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Mason District Community,
It is hard to believe we are already in our 4th week of the 2025-2026 school year! But as always, we are off to a great start. My Back to School video message celebrates Mason District achievements and includes a preview of changes for the new school year.
Falls sports are in full swing – and I hope you will check out your team!
Back-to-school nights have begun! These events provide a great opportunity to connect with your student’s teacher(s) and hear about what your student will be learning this year. Parents are also encouraged to follow their child’s curriculum available on the Family-Facing Curriculum Page.
I value the input I receive from the Mason Community and am happy to address questions or concerns via email or phone. You can reach me by email at rjanderson@fcps.edu. If you are interested in scheduling a phone call, please reach out to my assistant, Cristy Coffey, at cmcoffey@fcps.edu to arrange a time.
Back to School in the Mason District
In this issue:
Mason News
FCPS Cares of the Quarter - Ms. West!
FCPS CARES allows parents/caregivers, staff, and community members to recognize employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.
Ms. Kylee West, a teacher at Bailey’s Upper Elementary School, the Region 2 May CARES of the Month recipient, was recently honored as the CARES of the Quarter recipient during a surprise visit to her classroom.
Ms. West was nominated by a colleague for “her extraordinary compassion, dedication, and selfless commitment to children, families, and community well-being.” Ms. West’s recent actions to assist a family in need “exemplify the very best of what it means to be an educator, community member, and above all, a kind human being.”
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, Ms. West!
Poe Middle School Principal
Dr. Sarah Eqab has been selected to serve as the new principal of Poe Middle School. Dr. Eqab brings nearly two decades of experience in public education. She most recently served as interim principal at Poe following her time as assistant principal at Annandale High School. Welcome to Poe Middle School, Dr. Eqab!
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North Springfield Elementary Principal
Ms. Fatima Smith has joined FCPS as the new principal of North Springfield Elementary School. Ms. Smith brings over nine years in school leadership experience, serving as principal in Philadelphia, Richmond, and Washington, DC. Welcome to North Springfield Elementary, Ms. Smith!
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Luther Jackson Interim Principal
Since Ms. Raven Jones transitioned to a new new role as the principal at McLean High School, FCPS leadership has appointed Ms. Pamela Brumfield as the interim principal at Luther Jackson Middle School. Ms. Brumfield retired in 2023 after 33 years in education, serving 30 years in FCPS in school-based and central office leadership positions, most recently as the principal of Edison High School for 11 years.
We are pleased to have Ms. Brumfield support the Jackson community during this transition.
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Back to School Nights
Back-to-school nights have begun! These events provide a great opportunity to connect with your student’s teacher(s) and hear about what your student will be learning this year. The back-to-school night schedule is available by region: Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, and Region 6. Most students living in the Mason District attend schools in regions 2 and 6.
Middle School AAP Center
Preliminary information about a potential middle school AAP Center was shared in my September 3rd newsletter. I appreciate the feedback received thus far, particularly questions regarding Annandale Pyramid elementary schools that were not previously included.
Students from Bren Mar Park ES, Columbia ES, and Weyanoke ES matriculate into Holmes MS which staff is no longer recommending as a center option. It’s important to note that specific details and scenarios will be explored and addressed upon the Board approval of the proposal on Sept. 25th. These questions will be part of community meetings tentatively scheduled for October.
School Board News
SY 2025-2026 SR&R / Cell Phone Policy
The SY 2025-2026 SR&R was approved by the School Board at the May 8th meeting and new expectations detail that high school students can no longer use their cell phones and other personal devices during passing periods. For all grade levels, cell phones are no longer permitted to be used as an instructional tool.
To contact your child during the school day, please call your school’s main office. Families are encouraged to remind their student about FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level:
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Elementary and Middle School: Cell phones and personal devices must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell).
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High School: Cell phones and personal devices must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell) with the exception of lunch time in designated lunch spaces.
Read more about the updated Cell Phone Policy.
Phasing Revision to Boundary Policy
It took about a year, but the School Board voted to approve the phasing revision to Boundary Policy 8130 that I proposed along with Hunter Mill District Representative Melanie Meren this past July. The motion language approved unanimously on July 17 was very similar to the language proposed in July 2024. This new provision will allow students to remain at their high schools and middle schools once they begin.
