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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 Sully District Families and Community Members,
Happy Teacher Appreciation Week!🍎 FCPS teachers continue to go above and beyond for our students, and I am thankful for all the big and small things they do to instill a love for learning in all our students.
A heartfelt thank you as well to our amazing PTA/PTO/PTSA/PTSO's for organizing lunches, snacks, flowers, gifts and other recognitions for our teachers and staff. Our community's strong support of our schools and staff is truly incredible! Thank a teacher or staff member near you this week!
Fairfax County and FCPS will be finalizing the budgets for FY2026. Look for revisions to the Fairfax County Advertised Budget on May 6th and a public hearing on the Fairfax County Public School Budget on May 13th.
As I have mentioned in my previous newsletter, the current advertised budget underfunds FCPS by $150 million. FCPS cannot continue to sustain excellence with ongoing State underfunding and budget cuts. On April 24th, the School Board sent this budget advocacy letter to the full County Board which identified the following specific requests to help strengthen our shared interests in stewarding Fairfax County's public investments:
- Restore the proposed $7.7 million in reductions, including the Middle School After-School Program and high school crossing guards.
- Dedicate the Food and Beverage Tax revenue to the school division.
- Dedicate a portion of the year-end surplus to the school division.
- Collaborate for future budget planning.
I urge each of you to visit fcps.edu/crossroads and learn how you can help us keep our school district — and our entire community — strong.
Thank you for continuing to reach out to me with your questions and suggestions regarding FCPS' Comprehensive School Boundary Review. I strongly encourage you to follow the School Board work on this. At the bottom of the page is a link to submit Questions or Feedback where you can provide ongoing input to the team.
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month! As a proud member of the AAPI community—a community that has contributed immeasurably to the fabric of American society, I invite you to please join me in celebrating the rich histories, contributions, and cultures of Americans hailing from the Pacific islands of Melanesia, Micronesia and Polynesia, and across the Asian continent. As a School Board member, I am committed to ensuring that our schools are safe, inclusive, and welcoming for all students, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background.
As always, I value the input I receive from the Sully community and am happy to address questions or concerns via email or phone.
I’m very much looking forward to seeing you at graduations and end of the year events in the weeks to come!
In partnership,
Seema Dixit
Inside this newsletter:
Sully District Happenings
Centreville Elementary School Sixth Grader Making Waves in the World of Competitive Badminton!
Following his remarkable achievement as the 2023 Junior National Champion 🏆🌟, Aditya's dedication and skill have earned him a coveted spot on the USA team for the upcoming Pan American Junior Badminton Championship.
He has been selected to compete in both boys' doubles and mixed doubles at the prestigious tournament, which will be held in Guatemala this July. This is a fantastic accomplishment and a testament to Aditya's hard work and talent. Centreville Elementary School Principal Josh Douds says that “When I spoke with Aditya about how he was feeling, he stated, ‘I am happy and proud to represent the United States at the Pan American Junior Badminton Championship.’”
Congratulations, Aditya! Go Eagles!!🦅
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Oakton and Madison High School Teams Compete in the FIRST Robotics World Championship
Superintendent Reid with the Oakton High School Robotics Team.
Over spring break, three FCPS teams competed in the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics World Championship competition in Houston, Texas. Our teams collectively went 23-10 over the course of the weekend, playing against some of the strongest competitors from around the globe. “Worlds was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Seeing our hard work pay off was so amazing, and getting to compete with so many different teams from all over the world was a fantastic experience. Finally, the atmosphere was special. Seeing so many people united through FIRST was so cool,” said Nick Abbott, a senior at Madison High School who participated in the event.
Every year, students design, build, program, and compete with new robots created in just a few months. That alone is an incredible feat. To have them playing on the world stage and doing so well is even more impressive! Congratulations to the following teams for their accomplishments and fabulous performance at the World Championship:
- Robotics Competition (600 teams across eight divisions):
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Madison High School ranked 11 out of 75 teams.
- Woodson High School ranked 28 out of 75 teams.
- Tech Challenge (256 teams across four divisions):
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Oakton High School (pictured above) ranked 11 out of 64 teams.
Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation is Goal 5 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan. Go Warhawks and Cougars!!!
Oak Hill Elementary School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
 Superintendent Reid at the Oak Hill Elementary School Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
On Tuesday, April 22, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held at Oak Hill Elementary School for a project that added over 26,000 square feet to the building, including new classrooms, art rooms, Early Childhood Class-Based/Preschool Autism Classroom rooms, a secure entrance vestibule, and new outdoor classroom. Renovations and updates were also made to existing classrooms, the library, kitchen/café, gym, music room, the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
It was a beautiful day to celebrate this new chapter of Oak Hill’s history, and I know students and staff are making the most of their wonderful new learning and working spaces! These needed updates were made possible through the 2019 and 2021 voter-approved bond referendums—Thank you to our Fairfax County community for helping build our future! Go Wolves!!
Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!
