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Dear Dranesville Families:
I hope you are having a wonderful summer despite the heat and humidity. It is hard to believe that we are in mid-July and the first day of school is one month away. Earlier this week, I attended the FCPS Leadership Kickoff at Hayfield High School and was inspired by the energy and optimism in the room. Despite the current threats to our funding, we are excited for a new year and remain committed to providing all our students with a first-class education.
As we prepare to open school soon, I want to thank the Region 1 team on their selection of Robert Acosta as the new principal at Herndon Elementary School. Principal Acosta recently served as Founder and Executive Director, Paradiso College Preparatory School System in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with 15 years of experience as an educator. He found his true love of education when he began his teaching career as an Elementary Bilingual Language Arts Teacher. He served in assistant principal and principal positions within public school and charter school systems. As a multilingual learner himself, Mr. Acosta is extremely passionate about bilingual and dual education and ensuring that all students receive a rigorous education.
I am also very excited to announce the new principal at Longfellow Middle School, Chris Butzer, who was most recently an assistant principal at Luther Jackson Middle School. Principal Butzer brings a wealth of experience and passion for creating vibrant learning environments where all students can thrive, especially middle schoolers. As a middle school science teacher and instructional coach for over 7 years, she increased student achievement and fostered strong, collaborative school culture. Region 2 highlighted her strength as a leader who is collaborative, approachable, and actively engaged with students, staff, and families.
Finally, I am confident in the Region 2 team who are working hard to identify the next principal of McLean High School. I look forward to sharing that announcement in the coming weeks.
Regards,
Robyn
In this newsletter,
School Board News
2025-26 School Board Leadership
The Fairfax County School Board confirmed its leadership for the 2025-26 school year at its July 10 Regular Meeting. Sandy Anderson (Springfield District) was elected chair, and I (Dranesville District) was elected vice chair.
Mr. Frisch's Last Remarks as School Board Chair
I want to thank Mr. Frisch for his leadership and shepherding our Board through a wide variety of topics and work affecting our staff, schools, students, and families. He guided the new school board members as we learned how to best support our constituents and the work of the Board. He committed much of his time working with our Board elevating our perspectives and collaborating with us, as a team.
Election of Ms. Sandy Anderson as School Board Chair
“I’m honored to serve as chair of the Fairfax County School Board. I look forward to working with my colleagues, our superintendent, and our community to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we will continue to prioritize academic excellence, equity, and the well-being of all students in FCPS,” said Anderson.
Ms. Anderson's Remarks after Chair Election
I look forward to working with Chair Sandy Anderson. Her tenure as Vice Chair was vital to the work we accomplished as a Board last school year. I appreciated her organization, her partnership, and her willingness to connect over questions and concerns.
My Election as Vice Chair
I am humbled and honored to be elected by my fellow school board members, as the 2025- 26 Vice Chair of the School Board. I look forward to working with Chair Anderson and our Board for a successful 2025-26 term.
My Remarks after Vice Chair Election
July 10, 2025 Regular Meeting
Board Meeting Highlights
Board Business
In accordance with the Code of Virginia and the School Board's Strategic Governance Manual, this meeting served as the annual organizational meeting.
The School Board elected Springfield District Member Sandy Anderson as School Board Chair for the 2025-2026 School Year. The School Board elected Dranesville District Member Robyn Lady as School Board Vice Chair for the 2025-2026 School Year.
The School Board authorized organizational arrangements and appointments for the 2025-2026 School Year.
Presentations to the School Board
Dr. Reid presented Academic Matters on WIDA Progress.
Dr. Reid presented a Strategic Plan Update on 2025 FCPS Graduations (Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow's Innovation).
Dr. Reid and Chief Financial Officer Leigh Burden presented the Fiscal Year 2025 Year End Review.
SY 24-25 Superintendent Evaluation
Each year, the School Board uses the Virginia Department of Education’s performance standards to complete Superintendent Reid’s official evaluation. Our Board uses 13 Executive Limitations (pages 14-31 of our Strategic Governance Manual) to outline the Board’s guidelines for Dr. Reid’s work. During regular meetings, the Board receives regular detailed reports for each of the Executive Limitations. Dr. Reid presents reports to ensure her compliance, and, if necessary, the Board can request a corrective action plan.
