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Hello Braddock neighbors!
Jacket weather is here! You’ll need that extra layer for Friday night football games and Saturday morning farmers markets (more below). And get ready for pumpkin spice everything, like it or not! (Last year I actually saw pumpkin flavored cheese - ew!).
There is a lot to talk about this week, and I want to start with a couple of important matters regarding changes to the state accreditation process and FCPS funding realities.
Changes to State Accreditation Process
The Virginia Board of Education (VBE) has approved major changes to the process by which local schools are evaluated for accreditation, set to take effect in the coming months. Gov. Glenn Youngkin and his supporters are touting the overhaul as a transparency and accountability measure, but a careful review shows it is a rehash of failed No Child Left Behind policies.
For more background, here is a presentation regarding these changes from the Sept. 12 school board meeting.
The state revisions amount to an overt attack on public education. Among other troubling issues, the VBE’s new process removes any measurement with regards to teaching of social studies, which has become a battleground area of education for those who want to control what our children learn about the past. It also will punish schools for helping students - particularly multi-lingual learners who may need more time to graduate - to exercise their rights under the law.
Further, the revisions redefine what high school is supposed to be about, placing greater responsibility for high schools to take on outcomes that lead primarily to college degrees, when the goal should be to prepare students for whatever path is right for them in life. Emphasis on communication, critical thinking and collaboration are also left out of the formula. This is a recipe for failure.
I expressed these concerns - and others - at that same Sept. 12 School Board meeting. You can see what I had to say by clicking the image below.
 Click to view YouTube video of Sept. 12, 2024, School Board meeting comments regarding state accreditation changes.
FY26 Budget and State Funding
This year, I am honored to serve as the Budget Committee Vice Chair. As we start working on the FY2026 (SY2025-26) budget, I want to take a moment to discuss the budget process.
As you may already know, most of FCPS’ funding comes from our locality (approximately 70%) and about 20% comes from the state, with the rest coming from the federal government and a few other sources. More information about last year’s budget process and background information can be found in the FY25 budget documents here.
According to a study released in 2023 by the Joint Legislative Audit & Review Commission - the state legislature’s research arm - Virginia school divisions receive less K-12 funding per student than the 50-state average and the regional average, which equates to approximately $1,900 per student in state underfunding of Virginia’s students. Many of Virginia’s neighboring states spend more per pupil, including West Virginia, Kentucky, and Maryland.
The current SOQs underestimate the actual costs of public education, as evidenced by the fact that the SOQ formula provided $6.6 billion less than what was spent by local school divisions in FY 2021. In addition, over the last 10 years, per pupil state funding for special education students has declined by 16%.
FCPS has been in communication with our delegation to the Virginia General Assembly to urge solutions. A legislative committee has begun discussing the problem, according to this recent news report.
I am looking forward to working with our state and local partners to address this underfunding and will continue to advocate for additional funding for our schools. We take pride in our excellent schools here in Fairfax County and I am committed to ensuring we receive the funding we need to continue to provide a world class education to each and every student. I believe our Board of Supervisors here in Fairfax is also committed to ensuring strong schools.
Again, I will continue to keep you informed about these topics. Take care and please let me know what is on your mind and how my office can help you.
Yours very truly,
 Rachna Sizemore Heizer
Braddock District School Board Member
IN THIS ISSUE …
- Focus on Braddock
- Arts & Music
- Neurodiversity News
- Out & About
- More from the School Board
- FCPS News
- More Stuff Families Should Know
FCPS Cares
The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. Staff and teachers at the following Braddock District schools have been recognized this month through FCPS CARES for something wonderful they have done:
- Eagle View Elementary
- Fairview Elementary
- Kings Park Elementary
- Lake Braddock Secondary
- Laurel Ridge Elementary
- Woodson HS grounds crew
Here's part of what one parent had to say about Angela Stotka, a teacher at Fairview Elementary: "Ms. Stotka always takes the time to listen attentively, asking thoughtful questions and showing genuine interest in both my daughter's thoughts and feelings, as well as mine as a parent. This personalized approach has made my child feel valued and understood, creating a safe and supportive learning environment where she can thrive."
Read all the current commendations, or nominate someone who's made a difference.
Thanks to all FCPS employees for everything you do!
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Appointment Alert: Social Studies Instructional Resource Review Committee
The School Board has created a new Social Studies Instructional Resource Review Committee (IRRC) to review potential K-12 social studies resources as part of the basal resource (e.g. textbooks, online materials) adoption process. As each School Board Member will have one appointee to this committee, I am seeking volunteers who would be interested in helping with this important work.
The process will include a 30-day public review period and a deep review by the committee, made up of representatives from a variety of stakeholder groups - teachers, administrators, and community members. 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 2025-26.