 Each May, we celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month—a time to recognize the rich history, culture, and lasting impact of AAPI communities across the United States. Officially established in 1992, this month was chosen to commemorate two significant milestones: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrant to the U.S. in 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, a project made possible in large part by Chinese laborers.
This celebration is a meaningful opportunity for students, families, and educators to deepen their understanding of the diverse experiences and achievements of AAPI individuals.
Educators and students are encouraged to explore Smithsonian-hosted events—both online and in person—as well as access educational resources, podcasts, and curated collections that highlight AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) heritage and achievements. The FCPS Get2Green team has also curated AAPI environmental literacy resources that reflect traditionally misrepresented, missing, or marginalized perspectives.
Let’s honor the voices, stories, and contributions of AAPI individuals that have helped shape our nation.
Video | Meeting Materials
 At the April 24 Regular meeting, the School Board took a major step forward in its commitment to sustainability and carbon neutrality by approving the installation of rooftop solar panels at 25 additional schools. Student advocacy was critical in advancing these efforts and the expansion builds on a successful one-school pilot and nine additional projects already underway.
Despite challenges, including obstacles from Dominion Energy that threatened to dramatically increase costs, the division's strategic planning and negotiations maneuvered these projects to avoid added expenses. Notably, staff also secured a 25-year fixed energy rate with zero escalation, ensuring long-term savings until 2050. This achievement contributes to FCPS’s impressive 31% reduction in energy use since 2014, which has saved more than $100 million and significantly lowered our greenhouse gas emissions.
Among the schools slated for new solar panels are several attended by Sully District students, including Oak Hill, Crossfield, and Fox Mill elementary schools, Carson middle school, and Oakton and Thomas Jefferson high schools. These projects showcase Fairfax County Public Schools' ongoing leadership in sustainability and responsible stewardship of local tax dollars.
Closing the Opportunity Gaps
In her Academic Matters presentation, Dr. Reid shared information on AVID and its mission to close opportunity gaps by preparing all students for college and career readiness and success in a global society.
 AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) is a schoolwide program at both the elementary and secondary levels that promotes college- and career-ready cultures, builds student agency, and equips students with critical academic skills. At the elementary level, strategies are embedded in daily instructional routines, while at the secondary level, students can also participate in an AVID elective focused on academic support for rigorous coursework and development of skills like writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading (WICOR).
According to the Superintendent’s presentation, AVID is helping to increase growth and performance in coursework, expand access to advanced courses, and strengthen high school graduation and postsecondary outcomes. AVID also provides interactive professional development for teachers, ensuring schoolwide implementation. Dr. Reid highlighted success stories from students, families, and teachers, emphasizing AVID’s positive impact on student organization, academic confidence, and postsecondary aspirations.
AVID’s results show the program is working. For seniors in the Class of 2024:
- 78% were eligible for free- or reduced-price meals.
- 86% took at least one AP, IB, or DE class in high school.
- 94% planned to attend a 2- or 4-year college.
- 74% enrolled in Algebra 1 by eighth grade.
AVID supports the 2023-30 Strategic Plan, with a specific emphasis on Goal 3: Academic Growth and Excellence and Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation.
Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation
At last week’s School Board meeting, Dr. Reid presented the Strategic Plan Goal 5 report for the 2024-25 school year. Goal 5 states: Every student will graduate ready to thrive in life after high school and with the skills to navigate, adapt, and innovate for a sustainable future.
 In the 2023-24 school year, 94.58% of students graduated on time and 3.81% dropped out. This was an improvement on both measures. View Dr. Reid's presentation or video of her Strategic Plan update.
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.
Environmental Quality Advisory Council Student Representative
Fairfax County’s Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) is accepting applications for its next student member! EQAC’s primary function is to make recommendations to the Board of Supervisors for improving environmental protection and enhancement, including preparing an annual report on the state of the physical environment in Fairfax County. During monthly meetings, topics such as land use, transportation, water, waste management, parks and ecological resources, climate and energy, air quality, and wildlife management are investigated.
Read W.T. Woodson senior and 2024/25 student representative Joseph Tso’s insightful testimonial about his time serving on EQAC.
Rising juniors or seniors can apply to be the EQAC student representative by 11:59pm on Monday, May 12.
Join the 2025-26 LearnServe Fellows Program!
 Passionate about changing the world? Concerned about racism, climate change, immigration, gun violence, mental health, and other issues facing your community? This is your moment!
Join LearnServe's community of powerful young changemakers, and you'll have the opportunity to create a social action project to make a real difference in your community! As a LearnServe Fellow you'll have the opportunity to grow as a leader and entrepreneur; meet extraordinary young leaders in DC, Zambia, Costa Rica, and Paraguay; and earn up to 60 service hours! LearnServe Fellows meet weekly in person, starting in October. (Virtual opportunities are available for students attending schools outside of Washington, DC.)
Ready to lead change? Complete an interest form online HERE by May 30 for priority consideration.
Want to learn more? See program details and student spotlights OR contact Eva Newbold at eva@learn-serve.org.