The Board also reviews the Strategic Plan's five goals each year. These goal reports assess FCPS’s progress and share plans to address areas that require improvement. Our Executive Limitation and Strategic Plan Goal Report are aligned with Virginia’s eight standards, encompassing topics like Strategic Leadership, Instructional Leadership, Culturally Responsive Division Leadership, and Student Academic Progress. Access Dr. Reid’s performance evaluations here.
Faith Mekonen- New School Board Student Representative
 Faith Mekonen, a rising senior at South County High School, was elected by the countywide Student Advisory Council (SAC) to serve a one-year term as student representative to the Fairfax County School Board. She is the 55th student representative to the School Board.
Mekonen has three main focuses as student representative: reducing discipline disproportionality, elevating student voice in policy decisions, and the implementation of the revised grading and cell phone policy. For the first time, she presented Student Representative Matters to the School Board.
Watch her welcome video.
Megan Sawant Ends Her Term
Thank you Megan for your service as the 54th Student Representative to the School Board. Her advocacy for student voice was unparalleled. I wish her the best as she embarks on her college career.
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Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tonight, Thursday, July 17, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
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Tuesday, August 26, 10:30 a.m.- All Day Work Session
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Thursday, August 28, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics are subject to change.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak
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.
FCPS Updates
Welcome Principal Butzer- Longfellow MS
I am very excited to announce the new principal at Longfellow MS, Chris Butzer, who was most recently an assistant principal at Luther Jackson MS. Principal Butzer brings a wealth of experience and passion for creating vibrant learning environments where all students can thrive, especially in the middle school setting. As a middle school science teacher and instructional coach, she increased student achievement and fostered strong, collaborative school culture. Region 2 highlighted her strength as a leader who is collaborative, approachable, and actively engaged with students, staff, and families.
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Middle School and High School Grading Updates
There will be new grading policies for all middle and high school classes in 2025-26. The goal of these changes is to increase consistency and clarity of grading practices. Learn about middle and high school grading policy updates.
Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) Updates
The 2025-26 Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R): A Guide for Families explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment.
Cell Phone Policy Update for High Schools
Beginning in August, high school students must keep devices off and away during classroom time and passing periods. High school students can only use their cell phones and other personal devices (AirPods, smart watches, etc.) during lunch and before or after school. This is a change from FCPS’ SY 2024-25 cell phone policy, which allowed high schoolers to use devices during passing periods.
Boundary Explorer Tool Survey- Closes July 18
FCPS value every voice. Community members had the opportunity to share their thoughts on the three draft scenarios through a survey available on the district’s Boundary Explorer Tool. (The survey and commenting function will close on Friday, July 18, at 5 p.m.) The survey was intended to gather community input as the district contemplates potential boundary changes. The survey is a critical input into the boundary review process to:
- Guide scenario refinement
- Prioritize community values
- Inform final recommendations
Since mid-May, families, employees, and community members have been able to provide feedback on the three draft boundary scenarios through a survey and commenting function within our Boundary Explorer Tool. All feedback submitted in the tool prior to July 18 at 5 p.m. is being collected by the consultant and will be shared with the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee.
Watch this video to learn more about the Boundary Explorer Tool. To learn more about the comprehensive boundary review process, you can review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), bookmark our Comprehensive Boundary Review page, and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.
Superintendent Boundary Review Advisory Committee
The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee includes parents, caregivers and/or community members from each of FCPS’ 24 high school pyramids, together with school-based and division administrators, teachers, operational staff, and other community representatives. As originally constituted, each FCPS pyramid is represented on the Committee by a minimum of two individuals who reside within the current boundaries for that pyramid.
Special concerns within the school division’s current boundary system, including so-called “split feeders” and “attendance islands,” are represented by individuals who reside in areas affected by those concerns. These are just two of the many special concerns that are represented on the committee and are noted in the list below.
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Attendance Island- describes a geographic area that is assigned to a school although the area is not contiguous to the school boundary.
