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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.
Hello, Springfield District,
While it has certainly been a cold start to our year, I hope you and your family have had a great start to 2025. As many do, I have taken some time to reflect on what’s important to me in my role as the representative for the Springfield District, and I am excited to get to work this year to support all our students and staff!
One such opportunity to support our students this year is with the 2025-2026 Basal Resource Adoption for Mathematics. If you are interested in representing the Springfield District on the Mathematics Instructional Resource Review Committee, please complete this form by midnight, Wednesday, February 5, 2025. More information about this is available below.
I also was able to recently attend a Safety & Security Table Top Training at one of the elementary schools in my district. It was a wonderful experience to see how hard our staff works to prepare to keep our students safe during anything that may happen in one of our schools. As a parent, it certainly gave me peace of mind about my children in FCPS schools. I thought it might be helpful to remind you about a few tools and resources we have as parents to understand safety terms and some frequently asked questions to review and help support your student before and after school lockdown drills.
I hope you all stay warm and safe out there!
I will be in touch soon!
Sandy Anderson
This newsletter includes information on the following issues:
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Meeting information and materials will be posted to BoardDocs.
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February 4 at 10:30 a.m. - Work Session: Strategic Plan Goal 3 Report and Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget
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February 4 at 6 p.m. - Public Hearing: FY 2026 Proposed Budget
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February 6 at 6 p.m. - VHSL Fall Recognitions
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February 6 at 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting: FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program, etc.
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February 10 at 4:30 p.m. - Audit Committee Meeting
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February 11 at 10 a.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting
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February 11 at 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting
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February 13 at 7 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning Development Committee Meeting
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February 18 at 2 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting
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February 18 at 5 p.m. - Work Session: FY 2026 Proposed Budget
Please note that times and topics are subject to change.
The work sessions and meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.
For Spanish speakers, to watch recorded School Board meetings, or live during regular meetings, visit the FCPS en Espanol YouTube channel or scan the QR code below.
Visit the Community Participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.
Are you interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
Please contact the board clerk if you need language interpretation or American Sign Language support for any School Board meeting. Find your School Board members and how to contact them on the School Board Members webpage.
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones de Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las Reuniones Ordinarias en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español .
School Board Work
2025-2026 Basal Resources Adoption: K-12 Mathematics Committee Appointee Needed
Are you interested in participating in the review of potential K-12 Mathematics resources?
FCPS is engaging the basal resource (e.g., textbooks, online materials) adoption process for K-12 Mathematics, and I am seeking a community member to participate on this committee. The process, governed by Regulation 3004.5, includes a 30-day public review period and a deep review by an Instructional Resource Review Committee (IRRC), made up of representatives from a variety of stakeholder groups - teachers, administrators, and community members. The process may lead to identified Mathematics resources (e.g., textbooks, digital materials) for some or all grade levels and courses in school year 2025-2026.
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.
Participation on the committee requires the following:
Appointed community representatives must be able to meet the following participation criteria for a total commitment of 25 hours. Dates will be confirmed in February.
- Attend two in-person meetings (March 3, 2025, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. and March 24, 2025, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.) at Gatehouse Administrative Center, three subcommittee meetings via Zoom (dates TBD), and two vendor demos via Zoom (dates TBD) during March of 2025. Subcommittee meetings will be scheduled by the members at a time convenient for all.
- Conduct approximately five hours of independent review of the materials during March of 2025.
- Keep information on vendors, materials reviewed, and recommendations confidential.
- Respond to email communication with subcommittee members.
- Hold no conflict of interest with instructional vendors under consideration.
If you are interested in representing our district on the Mathematics Instructional Resource Review Committee, please contact apply no later than February 5, 2025.
Proposed Fiscal Year 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program
The School Board discussed the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at the January 14 work session. View the presentation slides. The board will vote on whether or not to approve the proposed CIP at their Thursday, February 6, meeting. Find more information online and visit the CIP webpage.
Watch the work session.
School Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Assessment Program
The School Board also discussed the annual School Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Assessment Program at the January 14 work session. View the presentation slides.
Watch the work session.
Ratifying the Tentative Collective Bargaining Agreements Between FCPS and FEU
The School Board voted to ratify the tentative collective bargaining agreements between FCPS and the FEU for the licensed instructional and operational bargaining units with an effective date of July 1, 2025. These agreements were reached through a collaborative process, reflecting a shared commitment to support high-quality educational environments for all students. The key terms of the CBAs are:
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7% Market Scale Adjustment (MSA) to salary scales in FY 26
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3% MSA and step increase in FY 27 and FY 28.
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Additional step at top of all salary scales added in FY 27 and FY 28
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30-minute minimum block for teacher planning time
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Continuation of extended-day contract for special education teachers
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Three days of bereavement leave separate from sick leave
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Creation of Health Care Advisory Committee to consider affordable healthcare plans
View more information on Boarddocs.
Watch the full meeting.
Fiscal Year 2025 Midyear Budget Review
At the December 19 regular meeting, the School Board voted to approve revenue and expenditure changes reflected in the fiscal year 2025 Midyear Budget Review. Chief among the Board’s new investments was a $3.35 million infusion for school safety and security initiatives. Additional resources were also approved for e-sports stipends and licensure pathways (iTeach).
View more information on Boarddocs. Watch the full meeting.
Secondary Grading Policy
Also at the December 19 meeting, the Board voted to approve updated Policy 2418: Secondary Grades, Assessment and Grading, and Reporting on Progress of Learning (formerly called Reporting Student Progress to Parents and Guardians). The updated policy will bring greater consistency and academic rigor to grading practices across the school division. This policy, developed with input from educators, students, and families, standardizes grading expectations while ensuring they align with FCPS’s commitment to equity and high academic standards. Key changes include clearer grading scales, uniform practices for more limited reassessment opportunities, and more consistent approaches to homework. These updates will support students in reaching their full potential by promoting fairness and accountability in grading.
View more information and follow-on motions on Boarddocs. Watch the full meeting.
Proclamations
I was pleased to support the following proclamations at the Board’s December 19 and January 23 regular meetings.
Superintendent Updates
🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
Registration for the countywide lottery for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program is open. Current pre-K students may apply for the kindergarten immersion program, and current kindergarten students may apply for the first-grade immersion program for the 2025-26 school year.
Dual Language Immersion is available in French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish.
Interested parents/caregivers may want to attend an informational meeting at the school site. Visit the Dual Language Immersion Program registration page for a list of meetings by language offered.
Get more details on the DLI Program webpage and DLI Program Registration webpage.
📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update
If you did not have a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting as part of the first phase of our comprehensive boundary review process, please join one of our virtual meetings:
Click on a date to register.
To ensure a meaningful experience for participants, each virtual meeting will be limited to 400 participants, and each participant will receive their own unique Zoom link. Language interpretation will be available.
Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn about the boundary review process. Sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter as well.
Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting: Key Takeaways
The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met this week at the Gatehouse Administration Center. Key takeaways from the meeting include:
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Welcome: The group reviewed the previous meeting’s norm form data. Attendees included 41 pyramid representatives and 10 organization representatives.
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Follow-Up from Previous Advisory Committee Meetings: Follow-up information was provided to the group, including full data from the 12/06/24 meeting, Roles and Responsibilities, and Communications guidance.
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Policy 8130 and Review Process: Information was presented regarding Policy 8130 including the timeline of revisions, an overview of the content, and Board updates to the policy from the work done in 2024.
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Community Feedback to Next Steps: Guiding the Boundary Review Process: Thru Consulting shared summaries of each of the four priority areas and the “Other” category, as well as shared the actual scanned PDFs of graphic organizers from six community sessions conducted in 2024. The committee was asked to individually review the summaries and was then divided into groups to review specific priority areas. In groups, we began to review the summaries and preliminarily reviewed them for accuracy against the scanned PDFs from the community sessions. The committee agreed that there was limited time to review the volume of data that will be reviewed in subsequent sessions. We preliminarily drafted statements of other data that we need to collect and review, as well as additional analysis on the accuracy of the summaries provided. The committee asked for additional data that has not been provided to date.
