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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.
Dear Dranesville Families:
Happy Spring! Now that the cherry blossoms have bloomed and bluebells are popping up along the Potomac River, I love seeing Dranesville and my neighborhood exploding in colors. The weather is still up and down, but winter weather is now a memory. Our students are working hard to prepare for May testing, and our seniors are winding down their high school career. This is always a very exciting time in our schools and across FCPS.
This time of year is very busy for the School Board. Please share your thoughts and encourage your 5th- 12th graders to share their opinions on the K-12 start time as we work to consider starting middle school later. These middle school changes could affect all schools in the future. We are deep in our budget work with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (BOS) to address the FCPS budget gap of $150 million. Please visit our webpage, Excellence at the Crossroads, to learn more about the consequences of a budget funding gap. See below to learn how to engage with the BOS, especially on the proposed Fairfax County budget cuts that directly affect FCPS, including school nurse position cuts, the removal of high school crossing guards, and cuts impacting the FCPS middle school afterschool programs.
During the two Dranesville Budget Town Halls with Supervisor Bierman, constituents asked how to help our schools and cut their real estate taxes. The Commonwealth of Virginia is underfunding public education across the state. Virginia is ranked 41st in per-pupil spending. Virginia needs to commit to an increase of $1,900/pupil to match the national average. This increase would allow FCPS to meet our needs-based budget for FY26 and decrease the proportion provided by Fairfax County. You can help by contacting your Virginia state elected officials and our governor to provide for our students and families without making hard choices for FCPS and Fairfax County. See below for how to find your elected officials’ contact information and more details on the non-partisan JLARC study.
I attended the Herndon Middle School’s excellent production of Mathilda Jr. I am looking forward to attending several other middle school and high school productions after spring break (see the schedule of Dranesville productions below). Hope to see you at these incredible productions and our spring middle school and high school sporting events across Dranesville.
I hope you and your family have a relaxing and fun spring break!
Robyn
My visit to Herndon MS's production of Mathilda Jr.
In this newsletter,
School Board Updates
Key School Board Votes
April 10, 2025: Regular Meeting
FY 2025 Third Quarter Budget Review
The School Board voted to approve the FY 2025 third quarter budget review.
Social Studies Basal Instructional Resources
The School Board voted to postpone the vote on the titles listed for the social studies basal instructional resources until the next regular School Board meeting.
New Sole Source Contract: Teach for America, Inc.
The School Board voted to approve the sole source contract to Teach For America, Inc., for teachers trained to support high-need schools.
Watch the full meeting.
March 27, 2025: Regular Meeting
Strategic Plan Goal 4 Equitable Access and Opportunity Report and Vote
The School Board voted to approve the Goal 4 Strategic Plan Report for School Year (SY) 2024-25.
Mason District Proposed Pilot Program
The School Board voted to approve a cost-neutral plan to implement a pilot of later start times in as many of the Mason District middle schools (Glasgow, Holmes, and Poe) as possible for implementation in the 2025-26 school year.
Watch the full meeting.
Presentations to the School Board- April 10
Dr. Reid presented Academic Matters on Purple Star Schools.
Dr. Reid; Renee LaHuffman-Jackson, Director III, Family & School Partnerships; and Lisa Y. Hall, Chief Experience and Engagement Officer, presented a Strategic Plan Update on Pillar B: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships.
Dr Reid and Chief Financial Officer Leigh Burden presented a FY 2026 Approved Budget Update.
FY26 Budget Information
Excellence Is at a Crossroads
 Excellent teachers are the heart of FCPS! They inspire our kids, go the extra mile, and make a real difference. The current county advertised budget underfunds FCPS by $150 million for next year.
Being fully funded helps FCPS keep class sizes down and the number of highly qualified teachers up. Keeping the best teachers includes compensation that allows them to live and work in Fairfax County. The Fairfax County budget priorities survey is open until Thursday, April 24. Take a moment to share your thoughts. Now is the time. Learn more about how excellence is at a crossroads on our website or in this budget video.