The review process is constructed to ensure:
- Resources align with Virginia Standards of Learning and FCPS Learning Model,
- Resources meet the educational needs of a variety of learners,
- Resources reflect culturally responsive curriculum and pedagogy,
- Students gain equitable access to high-quality, dynamic resources, and
- Input from multiple stakeholder groups is collected and valued.
IRRC 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 located in Falls Church.
- Oct. 29, 8 a.m-4:30 p.m.
- Nov. 6, 3:30-8:30 p.m.
- Nov. 13, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Participation on the committee requires the following:
- Attendance at all meetings,
- Review of submitted resource materials,
- Email communication, and
- Confidentiality of information reviewed and recommendations made.
If you are interested in serving on the Social Studies Instructional Resource Review Committee, please send an email by Oct. 7 stating your reasons for wanting to serve.
Braddock Supervisor's Minute
From Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw’s recent Walkinshaw Advisory:
Hispanic Heritage Month runs through Oct. 15. Every year we celebrate the heritage and diverse cultures of the more than 900,000 Virginians who identify as Hispanic or Latino and contribute to our Commonwealth and nation.
This month's Walkinshaw Advisory provides an opportunity to learn more about Hispanic culture. Fairfax Fiesta, Fairfax County’s Annual Hispanic Heritage celebration, is on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Culmore Community Library (6101 Knollwood Drive, Falls Church). This free, family-friendly event promises a unique experience for all ages and backgrounds. With cultural performances and entertainment, an artisan market featuring handmade goods from local vendors, children’s activities such as face painting, crafts, and games that will keep them entertained for hours on end, plus delicious cultural foods to tantalize your taste buds – there’s something here for everyone! Visit Celebrate Fairfax's website for more information about the event.
Fairfax County Public Library (FCPL) will host several events throughout the month including performances, crafts, games, and more. You can view a list of events on FCPL’s website.
Check out this FXVA guide for an extensive look at celebrations happening throughout the month and how you can best celebrate.
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National Merit Scholarship Winners
Please join me in congratulating the 191 students, including many Braddock District stand-outs, from 19 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) who are among the semifinalists named by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation for 2025. 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.
Read more.
FCPS has many tremendously talented students and its music and theater productions are truly professional level! Fall plays and musicals will be starting up soon - come check out one of these amazing productions! I encourage you to take time to expose your family to the tremendous opportunities FCPS offers. Keep a close watch on the FCPS Performing Arts Calendar, which lists many of these opportunities, as well as your child’s school website and email communications, for the many chances to inspire your family with a world-class performance or visual arts exhibit this school year.
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Participating in the Arts Improves Mental Health
Learning to paint, sculpt, dance, act, sing, or play a musical instrument can be a fulfilling activity for young people in many ways. But more and more evidence shows that participating in music and arts programs in public schools can have deeper benefits.
From the Colorado Health Institute (CHI): “Music and art courses at school are another avenue to address overall youth well-being in an accessible and equitable way. Courses can increase exposure to formal humanities education, which historically has mostly benefited wealthier, white communities.”
Read more from CHI about how the arts can improve student mental health.
The Family Resource Center is Here to Help
Caregiving for a school-age student is super rewarding but also hard, and it can be even more difficult to find the right information to support keeping them engaged and making progress.
The FCPS Family Resource Center (FRC) is ready to assist! Check out topics of free webinars for scheduled for October:
- 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
- Math is Everywhere! Talking to Your Children about Mathematics
- Transitioning with confidence - Collaborating with the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
Learn more and register here.
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Back-to-School Nights
Fall is the best time of year to get “Out & About” in Fairfax County because of the multitude of events to enrich your family’s community experience. These include wonderful local events such as farmer’s markets, walks and runs, and festivals (did I mention Halloween is coming?), but also many chances to engage with your child’s school community.
I hope you were able to attend your local schools’ open houses and back-to-school nights as a fantastic way to get some face time and lay eyes on the vibrant places where your children spend their days. Here are a few photos from back-to-school events I was able to attend in recent weeks.
 With Principal Keesha Jackson-Muir at Braddock Elementary School's back-to-school night on Sept. 13.
 Cavalier pride at Carter G. Woodson High School on Sept. 10!
Lest anyone forget - sports!
This recent Fox 5 piece *almost* captures the spirit of Lake Braddock Secondary School Friday Night Lights - or of any FCPS athletic competition for that matter! Even if you don’t have an athlete in your household, check your school’s sports calendar - including for new girls’ wrestling and boys’ volleyball programs - and get into the game!
 Click the image above to view FOX5's report "Friday Night Live: Lake Braddock Secondary School"
Upcoming homecoming football game schedule for high schools attended by Braddock District students:
Grading Discussion Continues
Important talks around system-wide grading policies will continue with a meeting of the School Board Governance Committee at 3 p.m. today. I encourage you to follow this process by reviewing committee and Board materials, and watching meetings either live or after they are archived.