Note: The Comprehensive Boundary Review process will require the committee to review a variety of data sets. In this third meeting, members participated in an exercise that involved a preliminary review of feedback data from the six regional in-person meetings. Once the six virtual community meetings are completed, the consultant will provide the committee with data from all 12 meetings for review. In addition, the committee will continue to inform the process, including sharing what relevant data should be studied prior to any scenarios being developed.
Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received. Learn about the comprehensive boundary review process.
Springfield District Scene
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Bryant High School offers a Construction Technologies class where students build items to sell to staff to fund the purchase of more materials. Students learn valuable skills and take great pride in their craftsmanship. The class not only teaches students to build but also how to become entrepreneurs! |
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Congratulations to Centreville HighSchool’s Twisha Sinha for winning the Centreville American Legion Post 1995 Oratorical Contest! The American Legion Oratorical Contest exists to develop deeper knowledge and appreciation for the U.S. Constitution among high school students.
Centreville teachers Jake Uden and Melissa Rife led their annual field trip to Baltimore with the German program last month. A well-known part of the December German culture is Christmas markets with rows of vendors and delicious food. The closest thing to the real thing is a large one organized in the Baltimore Inner Harbor. The teachers took 100 students over two days to tour the markets, experience their fun, and learn about the German holiday traditions.
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Students in Chantilly Academy’s Exploring Health Science class had the opportunity to use state-of-the-art medical equipment at Inova's Advanced Surgical Technology and Education Center (ASTEC). The ASTEC is the most technologically advanced surgery simulation facility in the region and is used by surgeons, surgical residents, and surgical teams for training and education. While there, students put their medical skills to practice using laparoscopes, endoscopes, robotic surgical systems, and interactive mannequins.
Following their visit to the ASTEC, students heard a presentation by Inova's Respiratory Therapy team and learned how they provide respiratory services to a range of patients from infants in the NICU to elderly patients. During this presentation, students had the opportunity to practice intubation, use manual breathing pumps, and see how lungs inflate and deflate.
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Shout out to Fairfax High School’s Naomi Bautista for receiving a Superior Thespy Award in Solo Acting at the Virginia Thespian Festival! |
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Congratulations to Lake Braddock Secondary School’s Leah Rajnik for winning a Playwriting and Dramaturgy scholarship at the Virginia Thespian Festival! The winning continued with the following students receiving a Superior Thespy Award.
Cora Ahlstrom - Solo Acting
Madison Eismeier - Sound Design
Lily Maher - Solo Acting
Bella Molino - Makeup Design
Rebecca Weingast - Lighting Design
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The Region 4 Leadership Team and I are pleased to announce the selection of Ms. Jamie Luerssen, current principal of Colin L. Powell Elementary School, as the next principal of Oak View Elementary School. Ms. Luerssen is an experienced principal with a 25-year career in education. She is dedicated to fostering strong family partnerships, implementing inclusive, rigorous, and engaging learning experiences for all students, and supporting teachers as the lead learners in their classrooms. Her efforts consistently resulted in gains in student achievement that exceeded expectations.
Luerssen started her career in education as an elementary school teacher in North Carolina before joining FCPS in 2001. In FCPS she has proudly served as a teacher at Glen Forest Elementary School and Bren Mar Park Elementary School. She served in a variety of leadership roles including assistant principal at Glasgow Middle School, Saratoga Elementary School, and Laurel Ridge Elementary School, and is also proud of her service as the Manager of Professional Development in the former Department of Professional Learning and Accountability in FCPS. Luerssen has also served as an adjunct professor at George Mason University teaching coursework for provisionally licensed teachers seeking their permanent teaching license.