There was a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget at the School Board meeting on Thursday, April 10. View the complete agenda.
JLARC Overview
 The General Assembly (SJ 294) directed the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC) to study the cost of education in Virginia and make an accurate assessment of the costs of Virginia’s K-12 funding formulas. FCPS, along with other Virginia school divisions, has been chronically and critically underfunded by the commonwealth. Virginia schools receive less funding per student than our neighboring states — an estimated $568.7 million in underfunding at FCPS alone. That’s approximately $3,100 per student. Because of this chronic underfunding, we are reliant on county funding — less than one third of our budget comes from state, federal, or other sources.
Share Your Input on the FCPS and County Budget
Here are a few ways to share your direct advocacy with the Board of Supervisors (BOS):
Share your advocacy with the School Board:
- FY26 Budget Public Hearing May 13, 6 p.m. at Luther Jackson MS
- Sign up begins April 29, 2025.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tuesday, April 22, 6:30 p.m.- Budget Committee Meeting
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Thursday, April 24, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics are subject to change.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
FCPS Updates
Comprehensive Boundary Review
Key Takeaways April 11th Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee Meeting
The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee met on April 11, 2025, at the Gatehouse Administration Center. Key takeaways from the meeting include:
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Welcome and Introductions Dr. Reid welcomed the group.
- She reminded the committee that we will be adjusting the timeline and moving community engagement to May/June to give our broader community the opportunity to learn about the initial draft scenarios before summer break.
- Dr. Reid also shared that based on the feedback and timeline of this work, the committee meetings will be extended to two hours to allow more meaningful engagement with the data and each other.
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Recap of Boundary Review Process to Date and Presentation of Proposed Boundary Updates Included in Scenario #1 The consultant explained tonight’s focus which is addressing the attendance islands around the county.
- He then shared that when we come back on April 25, we’ll be addressing split feeder patterns.
- Then on May 5, we’ll focus on school population and overcrowding.
- We are developing a boundary tool online so that we will have the tools to dig in at the street level. This will also be available to the public online, and we anticipate that the tool will be ready in early May.
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Small Group Review and Feedback The Advisory Committee worked in groups organized by region, reviewing the scenario addressing attendance islands and making notes on graphic organizers to provide feedback.
- Closing
Please visit FCPS’ website to access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.
Comprehensive Boundary Review FAQs
Do you have questions about FCPS' comprehensive boundary review process? Check out a new list of Frequently Asked Questions on our website. If you have a question that has not been addressed, please submit your question or feedback at your convenience.
Comprehensive Boundary Review Video
Available in Multiple Languages
 Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and others related to school boundaries. In addition to English, the video is now available in the following languages: Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese, and Urdu.
School Bus Stop Arm Cameras
Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”).
- A 30-day warning period is underway.
- Citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.
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New Safety Measure- Weapon Detection System
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will be piloting a weapons detection system in randomly-selected high schools, including nontraditional schools, starting in April 2025. This initiative is part of FCPS's ongoing efforts to enhance school safety and security. Earlier this week, FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid hosted a video discussion with several students about school safety and the new weapons detection system pilot.
The pilot program involves deploying 15 Open Gate devices to a randomly-selected high school or secondary school. During the pilot, at least one school a week will be randomly selected by the Office of Safety and Security for the screening. The screening devices may remain at the school for several days as part of the pilot.
The weapons detection system is similar to those used at sporting events and concerts. It is designed to be more selective than traditional metal detectors, accurately identifying potential threats while minimizing false alarms from everyday metal items like coins.
Dr. Reid Community Conversations
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! A series of Community Conversations is being held across the school division. These events are an opportunity for you to share your thoughts and ask questions regarding FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:
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Monday, April 21, Mount Eagle Elementary School
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Wednesday, April 23, Mason Crest Elementary School
Events are open to all. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Click on the date to register for that event. Visit our webpage for other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
Celebrating Military-Connected Youth
Supporters of the Month of the Military Child Proclamation attending the April 10th School Board meeting.
