family-filled afternoon with great company and exciting educational opportunities.
Movie under the Stars- Sept. 20
Despicable Me 3
MRC Movie Under the Stars on September 20th: 6 p.m. is brought by the McLean Revitalization Corporation for at Franklin Sherman ES (6633 Brawner St, McLean).
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Fall McLean Children's Business Fair- September 21
Fall McLean Children’s Business Fair at the Old Firehouse(1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean) September 21, 1 – 4pm. This event will be held in conjunction with the Old Firehouse Fall Block Party.
George Mason Space Day- September 28
George Mason Space Day (9/28: 3- 9 p.m.) is a collaborative, engaging event aimed at educating the public about the latest technologies and science in aerospace. The day will feature hands-on activities, and engaging lectures from industry leaders. The event is free, and open to individuals of all ages.
National Public Lands Day Volunteering- September 28
Looking to give back and earn some service hours? The event is the largest single-day national volunteer effort to preserve, restore, improve and enjoy America’s public lands. Join us for a Park Clean Up volunteer event near you on Sept. 28.
Dranesville Opportunity September 28: 9- 11 a.m.
Chandon Park (900 Palmer Dr., Herndon)
Bug Fest- September 28, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Celebrate all things bugs with the whole family at our creepy-crawly adventure at Lake Accotink Park. Games and activities include insect safaris, live insects, insect collections, log rolling and more.
Herndon NatureFest- September 29
Walk and Roll Day- October 9
Walk & Roll to School Day events connect with many issues that communities care about, like creating safer and more walkable routes to school; building a sense of community or school spirit; and inspiring families to use their feet for the school commute more often. Please consider joining your school as we all work towards living a healthier and safer lifestyle!
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College Fair and Look to the Future Events- Oct. 20- 22
The annual FCPS College Fair will be held on Sunday, October 20: 4- 6:30 p.m. at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena. Approximately 220 colleges and universities will be represented, including two and four-year colleges and US Service Academies.
Following the fair, on October 21st and 22nd: 5- 8 p.m., the Two-Night Postsecondary Virtual Event will be held. Both events will help students be better prepared for the next chapter of their educational journey.
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
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