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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.
Dear Dranesville Families:
I hope you and your family are having a wonderful summer. The first day of school is less than three weeks away. I hope you will take the time to read about upcoming opportunities to prepare your student for the new academic year like applying for Free and Reduced Meals and talking about the new high school cell phone policy.
Congratulations to all of the summer FCPS graduates!
Enjoy the remaining weeks of summer vacation,
Robyn
2025 Summer Graduation
In this newsletter,
School Board Updates
July 17 Regular Meeting
Board Meeting Highlights
Watch the full meeting.
Action Items
The School Board voted to approve the FY 2025 Year End Review.
The School Board voted to approve the Revision to Policy 8130 Regarding Phasing.
- When a boundary adjustment occurs,
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Elementary Schools:
- Mandatory attendance in the new school boundary
- In K-6 elementary schools, rising K-4 students
- In K-5 elementary schools, rising K-3 students
- Option of remaining at their current school
- In K-6 elementary schools, rising 5th and 6th grader
- In K-5 elementary schools, rising 4th and 5th graders
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Middle Schools:
- Mandatory attendance in the new school boundary
- In 7- 8th grade middle schools, incoming 7th graders
- In 6-8th grade middle schools, incoming 6th graders
- Option of remaining at their current school, rising 7th and 8th graders
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High Schools:
- Mandatory attendance in the new school boundary, incoming 9th graders
- Option of remaining at their current school, rising 10th through 12th graders
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Secondary Schools:
- Mandatory attendance in the new school boundary, incoming 7th graders
- Option of remaining at their current school, rising 8th through 12th graders
- Additionally, the School Board approved a follow-on motion to ensure that special education student placement decisions shall continue to be determined by the IEP teams as allowed by Federal provision.
The School Board voted to approve the Monthly Employee Separation Report for June 2025.
Presentation to the School Board
In Academic Matters, Dr. Reid presented Middle School After School program details. All FCPS middle schools offer after school activities five days a week at no cost for students, about 12-15 hours of programming per week with transportation through late buses. Across all 27 middle schools, there are over 940 different program activities, and the average weekly attendance is more than 15,000 students! As part of Dr. In Reid's presentation, she shared this video highlighting middle school school track and field student-athletes and coaches.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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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
Summer School Food
Summer Meals Continue Through August 15 for All Students
FCPS provides breakfast and lunch free of charge to all children aged 18 and younger. Check our Food and Nutrition Services webpage and the USDA Summer Meals for Kids site finder for specific dates, times, and locations. Our Food and Nutrition Services staff are operating 112 summer meal sites. Approximately 31,000 breakfasts and 51,000 lunches have been served so far! If you have any questions regarding the Summer 2025 meal service, please contact us at SummerMeals@fcps.edu or at 703-813-4800.
Dranesville schools offering summer meals:
- Clearview ES
- Coates ES
- Herndon HS
- Hutchison ES
Helping Families with Summer Grocery Costs
Summers can be tough for families who count on school meals—but help is available. Virginia SUN Bucks is a program that gives eligible families a one-time $120 benefit for each qualifying child to help with grocery expenses during summer break. You can use SUN Bucks at grocery stores, farmers markets, or anywhere that accepts SNAP to help your family eat healthy this summer.
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Apply for Free and Reduced Meals
Families that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost through the Free and Reduced Meals (FRM) program.
The application for FRM must be completed each school year and is now available for the 2025-26 school year. Students who were approved for FRM last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should reapply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.
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Comprehensive Boundary Review Update
At the July 17 School Board meeting, the board adopted revised language for Boundary Policy 8130 regarding phasing, which takes into account a student's grade level when implementing any boundary changes.
The board also voted on a follow-on motion directing the superintendent to ensure school-based administrators communicate that special education student placement decisions shall continue to be determined by the IEP teams as allowed by federal provisions.
During the spring Community Boundary Review Meetings, participants used a platform (Pigeonhole) to respond to the question, “What is one change you would suggest to improve in the first draft of the proposed boundary adjustments, and why?” More than 3,400 comments were submitted. You may view the comments on our site.
As a reminder, no boundary changes have been proposed for the 2025-26 school year. Visit our Comprehensive Boundary Review page for more information.
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.
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Is Your Child Registered for SY 2025- 26?
If you are new to FCPS and have not registered your child for school yet, please do so as soon as possible. Schools are planning playdates, screenings, teacher visits, and back-to-school nights for students to get to know their teachers and each other. Register soon so you don’t miss out!
Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs
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.
- Pre-K prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children 3 years old by September 30.
- Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and for children 6 weeks to 2 years old.
Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, however, space is limited and provided based on need, not “first come, first serve.” Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail, or in person at our office (7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church). Please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish) with any questions.