April is the Month of the Military Child. This year’s theme is Celebrating Military Children and Youth: Building Stronger Character and Relationships.
Military-Connected Family Support
FCPS welcomes all of our new and returning military-connected families throughout the year! Whether your family is moving permanently to the school district or living here for a short time, our schools and support staff welcome you and will be able to assist with your transition into and/or out of our district.
Visit the FCPS Military Families webpage and sign up to receive the Military Families newsletter. Follow FCPS Military Families accounts on Facebook and Instagram for support and resources throughout the year. If you have any questions, please email the FCPS Family and School Partnerships team.
FCPS on Its Way to Becoming a Purple Star Division
With nearly half of its schools already designated as “military friendly” by the state, FCPS is on its way to achieving Dr. Reid’s goal of becoming a Purple Star Division by the 2026-27 school year. Virginia school districts are awarded Purple Star Division status with 100% of their schools earning and/or maintaining their Purple Star Designation.
Virginia’s Purple Star Designation program recognizes schools for excelling in their support of military-connected students. “When a family member serves in the military, everyone in the family serves,” said Dr. Reid.
FCPS Capital Projects Affecting Dranesville Students
Armstrong ES Capital Project
Learn more about the Armstrong ES capital project, including the latest community meeting presentation held April 9, 2025. You can share your feedback through April 23, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.
Cooper MS Capital Project
Learn more about the Cooper MS capital project, including information about the upcoming community meeting on April 29, 2025, by signing up for the newsletter.
Dranesville ES Capital Project
Learn more about the Dranesville ES capital project, including past community meetings and updates about the renovation and addition.
Herndon ES Capital Project
Learn more about the Herndon ES capital project, including information about the upcoming community meeting on April 23, 2025, by signing up for the newsletter.
FCPS Achieves $100 Million in Savings From Reductions in Energy Use
Fairfax County Public Schools has reduced its energy use by 31% since 2014, surpassing its 10-year goal of a 20% reduction. This has led to more than $100 million in cumulative energy cost savings since 2013 across more than 28 million square feet of building space. Read more about FCPS’ environmental stewardship and savings.
Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge
Join the Sustain Fairfax Challenge and see how your everyday actions can make a big difference on the environment and your community’s well-being. During the challenge, you can track your efforts to make changes and invite friends, groups, and other communities to join you in adopting changes. The app lists various climate solutions and shows how adopting simple actions in your daily life can positively affect the environment.
Get to Know FCPS and the Resources Available to Families
Being connected to your school community helps you stay informed and support your child’s success. Take some time to get familiar with the many resources and tools available to FCPS families, including:
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School Age Child Care (SACC) – This Fairfax County government program provides a safe and fun environment before and after school for elementary school-age children.
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FCPS Communications for Families – FCPS shares news and information to support student learning and promote family engagement.
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FCPS Family Academy – We know that as a parent or caregiver, you play a critical role in your child’s education. The Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child’s needs and learning at home. The Family Academy also includes information about resources to help you ensure your child has what they need to succeed. See upcoming events below.
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Family Liaisons – Family liaisons serve as a link between families and schools. Find out how family liaisons can support you and your family.
There’s an easy-to-follow five-step process for parents registering their children for kindergarten. Be sure to register your child as soon as possible!
Upcoming Family Academy Events
Check out some of the upcoming Family Academy sessions:
- Co-Parenting: Two Parents, Two Homes (available in English and Spanish)
- Getting to Know FCPS: A Family Orientation (available in English, Arabic, Korean, and Spanish)
- Learn About Lexia and How It Supports Students’ Individual Learning Needs
- Military Family Workshop on the Advanced Academic Program
- Family Resource Center Webinars on topics including: Cognitive Disabilities, Twice-Exceptional Students, and Teen Development.
