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Dear Dranesville Families:
Last week, we lost a pillar of the Fairfax County community with the passing of Congressman Gerry Connolly. Gerry served over three decades in public service on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and in Congress and his leadership will be sorely missed. I send my condolences to his wife Cathy and the entire Connolly family.
Last Thursday, The Fairfax County School Board unanimously adopted the 2025-26 Fiscal Year budget. As I think you are all aware, due the budget shortfall, FCPS also had to cut $120 million from the originally proposed budget. While this was a painful process, the Board worked hard to remain student centered in our discussions. We also were able to ensure that the Advanced Academic Resource Teachers and Special Education Department Chairs at each elementary school would remain full time for next year. I encourage you to read more about the 2025-26 Fiscal Year budget below.
Last Monday, I attended the Community Boundary Meeting at Herndon High School and found it very informational and helpful. There are several more Community Boundary Review meetings scheduled as part of the district-wide Comprehensive Boundary Review. I encourage you to attend one of them to explore the draft scenarios using the Boundary Explorer Tool. More information on the meetings and how to use the explorer tool can be found below.
As the year school year ends, I want to thank each of my Community Advisory Committee Members for their service this year. Right now, we have an opening for a Dranesville representative on the SHAC, CTEAC, ACEAC, and two openings to serve on the School Bond Committee. If you are interested in serving on any of these committees, please fill out this interest form.
I am excited to attend the 25th Annual Cappies Gala in June; break a leg to all the nominees! Spring sports’ championships are in full swing. Good luck to all the athletes and teams participating in the postseason.
Robyn
In this newsletter,
American Legion Post 270's Memorial Day Observance with Chair Frisch and Delegate Sullivan
2025 Graduation Dates for Dranesville Students
All FCPS graduation dates for 2025
Dranesville Student Graduations and Celebrations:
- Kilmer Center: Friday, May 30, 10 a.m., Kilmer Center
- Cedar Lane School: Friday, May 30, 3:30 p.m., Cedar Lane School
- Marshall HS: Monday, June 2, 10 a.m., DAR Constitution Hall
- McLean HS: Tuesday, June 3, 2:30 p.m., DAR Constitution Hall
- Mountain View HS: Tuesday, June 3, 5 p.m., Centreville High School
- Herndon HS: Tuesday June 3, 7 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena
- Interagency Alternative Schools: Wednesday, June 4, 5 p.m., Lake Braddock Secondary School
- Fairfax County Adult HS: Thursday, June 5, 5 p.m., Thomas Jefferson HSST
- Langley HS: Thursday, June 5, 7 p.m., DAR Constitution Hall
- Westfield HS: Monday, June 9, 9:30 a.m., Eagle Bank Arena
- Davis Career Center: Monday, June 9, 12 p.m., Marshall High School
- Thomas Jefferson HSST: Wednesday, June 11, 9:30 a.m., EagleBank Arena
Share Graduation or Promotion Ceremony Photos!
Graduation season is here! FCPS families, students, and staff members are invited to share their favorite pictures from this year’s graduation or promotion ceremonies on Facebook or Instagram by tagging FCPS and their school, and using the hashtag #FCPSgrad25.
School Board Updates
FY 2026 Budget
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously adopted the FCPS Fiscal Year 2025-26 Approved Budget. Facing years of chronic underfunding, the final budget required $121 million in reductions to the needs-based budget that was carefully developed with the FCPS community’s high expectations in mind. While some adjustments were made, the school division will continue to do what is necessary to provide a world-class education for every student. You may also visit FCPS’ Budget webpage to view the budget presentation and slides.
The FY 2026 Approved Budget totals $3.9 billion, a net increase of $175.8 million, or 4.7% over the FY 2025 Approved Budget. The FY 2026 approved county transfer was $149.6 million less than FCPS’ request. We will continue to make the best and highest use of our budget funding and continue to align our work with the FCPS strategic plan, as we balance many needs, priorities, and goals with limited resources.
Employee compensation is critical to recruiting and retaining the best educators and support staff, and the budget addresses staff compensation. This budget includes a 6% pay increase for employees represented by Fairfax Education Unions (FEU) and a 5% increase for Non-FEU represented employees and hourly pay band employees. Central funding for Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AART) and Elementary Special Education Department Chairs will be reduced. However, Region Office leadership will be working with schools to find school-based funding to keep those positions whole for at least the coming year.