Some grading changes have already been made administratively, including a new requirement that final grades be made up of 30 percent formative assessments (homework, exercises) and 70 percent summative assessments (presentations, tests, exams). But there is much work to do to fully examine our policies and ensure that our students are evaluated consistently and fairly against their peers. Please stay tuned.
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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 meeting.
Upcoming Board & Committee Meetings
 Fairfax County School Board
I encourage you to follow the work of the School Board and take advantage of opportunities for public engagement. Here are Board and committee meetings scheduled for the next 30 days.
- Tuesday, Sept. 24, 3-5 p.m. - Governance Committee
- Thursday, Sept. 26, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
- Tuesday, Oct. 1, 9-11 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee
- Tuesday, Oct. 1, 3-5 p.m. - Governance Committee
- Tuesday, Oct. 8, 8-9:30 a.m. - Legislative Briefing
- Tuesday, Oct. 8, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. - Work Session
- Thursday, Oct. 10, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
- Tuesday, Oct. 15, 3-5 p.m. - Governance Committee
- Thursday, Oct. 17, 7-9 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee
- Thursday, Oct. 24, 7 p.m. - Regular Session - tentative
Agendas & Materials | Watch Meetings Live | Meeting Video Archive
Our Schools, Our Future: Register Today for a Community Conversation!
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will host a series of Community Conversations this fall. She invites you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Click the dates below to register for any of the following conversations:
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Monday, September 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Newington Forest Elementary School
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Monday, September 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School
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Monday, October 14, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Fairhill Elementary School
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Monday, October 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Virginia Run Elementary School
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Wednesday, October 30, 6:30-7:30 p.m., at Herndon Middle School
Events will take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Childcare and language interpretation services will be provided.
FCPS Trust Policy Supports Caring Culture
Fairfax County Public Schools is proud of its caring culture and strives to provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students and families. The FCPS Trust Policy solidifies this commitment and aligns with Fairfax County Goverment's Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy. It ensures that FCPS students and families can access FCPS benefits and services without fear that information will be disclosed, directly or indirectly, to federal immigration officials. Please visit FCPS’ Trust Policy webpage to learn more about the policy and regulation in multiple languages.
Fueling Student Success: New Food Options Cooked up at FCPS
Students will have more than a dozen new options for lunch and breakfast in school cafeterias starting this week. 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 school menus to see all the new options and when they will become available.
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The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, Empowered
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!
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.
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. See how Goal 2 is being put into practice.
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 our 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 assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school's public health staff.
Read about how families can help form good attendance habits. Attend today, achieve tomorrow!
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Students to Be Surveyed on Social-Emotional Learning
FCPS is committed to supporting the mental wellness of all students. The Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener helps our students share their perspectives on how their schools and communities support them and help them develop the skills they need to succeed.
The screener is offered to all students in grades 3 through 12 in the fall and spring. It addresses skills such as achieving goals, understanding and managing emotions, establishing and maintaining relationships with adults and peers, and making responsible decisions. Students also share how successful their school and community are at making them feel valued, included, and supported. Screener data is used to plan programming for the division, schools, and individual students.
After each screening, results will be available in the Documents tab of SIS ParentVUE and mailed to families who don’t have a ParentVUE account. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage.
Families who wish to opt their child out may do so by completing the opt-out form in the Annual Notice packet or SIS ParentVUE. For more information, please visit the Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Screener webpage or contact our front office.
Please note that the SEL Screener is not the same as the anonymous Fairfax County Youth Survey, which will take place later this fall.
Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health
Children go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to tell if their behavior is developmentally appropriate or if they could benefit from mental health support. It’s important to talk to your child and pay attention to their actions, especially these warning signs:
- Increased irritability, hyperactivity, energy, and/or aggressive behavior.
- Excessive sadness, hopelessness, or worries.
- Loss of appetite, or significant weight gain or loss.
- Lack of sleep or too much sleep.
- A decline in grades, school avoidance, or attendance concerns.
- Alcohol or drug use.
- Withdrawal from activities and/or friends and family.
- Thoughts of harming themselves or others.
If you notice any of these warning signs or feel your child may be experiencing a mental health challenge, help is available. All Fairfax County public schools have at least one school counselor, school psychologist, and school social worker.
Please reach out to one of these staff members to discuss your concerns and identify resources. Call your school or visit their website for staff member contact information. Find additional ways to support your child’s wellness.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing a mental health crisis such as thoughts of harming themselves or others, please take action right away. Call 988, go to the nearest emergency room, or contact the Sharon Bulova Center for Community Health Emergency Services at 703-573-5679.
No-Cost Therapy for High Schoolers
High school students can access virtual mental health services at no cost through an FCPS program with Hazel Health. Their therapists are licensed and also trained in teen-specific challenges.
Students may be referred by a guardian or designated staff member and participate in weekly video therapy sessions. The therapists will work with students until they achieve their therapy goals, or they can help connect families with long-term mental health services in the community if needed.
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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