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Split Feeder- describes a particular school from which students progress to two or more higher-level schools. For example, when an elementary school boundary intersects the school boundary of two middle schools.
Dranesville student’s pyramid representatives (reach your representative by clicking links and more emails coming soon):
- Herndon pyramid
- Langley pyramid
- Marshall pyramid
- McLean pyramid
- Westfield pyramid
- Jenae Grader
- Kristen Reed
Noted in the list above (* = split feeder, ** = attendance island, *** = both)
Summer Meals for Students
FCPS’ Summer Meal Service Program provides breakfast and lunch free of charge to all children aged 18 and younger. Check FCPS’ Food and Nutrition summer food service program webpage and the USDA Summer Meals for Kids Site Finder for locations, dates, and times.
Meals are available at these Dranesville schools:
- Clearview ES
- Coates ES
- Herndon HS
- Hutchison ES
If you have any questions regarding the Summer 2025 meal service, please contact SummerMeals@fcps.edu or call 703-813-4800.
Free Virtual Mental Health Consultations for Parents and Secondary Students
This summer, the FCPS Office of Intervention and Prevention Services will offer free virtual Mental Wellness Consultations through August 1, 2025. Any FCPS parent or secondary student will have an opportunity to schedule a free 45-minute consultation with a school psychologist or school social worker by phone or videoconference.
To request a consultation, families can complete a request form in the language of their choice or leave a message at 703-503-2520. Families will be contacted at the start of the session requested in order to schedule a date and time for the consultation appointment.
Counselors Share Tips for Teens to Protect Mental Health
The school counseling team at Rachel Carson Middle School — Karla Chustz, Rachel Copeland, Nina Ghafori, Christy Ryder, and Beth Schires — offer some tips for teens to work toward better mental health.
Protect Your Child from Measles
What You Need to Know
Measles cases continue to rise in the US. About 1 in 5 people who get measles end up in the hospital. Measles can cause severe complications like a lung infection (pneumonia), brain inflammation (encephalitis), and possibly death, even with medical care. The best way to protect a child from measles is by getting two doses of the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Watch for symptoms for up to 3 weeks after returning from summer travel, both national and international destinations.
Symptoms of measles typically include:
- High fever (may spike up to 104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A rash that appears around 3-5 days after other symptoms begin. The rash typically starts on the face and spreads down the body.
Immunizations
If you are unsure of your child's vaccination status or your personal vaccination status, talk to your health care provider. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your health care provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources.
Where to Receive Immunizations
If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your family’s health care provider or one of the following clinics:
- Inova Cares Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs provide children ages 5 and up with free school physicals and immunizations. Weekday and weekend clinics are available in July and August. These health fairs are for VA Medicaid or Uninsured Inova registered patients only. Appointments are required. Call 703-698-2550 to make an appointment. Bring vaccine records to the appointment.
Local immunization clinics and additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and from the FCHD.
New Volunteer Management System Coming to Schools
In the 2025-26 school year, FCPS will launch a new volunteer management system for all schools. Volunteer FCPS will provide a centralized location for parents and community members to search for volunteer opportunities and will help track volunteer information including when they visit schools and if they have completed a background check.
FCPS offices including Safety and Security, Human Resources, Information Technology, and Family and School Partnerships are working collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition to the new system, which is currently being piloted at eight schools.
2025 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award- Ms. Blanca Carbajal
At the June FCPS Equity Symposium, Ms. Blanca Carbajal, a Herndon parent and community advocate, was honored with the 2025 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. This annual award recognizes individuals who are making a powerful impact on educational equity in FCPS.
Blanca Carbajal’s nomination demonstrated a powerful, wide-reaching impact across every one of the nine award criteria. She advocates fiercely—not only for her own child, but for many other families—bridging communication gaps, building community, and bringing critical issues to the forefront at the school, county, and state levels. As her nominators wrote:
- “Blanca embodies what it means to advocate for educational equity. As a mother and immigrant, she has lived the very disparities she now works tirelessly to address.”
- “Despite not speaking English, Blanca courageously communicates using translation apps and persistence. She helps families navigate school systems—not as a staff member, but as a volunteer.”