George Mason University Game & Technology Academy Classes
George Mason University’s Mason Game & Technology Academy (MGTA) Prep Program offers Game Design and STEM classes in spring, summer, and fall. The classes are taught by school faculty, graduates, and advanced students to maximize fun, interactive, and cutting-edge instruction. Find more information online.
NVSWCD Conservation Poster Contest
Calling all student artists! The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District is seeking students to design posters for the 2025 Youth Poster Contest. The theme for this year is ‘Home is Where the Habitat Is’. This contest is open to all K-12 students in Fairfax County, and scouts are eligible to earn a poster contest patch. Additional poster contest format categories include digital art, braille, and additional assist. Entries are due June 30, 2025. Learn more about the poster contest categories and guidelines and download your entry form here.
Reference: FCPS Get2Green Website | Newsletter sign-up
Chantilly High School Dancers Prep Clinic🩰
 Join the Chantilly High School Charger Dancers for a Prep Clinic on Sunday, May 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the school gym. The clinic is for rising 7th through 12th graders. Dancers will learn part of the team’s 2025 National competition routine and participate in a mock-tryout.
Find more information and register online. Contact Coach Katherine D'Ercole at ChantillyDancers@gmail.com with questions.
Institute for the Arts
If you are interested in the Arts, please see the link below regarding summer enrichment opportunities with the Institute for the Arts.
https://www.fcps.edu/academics/summer-learning-programs/camps-and-institutes-institute-arts-ifta
Fairfax County Spring Watershed Cleanup 2025
Help keep trash and debris out of waterways that flow into the Chesapeake Bay. Join The Nature Conservancy and the Fairfax County Park Authority for a clean up! Register for the Fairfax County watershed cleanup date and location that works for you.
Reference: FCPS Get2Green Website | Newsletter sign-up
2025 FCPS Summer Extravaganza is May 10!
 Attend the FCPS Summer Extravaganza at Woodson High School on Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and get a jump on summer learning! At this FREE event, participants can engage in educational and enrichment activities designed to inspire curiosity and growth. Activities will include student performances, story time, a moon bounce, and face painting. For more information and to register for the event, visit Summer Extravaganza.
Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. Fairfax County Public Schools' Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors this award annually to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the FCPS MSAOC. The MAOC is a Community Advisory Committee to the FCPS School Board.
This award recognizes an employee, student, or community member who has demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.
Any FCPS employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual or group for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Monday, May 19. Visit the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award webpage to access the nomination information form. All forms are due on Monday, May 19, 2025, by 4:30 p.m.
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FCPS Implements Weapon Detection Program
After planning over the past months, a new weapons detection pilot is launching now in select schools.
FCPS receives no dedicated amount of safety and security funding for personnel or capital improvements (like external cameras) – investments are made via the annual operating budget, which is largely dedicated to funding instructional staff in our schools. Yet, safety is the most frequent topic that is raised to me by students and parents/caregivers, particularly citing requests for adding security personnel and external cameras at each elementary school.
In an effort to continue improving safety for our students and staff, the School Division posted information about the pilot. You can read more at the webpage.
Mental Health Resources for Families
This month's theme: Meaningful May
Let's find ways to be part of something bigger.
Go to Action for Happiness for ideas to help you take action for a happier and kinder world.
 Student Wellness: Tips and Strategies
Feeling super stressed? Worried about a friend's mental health—or your own? Get tips to help manage your emotions and see what to do if you are in crisis.
Mental Health and Resiliency
Helping students to manage stress, make better choices, and develop healthy habits.
FCPS Family Resource Center
Staff is available by phone 703-204-3941 or email frc@fcps.edu to help! Offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library, and more to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs and disabilities.
No Cost Virtual Therapy for High Schoolers
Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:
- Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss.
- Anxiety, worry, fears.
- Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships.
- Academic stress.
Students can be referred by a guardian or designated school staff member. You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting an FCPS school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
🌱 Your Child's Mental Wellness Matters: Access Comprehensive Services
Reach out to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) for specialized youth mental health services designed to help your child succeed. The CSB has individual and family counseling, psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response, recovery supports that include medication assisted treatment (MAT), intensive services, and other services.
Contact CSB Entry and Referral to get started by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov.
George Mason University’s new Center for Community Mental Health (9900 Main Street, Fairfax) provides evidence-based, accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive therapy and testing services to those in need, regardless of income. The Center sees children as young as age 5, and works with community members of various ages, including addressing the mental health needs of veterans.
The center’s Emotional Help Line provides free, anonymous, confidential support in both English (703-215-1898) and Spanish (703-914-3878). The line is open daily from 8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m. Learn more on the Center's website.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tuesday, May 6, 11:30 a.m. - All Day Work Session
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Thursday, May 8, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
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Thursday, May 22, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting
Please note, times and topics are subject to change.
Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.
Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
The work sessions and regular 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.
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.
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Contacting Me
To contact me, it is most helpful if you can please use the official School Board Contact Form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.
Use this link to sign up for my Newsletter and follow me on Facebook.
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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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