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Dear Community Members,
While summer is in full swing, this July newsletter has updates and a wrap up of incredible school-year-end commemorations that I want to be sure you see!
The School Board is in summer recess from July 18 to August 25, which means there are no official School Board meetings scheduled. During recess I work an abbreviated schedule, to catch up a bit, prepare for the new school year, and enjoy summer with my family.
Prior to recess, the Board appoints our new leadership and roles for the coming school year, which include Chair, Vice Chair, Committee Chairs and membership, and liaisons to committees. We have what is called a “flat board”, where each Member has an equal amount of authority as the other. Chairs have the responsibility to facilitate our work - quite an effort for the largest School Board in Virginia!
Before we head to school year 2025-26, please spend a minute viewing this video reel I made that captures most of the excitement at the close of the 2024-25 school year.
Thousands of Students Plus Staff Recognized at Year End for Accomplishments
Students from Hunter Mill and across Fairfax County were recognized and celebrated at year-end School Board meetings and local events for their achievements - including for a range of academics such as science and academic excellence; athletics; performing and visual arts; and community service. What a dazzling display of our incredible students. ✨
This is public education!
FCPS National Merit Scholarship Winners
Two Hunter Mill Students received the prestigious National Merit Scholarships. I congratulate Asha Das, 2025 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, and Andrew Wood, 2025 graduate of South Lakes High School. They were chosen based on their academic achievements, leadership, and contributions to their schools and communities. Each award provides between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the recipient’s scholarship.
Asha will attend Tufts University and study law, while Andrew will attend University of Texas at Dallas, to study mechanical engineering.
South Lakes Student Awarded Laura Ashley Piper Scholarship
Congratulations to James Butlin, 2025 graduate of South Lakes High School, who received the prestigious Laura Ashley Piper Scholarship! James served his community as an advocate for individuals with amputations and limb differences; actively contributed to the community through the Young Men's Service League; and excelled in basketball, baseball, and golf. Best of luck to James as he attends college next year. Read the proclamation here.
Thoreau Middle School 8th Grade Awards Ceremony
The Thoreau Middle School 8th Grade Awards Day event recognized students for their hard-earned accomplishments. The culture here nurtures the students and prepares them for success. Principal Teresa Khuluki and her team have cultivated an atmosphere of excellence and respect for all.
I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge this incredible custom Thoreau Middle School necktie - the epitome of school spirit!
Langston Hughes 8th Grade Moving Up Ceremony
Our Langston Hughes Middle School 8th graders bid farewell at the school’s first, Moving-Up Celebration. Organized and led by the students, featured speakers shared gratitude and recognition for the adults who support them. The orchestra played the song, “A Million Dreams”, in a touching rendition, and the award-winning Advanced Chorus sang several pieces. Many proud moments were had as students were each called to receive recognition for their steps forward into high school.
🎭High School Theatre Celebrated at Cappies 🎩
Each year, high school theatre students from around the DMV gather for the Cappies, an awards ceremony that celebrates the performing arts in our schools. The event features performances, gowns, and all the glamour of show business.
Our school division employs dedicated instructors who go above and beyond to develop the talent and leadership of their theatre students. This is amplified by hours of volunteer time from devoted parents, families, and community members. The previous School Board established a warehouse for theater props and equipment, which helps these resources be more accessible to all students and reduces waste. Funds for performing arts programs must remain integral in public education.
Megan Sawant Reflects Upon her services as Student Representative to the Fairfax County School Board
It was a delight to work with Megan Sawant during her term as the Student Representative to the School Board this school year. During her tenure, Megan met ceaselessly with students across FCPS and thoughtfully relayed their input and experiences to the Board in thoughtful ways. She and I worked together to bring recommendations to the Superintendent for improving grade level transitions and academic advising, which are included in changes arriving at our secondary schools this fall. I learned much from this young adult, who is a 2025 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, and enrolled at Harvard for the fall. The Board honored her with a proclamation, which you can read here, and I hope you’ll take a few moments to watch her remarks on my YouTube page. You’ll be inspired!