Visit the Family Academy catalog for more information on these sessions and to register to attend.
Family Resource Center: Supportive Hub for Families
The Fairfax County Public Schools Family Resource Center offers a variety of resources to help all families support their children's success in school. They provide free webinars and events, confidential consultations with professionals, and a lending library with over 10,000 resources. There are even resources specifically designed to help families of children with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities.
Family Resource Webinars- April and May
The Family Resource Center offers a variety of free webinars to help children and families succeed. Speakers are academic and FCPS experts.
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April 22: Empowering Twice-exceptional Students to Understand the Role of Accommodations in Accessing Learning
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April 25: The Role of Boundaries in Teen Development
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May 9: Building Self-Esteem and Stopping Bullying – Arabic Webinar
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May 20: Using Strength-based Approach When Communicating with Twice-Exceptional Students
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May 30: The Effects of Bullying on the Child’s Self-Esteem – Spanish Webinar
Community Updates
Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Type O blood Donors Needed
Multiple traumatic incidents and other medical emergencies have left our region’s blood inventory for Type O blood critically low. Inova Blood Donor Services needs all blood types, but a boost to the supply of Type O will help patients in need significantly. Call 1-866-BLOODSAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit inovablood.org to schedule an appointment.
Reach the Virginia Department of Social Services at 211
The Virginia Department of Social Services can help provide information and referrals for resources to those who need food, shelter, rent, or utility assistance. They can also connect individuals and families with resources regarding physical and mental health, job training, and transportation assistance. Individuals who would like to help others may also find volunteering and donation opportunities.
Reach 211 Virginia by phone at 211, or visit 211virginia.org.
Guide to Cycling in Fairfax County
Enjoy the spring weather by biking throughout Fairfax County.
- Expanded multiuse trails and bike lanes throughout the county.
- Find safety tips for cyclists and drivers.
- Be ready for your next ride with our bike map, bike parking locations, commuting tips and more.
National Board Certified Teachers Recognition
Recognition of the National Board Certified Teachers at the April 10, 2025, School Board Meeting
The School Board honored educators who achieved or renewed certification as a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) in SY 2025-2026. The National Board Certification program in FCPS began over 20 years ago, and more than 500 FCPS teachers have achieved this prestigious certification. FCPS is ranked in the top five for both new National Board certified teachers and current National Board certification candidates in the Commonwealth of Virginia. FCPS ranks in the top 30 school districts nationwide for the number of National Board-certified teachers, with over 300 active National Board-certified teachers currently supporting students and schools. Seventy-five percent of National Board-certified teachers in FCPS work directly with students, while others have moved into leadership roles throughout the division.
The following Dranesville students' educators were recognized for achieving certification as a National Board Certified Teacher:
- Heather Hall, Westgate Elementary School
- Patrick Noel, Colvin Run Elementary School
The following Dranesville students' educators were honored for renewing certification as a National Board Certified Teacher:
- Emily Keffer, Herndon Elementary School
- Megan Stanley, Cooper Middle School
- Mary Wolfe, Herndon High School
Four FCPS Students Win Grand Prize at Virginia State Science Fair
Sixty-two students from FCPS participated in the Virginia Science and Engineering Fair. Four FCPS student projects received the Grand Prize. Read about the winners and their projects.
Congratulations to these Dranesville student awardees in the 2025 Virginia State Science Fair!
Animal Sciences
- First Place - Justin Kim and Nishka Shah from Thomas Jefferson HSST- Discovery of a Novel Physiological and Molecular Response in Coral Reefs to Hurricane-Driven Hyposalinity Cycles.
Engineering Technology and Sustainable Design
- Second Place - Bennett Huang and Jason Pan of Langley HS- AI-Powered Optimization of Methyl Jasmonate-Induced Defense for Precise Pest Control.
- Third Place - Victor Cho of Langley HS- HeadSmart: An IoT solution in preventing Traumatic Brain Injury in Sports.