Student Representative to the School Board
Faith Mekonen, a senior at South County High School, was elected as the 55th Student Representative to the School Board. Faith began her term on July 1 and will continue through the 2025-26 school year.
Faith has shared her platform issues which include reducing discipline disproportionality, elevating student voice in policy decisions, and the implementation of the revised grading and cell phone policy.
Learn more about Faith and her plans for this school year.
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FCPS News
Early Release Wednesdays
Superintendent Reid has shifted the ES early release days to Wednesdays for the 2025-26 school year. Early release days for elementary schools are determined by pyramid and are as follows for Mason District students:
Annandale, Edison, Falls Church, and Woodson Pyramids
September 10, October 29, November 12, December 10, February 18, March 18, April 22, May 13
Justice Pyramid
September 17, October 15, November 19, December 17, February 25, March 25, April 29, May 20
Additional information can be found on the Early Release Wednesday webpage.
Food and Nutrition Updates
Student ID Numbers Needed for School Meals
NEW this year - students enter their student ID number — not their previous cafeteria PIN — at the cash register to receive school meals. Please remind your child of their student ID number, which you can find in SIS ParentVUE.
Free and Reduced Price Meals
Families that are earning less than 185% of the poverty level can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost. Families must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM) application each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits.
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.
Menus
Starting September 15, 2025, Food and Nutrition Services will introduce new menu items! The FCPS executive chef created meals that are nutritious, delicious and culturally diverse and student-approved.
Preview a list of the new menu items and view your school’s menu for breakfast, lunch, and snacks on the Food and Nutrition webpage.
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Weapon Detection System
FCPS piloted a weapon screening system across several high schools last spring to strengthen the layered safety and security programs. The weapon screening system has been expanded to all middle and high schools this fall. Learn more on the weapons detection frequently asked questions page.
Since the start of the school year, students and families have expressed some concerns regarding the implementation of the new system. Please continue to provide your feedback using this form. All comments received will be shared with staff.
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Uniforms for Security Staff - HS & MS
To ensure security personnel are easily identifiable during emergencies, all Security Specialists and Security Assistants will be issued polo shirts and jackets embroidered with “Security” across the left chest. These uniforms are to be worn during working hours. Designs or patches resembling law enforcement insignia (e.g., police badges) are not permitted.
Required Advisory Lessons - HS & MS
For the 2025-26 school year, all middle and high schools are required to dedicate time for Learning Seminar in their schedules to support advisory, intervention, enrichment, and other school-directed activities. Additionally, the division requires Advisory lessons in grades 7-12 to support academic and career planning, academic habits and executive functioning development, and social-emotional learning. It is expected that schools should allow for at least one hour per week to cover these required components. Each hour will consist of a 20-30 minute Responsive Advisory Meeting and a 30-40 minute focused lesson. Please contact your child's school for more information.
Updated Special Education and 504 Handbooks
The Department of Special Services has updated and translated key resources to help our families of students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and/or Section 504 Plan.
These resources help family and staff understand procedures, rights, and processes. Find additional information on Special Education Instruction and the Family Academy: Resources to Support Special Education and 504 Plans pages.
See Where Your Child Goes Online with Lightspeed
Parents can access their child’s activity on FCPS devices through Lightspeed, the school division’s internet content filtering service. Parents may sign up for a weekly Parent Report, which will provide a list of the top sites their child visited.
The report also offers parents the ability to sign up for the Internet Use Parent Portal. Through the portal, parents may pause their child’s access to the internet on their FCPS device during non-school hours.
Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.
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FCPS' New Login Experience
Parents and caregivers will notice a new login screen for FCPS applications such as Schoology. Additional applications will begin featuring the new login screen throughout the school year.
The primary purpose is to make the online experience simple, consistent, and secure. The FCPS username and password used for ParentVUE will not change.
For questions or support, please visit FCPS’ Family Technology Resources page or open a ticket with our Technical Support desk.