The budget also funds baseline adjustments to programs including our substitute teacher incentive, middle school late buses, and support for closing academic achievement gaps. Funding for safety and security initiatives, and multiyear initiatives such as teacher credentialing, inclusive preschool expansion, athletic trainers, and fine and performing art stipends, are also noted.
May 22, 2025 Regular Meeting
Board Meeting Highlights
Action Items
The School Board voted to adopt the FY 2026 Approved Budget.
Presentations to the School Board
Dr. Reid presented the proposed FY 2026 Approved Budget. This budget details the Superintendent's recommended adjustments to the FY 2026 Advertised Budget, which are required to balance that budget.
Dr. Reid presented her Academic Matters segment on the mental health and wellness supports we provide at FCPS. She discussed how FCPS supports student mental health through school-based services, policies, family resources, and community mental health partnerships such as Our Minds Matter, which are student-led clubs that encourage self-care, healthy habits, social connectedness, and suicide prevention.
Thank you Dranesville Community Advisory Committee Representatives
Every year, the School Board appoints members to our seven Citizen Advisory Committees. I appreciate their time, expertise and commitment to Dranesville, the committee work, and all FCPS. The addition of our community representatives add invaluable insight, expertise, and personal experiences to the work of these Committees and the School Board. Their advocacy and knowledge provide me with a broader understanding of their committee’s goals, needs, and future directions. Thank you for all your work.
Thank you to Betty Ende (CTEAC) and Robert Goldel (SHAC) for their service as Dranesville representatives.
2024-25 Advisory Committee Representatives:
- Advanced Academic Programs AC (AAPAC)- Randi Cosentino
- Adult And Community Education AC (ACEAC)- Kelly Oakley
- Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities- Amanda Wittman
- Career and Technical Education AC (CTEAC)- Betty Ende
- Facilities Planning AC (FPAC)- Dianna Bo
- Minority Student Advisory Oversight Committee (MSAOC)- Heather Murphy Capps
- School Health AC (SHAC)- Robert Goldel
Advisory Committee Summits:
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May 31, 2025: ACEAC; MSAOC; FPAC; and CTEAC.
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June 14, 2025: ACSD; AAPAC; SHAC; and Title I Parent Advisory Committee (TPAC).
Volunteer for a Dranesville Community Advisory Committee Representatives
Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee (ACEAC)
ACEAC represents the community and brings to the School Board’s attention to resource and programmatic issues associated with adult education. The Dranesville representative will serve August 2025- July 2026. See the ACEAC website for more information.
Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee Position
CTEAC provides recommendations to the School Board on current job needs and the relevancy of career and technical education programs offered and to assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the local plan and application. The Dranesville representative will serve August 2025- July 2026. See the CTEAC website for more information.
Student Health Advisory Committee
Each school board may establish a school health advisory board of no more than twenty members which shall consist of broad-based community representation including, but not limited to, parents, students, health professionals, educators, and others. The advisory board shall assist with the development of health policy in the school division and the evaluation of the status of school health, health education, the school environment, and health services. The Dranesville representative will serve August 2025- July 2026. See the SHAC website for more information.
If you would like to be considered, fill out a form for each committee opening by June 20th. Please share why you would like to be a representative and why you would be a great fit for any of these committees. Please email Dranesvillestaff@fcps.edu if you have any questions.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Saturday, May 31, 10 a.m.- Advisory Committee Summit
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Thursday, June 12, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
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Saturday, June 14, 11:30 a.m.- Advisory Committee Summit
All times and topics are subject to change.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
FCPS Updates
Comprehensive Boundary Review
Phase 2 Community Comprehensive Boundary Review Meetings
Registration links are now available for our Phase 2 upcoming community comprehensive boundary review meetings. At the meetings, we will provide updated information and take you through three initial proposed scenarios. You will be able to look up your address and discuss the proposed boundary adjustments for each of the three scenarios in small groups in person or in breakout rooms online. In addition, we will be using an interactive tool that will allow feedback to be shared at the meetings.
Each meeting will be hybrid, meaning that you may attend in person or virtually via Zoom. Childcare for in-person participants and language interpretation for all participants will be available as needed.
Please click on one of the dates below to register for a meeting:
We encourage you to visit the Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information, including an updated timeline for the boundary review process.