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As principal at Colin Powell Elementary, Luerssen leads a school with a diverse population, including a full-time local-level advanced academic program, Korean Immersion Program, special education programming to include 3 enhanced autism classrooms and 4 preschool autism classrooms, and a growing population of multilingual learners. Her responsibilities encompass instructional leadership, school climate, communication, community relations, culturally responsive and equitable leadership, human resources, student achievement, and a multi-tiered system of support. Luerssen successfully led the school to achieve accreditation pass rates exceeding 94% in language arts and math for the past three years. She also prioritizes student achievement for multilingual learners and students with disabilities, ensuring their success rates surpass state benchmarks.
Luerssen has been proud to serve as a leader within the Centreville pyramid and was selected to attend the Courageous Principals training program at Deloitte University this past September. Luerssen has been proud to support the expansion of the Principal Induction Program by serving as a mentor and coach to principals in years three through five. Luerssen was nominated for FCPS Outstanding New Principal and FCPS Outstanding Principal several years running. Luerssen holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from Virginia Tech University and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Clarion University of Pennsylvania.
Luerssen will continue to serve in the role of principal at Colin Powell Elementary School until a successor is named before she transitions to Oak View Elementary. Please join us in welcoming Ms. Jamie Luerssen as the new principal of Oak View Elementary School!
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I’m so proud of South County High School’s DECA students working to make their school a welcoming and wonderful home for all students! They created interactive and inspiring posters that invite their fellow Stallions to grab a "post-it pick-me-up," offering positivity and encouragement for any challenge they face.
South County students continue to shine with the introduction of their new club Mind Matters, where students are taking the lead in raising mental health awareness and providing valuable resources to support one another. These student leaders are carving new paths and creating a safe space for their peers, ensuring that everyone has the tools and support they need to thrive.
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Please join Chief of Schools Dr. Geovanny Ponce and me in welcoming West Springfield High School principal Michael Mukai as the new principal of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)!
As you know, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) launched a nationwide search for a new principal earlier this fall following Dr. Ann Bonitatibus' promotion to a central office position.
After several weeks of extensive and diligent consideration of numerous highly qualified candidates, we are delighted to share that we have found an exceptional leader - and TJHSST alum - close to home. Michael Mukai has accepted the position and will begin later this month. Mukai has been the principal of West Springfield High School (WSHS) since 2014 and has held a variety of FCPS school-based positions since 1995 when he began his career as a math and science teacher. He has also coached wrestling and volleyball.
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In a full circle moment, Mukai was in the very first class of TJHSST when it converted to a magnet STEM school in 1985. He majored in Chemistry at Virginia Tech and he has a Master of Curriculum and Instruction, Math Education also from Virginia Tech. He has also completed post-master's graduate work in the Sociology of Scientific Knowledge through the Department of Science Technology and Society of Virginia Tech.
During the recruitment process, Mukai impressed all with his passion for TJHSST, his innovative vision for the future, and his track record of elevating academic excellence.
His many accomplishments at WSHS include:
- Significant gains in advanced academic access and success which has resulted in gold recognition by the College Board for the AP School Honor Roll.
- Increasing the number of students recognized through the National Merit Scholarship program.
- Cappies recognitions for theater arts, honor band recognitions, Virginia Music Educators Association recognitions, district, region, and state championships in Virginia High School League athletics and activities.
Congratulations Principal Mukai!
Read more on the FCPS website.
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In early December, Thorlabs visited TJHSST, introducing students to the world of photonics with their mobile lab. Photonics is the study of how to detect and manipulate light.
Seniors in the Quantum Physics research lab were able to conduct advanced experiments in the lab the first two days of the visit, while the third day was opened up to all physics classes to experience the world of photonics.
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I’m so proud of the West Springfield High School members of the Military Ambassador Club for joining thousands of volunteers honoring veterans buried at Arlington National Cemetery for Wreaths Across America.
