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Hello Braddock Friends & Neighbors -
Winter is on its way, and with it we are nearing the end of the first half of the 2024-25 school year! I hope you and your loved ones are preparing to enjoy the winter break, with some much needed downtime and festivities! I know I am looking forward to having my family home, with the fun, laughter, games, and even occasional disagreement that comes with that. We play hard, laugh loudly, disagree with gusto, and love each other through it all. I hope you also have a winter break filled with core memories, lots of love, and much joy. I think we could all use a little more joy these days.
I find joy every time I see our students performing, creating, building, helping their community, or playing a sport. I learn something every time I talk with them during my school visits, with their thoughtful questions and insights. Knowing that our future is in good hands with these young people brings me much joy and peace.
School Board Recent Actions:
Your School Board has been quite busy in recent weeks with a number of important matters, including updating the system-wide grading policy, funding a comprehensive facilities assessment in preparation for creating a new school renovation queue, discussing the Strategic Plan Goal 2 report, receiving a report on middle school start times, approving new secondary course offerings and a division literacy plan, hearing the mid-year budget report with a focus on additional funding for safety and security measures, and receiving monitoring reports from the Superintendent in Human Resources and Student Learning Environment. Dr. Reid has also presented Academic Matters presentations on Student Attendance and Inclusive Schools.
See More from the School Board below for more information and links.
 Speaking to the hundreds of caregivers who participated at a Boundary Project public input meeting on Dec. 3 at Lake Braddock Secondary School.
Boundary Review:
I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to all those who turned out and participated in recent public input sessions about the current FCPS Comprehensive Boundary Review Project. Hundreds of constituents provided their thoughts during sessions for Region 5 at Westfield High School on Dec. 2 and for Region 4 at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Dec. 3.
I’ve received a few questions about where we are in the boundary process. The School Board has reviewed and updated the Boundary Policy which prioritizes capacity, shorter transportation times, proximity to schools, and access to programming as top factors to be prioritized in considering boundaries. The policy also includes robust community engagement before and after changes are proposed, before any changes are made. Currently, there are no proposed changes to boundaries; we are in the process of gathering community input for our consultant. There will be community engagement throughout the process - your voice matters to us and is a vital part of the process.
If you haven't yet had a chance to participate, there are two more opportunities coming up (dates and registration links below). This process and its result will only be the best it can be with your input. You can also send your thoughts to me directly.
High School Athletics:
I'd also like to thank the many constituents who have reached out with concerns about recent events involving high school athletics.
First and foremost, I am truly sorry for the angst caused to our community, and for the erosion of trust in our system. All students should have equal access to every aspect of public education, including sports programs, and competition should be fair. I regret that there have been unfortunate impacts to many, including on students and families in the Braddock District. As a leader in the system, I take my responsibility seriously and am sorry for any negative results your child may have faced, including student athletes whose season was affected.
You may be aware that the School Board voted at its Dec. 5 meeting to engage an external law firm that has not performed any work for FCPS or the Superintendent in the last 10 years to conduct a comprehensive and independent examination (to include but not limited to student athlete transfers and eligibility practices) for all high school athletics across FCPS schools, starting with a examination of Hayfield High School, and to report its findings and make recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent.
I am grateful to my colleagues for supporting my follow on motion, seconded by my colleague Melanie Meren of the Hunter Mill District, directing the Governance Committee to update related policies once the external review is complete, to help ensure our policies are updated to prevent a similar situation from happening in the future. In a related action, the school board voted to ask Dr. Reid to bring a corrective action plan to the Executive Limitations monitoring report on Human Resources to address plans to improve consistency of training and expectations for personnel. See below for more information.
Moving forward, I promise that I will continue to advocate for greater transparency and better guardrails for student transfers moving forward in partnership with the community and the Virginia High School League.
Stay warm, and please let me know how I can assist you at any time.