🧪🔭Students Excel in National Science Competition
Eighteen FCPS students were selected to attend the prestigious 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Columbus, Ohio, in May. Three of them were recognized as First Award winners for achievements in Sustainable Materials and Design; and Environmental Engineering. The School Board recognized students with a proclamation at the June 26 Regular Meeting. Read more about the competition at the Science for Society website.
🏆FCPS Honors its Dedicated Employees alongside Educate Fairfax
The success of FCPS and every child relies on the adults employed to provide an excellent public education. Our children thrive when we recognize that their learning conditions are adults’ working conditions. Thank you to the array of professionals, providing safety, instruction, and opportunity that results in students’ success, and an outstanding public education system in Fairfax County. Read more about the awardees here.
School Board Updates and Recent Work
School Board Explores Budget Collaboration with County Funders
Determining the annual budget to implement the excellent public education system in Fairfax County must be a collaborative effort between FCPS and the County Government. The budget development process for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 was arduous, and ultimately did not deliver the resources requested by the FCPS School Board and Superintendent to competitively compensate employees in a tight labor market, and deliver the kind of education this county demands. There is no way but forward, though, so the task before county leaders is to work together and identify how the most important public investments are funded. Our public schools are used by the public, not only children. Alongside my colleagues, I am committed to a proactive approach to budgeting, which will involve early, frequent, and honest communication with the County and the Board of Supervisors. You can watch the session here. As always, I will continue sharing information with you about opportunities to be informed and advocate for the use of your public tax dollars to sustain our public investment in Fairfax County Public Schools.
Boundary Review Update to School Board
The School Board received an update on the comprehensive school boundary review underway, from the Superintendent at the June 17 Work Session. which you can view here. You may have seen scenarios of boundary changes and used the Boundary Review Scenario Explorer, which are available for community review. Understandably, SOME OF these scenarios have received criticism from concerned community members. Some of the scenarios are problematic at face value, especially considering Tysons Woods and Fox Mill Woods. Alongside my colleagues, I pressed for more thorough and regular updates to fully understand the boundary review process, since the School Board is responsible for oversight. The use of trailers at school should be considered during the review, since it is relevant to understand the effects of entire grade levels being taught inside of trailers, as well as the associated costs.
The boundary review process will soon transition into data analysis and updated scenarios, which I will closely review. I expect more feasible scenarios from the consultant, because our community deserves better than some of the initial drafts shared. Please continue to contact me with your concerns so I can raise them with my colleagues.
South Lakes student Sings National Anthem at Regular Meeting
Jocelyn Looney, a student at South Lakes High School, delivered a powerful performance of the Star-Spangled Banner at the June 26 Regular Meeting. You can watch her performance at the FCPS YouTube page.
Remembering Gerry Connolly and Jane Strauss
The School Board honored the memory of the late Rep. Gerry Connolly and former school board chair Jane Strauss. Gerry was a fixture of Fairfax County, and during his time with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, he helped expand after-school programs, reduce gang violence, and generate infrastructure investments, which helped make our County and schools among the best in the country.
Jane Strauss served for 26 years on the Fairfax County School Board and three times as chair, providing unparalleled contributions to our schools. Her contributions included expanding advanced academic programs and kindergarten to full-day schedules. She also managed the Cappies awards, the renowned theatre arts recognition ceremony which grew to encompass twelve regions. I enjoy the Cappies each year, and I thank Jane for making it possible.
You can read the proclamations here to learn more about their significance.
🏳️🌈LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, Immigrant Heritage Month, Caribbean Heritage Month, and More
June featured many milestones to commemorate, which we presented as proclamations for the community. You can read more about them by viewing the June 12 Regular Meeting and the June 26 Regular meeting.