New Technology on Buses Enhances Student Safety
From real-time navigation to Radio Frequency ID student check-ins and live bus tracking for families, the new tablet technology being piloted on FCPS school buses is designed to make bus rides safer and more efficient for everyone. Watch this video to learn how FCPS is prioritizing student safety and supporting the incredible transportation team with the tools they need to succeed.
Girls Flag Football - This Fall!
Thanks to a partnership with the Washington Commanders, FCPS will be piloting Girls Flag Football at every high school starting this fall. Interested students are encouraged to speak with their school’s activities office.
Watch this video to learn more about this empowering team sport. Read more about flag football at FCPS.
School Bond Referendum on Ballot Tuesday, November 4
A $460 million School Bond Referendum will be on the Tuesday, November 4, general election ballot.
Bond-funded projects provide safe, welcoming, effective, and modern spaces for students to learn and staff to work.
The building and renovation of schools is not funded through the division’s operating budget. Voter-approved bonds allow payment over time to fund building and renovation projects.
Potential bond-funded projects are identified in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program, which was adopted by the School Board in February.
Voters have a direct role in shaping the future of our schools. Read more about the 2025 Bond Referendum. Learn more about registering to vote.
Opportunities
Beyond the Bell - Pilot Program
For the 2025–26 FCPS school year, Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services will pilot Beyond the Bell at 20 SACC locations. The pilot will begin in October 2025. Similar to programs in other local jurisdictions, this model will reduce waitlists at all 20 pilot sites while maintaining the commitment to best practices and superior standards in child care.
Five schools serving Mason District families are included in the pilot program: Annandale Terrace ES, Bailey’s Primary ES, Braddock ES, Timber Lane ES, and Westlawn ES
Family Engagement Meetings:
Virtual Meeting
In-person Meetings
- Tuesday, September 9, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m at the Jim Scott Community Center (3001 Vaden Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031)
- Thursday, September 25, 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. at the James Lee Community Center (2855 Annandale Rd., Falls Church, VA 22042)
Visit the Beyond the Bell Pilot webpage for more information.
Student Leadership Development Program
The Fairfax County School Board is excited to open applications for the Student Leadership Development Program. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 pm on September 26, 2025.
The program is open to any high school freshman, sophomore, or junior in good academic standing. The program is for students interested in a future in law, government, public policy, or making a difference in their community. Twelve students will be selected and partner with a School Board Member to observe how FCPS is governed, see the available opportunities to participate on various advisory committees to the School Board, and even to seek election as the Student Representative to the School Board.
Students should submit applications via the online application. If you have any questions, please contact SBStudentLeadership@fcps.edu or 571-423-1062.
Crossing Guard Job Opportunity
Dependable and caring adults are needed to serve as crossing guards, helping students safely bike and walk to and from our schools. This is a great opportunity for retirees, stay-at-home parents, or anyone looking to make a difference in their community. Crossing guards will earn $16.50 per hour and receive bonus time: Work 30 minutes before and 30 minutes after school for a total of one hour a day and earn $33.00.
The Fairfax County Police Department has engaged a company, ACMS, to recruit crossing guards. Please visit their website to learn more and apply.
Taste of Annandale
The community is invited to the 2025 Taste of Annandale on Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., at the Eileen Garnett Civic Space, 7200 Columbia Pike in the heart of Annandale.
This free festival features live music and dance, food vendors, a full schedule of children’s performances and activities, the “Animaldale” petting zoo, craft vendors, a 5K run/walk, a pet parade and costume contest, games for kids and teens, an eating contest, a community art project, a chili cook-off, local businesses, nonprofits, and county agencies.
The Taste of Annandale is hosted by the nonprofit Annandale-Mason Roundtable with the goals of encouraging community engagement, celebrating Annandale’s diversity, and shining a spotlight on local businesses and organizations. Proceeds from the event will benefit programs for local youths.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Regular School Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- September 11, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
- September 25, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)
- September 9, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.
- September 16, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. (tentative)
All meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website. The meetings are recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.
Would you like to share your ideas and concerns with the School Board and staff? Register HERE to speak at a regular meeting or public hearing.
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español o escanee el código QR.
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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.
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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