Very truly yours,
 Rachna
IN THIS ISSUE …
Focus on Braddock
Music & Arts
Neurodiversity News
More From the School Board
FCPS News
Out & About
More Stuff Families Should Know
Opportunities for Students
I am so proud of the amazing accomplishments of Braddock District students, staff, and schools! Read more below.
Student Volunteer Project Highlighted on WJLA's Kids Give Back
Annandale High School’s own Tyson Perkins was featured during the Good Morning Washington segment, Kids Give Back. He shared about his work with a local non-profit to promote their "Baskets for Babies" initiative. This program encourages children to assemble and distribute essential items for families with infants, teaching the importance of giving back. Tyson shared his experiences and discussed the Atoms Games, an Annandale event that builds school community and gives back to Annandale families.
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Fairfax HS Student Nominated to School Board Student Leadership Development Program
I am very excited that the School Board has revived its Student Leadership Development Program! Please join me in congratulating Caroline Cronin, a freshman at Fairfax High School, who I have nominated to participate in this program as representative from the Braddock District. Caroline has served as a Senate Page at the Virginia General Assembly, runs cross country, plays violin in the Chamber Orchestra, participated in the Frost Middle School Model United Nations, and founded a charity that collects and donates books to communities in need. Caroline is just one of 12 students selected to participate in this year’s program, which kicked off this week. I am looking forward to hearing her student perspective and insights.
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Robinson SS Student Named Braddock Young Person of the Year
Congratulations to Callum Chang, an eighth grader at Robinson Secondary School who Braddock District Supervisor James Walkinshaw recently named as Braddock Young Person of the Year. Already an active Boy Scout, civic student, community volunteer, and recipient of the Scouts’ Messenger of Peace Champion Award for his project to make no-sew fleece blankets for families in local homeless shelters, Callum is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished with focus and determination. He was recognized at a recognition event on Dec. 4 for all of the Best of Braddock Award recipients. Way to go, Callum, and thank you to Supervisor Walkinshaw for everything you do to promote and support public service in the Braddock District!
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TJSST Teacher Nominated for Outstanding Educator Award
Congratulations to Braddock District resident and Thomas Jefferson School for Science & Technology (TJSST) Geosystems teacher Dr. Kathy Phillips for being nominated for the University of Chicago's Outstanding Educator Award. For this award, students nominate educators whose guidance has helped them along the path toward intellectual growth and positively impacted their lives. Thank you for all you do for our students, Dr. Phillips!
Braddock-Area Schools Earn National Wildlife Federation Green Flag Award
Several schools attended by Braddock District students were among 22 schools across FCPS being honored with a Green Flag award from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) through the EcoSchools U.S. program.
Only 56 Green Flags were awarded nationwide! At these schools, students and teachers committed to sustainability measures that lead to enough points to earn the award. Five FCPS schools earned a silver award. Some of these measures included engaging the local community, forming an action team, creating a plan, collecting data, taking solution-based actions, and measuring impact.
This student-led program provides opportunities for youth leadership, raising environmental awareness, connecting students to the natural world, and driving positive environmental change. Get2Green’s Ignite Partnership with the NWF provides a framework for schools to engage in student-led environmental action through the EcoSchools U.S. program.
Green Flag Award
- Katherine Johnson Middle School,
- North Springfield Elementary School,
- Terra Centre Elementary School, and
- Woodson High School,
Silver Award
- Annandale Terrace Elementary School, and
- Oak View Elementary School.
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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 schools attended by Braddock students have been recognized this month through FCPS CARES for something wonderful they have done:
- Eagle View Elementary School,
- Holmes Middle School,
- Rocky Run Middle School,
- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology, and
- West Springfield Elementary School.