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Congratulations to Woodson High School Theater for winning Best Music and Best Storytelling at the Virginia Thespian Festival for their one-act play. |
🏅FCPS Students Named National Merit Commended Scholars
Six hundred ninety-three FCPS students have been named National Merit Commended Scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). This represents a 10% increase in Commended Scholars for FCPS compared to 2023.
In recognition of their outstanding ability and potential for academic success in college, NMSC will honor these students by sending Letters of Commendation to them through their high schools.
Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!
Centreville High School
Gavin Bush
Joshua DiBartolo
Chantilly High School
Gaayathri Mathuria
Himneesh Medisetti
Nathan Murphy
Venkata Pranav Sirigiri
Fairfax High School
Siya Batra
Ainsley Buice
Kyle Cheung
William Choi
Soham Dash
Benjamin Deadman
Kayden Eishen
Jeremiah Falke
Zane Geadah
Fatima Haddi
Johann Jose
Alicia Lee
Gauri Manocha
Oliver Mishak
Lake Braddock Secondary School
Cora Ahlstrom
Misha Bhatia
Neelashree Das
Kelly Fitton
Ahnaf Hasan
Danielle Hung
Varun Kumar
James Riley
Kenneth Tran
Oakton High School
Viraj Kamath
Shehroze Kiani
Hyoeun Kim
Arjun Malghan
Ny Antsa Razafinjatovo
Ayan Sudhir
Robinson Secondary School
Hashir Ahmad
Katharine Eagan
Jack Fulham
Miriam Jesse
South County High School
Tristan Mihocko
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology
William Coryell
Sophia Fernandes
Harisudhan Harish
Saanvi Indukuri
Raghav Karthikeyan
Erin Stevens
Zeerak Yusufi
West Springfield High School
Julia Allendoerfer
Nicholas Barr
Kelly Benyo
Isaac Bond
Colin Burdett
Ava Chiu
Hyunji Cho
Maximilian Englert
Aaron Gorowitz
William Hoyle
Joshua Jung
Alexandra Morrison
Evan Residori
David Reynolds
Shriya Seshadri
Isaiah Sorial
Derek Woodward
Woodson High School
Derek Fisher
Read the full list of recipients.
🎉 Teachers at 100 Schools Receive Educate Fairfax Grants
Educate Fairfax financially supported 107 grants across 100 Fairfax County public schools — including 24 Title 1 schools — totaling an unprecedented $180,273 in funding! These grants will help defray the cost of innovation in our schools, which might otherwise come out of the pockets of our educators and staff or simply not be possible. Nearly 36,000 of our students will be directly impacted by these grants.
Congratulations to the following schools in which Springfield District students attend!
- Bonnie Brae Elementary School
- Bryant High School
- Burke School
- Cedar Lane School
- Centreville High School
- Chantilly Academy
- Chantilly High School
- Cherry Run Elementary School
- Fairfax Academy
- Fairfax High School
- Fairfax Villa Elementary School
- Greenbriar East Elementary School
- Katherine Johnson Middle School
- Key Center School
- Key Middle School
- Lewis High School
- Liberty Middle School
- Mountain View High School
- Newington Forest Elementary School
- Oakton High School
- Quander Road School
- Robinson Secondary School
- Rolling Valley Elementary School
- Sangster Elementary School
- Saratoga Elementary School
- South County High School
- South County Middle School
- Union Mill Elementary School
- Waples Mill Elementary School
- West Springfield High School
- Woodson High School
See the full list of schools and projects that will be funded.
🎭 Upcoming School Performances
Don’t miss the many upcoming school performances featuring our outstanding Springfield District students! Among them are
Key Middle School
Into the Woods, Jr.