Initial Draft Boundary Scenarios
 Click to play YouTube video
Feedback from 12 community meetings during Phase 1 of FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review offered key insights into the community’s perspectives and needs. Our partner, Thru Consulting, collected and analyzed that feedback as well as the input received via email and our online platform. This data informed the creation of three initial draft boundary scenarios: Neighborhood Connectivity, Cohort Continuity, and Comprehensive Balance. Now, you can explore and visualize how these initial scenarios may affect boundaries by using our new Boundary Explorer Tool. You can learn how to use the boundary tool in this video.
FCPS Tipline
 Fairfax County Public Schools' main goal is to keep students and staff safe at school. As part of Fairfax County Public Schools' continuing efforts to maintain safe schools, a confidential and anonymous Tipline is available to students, parents, staff, and other members of the FCPS community.
If your tip is an emergency and immediate assistance is needed, please dial 911.
School administrators encourage students, staff, and community members to report school safety issues, such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tipline users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.
Limited Early Release Days Continue Next Year
During a report to the School Board this month, FCPS Superintendent Dr. Reid announced plans to continue limited early release days in elementary schools and shift them to Wednesdays for the 2025-26 school year. This plan is based on recommendations from the Early Release Steering Committee. The committee includes parents, caregivers, school-based staff, and central office personnel. Read more about the reasons for early release and the proposed early release dates.
Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
Additional immunizations are required for students entering 7th grade:
- Required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
- For the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
- For the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
- As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.
Additional immunizations are required for students entering 12th grade:
- Required to receive one dose of Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school.
- For the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 16 or older.
Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Summer is a busy time for families and health care providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time. Additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and the Fairfax County Health Department.
Kindergarten Registration
Do you have, or know of a rising kindergartener scheduled to FCPS next year? All students that turn five by September 30, 2025 are eligible to attend Kindergarten this fall. Registration is currently underway. Please consider registering asap since staffing at elementary schools reflects the number of registered students.
Helping Your Child Prepare for Kindergarten
We recognize that parents are their children’s first teachers. Explore the resources on FCPS’ School Readiness and Transition to Kindergarten webpage for ways to help ensure your child starts kindergarten with confidence.
SY 25-26 FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start
FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children with economic and educational risk factors ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County. Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.”
Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30, 2025. Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.
Tutors Provides Free On-Demand Support
FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Students automatically have access to these services through Clever (which can be accessed through their Schoology account).
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.
Sibshops and SibTeens- June 18
The Sibshops workshops are for children in grades 2-6 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools who have siblings with support needs to meet other siblings in a relaxed setting. Celebrate the many contributions made by brothers and sisters of children with special needs, share sibling experiences, and receive peer support. Play games and have fun.
SibTeens is a community-building group for Middle School siblings of children with support needs in grades 6-9 enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools. We have fun activities, both recreational and art-based, as well as discussion activities. It’s a unique opportunity for students to share about their lives and support each other while normalizing their life experiences.
SY 2025-26 Sports Team Participation
New Physical Process
Legislation introduced in the Virginia General Assembly and recently signed into law will result in two significant changes to the athletic pre-participation examination (physical) requirements for FCPS student-athletes:
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Beginning May 1, 2025, FCPS student-athletes must have athletic physicals completed on the new VHSL Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Evaluation Form (revised April 2025).
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Beginning July 1, 2025, athletic physicals will be considered valid for a period of 14 months from the date the form is signed by the medical provider completing the exam.
First Days of SY 2025-26 Sports Tryouts
- Fall sports tryouts start Monday, August 4, 2025
- Except golf which starts Monday, July 28, 2025
- Winter sports tryouts start Monday, November 10, 2026
- Spring sports tryouts start Monday, February 23, 2026
Community Updates
Fairfax County Food Access Program
 The Food Access Program enhances communication and coordination among systems and agencies, identifies barriers to accessing healthy food, and oversees grants and contracts to provide food to residents of Fairfax County.
- Emergency Food Access Map
- Summer Food Service Programs
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. Reach 211 Virginia by phone at 211, or visit 211virginia.org. 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.