Here's what one parent had to say about Nathan Walby, a music teacher at Eagle View: "A gifted musician AND a gifted teacher, he brings the most positive classroom environment and a genuine passion for musical learning to his students. He joyfully guides students to interact with, practice and perform music, and engages them with creative and fun lessons. He is kind and patient with all students and all abilities. In my own interactions with him, his first response is always warmth and an authentic smile. I am positive he is a teacher our kids will always remember and be able to identify the impact that he made when they look back on this time in their lives. He’s a fantastic human being."
Read the full list of FCPS CARES recognitions here.
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Other School Shout-Outs!
 Congratulations to the Katherine Johnson Middle School Quiz Bowl Team!
Braddock Students Perform at 2024 Va. Music Educators Association Conference
Students from three Braddock District schools were among seven FCPS bands and orchestras to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference, held Nov. 21-23 in Norfolk.
Performance groups throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for spots at the conference.
Groups which performed included:
- Falls Church High School Chamber Orchestra,
- Glasgow Middle School Wind Ensemble,
- Lake Braddock Secondary School Symphony Orchestra,
- Robinson Secondary School Symphonic Band,
- Thoreau Middle School Symphonic Band,
- West Springfield High School Wind Symphony, and
- Woodson High School Wind Ensemble.
Several FCPS students also performed as part of the All-Virginia Jazz Band, VMEA Senior Honors Choir, and All-Virginia Elementary Orff Ensemble.
VMEA is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of music education across the state of Virginia. It serves music educators who teach in a variety of settings, including public and private schools, colleges, and universities.
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The Cappies Review Lear at Woodson HS
I recently saw a performance of Lear at Woodson High School, which was amazing! The acting was so believable, changing the character from King Lear to Queen Lear was very well done, the use of music and effects (rainstorm!) was very creative, and it left me with lots to ponder. The students did justice to this very complex and difficult material.
Following is an excerpt from The Cappies' review of Woodson High School's excellent performance of Lear by William Shakespeare, written by Lucy Baboyian of Annandale High School.
"A steady beat of drums pounded through the theater like thunder as Queen Lear stormed on stage, her commanding presence a warning of the turmoil on the horizon.
"Lear, Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, explores themes of pride, betrayal, and madness. When Queen Lear attempts to divide her kingdom amongst her three daughters, her plan soon goes awry. She finds herself betrayed by those she trusted most, stripped of power, and ultimately abandoned. This descent exposes the devastating cost of pride and the fragile nature of loyalty."
Read the full review here.
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Upcoming Performances on My Radar
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Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. - Annandale High School Winter Band Concert
- The Annandale High School Bands will present Winter Nights, their annual holiday concert in the AHS auditorium. The concert will feature all of the AHS band students in a collaborative presentation of seasonal favorites, including a special narration of "Scrooge" and our traditional “Sleigh Ride.” Doors open at 6:45pm; admission is free.
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Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m. - Lake Braddock Theatre Arts State One Acts
- The Lake Braddock Theatre Arts 3 and 4 classes are proud to present a combination of two one-act plays in rotating repertory: Booby Trap by Ed Monk, and Henry V by William Shakespeare. Tickets
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Saturday, Dec. 14, 11 a.m. - Lake Braddock Secondary School Band Children’s Holiday Concert and Open House
- Join the Lake Braddock Bruin Symphonic Band for a Children’s Music Open House at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Guests will hear holiday tunes, see the Marching Bruins Halftime Show, and listen to various instrumental ensembles including Lake Braddock’s Jazz Band. Children may explore the “Bandieland” trail through the music department wing, collect treats and stickers at various stops, and learn more about instrumental music programs along the way.
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Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7 p.m. - Annandale High School Winter Chorus Concert: Deck the Halls
- The Winter Concert with the Annandale Singers, Atom Chorale, Men's Chorale, and the Chamber Ensemble in the Auditorium.
10 Highly Successful People You Didn't Know Were Neurodivergent
From CEO Today: "Estimates suggest that at least 30% of the population is neurodivergent, with these statistics being higher for our most creative innovators (around 40% of self-made millionaires are dyslexic). Yet stigmas around neurodiversity remain. Although Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, and Einstein are all well known for being neurodivergent, it’s easy to call them 'exceptions'.