January 24 and 25
Buy tickets
Woodson High School
Dessert on Broadway
January 24 and 25
Buy tickets
South County Middle School
Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
January 31 and February 1
Buy tickets
Fairfax Academy
Once Upon a One More Time (high school version)
January 31, February 1,2, 6, 7, and 8
Buy tickets
South County High School
Theatre Arts Student Directed One Acts
February 6, 7, and 8
Buy tickets
West Springfield High School
Theater Arts Student Written & Directed One Acts
February 6, 7, and 8
Buy tickets
Frost Middle School
Frozen
February 7 and 8
Buy tickets
Oakton High School
Theatre Arts Night of One Acts
February 7
Buy tickets
Lake Braddock Secondary School
Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (2013 Edition)
February 13, 14, and 15
Buy tickets
Robinson Secondary School
Seussical the Musical
February 14, 15, 16, 20 (Sensory Sensitive Performance), 21 and 22
Buy tickets
Fairfax Academy
Fairfax Academy Dance Benefit Concert
February 21
Free/Donations appreciated
Irving Middle School
Frozen, Jr.
February 21, 22, and 23
Buy tickets
Student Opportunities
Disclaimer: Opportunities offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools not assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parents or guardians before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity. Families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
🌐 2025 FCPS Gap Year Fair
FCPS’ School Counseling Services and Go Overseas are co-hosting the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at Marshall High School from 6 to 8:30 p.m. This event is for high school students and parents who are interested in learning more about the growing array of gap year opportunities. The evening will begin with a presentation in the auditorium from 6:00-6:45 p.m. Immediately following, the program fair will be held in the cafeteria from 6:45-8:30 p.m., with representatives from over 30 programs offering gap year opportunities. Students and their families are encouraged to meet the representatives and learn about the variety of experiences available.
Students are encouraged to pre-register for this event. For more information, visit: USA Gap Year Fairs.
**In the event of inclement weather on Tuesday, January 28, 2025: The Gap Year Fair will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, at the same time and location.
🏀 South County High School Girls Basketball Clinic
The South County Girls High School Basketball Program and coaching staff are inviting students in grades Kindergarten through 8 to a Basketball Clinic. The Clinic will be filled with teamwork and fun including meeting South County High School Girls' Basketball players and coaches, learning ball handling, shooting, passing, and more, and meeting students from neighboring elementary schools.
The Basketball Clinic will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the South County High School gym. (enter at door 12; door opens at 8:45 a.m.) The cost is $40 per student.
Register online. Registration ends on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Questions may be directed to Coach Roy Wimbush at rlwimbush@fcps.edu.
Emerging Leaders Program
EduFuturo’s Emerging Leaders Program is a free online leadership program for students in grades 9-12 who are going to college. Students will improve their skills through leadership, resume-building, and public speaking opportunities. Additionally, writing and speech competition scholarships range from $1,000 to $500, allowing students to gain recognition for their efforts and further support their educational goals.
The program begins virtually on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m.
💻 Hack for Homeless
Join Hack for Homeless Club’s Hackathon for high school students. Compete for a chance to win big and support the homeless in our area. The winning team will receive gift cards as a prize. Don’t miss this opportunity to hack your way to success! The event is free to attend. The Hackathon will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Meridian High School in Falls Church.
Sign up online.
Dream Project Scholarship 2025
The Dream Project provides scholarship opportunities to students born outside the United States and whose immigration status creates barriers to success in college. Details and application materials can be found on the Dream Project website. The deadline to apply is Saturday, February 1, 2025.
🌱 Girls Who Code AI + Sustainability Challenge
Calling all changemakers! What if technology could help make the world greener? This year Girls Who Code is challenging students ages 13-18 to dream up a project that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to protect the planet. How would you use AI to make sustainable living easier? What would it do? Who would it help?
Record a song, animate a short, design a game, design an app, or something else. The format is up to you! Find more information online.
Submit your project by Wednesday, February 12, 2025
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Application for the 2025 Student Representative to the School Board
Each year FCPS students have the opportunity to apply for the position of student representative to the School Board. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity, representing the interests of the students of Fairfax County Public Schools. For more information on this role, see FCPS Policy 1802. The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SAC) student delegates will vote to elect the representative to the School Board. FCPS students in grades 9, 10, and 11 residing in Fairfax County or Fairfax City are eligible to apply.