Material Science
- First Place - Adithya Pillai and Lang Xiong of Langley HS- EcoForge: A Novel Sustainable Geopolymer Alternative to Concrete, Optimized with Machine Learning for Strength and Pollution Mitigation.
Dranesville Student Winners at the 70th FCPS Science Fair
This year’s 70th annual regional fair was at Robinson Secondary School on March 21-23, 2025.
Congratulations to these Dranesville students!
- Grand Prize:
- Chloe Giglio, McLean HS- Biomedical and Health Sciences: VISTA Inhibitor CA170 Synergizes with KRAS Vaccine in Lung Cancer.
- Oliver Wang, Thomas Jefferson HSST- Energy: Sustainable Materials and Design: Optimizing Hydrogel Heat Sinks for Enhancing Solar Efficiency and Computing.
- Bennett Huang and Jason Pan, Langley HS- Environmental Engineering: AI-Powered Optimization of Methyl Jasmonate-Induced Defense for Precise Pest Control.
- Grand Prize Alternates:
- Justin Kim and Nishka Shah, Thomas Jefferson HSST- Animal Science- The Impact of Storm-Driven Hyposalinity Cycles on Coral Thermotolerance.
- Marina Lin, Thomas Jefferson HSST-- Computer Science and Math- A Novel Carbon-Aware Ant Colony System Algorithm for Sustainable Transportation.
- Adithya Pillai and Lang Xiong- Langley HS- Materials Science- EcoForge: A Novel Sustainable Geopolymer Alternative to Concrete, Optimized with Machine Learning.
2025 All-Virginia Band, Orchestra, and Chorus
One hundred eighty-two FCPS students have been selected to perform at the 2025 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra event, which will take place April 24-26.
Students throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to compete for positions within these ensembles. Participants will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors and collaborate with fellow musicians during the event, which is free and open to the public.
FCPS Athletes, Coach Honored With All-State Selections
South Lakes High School’s Jordan Scott (pictured above holding trophy) was named the Class 6 Boys Player of the Year by the Virginia High School League. Doug Craig from Woodson High School earned Coach of the Year honors. Several FCPS athletes earned First and Second Team selections, highlighting the depth of talent within the region. See a list of athletes honored.
FCPS Students Received 31 National Art and Writing Awards and 196 Regional Writing Awards
FCPS students received 31 Scholastic Art and Writing national awards. FCPS students were recognized for original art and writing with one American Visions Medal, 11 Gold Medals, 16 Silver Medals, and three portfolio Honorable Mentions. See the full list of national art and writing award winners.
Congratulations to American Vision Award Scholastic Art winner Cindy Chan, McLean HS, for her project Pearfections of a Woman in the Ceramics and Glass category.
Congratulations to these national art gold medal winners:
- Longfellow MS: Julia Xu.
- McLean HS: Lucy Kwak; Yaya Lan; and Seoin Lee.
Scholastic Writing Awards
Student writers won 24 Gold Key awards in the 2025 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards competition. In all, 196 Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mentions were earned by FCPS students. Gold Keys are automatically forwarded for consideration at the national level of the Scholastic Writing Awards. See the full list of regional writing award winners.
Congratulations to Scholastic Writing National Gold Medal winner Lauren Kim, Longfellow MS, for her piece Why 3-D Bioprinting is Our Best Show at Overcoming the Organ Shortage.
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child (MOMC), a time to honor and celebrate the resilience, courage, and contributions of FCPS military-connected children. Celebrating MOMC also contributes to the efforts required to earn or maintain the Purple Star Designation and supports Dr. Reid’s commitment to FCPS being a Purple Star Division by the 2026-27 school year. To learn more about the Purple Star Designation, please contact Katie Server, Family Partnerships Specialist, Military-Connected Youth & Families.