"But there are many neurodivergent individuals who could have an amazing impact on society if they are given the opportunity. It’s inexplicable in a world where innovation is at the top of every company’s wishlist that these diversely functioning brains are ignored by the hiring process."
Read more.
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Upcoming School Board & Committee Meetings
I encourage everyone to follow the work of the School Board. All of the following meetings will be open to the public. They also will be streamed live online and archived. Locations, agendas, background materials, and streaming links can be found below. Dates and times are subject to change.
- Tuesday, Dec. 17, 5:30-7 p.m. - Joint Meeting with City of Fairfax School Board, Gatehouse Administration Center
- Thursday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m. - Regular School Board Meeting, Luther Jackson Middle School
How to Follow the Work of the School Board
 What Has the School Board Been Doing?
Since my last full newsletter, we have had two regular School Board meetings and one work session. Please see the links below for summaries of those meetings, as well as agendas, meeting documents, and archived video.
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Nov. 14 Regular Meeting
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Dec. 3 Work Session:
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Dec. 5 Regular Meeting
Boundary Review Community Meetings
There are two more opportunities to participate in community meetings regarding FCPS' division-wide boundary review. While your students may not attend school in the regions below, you are still welcome to attend and participate. Please click on a date to register:
In addition, the Office of Communications (OC) has created a new newsletter for regular updates on the Boundary Review process. You can sign up to receive information updates here.
Judging the We the People Civics Competition on Dec. 7
 As a lawyer and professor, I was thrilled to be a judge in the We the People Civics Competition! I was impressed with the constitutional knowledge, keen analysis, and critical thinking ability demonstrated by these high school students. Strong civics education is a high priority for me - informed citizens and reasoned debate keep our country and democracy strong.
State Football Semifinals at Lake Braddock Secondary School on Dec. 7
 With At-Large School Board Member Kyle McDaniel.
The Lake Braddock Secondary School Bruins played their best in the Virginia state semifinals on Dec. 7 but ultimately fell to the Madison High School Warhawks. Congratulations on a great season, Bruins!
Dec. 3 Boundary Project Public Input Meeting at Lake Braddock Secondary School
 With Springfield District School Board Member Sandy Andersonat the Boundary Project public input session at Lake Braddock HS.
Virginia School Board Association Conference in Williamsburg Dec. 19-22
I always treasure opportunities to collaborate with and learn from my school board colleagues from across the state and strategize about important issues including special education needs and requirements and the state funding disparity. The 2024 VSBA conference was both enlightening and educational. There is much work to be done!
 Networking at the Virginia School Board Association's 2024 conference in Williamsburg.
Take Your Legislator to School Events at Woodson HS on Nov. 13 and Bonnie Brae Elementary on Nov. 19
I appreciate Senator David Marsden and Delegate Laura Jane Cohen joining me at Woodson High School on Nov. 13 and Delegate Dan Helmer for joining me at Bonnie Brae Elementary School on Nov. 19 for the VSBA's Take Your Legislator to School Month! We chatted about school funding and ways to address the underfunding of schools as shown in the JLARC report but the best part was hearing the students' ideas of how to improve their education. They loved being able to talk directly to their elected officials and gave us lots of ideas!
 Enjoying music class at Bonnie Brae ES with Delegate Dan Helmer.
 Talking to Woodson HS students with Delegate Laura Jane Cohen and Senator David Marsden, with Principal Kevin Greata at left.
Puffs at West Springfield High School on Nov. 18
I had a fantastic time at Puffs at West Springfield with my colleague Sandy Anderson, Springfield District School Board member, and FCPS Chief of Staff Marty Smith. Such a well done production! The costumes were amazing, the students' timing and character development perfect, and the set very clever! We laughed all night. What an achievement for the theater director also in his first year.