Water Safety Reminders
In honor of National Water Safety Month, @ffxfirerescue shares tips to keep you safe in and around water:
- Be a water watcher—provide close & constant attention to kids
- Teach kids to ask permission to go near water
- Always swim with a buddy
FC Health Department Back-to-School Immunization Clinics
 These immunization clinics are open to all Fairfax County students who need immunizations even if they have had vaccines in the past, new to the country, or those who need to be up-to-date on their vaccines. Call now to make your appointment at 703-246-7100. Appointments are limited.
Here are the Clinic dates for the Herndon Reston Clinic (1850 Cameron Glen Dr., #100, Reston):
- August 5, 2 to 6:30 p.m.
- August 8, 1 to 4 p.m.
- August 9, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- August 11- 13, 2 to 6:30 p.m.
- August 15, 1 to 4 p.m.
- August 19, 2 to 6:30 p.m.
- August 22, 1 to 4 p.m.
Dranesville Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Virginia Delegate Sullivan's Newsletter
Please sign up for Delegate Rip Sullivan's informative newsletter to receive Virginia and Northern Virginia updates and information.
My visit to the Herndon HS Buzzworthy Awards
2025 FCPS Honors- June 11
The Department of Human Resources sponsors the recognition of outstanding employees who seek to create and demonstrate the best instructional and support practices. The 2025 FCPS Honors Recognition Ceremony will be held on June 11, 2025.
Congratulations to the Dranesville nominees:
- Region 1:
- Outstanding Principal- Dr. Liz Noto, Herndon HS
- Region 2:
- Outstanding Principal- Dr. Beaty, Haycock ES
- Outstanding Elementary Teacher- Ms. O’Leary, Haycock ES
- Outstanding Elementary New Teacher- Mr. Brandon Morris, Chesterbrook ES
2025 Cappies Nominees
The Cappies, the Critics and Awards Program for High School Theatre, highlights the outstanding work of our talented students and dedicated faculty in areas ranging from performance to technical design. You can find all Cappies nominations for this year at 2025 Cappies NCA Nominations .The 25th Annual Cappies Gala will be held at the Kennedy Center on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Congratulations to these 2025 Cappies NCA Nominees from Dranesville District schools:
Andy Mays Rising Critic
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Julian Hassi, McLean High School
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Bonna Koo, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology
Maryland Theater Guide Returning Critic
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Emily Reisman, McLean High School
Bill Strauss Graduating Critic
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Cecelia Meza, Herndon High School
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Ellen Lawton, Herndon High School
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Josephin Friedrich, Langley High School
Special Effects and or Technology
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Alex Hall, Drew Hall, Ethan Jones, McLean High School, Amelie
Sound
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Virginia Williams, Rain Medrano, Lynn Milkiewicz, Herndon High School, MACBETH
Props
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Aubrey Astore, Margaret Hughes, Liv Rosenfeld, Emerson Thiebert, McLean High School, Amelie
Creativity
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Abeni Smith, Thomas Gay, and the TJTA Dramaturgy Team, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Stage Management
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Allie Vargo, Katherine Dailey, McLean High School, Amelie
Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Play
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Ellen Lawton, Herndon High School, MACBETH
Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Musical
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Grace Shaffer, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Featured Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
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Ella Tysse, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
Dancer in a Female Role
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Hope Titus, McLean High School, Amelie
Vocalist in a Male Role
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Prajeet Chitty, Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology, Big Fish School Edition
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Zachary Ulman, Langley High School, Beauty and the Beast
Supporting Actor in a Male Role in a Musical
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Alex Valencic, McLean High School, Amelie
Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play
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Nora Blythe, Herndon High School, MACBETH
Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Play
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Bo Chatterjee, Herndon High School, MACBETH
Critic Team
- Langley High School
- Thomas Jefferson High School of Science and Technology
Play
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MACBETH, Herndon High School
2025 VEMA Blue Ribbon Awards
Twenty-three FCPS schools received the 2025 VMEA Blue Ribbon Award for musical excellence. The VMEA Blue Ribbon Award is the highest award given to school music programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia and recognizes outstanding achievement in band, chorus, and orchestra performance. To qualify for this award, each school’s top band, chorus, and orchestra must receive a final rating of Superior at VMEA District Concert Performance Assessment.
Congratulations to:
- Marshall High School
- Langley High School
- Longfellow Middle School
- Westfield High School
USA Physics Olympiad Exam
Congratulations to our McLean HS and Thomas Jefferson HSST for students who made the Honors and Distinction List!