Upcoming Public School Board Meetings
Regular School Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- Thursday, July 10, 7:00pm - Regular Meeting
- Thursday, July 17, 7:00pm - Regular Meeting
Hunter Mill Happenings
🖋️Westbriar Promotes Young Writers at 3rd Grade Authors’ Tea🍵
Students showcased their writing at the Westbriar Elementary School 3rd Grade Authors’ Tea. They presented their books filled with original writing plus illustrations to families, educators, guests, and classmates. Refreshments were served, and musical pieces performed by older Westbriar students. The interdisciplinary work to develop the books plus the intermingling of students of different grade levels created such a unique and thoughtful experience. Parent and family volunteers helped bind the books, and support staff with hosting this event. I was able to join Principal Sally Burch to hear one author read his book about the rules of soccer. Although I’ve been a “soccer mom” for nearly 10 years, I learned about a few game rules! There is always something new to learn.
🎨🔬Fusion of Art and Science at South Lakes High School
Students at South Lakes High School participate in project-based learning with the STEAM Team’s public art program. The "Cell-estial" sculpture is the team's 11th project and aims to highlight the people of Reston by inviting the public to paint on nearly 500 aluminum discs, which represent microorganisms and cells that make up the microbiome that sustains life. The project was installed at the Lake Thoreau spillway. You can watch a video about the project at the Reston Association YouTube page.
Graduation Season Highlights!
FCPS graduated nearly 15,000 students into the next step of their lives. It is a privilege for me to bear witness to the culmination of K-12 education for a portion of those students. I estimate hearing the names of about 3,500 students read aloud - not only at graduations, but also at year-end recognitions. Our parents and families have poured their hearts and resources into children’s success. Our educators and staff care about these children-turned-adults, providing instruction and support, guidance and opportunity. Here’s a collection of my participation during the 2025 graduation season.
Cedar Lane School
Cedar Lane School’s graduation ceremony highlighted the tight-knit relationships between students and faculty. I’ve known the principal, Dr. Cheronda Farrish, since her time as an assistant principal at James Madison High School, and her passion for her students’ success only continues growing.
Cedar Lane School graduate, Ismael Lopez Quispe, volunteered to serve our nation in the U.S. Marine Corps and will attend recruit training this summer. My staff aide, Jacob, served as a Marine recruiter in Los Angeles, so it was special for him to see the tradition of service continue in Fairfax County.
George C. Marshall High School
 
James Madison High School
 
Westfield High School
 
Davis Career Center Transition Ceremony
The Davis Career Center (DCC) transition ceremony featured enthusiasm from an optimistic group of young adults, who have been preparing to earn competitive employment to fulfill their capabilities and dreams. Afterwards, guests enjoyed pastries from DCC's culinary students.
South Lakes High School
 
Other Info of Interest
FCPS appoints new leadership for Region 1, Instructional Services, and Facilities
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Let’s welcome our new Assistant Superintendent for Region 1, Dr. Jameile Choice, who will become a familiar face in our Hunter Mill district! From FCPS: “Dr. Choice brings with him more than 15 years of experience in public education. Most recently, he served as the Executive Director of Transformation and Innovation in Dallas Independent School District—one of Texas’ largest school divisions. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for equity, innovation, and academic excellence. He has led a variety of school models, including Montessori, magnet, International Baccalaureate, and single-gender campuses. Under his leadership, schools have made impressive academic strides, and he is known for developing impactful school leaders and fostering student-centered school cultures.
Dr. Choice has deep knowledge in areas such as instructional leadership, restorative practices, and systemic school improvement. In addition, Dr. Choice is passionate about giving every student access to quality education and values strong, collaborative relationships with principals, educators, families, and the broader community.”
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Dr. Ellen Reilly, principal of McLean High School, is now the Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services for the school division. Previously, Dr. Reilly served as assistant principal at Oakton High School and Herndon High School, and she succeeded in expanding Advanced Placement and Dual Enrollment opportunities for students while at McLean. Read more here.
Dr. Reilly is assuming the reins as Noel Klimenko retires from this role, after a decades-long career in FCPS. I’ve appreciated and learned greatly from Ms. Klimenko’s expertise – especially as FCPS transitioned to implementing the Benchmark Advanced literacy curriculum for elementary grades, of which this past year was the first year. Thank you, Noel, and all the best for life after FCPS!