 With FCPS Chief of Staff Marty Smith and Springfield District School Board Member Sandy Anderson at Puffs.
Preparing for Winter Weather
Winter weather will be here before you know it! Watch this video to see how weather-related closing decisions are made.
FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible including email, text, social media, and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated.
Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE, bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange for childcare if needed. text.
Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
Your child’s principal will monitor the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories which may prevent children from being outside. Make sure your child is dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing, so they can comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. See the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather.
If you need assistance supplying your child with cold-weather clothing, please call Fairfax County's Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880. Their multilingual staff can assist with any challenges you are facing, including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health care.
2025-26 FAFSA Form Now Available
The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available. Any college-bound high school senior — regardless of income — who wants to be considered for federal, state, and school financial aid programs should complete a FAFSA form.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to work with their children to complete the FAFSA as early as possible. Check each college’s financial aid office webpage for deadlines and financial aid forms. Then, create an account (if you have not already done so) and fill out the FAFSA.
The Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) application will be available in late January for students who are unable to complete the FAFSA. To help determine which aid option is right for you, visit the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia website.
Get Help Filling out FAFSA From College Access Fairfax
Over the next few months, College Access Fairfax will offer several programs to help students complete the FAFSA/VASA, and find and apply for scholarships. Get information on these programs and how to access them on the College Access Fairfax website.
In addition, College Access Fairfax staff are available for virtual one-on-one help sessions to complete the FAFSA/VASA. To request an appointment, families should email appointments@CollegeAccessFairfax.org.
Get to Know FCPS: Family Orientation
This interactive orientation provides information about the school system, the links between family engagement and student achievement, school staff you should get to know, and programs and technology considerations for families. The orientation also includes a discussion that is helpful for families who are new to the United States.
Sessions in English will be held online on Thursday, Dec. 19, at 6 p.m.
Register in advance. Visit the Family Academy catalog page to see the dates this orientation will be offered in Arabic, Korean, and Spanish.
Upcoming Family Academy Events
You are an important part of 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. Browse Family Academy offerings.
Free Financial Aid and Scholarship Workshops
College Access Fairfax and FCPS will present a series of free virtual workshops on the financial aid process and an overview of the process of applying for outside scholarships. The next workshop, Scholarship 101, will take place on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 10 a.m.
Find more information on College Access Fairfax’s Events page.
U.S. Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Virtual Family Game Nights
The United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication’s Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Committee is excited to host upcoming AAC Family Game Nights. They welcome children who are emergent AAC users and their families, including siblings. This is a great opportunity for families to play games and have conversations while making new friends and meeting other AAC users.
Register in advance. Please note the upcoming game night is full but use the form to receive updates for additional game nights.
Free Medical Clinic
The Adams Compassionate Healthcare Network is providing a free medical clinic. They serve uninsured and low-income individuals within the 300% federal poverty guidelines.
Free services available are as follows:
- High Blood Pressure or Diabetes check-up
- Chronic medical condition treatments
- School, sports & annual physicals
- Preventative screenings
- Routine doctor visits
- Health counseling
- Wellness Exams
- Lab Services
Contact them at 703-542-3386 or contact@achnhealth.org.
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. Contact your student's school counselor, social worker, or psychologist. 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.
In a Few Words FCPS Podcast
In a Few Words FCPS is a podcast aimed at providing families with essential school news and resources. It encourages partnership between families and Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) for children's education. Produced by the Office of Family and School Partnerships and others, the podcast is available in both English and Spanish. Find more information online.
Tutoring Resources for Families
Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as a tutor. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not “approved” by FCPS and is only meant as a resource to families.
FCPS also partners with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors' services at no cost, including weekly live online classes, on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring, essay editing, and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests.
✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence, reminds us of our commitment to supporting each and every student and helping them meet or exceed high academic standards.