- “She brings the voices of immigrant families directly into decision-making spaces and advocates with courage and clarity.”
Among her many contributions, Blanca co-created a local support group for mothers of preschool-aged children, organizing resources from Pre-K, HIPPY, and local libraries to connect and empower nearly 20 families. She took it upon herself to organize a network for families to support their understanding of school communication. Another highlight is her advocacy for reducing fees at Herndon parks so all families could access and enjoy them. FCPS celebrates Ms. Carbajal’s well-deserved recognition and thanks all the nominees for their incredible work to make our schools more inclusive, accessible, and just for every student.
Community Updates
New Virginia Laws Effective July 1st
Starting July 1st, new laws passed by the General Assembly and signed by the Governor will take effect. You can read more about the new laws here on the Fairfax County website.
SB 1416 - Stop for Pedestrians- a traffic infraction if a driver fails to stop for pedestrians and makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor if failure to stop results in the serious bodily injury or death of a vulnerable road user lawfully crossing.
HB 2116 - License Non-Apparent Disabilities- DMV will be required to add non-apparent disabilities on a driver’s license when requested by an applicant.
HB 2475 - Seat Belts- All adult passengers require seat belts while the vehicle is in motion.
Media Protections for Minors
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SB 854 requires social media companies to implement age verification and limit under-16 users to one hour of app use daily, unless overridden by parental consent.
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HB 2401/SB 998 ensures children under 16 who contribute to content creation and meet certain criteria must be compensated
HB 1961/SB 738 - Cell Phone Restriction in Schools- requires School Boards to create and implement a policy regarding the possession and use of cell phones on school property. These policies must restrict use deemed as disruptive to the learning environment with limited exceptions, such as need due to a medical condition as dictated in a child’s IEP or 504 plan. This law prohibits any student from being suspended or expelled because of any violation of such policies.
HB 2774/SB 1240 - Student Overdoses- mandates that public and private school administrators notify parents within 24 hours of any confirmed or suspected overdose involving a student that is school connected.
Extreme Heat - Fairfax County Resources
 Residents can sign up for Fairfax Alerts for emergency updates and access various assistance programs like the Cooling Assistance Program, subsidized transportation, and resources to cope with extreme heat.
For more information, visit the extreme heat webpage and take advantage of services provided by Coordinated Services Planning by calling 703-222-0880.
From the Fairfax County Police Department,
Heat Waves and Right of Ways: Your Summer Safety Checklist
- Drive with caution, especially in neighborhoods, near parks, and around trails
- Stay focused, stay alert; put down your phone
- Teens learning to drive
- More people spend time outdoors
- School may be out for summer, but not every school is empty due to camps, special programs and more.
- Practice water safety around pools, lakes, and splash pads
- Even shallow water can pose a risk
- Stay within arm’s reach of inexperienced swimmers
- Learn CPR; it saves lives
- Hot Cars Can Kill—Every Minute Counts
- The only safe option is to take them with you, always
- On a 90 degree day, a car heats to 130 degrees in minutes
- Buckle Up the Right Way—Especially for Kids
- Check In on Vulnerable Neighbors
- FCPD presence this summer
- Throughout the summer, you’ll see more officers on foot patrol, engaging in your neighborhoods, and participating in traffic safety campaigns.
Can I Leave My Child Home Alone?
Families are deciding how to provide proper care and supervision for their children while school is on summer break. It's important for families to be aware of some guidelines regarding the safe supervision of their children. Since every child is different, parents must assess each child based on their maturity, skills, and comfort level to be home alone for any period of time. Our Child Supervision Guidelines can help.
Parent Support Line – Here to Support You
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Parent Support Line (703-324-7720) is a great resource for parents and caregivers of children ages 0-18 years old. Staff can help with parenting advice, support, and tips to help navigate emotional and relational parenting issues. Language support is available.
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.
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.
17 Students and Five Teams Win Spring VHSL Sports Championships
Pictured from top to bottom: Herndon HS Boys Soccer Team, Thomas Jefferson HS Girls Tennis Team, Langley HS Boys Tennis Team
Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2025 spring sports season. See the full list of FCPS teams and athletes who won Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 championships and runners up.