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We bid farewell to Janice Szymanski, Chief of Facilities Services & Capital Programs, who brought to light a breadth of data and information that the School Board and Superintendent are now using to steward the $8.7 billion in public assets for which the School Board is accountable. Coming onboard is Erik Gordon, whose experience is vast. From FCPS: “With an extensive career spanning both federal and private sectors, Mr. Gordon is a results-oriented leader with expertise in facilities program management, strategic planning, and enterprise operations. He has successfully managed large-scale real property portfolios, led complex construction initiatives, and optimized asset management systems across multiple organizations.
After a 30-year career in the United States Army and subsequent work with Raytheon Technologies (RTX), Mr. Gordon joined the Department of State (DOS) in June 2022 as a Division Chief within the Office of Facilities Management Services (FMS), where he oversaw the Department’s domestic facility operations and maintenance program. In March 2025, he assumed the role of Office Director for the Design and Construction Directorate, providing strategic leadership and direction for the Department’s domestic design and construction efforts in a complex and evolving operational landscape. Prior to joining the Department, Mr. Gordon led all aspects of installation facilities for the Army National Guard and, following his military retirement, managed two project delivery teams at RTX.
Mr. Gordon is a lifelong learner who holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Polytechnic Institute, a Master’s in Facility Management from Southern Methodist University, and a Master’s in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.”
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👩🎓Learn about Portrait of a Graduate Presentations of Learning
Our students study not only core subjects like math and English, but also learn how to reflect on their learning experiences and describe them, helping to deepen their learning. Throughout the school year, the Portrait of a Graduate approach prompts students to think deeply about their journeys and then share that introspection through their Presentations of Learning. The process is similar to preparing a college application, resume, or performance review - see this video to learn more about this, here.
On the Road: Careers in Local Public Service
Already this summer I journeyed to North Carolina, to visit a dear friend from my graduate school days at Duke University, in Durham, in the early 2000s. I reconnected as well with the Mayor of Chapel Hill, Jess Anderson, who like me, earned a Masters in Public Policy. While often public attention is on national policy and elected officials, we discussed the asset that local elected officials have in closely understanding our communities. While both of our jobs are considered “part time”, we know it takes more than a few hours to govern responsibly. The cost of my graduate degree now, compared to 2000, is three times the amount 😳, making public service extremely difficult financially for those interested. I’ve advocated to my alma mater to consider this barrier for preparing more local leaders for public service. 💙
FCPS Alumnus Discusses AI in Education
FCPS graduate, Jasmin Chavez Cruz, addresses bridging the gap between AI technology and all community members - particularly children and adults in low-income families and communities of color. Learn more in this blog featuring Jasmin, from Graylight Lab.
Juneteenth Commemorated
On June 19, our nation celebrated Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Slavery was abolished by President Abraham Lincoln, who declared all enslaved people free in 1965. However, Texans did not receive the mandate until two years later, on June 19, 1965, when the U.S. Army arrived to issue General Order 3, which liberated all enslaved people in Texas. The holiday reminds us that the fight for civil rights is not a singular act, but a movement that demands our continued effort to ensure all people have the opportunity to thrive.
Free School-Required Physicals in Herndon
HealthWorks is offering free school physicals to children ages 3-18 without health insurance who are entering a Virginia school. Slots are available at the Herndon location on August 6, 2025, 1 to 4 pm. Appointments include a physical exam, dental screening, hearing and vision test, TB screening, and immunizations. Sports physicals are not available. To schedule an appointment, please call (703) 840-4714.
Contacting Me
I prioritize responses to Hunter Mill constituents, so please be sure to identify yourself as such if you contact me. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look that information up here.
To contact me, it is most helpful to please use the official School Board contact form via my website (click "Submit a Question"). This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents, and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. Thank you for your cooperation.
Best,
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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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