Congratulations to these Dranesville students:
- Thomas Jefferson HSST
- Eric Xie: selected as a member of the US Physics Team and has a chance to compete in the International Physics Olympiad.
- Honorable mentions: Sophia Hou and Ethan Shan
- Commendable performance: Edward Guo
- McLean HS
- Silver Medal: Clement Deng and Kalan Warusa
MCC 25- 26 Governing Board Youth Members
Congratulations to the McLean Community Center (MMC) Youth Members on the 2025- 26 Governing Board for a one-year term!
- Katie Myshrall, Langley HS area
- Venita Wang, McLean HS area
2025 MCA Outstanding Teen Character Award
At the 2025 McLean Day, the McLean Citizens Association (MCA) awarded six teens their 2025 Outstanding Character Award.
Congratulations to
- Jack Anglin, McLean HS- volunteered with SHARE for over three years, independently organized a toy drive, and revamped their food pantry donor wishlist system.
- Kate Bo, McLean HS- combined her love of dogs and basketball by volunteering with Lucky Dog Animal Rescue and co-coaching a youth basketball team.
- Jack Paral, Langley HS- logged over 170 hours with SHARE, assisting in the food pantry, handling donations, and regularly volunteering.
- Elliot Pomper, Langley HS- launched a food recovery initiative at his school that has donated over 8,000 pieces of fruit to SHARE.
- Amrit Singh, Thomas Jefferson HSST- turned personal loss into service by fundraising for families in need and organizing donation drives for local shelters.
- Keely Solomon, Langley HS- leader at SummerQuest camp, helping both students and staff succeed in challenging situations.
Asian Educators Association’s Asian Leadership Alliance Scholarship
The FCPS Asian Educators Association (AEA)’s 3rd Annual Asian Leadership Alliance honored the excellence and resilience of our youth. They recognized three outstanding scholarship recipients.
Congratulations to Sophie Zhang (McLean HS), recipient of the Tae Family Scholarship, who will be studying Business with a focus on Finance and Policy at the University of Pennsylvania.
Students, Staff, and Community Members Recognized by SEPTA
Fairfax County’s Special Education PTA (SEPTA) recognized 21 groups and individuals at their annual Excellence Awards last month. These awards recognize the students, staff, and community members who see, value, and celebrate children for their strengths while also supporting their needs.
Award winners were chosen from approximately 200 nominations from schools across all grade levels in FCPS. View the full list of SEPTA Excellence Award winners.
Herndon HS
New school track and field records- Congrats to Brayden Humpherys, McAllister Pearce-Biney, Ethan Braxton, Noah Martin, and Laurdes Rollins for all becoming new school record holders and district champions! The young men beat their own school record of 42.65s with 42.44s in the 4x100 relay, and Laurdes ran the 100m hurdles in 1503s.
Langley HS
Rachel Carson Middle School's 4th Annual Charity Chess Event was organized by Ameya Haldankar, a sophomore at Langley HS. This year the proceeds will go to SPARC, a charity which supports people with disabilities.
McLean HS
McSolar Team Wins 2025 Solar World Championship- Team McSolar consists of Alicia Yau, Daniel Campos Morales, Fernando M’Bachi, Maged AlQabany, Sagan Pandita, and Veronica Munoz Ospina. They competed at the KidWind World Competition. The team competed in Solar Home Testing, Live Instant Challenges, Data Analytics Challenges, Presentation of their Solar Smart Home, and a Knowledge Quiz to compile their total score. After a long year of competitions leading up to Worlds & three days of competition, Team McSolar, led by Coach Cara Mosley, won the 2025 Solar World Championship!
The SRAA National Rowing Championships- Congratulations to McLean HS Boys Senior Four Petite for placing in the finals of their event! The full list of results can be found on the website.
Longfellow MS
Virginia History Day- About 3,000 students from across the United States and overseas compete each year at this prestigious national event. The theme for National History Day’s 51st contest season is “Rights and Responsibilities in History.”
Congratulations to these Longfellow students:
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Julianna Sun – 1st Place, Website ; advances to Nationals
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Mina Liu – 1st Place, Paper; advances to Nationals
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Colin Li – 2nd Place, Documentary & National Maritime Historical Society Prize; advances to Nationals
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Elaina Wang – 3rd Place, Documentary & John Marshall Center Prize for Constitutional History & Civics
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August Price- 3rd place and a special award for African American history.