A written component of the application is due Monday, February 24, 2025, and a 30-second candidate video statement is due Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
Find more information, including the application, online.
Hear from the current Student Representative to the School Board, Megan Sawant.
💵 Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarships
The Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA) scholarship is for a first-generation Latino/Hispanic student from Fairfax County Public Schools. A first-generation Latino/Hispanic student is one born abroad or to immigrant parents in the United States. The student must be the first one in their family to attend a post-secondary educational institution. HLA is a non-profit organization of Fairfax County Public Schools employees, retirees, former students, and residents. Among the goals of HLA are to develop partnership relationships with school-based Latino/Hispanic clubs; provide leadership training opportunities to club members; encourage student participation in advanced academic programs, leadership activities, and school completion; and support Latino/Hispanic graduating seniors with scholarship opportunities. The deadline to complete the Word-based application is February 25, 2025.
For more information contact Jane Cruz at jane.ellen.cruz@gmail.com or 202-207-5839.
🖥️ Girls Who Code Summer Programs
Girls Who Code helps high school girls and nonbinary students build coding skills, explore career pathways in tech, and connect with a supportive community–no program fees or prior coding experience required! Their summer programs
Students can choose their adventure with two exciting program options:
Summer Immersion Program (SIP): Spend two weeks designing computer games in live virtual classrooms while making friends, getting practical college and career advice from industry leaders, and exploring a future tech career. Eligible students can apply for a $300 SIP Student Grant plus laptop and hotspot access!
Pathways: This flexible, six-week program lets students learn at their own pace with step-by-step video tutorials. Participants explore hot topics in tech like artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and web development, with opportunities to apply new skills to real-world projects and get career insights from tech industry pros.
Ready to apply? Submit the Summer Programs Application to start your adventure!
- Apply by February 26, 2025, for priority consideration.
- The application closes on April 11, 2025.
Questions? Learn more at one of their upcoming webinars, or email them at summer@girlswhocode.com.
🏛️ College Partnership Program
Do you have a student between grades 8 - 11, who wants to go to college? If so, they should consider applying to the College Partnership Program (CPP), which offers support from exploration to application! The deadline to apply is February 28, 2025.
CPP offers programming to help prepare students and families from 9th grade through applying to and enrolling in college, including:
- Academic counseling
- College visits
- Help with completing college and scholarship applications
- Monthly meetings
- A summer overnight experience on a college campus
- News and information related to colleges and careers via Schoology
All students are eligible and encouraged to apply to this program, and are expected to meet the following requirements:
- Maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher in core classes
- Attend monthly CPP meetings
- Are willing to pursue advanced coursework
- Demonstrate leadership in school or community activities
The goal of the program is to systematically mitigate the impact of barriers to access and opportunity, and support students who are from populations that are historically underrepresented on college campuses. This includes students who are the first in their family to attend college in the U.S., Multilingual learners, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities.
Apply online.
The application is only open to students using their FCPS G-Suite account. All applications will be submitted ONLINE ONLY.
🌎 American Youth Climate Summit
The American Youth Climate Summit, sponsored by the Youth Climate Advocacy Network, will be held on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at American University. This event is designed to empower students to tackle climate challenges and build a sustainable future through inspiring keynote talks, interactive workshops, and networking with leaders in the field.
This summit is a great opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of climate issues, develop leadership skills, and take meaningful steps toward a more sustainable future. Pre-register online.
💧 Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts Scholarships
Fairfax County high school seniors or college freshmen are eligible to receive a $1,000 Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship from the Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts (NVSWCD). This scholarship supports studies related to natural resource conservation and invests in the talented youth of Fairfax County. NVSWCD’s Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship award winner will also be submitted to the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Districts’ Educational Foundation committee for review and may be eligible to receive one of four $2,000 state-wide scholarships. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Learn more and apply for the Future Conservation Leaders Scholarship.