Immunizations
Please get your child’s immunizations so that they can attend school. By ensuring your child is vaccinated, you not only protect them but also stop the spread of illness in schools and communities. As long as your child meets the age requirements, they can be immunized at any time. Resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and the Fairfax County Health Department. Parents of students entering kindergarten, 7th grade, and 12th grade should be aware of the Virginia immunization requirements.
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.
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:
- Call now to make your appointment at 703-246-7100.
- 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.
- Inova Cares Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs provide children ages 5 and up with free school physicals and immunizations. Appointments are required. The last health fair is August 9th. These health fairs are for VA Medicaid or uninsured Inova registered patients only. Call 703-698-2550 to make an appointment. Bring vaccine records to the appointment.
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Learning Doesn’t Take a Vacation Nor Fun!
FCPS’ Summer Learning webpage offers ideas and strategies for families to keep students curious. Summer is the perfect time to help your child explore new interests, reinforce concepts, and stay engaged!
The Summer Resource Guide has activities and tips on a variety of subjects and interests, from camps and activities to mental health and safety resources.
Limited Early Release Days
Proposed dates for early release Wednesdays for elementary schools are available on the FCPS website.
FCPS Response to OCR Letter of Findings
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) just received letter referenced in the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) press release dated July 25, 2025. We are reviewing the document in detail and will respond after we have completed our review.
FCPS remains committed to fostering a safe, supportive, welcoming, and inclusive school environment for all students and staff.
Find Your Career Here
Whether you are just starting a career or are an experienced professional, Fairfax County Public Schools offers a wide range of rewarding careers and the support to help you grow with us! We’re proud of our supportive work environment that enables you to feel and do your best.
View current job openings.
Parent Information Lines
 If you have questions about FCPS, and English is not your first language, please use our language lines for support.
Amharic 571-423-4957 | Farsi 571-423-4954 | Urdu 571-423-4955
Arabic 571-423-4952 | Korean 571-423-4951 | Vietnamese 571-423-4956
Chinese 571-423-4953 | Spanish 571-423-4950
Community Updates
New School Zone Speed Cameras
Fairfax County’s new speed enforcement cameras are being installed around several schools—including McLean High School on Westmoreland Street and Marshall High School on Leesburg Pike—to help improve safety for students, families, and pedestrians traveling near school grounds.
- A 30-day warning period through September 16
- Citations starting September 17
Drivers exceeding posted speed limits in these school zones will receive warnings during the initial 30-day periods, followed by fines once citations begin. Residents and commuters are urged to stay alert and obey speed limits to help keep school communities safe. For more details about the program and enforcement areas, visit Speed Camera Program.
See a Lanternfly- Squish It!
 In July, spotted lanternflies morph into adults and lay 30 to 100 eggs per season. When adults feed on trees, they create a sticky black or white mess. This insect poses a serious threat to agriculture and native plants.
If you see a spotted lanternfly, please report it using the iNaturalist mobile app to help track and control its spread. Visit Spotted Lanternfly for tips on how to identify, report, and help stop this invasive species. If you see a spotted lanternfly nymph or adult, squish them to prevent future messes or reach out to pestmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Have Fun Outside This Summer
National Park Passes
America the Beautiful—The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass
If you’re a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with a disability, you can enjoy free access to national parks and federal lands with the America the Beautiful Access Pass. It’s your ticket to amazing outdoor adventures without any cost.
Free National Park Passes for 4th Graders
Heading to a national park or other federal recreation site this summer? All 4th grade students can get a free year-long national park pass through the Every Kid Outdoors initiative. Learn more about Every Kid Outdoors and get your free national park pass for 4th graders!
Fairfax County Resources
Fairfax County Trail Buddy
Fairfax County Park Authority has more than 334 miles of amazing trails. Want to find a trail near you? Trail Buddy can help you find one. This free online tool lets you search by location, surface type and permitted uses, making it easy to find the right trail for your pace and preference -- whether it’s a quick lunchtime walk or a full-day adventure.
Fairfax County Discovery Trail Map- 12 Standout Parks
2025 Discovery Trail Map- Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the FCPA by exploring 12 standout parks that showcase the best of the County's recreation, history, and natural beauty. The 2025 Discovery Trail Map invites adventurers of all ages to discover hidden gems, answer park-themed trivia, and earn fun prizes.
Your Guide to Cycling in Fairfax County
Cycling is a fun, sustainable and healthy way to explore, enjoy and commute in Fairfax County. In the last 20 years, there’s been a significant increase in bicycling on county trails, sidewalks, and roads. As a result, we’ve expanded our multi-use trails and bike lanes. Be ready for your next ride with safety tips, our bike map, bike parking information, and more.
Bike Trails
Whether you’re going for a spin around the neighborhood, biking to work, or enjoying your local park, our interactive Bike Map can help you find the best route to your destination.
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.
“Shining a Light on Success in FCPS”
One of the highlights of Leadership Kickoff was a set of videos from our school and department leaders describing the impact of their inspiring, data-driven work. We’re calling this series “Shining a Light on Success in FCPS.” You can watch these videos by clicking the links below:
US Presidential Scholars Semifinalists
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by executive order of President Johnson, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize exceptional talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields. Each year, up to 161 students are named as Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.