Congratulations to these Danesville students and schools:
The teams winning the championships:
- Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Girls Tennis
- Langley High School, Boys Tennis.
- Herndon High School, Boys Soccer.
Individual runners up:
- Arnav Talrejav (Dranesville)/Jonah Treitler (non-Fairfax County student), Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Tennis, Boys Doubles.
FCPS Alumni Network
Educate Fairfax is proud to sponsor the FCPS Alumni Network — an online community connecting alumni, teachers, parents/caregivers, and community members who share a bond with Fairfax County Public Schools.
Whether you’re a recent graduate, a long-time supporter, or someone who’s returned to Fairfax to work or raise a family, this network is here to celebrate you. Take a peek at our site and find inspiring stories, news, events, reunions, homecomings, and more.
Want to plan an alumni event? Contact us at alumni@educatefairfax.org — we’re happy to help! Not a member yet? Join the FCPS Alumni Network today and be part of the ongoing FCPS story!
School News
Herndon HS
Apply for the Herndon Athletic Hall of Fame. If you know of somebody you wish to be considered, please have them fill out this Herndon High School Athletics Hall of Fame Nomination Form or fill it out on their behalf. Questions: email Dan Coghlan
Eligibility criteria:
- A former Herndon coach or athletic support person who has retired
- A Herndon athlete that graduated at least 10 years ago
- A nominee must receive 70% of the HOF Committee's votes to gain election
- A nominee's form will remain active for 5 years (if not voted in), and, after 5 years, another form will have to be submitted.
McLean HS
FBLA National Leadership Conference- Students from McLean HS attended Future Business Leaders of America, Inc.’s (FBLA) National Leadership Conference. The event attracted over 15,000 middle school and high school students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. Students had the opportunity to engage in over 120 learning workshops and meet with representatives from more than 260 colleges, universities, and employers.
Hutchison Elementary School Gets a Makeover
Thanks to Iridium Communications and BusinessLink Partnership
When you arrive at Hutchison, the transformation is impossible to miss — from freshly painted walls to a fully renovated teachers' lounge. This impactful day of service at Hutchison Elementary School was brought to life through a partnership between Iridium Communications and Volunteer Fairfax’s BusinessLink program.
In just a few hours, volunteers completed a long list of improvements: painted two long hallways with signature blue stripes; added murals and wall color throughout the school; and assembled new desks in the kindergarten pod. The second grade area now features a vibrant reading space, and bathrooms were refreshed with paint, plants, and uplifting messages. This impressive makeover was made possible by more than 150 volunteers from Iridium Communications and the expert coordination of Volunteer Fairfax’s BusinessLink team. To learn more or plan a project, contact Karen Coon or visit Volunteer Fairfax’s BusinessLink program.
Westgate ES's Free Little Library
Westgate now has a free little library! Thank you so much to the Dunn Loring Merrifield Rotary for donating and installing the library and thank you to our sixth grade students for painting it. The library is located in the front of the school. We hope you will be able to stop by to drop off or pick up a book. Happy reading!
Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month is a time to honor the strength, identity, and contributions of people with disabilities and celebrating disability as a vital and valued part of human diversity. July was chosen because the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law on July 26, 1990.
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Clean Fairfax- Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a perfect time to shake up your habits and challenge yourself to swap single-use plastic bags for durable reusable bags. All ten of the Fairfax County’s Farmers Markets are plastic bag-free this year. Help out your local farmers and vendors by remembering your own reusable produce and shopping bags. You can get a free “No Thanks, I Don’t Need a Bag” button at the market manager’s tent.
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Disposable Plastic Bag Tax
Since it went into effect in January 2022, the Disposable Plastic Bag Tax has generated over $7.7 million in revenue to support environmental education programs, pollution, litter mitigation, cleanup efforts, and the distribution of reusable bags to residents in need. Over 3.4 million fewer bags have been used since the tax went into effect.
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.
McLean Community Players, Godspell Auditions
July 21-22, 6:30 to 10 p.m.- Come audition for McLean Community Player's next show, Godspell, coming this October to the Alden Theatre! Any questions, please email mcleanplayersva@gmail.com.