Dranesville Purple Star Schools:
- 1st time recognition:
- Cooper MS
- Dranesville ES
- Great Falls ES
- Haycock ES
- Current Purple Star Schools (in the 3 years of their recognition):
- Chesterbrook ES
- Herndon ES
- Kent Garden ES
- Lemon Road ES
- Longfellow MS
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Autism Acceptance Month
One in 44 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm students with autism.
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Fairfax County Resources
We offer multiple resources to help support the success of children with autism, learning challenges, and other special needs. Resources include therapeutic recreation services, sensory rooms, and support groups.
Autism - Resource Awareness Open House- April 29
In recognition of Autism Acceptance Month, the Family Resource Center (FRC) warmly invites you to join us for our inaugural Autism Resource Open House, titled "Beyond the Label." This event will include presentations from county representatives, engage in sensory activities, and provide an opportunity to explore the resources available at the Family Resource Center.
National Arab American Heritage
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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National Library Week
April is School Library Month, and it's a great time to celebrate the essential role that school librarians play in the lives of students. School librarians ensure students have access to a wide variety of high-quality books and resources that connect them to the world and build a culture of literacy. Librarians develop lessons that are meaningful to students and help them develop critical thinking, inquiry, and information literacy skills. They support learning across all subject areas by teaching students the skills to be independent problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By creating a safe environment for all students to be engaged and curious learners, FCPS libraries are places where everyone belongs. Take a moment to learn more about FCPS Library Programs and share your appreciation of your school librarian!
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Earth Week- April 21- 25
FCPS Get2Green is excited to host our division-wide Earth Week 2025! Earth Week is a fun way to highlight the work happening in our school, foster new learning, and develop students as environmental stewards and ethical and global citizens.
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Monday, April 21 – Watershed Day - wear blue
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Tuesday, April 22 – Earth Day - wear green
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Wednesday, April 23 – Zero Waste Day - wear white
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Thursday, April 24 – Climate Change Day - wear red
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Friday, April 25- Wildlife Day - wear nature print
Looking for ways to engage in Earth Week as a family? Choose an activity for each day from the Earth Week at Home BINGO board.
English BINGO Board | Spanish BINGO Board
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Attend a Spring Dranesville Theater Production
- Langley HS- Mouse Trap
- 4/24 7pm; 4/25 7pm; 4/26 7pm; 4/27 2:30pm
- TJHSST- Big Fish
- 4/25 7pm; 4/26 2pm, 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm
- Cooper MS- Curtains
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2 pm and 7pm
- McLean HS- Amelie
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 2pm
- Westfield HS- Sound of Music
- 5/1 7pm; 5/2 7pm; 5/3 1pm and 7pm; 5/4 1pm
- Herndon HS- Footloose
- 5/2 7pm; 5/3 2pm and 7pm; 5/4 2pm
- Marshall HS- Anything Goes
- 5/2 7:30pm; 5/8 7:30pm; 5/9 7:30pm; 5/10 2pm and 7:30pm
- Longfellow MS- Cinderella
- 5/15 7pm; 5/16 7pm; 5/17 1pm and 7pm
Youth Conservation Camp for HS Students
Applications are now open for Youth Conservation Camp, a week-long summer camp sponsored by the Virginia Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. This program will focus on forestry, soil, aquatics, and wildlife to teach 9th-12th graders more about the natural world with hands-on experience with conservation professionals. NVSWCD offers financial assistance and nominates campers in this selective program. Students in grades 9-12 are eligible to apply. Applications are due Sunday, April 20. Learn more about Youth Conservation Camp and contact NVSWCD with questions.
Spring Great Falls Oak Grove Student Workdays
From the Great Falls Citizens Association- Do you enjoy being outside mulching and planting in a lovely mature oak grove in Great Falls while earning community service hours too? Then the Great Falls Oak Grove Workday is for you. Come and join fellow students and young folks to preserve this stately old oak grove and our all important pollinators too.
The dates and times are on the Fairfax County Volunteer Website. Use the "Volunteer Search" to find "Great Falls Grange Park Habitat Restoration" and sign up for the below dates:
- Saturday, April 26, 9- 11:30 a.m.