Congratulations to Dranesville Class of 2025 graduates:
- Marina Lin, Thomas Jefferson HSST
- Deven Hagen, Thomas Jefferson HSST
James Culatta Speaks at Region 1 Kickoff
At the recent FCPS Region 1 Kickoff event, attended by principals, assistant principals, directors of student services, directors of student activities, and other school-based leaders, Class of 2025 Herndon High School graduate James Culatta shared his inspiring journey. James recounted his challenging experience overcoming a significant medical emergency that required extensive treatment and kept him out of school for months. Despite this immense setback, his determination and faith propelled him forward, enabling him to not only earn a starring role in the school's spring musical but also to graduate on time. His story served as a powerful testament to resilience and perseverance for the assembled educational leaders.
Savannah Bananas' Danny Hosley
Savannah Bananas' Danny Hosley up to bat at Nationals Park in June 2025
I enjoyed watching Danny Hosley, # 18, a Langley High School alum, play for the Savannah Bananas at Nationals Park against the Firefighters.
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.
Longwood University Economics & Personal Finance Opportunity
FCPS has a partnership with Longwood University for Economics & Personal Finance (EPF) Dual Enrollment. Students can take this class concurrently outside of their FCPS schedule for the Fall semester. Designed to lead you to a successful independent financial life, Economics and Personal Finance 150 is a dual enrollment course for high school students that earns college credit and will satisfy Virginia High School requirements. Course dates: August 25th to December 12th. Registration closes August 15th.
Course details:
- 9th-12th graders eligible
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9th & 10th Graders: Minimum 3.0 GPA & B or better in Algebra 1
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11th & 12th Graders: No minimum requirements
- Fulfills EPF graduation requirement
- W!SE exam completion
- Self-paced, asynchronous online learning
- 3 college credits in Finance
If students have any questions or run into issues with the registration process, they can reach out to CFR@longwood.edu.
MCC Youth Ambassador Program
Come join Team MCC as a Youth Ambassador! Ambassadors will have the opportunity to plan and execute their own program(s) for teens. McLean Community Center (MCC) Youth Ambassadors are led by the Langley and McLean MCC youth Governing Board members with the guidance of MCC program staff. Meetings are held monthly. Apply by October 10.
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Eligibility: You must reside in Small District 1A - Dranesville and attend a local high school, including Thomas Jefferson HSST.
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.
4-H Fair through August 3
Through Sunday, Aug. 3, Hours Vary
Celebrate Fairfax County's agricultural traditions and enjoy some old-fashioned fun at our 4-H Fair and Carnival at Frying Pan Farm Park (2709 West Ox Road, Herndon). Enjoy carnival games and rides, live entertainment, food, farm animals and more.
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Military Families Welcome BBQ Event- Register by Today
FCPS would like to welcome our new and returning military-connected families for the 2025-2026 school year! Enjoy food, fun, and community while making new friends and connecting with other military families from across the Division. We look forward to celebrating the start of another great school year with you! For planning purposes, please complete the registration form for this event by today, August 1, 2025. For any questions or to connect with FCPS resources, please email militaryfamilies@fcps.edu.
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Wednesday, August 13: 4 to 6 p.m.
- Mount Vernon High School (8515 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexandria)
Tax-Free Weekend- August 1 through 3
Today, August 1, through Sunday, August 3, is a sales tax holiday in the state of Virginia. Visit Virginia’s Sales Tax Holiday webpage for details on eligible items, including school supplies and clothing.
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Educate Fairfax School Supply Drive- August 3
As a community, through your financial support, community supply drives, and supply donations, your support so far can provide 1,500 students with school supplies. Donate online or join a community drive:
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August 3: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Fairfax Walmart
Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole- August 5
Sensory friendly times at The Water Mine (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston) will open to all those with disabilities and their families for a sensory friendly hour on Tuesday, August 5, 10 to 11 a.m.
Fairfax County's Wonder Wagon- August Schedule
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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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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Healthworks School Physicals- August 6th and August 13th
HealthWorks is offering free school physicals on August 6 and August 13 to children ages 3-18 without health insurance who are entering a Virginia school.
Call 703-840-4714 to determine if appointments are available.
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Herndon's Camp on the Go!- Through 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, through August 8, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
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Inova Cares Pediatric Health Fair- August 9
Saturday, August 9, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.- Inova Cares Clinics are hosting Pediatric Health Fairs to help children ages 5 and up prepare for the 2025–2026 school year. Free school physicals and immunizations are available for uninsured or Medicaid-covered children. Appointments are required—no walk-ins will be accepted—and families must bring their child’s vaccine records. To schedule an appointment, call 703-698-2550. Location: Inova Cares Herndon (600 Herndon Parkway, Herndon)
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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