Fun Ways to Get your Kids Moving this Summer
Summer is a great time for your child to have fun with family and friends by playing games, sports, and other physical activities. This will look different for each child based on their interest, opportunity, and ability level.
You can find activities right at home, like making household chores fun and active. For example, have your child throw, push, or drop laundry into a basket, hamper, washing machine, or dryer. Other activities may include vacuuming to music, carrying in groceries, or pushing a shopping cart.
Outside of the home, Fairfax County offers many parks to explore. Hike or bike on a nature trail, or have sensory cool water fun at one of the parks: Clemyjontri Park (McLean), Chessie’s BIG Backyard (Franconia), Our Special Harbor Sprayground (Franconia), or Hadley Park (Sterling).
The Park Authority’s Adapted Recreation Programs provide many wonderful options, as does Fairfax County Public School’s list of Adapted Sports and Recreation.
Teen Centers and Drop-in Sites
Participating at one of Fairfax County’s Teen Centers allows county youth to grow in a supervised, structured and enjoyable environment. Teen Center participants are connected with positive role models and participate in a variety of activities and projects designed to keep teens engaged and to support their physical, mental and social development.
Students, grades 7 through 12, must register to participate at NCS Teen Centers and Drop-in Sites.
Northern Fairfax County Locations
- Reston Teen Center (12196 Sunset Hills Road, Reston)
- Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 - 9 p.m.; Friday, 2 - 10 p.m.; Saturday, Noon - 10 p.m.
- Langston Hughes MS (11401 Ridge Heights Road, Reston)
- Hours: Friday and Saturday, 6-10 p.m.
- Herndon MS (901 Locust Street, Herndon)
- Hours: Friday and Saturday, 6- 10 p.m.
'Tis the Season for Farmers Markets
Summer produce is here! Pick up fresh, local goods and enjoy the best of the season. Visit Multiple Fairfax County Locations
- Herndon Farmers Market (765 Lynn St., Herndon)- Thursdays: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- McLean Farmers Market (1659 Chain Bridge Rd., McLean)- Fridays: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Reston Farmers Market (1609 Washington Plaza N, Reston)- Saturdays: 8 a.m.- 12 p.m.
FCPS 2nd Annual Puzzle Hunt
We are excited to bring back the 2nd Annual Fairfax County Public Schools Puzzle Hunt this summer! With a focus on community building and outdoor fun, it is a fun, free opportunity for families and friends to solve puzzles together and explore all that our wonderful county has to offer. For more information and details, you can visit the Hunt’s “How-To Play” page.
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Herndon Park and Recreation’s Camp on the Go!
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). No registration required; kids can 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, through August 8, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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Fairfax County Public Library Summer Programs
“The World We Write” Short Story Contest through July 31
Fairfax County Public Library and the Fairfax Library Foundation invites school-age youth (grades 3-6), teens (grades 7-12) and adults (18+) to participate in our third annual "The World We Write" short story writing contest. Use one of the prompts to write a 250-word story.. This contest is open from July 1-31.
Teen Chopped Challenge through August 17
Create your own unique recipe for FCPL's Teen Chopped Challenge through August 17! Use our three mystery ingredients to make something fun and delicious. A limited quantity of ingredient kits will be available at select library branches. This competition is for ages 12-18.
The mystery ingredients this year are:
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- Dole Pineapple Tidbits
- Honey
Herndon Library - MakerLab Drop-In Hours
The Make@Herndon at the Herndon Fortnightly Public Library (768 Center St., Herndon). is a space designed for people who love to learn, discover, and explore. It's a place where you can learn new skills, work on fun projects, and connect with other makers in your community. The MakerLab provides access to a variety of tools and equipment including: 3D printer, sewing & embroidery machines, Cricut & Cameo cutting machines, robotics, circuits, and more. Drop-in time is self-directed. We cannot ensure that staff will always be available to provide expert assistance with every device and tool, but we are committed to helping our Makers create and explore and make the most of this exciting library space!
NEW AGE REQUIREMENT! We welcome all Makers ages 12 and up. Please ask at the information desk about opportunities for Makers under the age of 12.