Great Falls ES
2025 Junior Japan Bowl- is a team-based national academic competition modeled after the National Japan Bowl hosted virtually. This year, 600 students from 13 States participated in the competition. This was a very competitive year but Great Falls students did a great job! Level 2 GFES Slowbros team and Noah D. earned first place. Congratulations to all of the students who studied and worked so hard!
Haycock ES
Exciting news! Haycock Elementary has been awarded the EcoSchools U.S. Green Flag Award for a second year in a row. We achieved this designation for exceptional achievement in educating for sustainability as part of the FCPS Get2Green Initiative.
LGBTQIA+ Pride Month
In the month of June, we recognize the resilience and determination of the many individuals who are fighting to live freely and authentically. We stand with those facing an ongoing struggle against discrimination and injustice. This Pride Month, we reaffirm and uphold the dignity of LGBTQIA+ people. Each individual in our school community should feel valued for who they are. Visit our LGBTQIA+ Student Resources and Supports webpage.
From the FCPS Family Academy,
Caribbean American Heritage Month
FCPS celebrates the rich diversity and honors the many contributions of immigrants of Caribbean heritage to our nation during the month of June. Caribbean individuals are some of the most ethnically diverse in the world. There are more than 8.5 million individuals in the United States born in the Caribbean or of Caribbean ancestry. Learn more about Caribbean American Heritage Month.
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.
2025 School Bond Referendum Committee Opportunity
A citizen’s committee supporting the 2025 School Bond Referendum is seeking volunteers. This is an organized, positive, and short-term way to support FCPS. Along with the distribution of information, the volunteers will meet 2- 3 Times between June and November.
The committee’s general duties will be
- sharing information that supports passage of the bond to HOA boards, other organizations, and chambers of commerce; and
- distributing information electronically and in print.
If you are a Dranesville resident and interested in this opportunity, please fill out this committee interest form by June 5, 2025. If you have any questions, please reach out to Dranesvillestaff@fcps.edu.
SY 25-26 RIF Young Ambassador Program
If you are interested in knowing more about and possibly applying for the Reading Is Fundamental NOVA Young Ambassador program, the application for the 2025-2026 school year is live! Applications will be accepted through June 15, 2025.
1st Stage
1st Stage Theater is a not-for-profit professional theatre located at 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons, VA. Follow their directions on their website as they share they’re pretty sure that 1st Stage would win the award for most difficult-to-find theater.
YES Pass- Student Opportunity
The Youth Engagement Subscription (YES Pass) is a FREE season subscription for all Fairfax County HS students- freshman year to one year after graduation.
The YES Pass includes:
- A free ticket to every show in our season!
- Invitations to all opening night parties
- Invitations to free professional workshops (such as Slice It Up)
- No-fee priority rescheduling
FCPS HALL OF FAME- Nominations Open
For more than 150 years, Fairfax County Public Schools has been educating students to excel in all aspects of life. Today, thousands of FCPS alumni are leaders in many industries across the globe. From government to business, to the arts and entertainment, science and technology, education and community service, our alumni are a testament to the power of public schooling.
Nominate a distinguished alumni today and join us this coming fall for our 4th Annual Hall of Fame celebration. We are currently accepting nominations for the 2025 FCPS Hall of Fame through May 31st!
Here are the past Dranesville School alumni:
- 2024 Inductees: Amanda Andere, Herndon High School and Michael Batt, Marshall High School.
- 2023 Inductees: Kore Bendix, Herndon High School; Shirya Boppana, Herndon High School; Michael Brzezinski, Langley High School; Kathryn Falk, Langley High School; Ravindra Gupta, Thomas Jefferson HSST; and Adriane Randolph, Thomas Jefferson HSST.
- 2022 Inductees: Les Williams, Jr., Thomas Jefferson HSST; Christian Burbach, Langley HS; and Elizabeth Moore Aubin, Langley HS.
Summer Opportunities
Registration Closes June 6 for FCPS Online Campus, Summer Camps and Enrichment Programs
Registration for summer classes with FCPS’ Online Campus will close on Friday, June 6. Email OnlineCampus@fcps.edu or call 703-503-7781 with any questions.
Registration CLOSES Friday, June 6 for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock SS 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools.