Community News
🐉 16th Annual Chinese New Year Festival
The Asian Community Service Center will celebrate the Chinese New Year with a Chinese New Year Festival on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School. Children under 6 will be admitted for free, children ages 6-12 are admitted for $2, and adults are admitted for $5. Purchase your tickets online and receive a 5% discount. The Festival will include live performances, crafts, job opportunities, kids’ activities, Asian cuisine, a New Year parade, and more! Booths and sponsorships are available.
Questions may be directed to contact@asianservicecenter.org or 703-868-1509.
🌳 Fairfax County Park Authority 2025 Camps
Fairfax County Park Authority 2025 spring and summer camp registration begins on February 4 and 6, 2025 at 9 a.m. Registration has been split between two dates based on the camp location.
Additionally, winter 2025 Camps for Wednesday, January 29, and Monday, February 17, 2025, are still open.
Find more information about winter, spring, and summer 2025 camps on the Fairfax County Park Authority website.
🌱 FCPS Get2Green Event
Are you interested in being an environmentally conscious citizen? Are you concerned about food waste? If so, you are invited to attend an FCPS Get2Green event at Woodson High School., sponsored by Canterbury Woods Elementary. and Woodson High School. They will be showing an abbreviated version of the documentary Just Eat It, followed by a panel discussion by experts from Food for Others, Hands on Harvest, FCPS students, and more!
Where: Woodson High School. Please park by the front of the school and enter through door 18.
When: Thursday, February 6, 2025, 6:30-8:15 p.m.
🥫 Help Restock Food Pantries
Stuff the Bus is a partnership between Fairfax County Government and local nonprofits. Now in its 14th year, Stuff the Bus continues to support food assistance efforts for families and households. Stuff the Bus has collected more than 220 tons of food to feed people experiencing food insecurity in Fairfax County.
You can help stuff the bus at select locations. Visit the Stuff the Bus webpage for locations and a full list of requested items.
Family and Student Resources
Resources for New FCPS Families
Are you new to the area and need help understanding school registration or connecting with your local school? The following resources are available for all families.
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Family liaisons work in the schools and community to help families get the information and assistance they need to support their children and to ensure their academic success. Family liaisons represent a variety of cultures, languages, and races.
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Family information phone lines are available in nine languages to assist families. A school system employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.
- Visit the FCPS Family Academy webpage to learn how FCPS works to support the continued success and well-being of every student.
⛄ Winter Resources for Families
A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in case they or someone they know needs assistance while schools are closed. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources webpage for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.
💊 What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse
FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.
What can families do?
- Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink.
- Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success.
- Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage.
- Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors.
- Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”
Get more information on opioid awareness.
Partners in Policymaking
The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities is now recruiting for the 2025-2026 Partner in Policymaking (PIP) class. Individuals with developmental disabilities or family members learn advocacy and leadership skills. Visit their webpage for more information.
Fairfax County Free Parenting Classes
The Fairfax County Family Services Department offers free Parenting Education Programs including classes, a parenting support line, virtual parent cafés, parenting 101 videos, and parenting tips and resources. Learn more about their programs online and about their classes in this video.
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).
In September, the FRC will host webinars for families on supporting siblings of children with disabilities, helping students organize their school work, working with children who like to push boundaries, and teen development and well-being. Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.
January and February webinars and workshops include:
In Case you Missed It
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December 18 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
- Winter Weather Delays and Closings
- Fall 2024 VHSL Sports Champions
- Upcoming Family Academy Events
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January 9 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
- Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter
- Course Selection and Curriculum Nights for Middle and High School Students
- Cell Phones Off, Learning On
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January 15 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Proposed Budget
- Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities
- Student Rights and Responsibilities and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon
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January 22 FCPS This Week shared updates on the following topics and others.
- Virginia’s Student Assessment Summary for Families
- Judges Needed for Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair
- Course Selection for Middle and High School Students and Graduation Requirements and Planning
- January Audit Buzz Newsletter
- January Global Classroom Project Newsletter
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, sign up today.
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The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.
© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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