NOVA Early Online College Fall 2025 Semester Registration
NOVA’s Early Online College is back for the Fall 2025 Semester! NOVA Early Online College (EOC) allows rising high school juniors and seniors (will be 11th and 12th graders in 25-26 SY) the opportunity to take up to 2 tuition free college courses. Registration is open now, and the deadline is 5 p.m. on July 25. Questions? Email nmshaikh@fcps.edu.
Old Firehouse Center Afterschool Program
Mondays- Fridays, 2:30 to 6 p.m. (when FCPS is in session)
The Old Firehouse is a safe, friendly alternative to staying home alone. The After School Program includes:
- Daily Snack and Drink
- Themed Clubs (Cooking, Fitness, Art, Gaming)
- Monthly Pet Therapy (Every 3rd Friday)
- Homework/Study Assistance
- Transportation services are offered to all elementary and middle schools that feed into McLean High School and Langley High School.
- Discounted Friday Night Activity Fees
The Old Firehouse offers members FREE programs during after-school hours. Become a member or renew your membership now. Get a 25% discount on OFC memberships now through Saturday, Sept. 20. For the discounted rate, please call or come to the Old Firehouse.
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.
Annual Summer Movies on the Lawn
The Library of Congress is hosting its annual “Summer Movies on the Lawn” series. It is featuring films from the Library’s National Film Registry presented Thursday evenings at sundown on the southeast lawn of the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building. The Library plans to offer music performances prior to some of the films. Music for the evening will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the film at sundown.
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July 17: “The Goonies” (1985) (2017 National Film Registry)
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July 24: “Spy Kids” (2001) (2024 National Film Registry)
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July 31: “The Muppet Movie” (1979) (2001 National Film Registry)
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Aug. 7: “Superman” (1978) (2017 National Film Registry)
Westfield HS's Summer Stage "Urinetown, the Musical"
July 18 and July 19 at 7 p.m.- Westfield Summer Stage (4700 Stonecroft Blvd, Chantilly) has brought together talented high school students each summer for our pre-professional summer program. Join them for this summer's last shows.
McLean Community Players “Shrek the Musical”
July 18 to 27: Friday & Saturday, 7:30 p.m. & Saturday & Sunday, 2 p.m. at the Alden Theatre “Shrek” brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there's more to the story than meets the ears.
McLean Community Players (MCP) has been entertaining the community since 1964. It is always looking for local talent, both onstage and backstage. Can you sing, dance, act, sew, paint, direct? Would you like to usher (and see the show for free)? Please contact MCP at mcleanplayersva@gmail.com to volunteer.
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Free INOVA Safety Course- July 19
Saturday, July 19: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This free course is designed for teens and their parents/caregivers. While all drivers are welcome, this three-hour program is ideal for drivers with learner permits or newly licensed drivers and their parents or guardians.
- This is not a drop-off event. A parent or guardian must stay for the program.
Inova Fairfax Medical Campus- Physicians Conference Center (3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church)
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Fairfax County's Wonder Wagon
The Wonder Wagon is the Fairfax County Park Authority’s mobile nature center designed to promote environmental and nature-based educational programs.
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July 22: South Lakes Drive Park (11851 South Lakes Dr., Reston)
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August 6: Alabama Drive Park (1100 Alabama Dr., Herndon)
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August 12: Clemyjonytri Park (6317 Georgetown Pike, McLean)
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August 26: Tyler Park (7216 Rice St., Falls Church)
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The Herndon Summer Grand program is back and excited to share their work with you! Come see Anastasia July 25 at 7 p.m., July 26 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. at Herndon HS (700 Bennett St, Herndon).
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McLean Community Center Summer Concerts
New Date, New Time, New Location: Thursdays through July 31 at 7 p.m.-The Alden Summer Concert Series is getting a refresh! Bring the whole family for a “weekend eve” outing and enjoy a new concert every Thursday through July 31 at the new McLean Central Park pavilion.
Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole Sensory Friendly Hours
Sensory friendly times at The Water Mine- The Water Mine (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston) will open to all those with disabilities and their families for a sensory friendly hour:
- Tuesday, August 5, 10 to 11 a.m.
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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