Value In Prevention (VIP) Camp
FCPS and Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) offer a 5-week camp that serves rising 7th and 8th grade (2025-2026 school year) students who reside in the Carson, Hughes, Herndon, Cooper, and Longfellow Middle School boundaries. Campers will have a great time participating in sports, games, fitness, art, and STEM activities in a safe environment.
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July 1 - July 31, no camp on July 4th, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Site opens at 8 a.m. for drop off
- Rachel Carson MS (13618 McLearen Rd, Herndon)
- Bus Transportation will be provided from feeder middle schools and other selected stops
Herndon Park and Recreation’s Camp on the Go- June 18- August 8
We’re excited to launch a brand-new program this summer — Camp On The Go! This free, drop-in program is open to kids of all ages and will take place at Alabama Drive Park (1100 Alabama Dr, Herndon). There’s no registration required; kids can just show up and enjoy fun outdoor games, activities, and a welcoming space to play, laugh, and connect. It’s all about bringing recreation straight to the neighborhood!
- Wednesdays & Fridays, June 18 to August 8, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Traveling Players
Traveling Players is an ensemble-based non-profit that trains students in 2nd to 12th grade in classical theatre. Here are some upcoming events and camps for kids and teens that we think you would enjoy.
Fairfax County Public Library Summer Fun
June 11- August 17
Reading and participating in engaging reading activities throughout the summer are two effective ways to combat summer learning loss. Fairfax County Public Library Youth Summer Reading Adventure can help children retain reading skills and foster a love for the library!
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Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole Sensory Friendly Hours
Sensory friendly times at The Water Mine return this year. The Water Mine (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston) will open to all those with disabilities and their families for a sensory friendly hour:
- Tuesday, June 24, 10 to 11 a.m.
- Tuesday, July 15, 10 to 11 a.m.
- Tuesday, August 5, 10 to 11 a.m.
Family Resource Center Magical Moments Together Storytime!
The Family Resource Center (2334 Gallows Road, Dunn Loring) will be hosting Magical Moments Together: It’s Storytime! this summer. Join them on July 16 and July 23 and July 30, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for engaging stories and imaginative activities. All are welcome but recommended for children ages 2 to 5 years of age. Contact the Family Resource Center directly to register. Contact (703) 204-3941 or email at frc@fcps.edu for additional details.
Where We Belong Student Art Contest
Students across Fairfax County are invited to celebrate Immigrant Heritage Month by participating in the Fairfax County Public Library's (FCPL) art contest! The youth are invited to draw inspiration from their families or their communities to portray the colorful, diverse County we share. Students will choose one of the following prompts for their art:
- We all belong in Fairfax County.
- This is my family portrait.
- This is where I am from.
- We celebrate the contributions of our immigrant community members.
Artwork is accepted in any format but needs to be scanned or photographed. To participate, students must be 5-18 and live or study in Fairfax County. All art should be submitted via the online form, which will be open until June 15. All submissions will be uploaded to the FCPL virtual gallery.
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.
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 Public Library Events in June
Check the Herndon Fortnightly Library calendar for details and registration.
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June 2, 7 p.m.- Read to the Dogs, register now.
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June 7, 3 to 5 p.m.- Robotics with "Rise"
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June 11, 3 to 5 p.m.- Wonder Wagon: Mobile Nature Center
Girls Flag Football- June 7
As FCPS considers including Girls Flag Football in our high school athletic offerings, we are pleased to partner with the Washington Commanders to bring a free Girls Flag Football clinic to C.G. Woodson HS (9525 Main Street, Fairfax) on June 7, 2025.
The clinic will provide students with an opportunity to experience the game under the excellent direction of experienced flag coaches. Interested FCPS students can register for the event now! We also invite anyone interested in coaching to attend, observe, and ask questions!
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MCC American Red Cross Blood Drive- June 10
McLean Community Center (MCC) is helping the American Red Cross with blood donations- Tuesday, June 10, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.! It is urgent for donors of all ethnicities to support patients in need. Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: “McLeanCC” to schedule an appointment.
Herndon Pride- coming in June
Our community will together later in June for a vibrant, all new Pride event. This joyful celebration will honor creativity, inclusion, and the powerful spirit of our LGBTQ+ community—with a fresh new format full of movement, music, and community magic, in partnership with a fantastic local business. Stay tuned—full details and a new date coming soon!
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.
© 2025 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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