- Saturday, May 10, 9- 11:30 a.m.
Once volunteers sign up, our Grange IMA coordinator will send more details on what we will be doing, what they should bring with them, the weather forecast, etc.
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FCCPTA Student Scholarship due May 1
FCCPTA Scholarships Applications are due by May 1st. The scholarships are open to High School Seniors who were members (by Dec. 1, 2024) of PTSAs that are currently in “Good Standing” with FCCPTA/VAPTA. Scholarships are $500 for students continuing their education through an Academic, Technical, Fine Arts, or Special Education program.
2025 VSBA Essay Contest
The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) is holding a personal essay/speaking contest where the first-place winner will present before an audience of more than 200 school board members and administrators at the 2025 VSBA Conference on Education on July 25th. Submissions are open to FCPS high school students (grades 9-12) and close May 5, 2025. This year’s topic is: Champions for Impact.
Volunteer at Your local High School to Proctor
Our high schools are asking for parents/caregivers to volunteer their time to help proctor so AP testing can run effectively and smoothly. Volunteers are not allowed to assist with an exam for an AP class their student(s) is currently taking. See your high school's newsletter to learn how to volunteer.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Herndon ES Renovation Pre-Construction Community Meeting- April 23
We are pleased to invite you to a pre-construction community meeting on Wednesday, April 23, 6:30-7:30 pm in the Herndon Elementary School (630 Dranesville Rd, Herndon) cafeteria. During this meeting, we will provide important information regarding planned renovations. Language interpretation will be provided.
Senator Warner's Service Academy Day- 4/26
Senator Mark Warner invites HS and MS students, their parents or caregivers, and school counselors to Academy Day 2025. The event will include a seated program that will provide a comprehensive overview of the United States service academies and their admission processes. Information will also be shared regarding application procedures for congressional nominations, medical requirements for the Department of Defense Medical Examination Review Board (DoDMERB), and other military-related options that exist at higher education institutions in Virginia.
- April 26, 2025, 9:30 a.m.- 1:30 p.m.
- Dodd Auditorium (1301 College Ave Fredericksburg, VA 22401)
See the Service Academy Day flyer for registration details We eagerly anticipate welcoming you and your families to an evening filled with inspiration and information!
MCC Youth Ambassador Program Park Clean-Up- April 26
Join MCC’s youth board members and Youth Ambassadors for a cleanup at Lewinsville Park (1659 Chain Bridge Road, McLean) Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m. Whether you’re looking to earn volunteer hours or simply want to give back to your community, this is the perfect chance to help. Meet up on the porch of the house at the back of the park. Follow the main path from the parking lot to the tennis courts. Presidential Volunteer service hours will be available.
FC Unified Response Day- April 26
Fairfax County public safety agencies with the Arc of Northern Virginia and the Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Hearing, are partnering to host the Fairfax County Unified Response Day: Bridging First Responders and All Abilities. This is a unique event designed to promote safety, confidence, and preparedness for individuals with disabilities and access and functional needs.
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Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m.- 12 p.m.
- FC Fire and Rescue Academy (4600 West Ox Road, Fairfax)
Family Literacy Fair- April 26
Family Literacy Fair with 30,000 Free Books - Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Lorton Community Center (9520 Richmond Hwy, Lorton) Sponsored by American Federation of Teachers, Fairfax County Federation of Teachers, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, First Book, and K&R Branding Solutions.
Earth Day Fairfax- April 26
Discover the world around you with hands-on activities, games, entertainment, and fun at Earth Day 2025. Admission is free; parking is $10 per car at the gate.
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Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
- Sully Historic Site (3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly)
Macdonald Scholarship Performance Finals- April 30
Annually, the McLean Community Center recognizes the hard work and talent of young performing artists through the James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition. Come watch the Scholarship finalists perform on April 30 at 8 pm at the Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean). Free admission.
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.
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