Families Reunite Workshops
Family and School Partnerships offers a course for Spanish-speaking immigrant families who are going through the reunification process. It is designed for parents/caregivers and children who have lived apart for at least one year and were recently reunited.
The six-hour Zoom course takes place over three consecutive weeks. Upcoming sessions include:
- Tuesdays, Nov. 19 & 26; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
- Mondays, Nov. 2, 9, & 16; 6:30-8:30 p.m.
We encourage families to attend every session to fully benefit from the program. Register for Families Unite and learn more about FCPS’ Immigrant Family Reunification Program.
Free Workshops from the Family Resource Center
Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC).
Missed a webinar? Check out the Family Resource Center YouTube Page for past webinars.
December webinars and workshops include:
Senator Pekarsky’s 1st Annual Youth Leadership Program 2025 Application
The Youth Leadership Program will allow high school juniors and seniors to travel to Richmond during the General Assembly Session in January 2025. Students will engage with political leadership from across the Commonwealth and gain practical knowledge about Virginia's legislative process. Students from Senate District 36 in Fairfax County are invited to apply.
Students will head to Richmond on Sunday, Jan. 19 and return on Tuesday, Jan. 21. This opportunity comes at no cost to the students. All transportation, lodging, and meals will be provided. A letter excusing the school absence on Tuesday, January 21st will be shared with each of the students.
Applications will close on Tuesday, Dec. 27, at 6 pm. Because of limited number spots, not every student who applies will be accepted. Students will be notified of their application status.
If you have any questions, please feel free to email them to kthames@senate.virginia.gov.
2025 Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program
Senator Jennifer Carroll Foy (District 33) has announced that her office is now accepting applications for The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program, to take place during the 2025 legislative session.
The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program will allow eight exceptional high school juniors and seniors to travel to Richmond during the General Assembly Legislative Session. The 2025 program will take place from Sunday, Jan. 19 through Tuesday, Jan. 21. Students will engage with political leadership from
across the Commonwealth and gain practical knowledge about Virginia's legislative process.
For more information on The Ella Baker Youth Leadership Program and to apply for the 2025 session, please complete the application by Dec. 15 here: http://bit.ly/EllaBaker2025.
Annual Marine Debris Program Art Contest
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Debris Program holds an annual art contest to reach K-8 students and help raise awareness about marine debris. Marine debris is a global issue and engaging our youth is an important part of addressing the problem. NOAA will publish a calendar featuring the winning artwork that provides a daily reminder of how important it is for us to be responsible stewards of the ocean. Apply by Friday, Dec. 13.
INTEGIRLS D.C. 2024 Winter Math Competition
The D.C. chapter of INTEGIRLS is hosting a beginner-friendly, in-person math competition on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Bioscience Education Center at Montgomery College Germantown Campus. They will have math competition rounds (individual and team), an estimathon, a speaker event, an awards ceremony, provided lunch, and lots of fun STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) activities. Register here directly, or visit the INTEGIRLS D.C. website to learn more about the competition.
NOVA’s Early Online College is back for the Spring 2025 Semester
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) Early Online College (EOC) allows current high school juniors and seniors to take up to 2 tuition-free college courses.
Fourteen different courses are being offered in the Spring 2025 semester. These courses are asynchronous, online, and for college credit only. They run for 12 weeks. EOC courses are selected because they meet the requirements for most of NOVA’s Associate degrees and are highly transferable as general education requirements for most colleges and universities. Students must meet eligibility requirements (GPA or available test scores) to take EOC courses.
The registration deadline is Jan. 8, at 5 p.m. Classes take place Tuesday, Feb. 4 through Monday, April 28, 2025.
2025 Gap Year Fair
FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at George C. Marshall High School from 6- 8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. Student registration is now open.
Save the Date: Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair
Please save the date for the 70th annual Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, which will be held on the weekend of Friday, March 21, to Sunday, March 23, 2025.
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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