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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.
Marcia's Message
Dear Franconia Friends and Neighbors / Estimados Amigos y Vecinos
Fall is fast upon us, with the leaves turning, the buzz of homecoming, and the scent of pumpkin spice in the air. October is full of numerous celebrations and recognitions, including Indigenous Peoples’ Day and LGBTQ+ History Month. I had the opportunity to acknowledge both in my Board Matters remarks during the School Board Meeting on October 9th.
Hispanic Heritage Month runs from mid-September to mid-October, and to celebrate I joined the fun at Groveton Elementary School. Let's just say we all left the event with smiles and a few new dance moves! Stay tuned for videos and photos, which will be shared soon on my social media. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Instagram!
I witnessed a special moment when Franconia Supervisor Rodney Lusk honored Principal Alfonso Smith with a resolution recognizing his commitment and dedication to Fairfax County and Lewis High School.
On Wednesday evening, I participated in a listening session at Hayfield Secondary School, which brought together concerned parents, teachers, community members and FCPS facilities staff regarding the ongoing mold remediation efforts. We will continue to provide additional information as it becomes available.
Additionally, the principal selection process is underway for Lewis High School and Hayfield Secondary School. Your input is vital in ensuring we find principals who align with our community's expectations. Please consider volunteering for the interview panels or providing your written input on the desired skills and challenges the new principals will face.
Thank you for being an active part of our community, and we look forward to hearing from you!
*Special Note*
In light of the recent federal government shutdown, we want to ensure our community is aware of available support resources. If you or someone you know is affected, please consider the following:
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Free and Reduced-Price Meals: Families can apply anytime during the school year if income changes, such as a furlough, layoff, or job loss, make them newly eligible. Approved benefits last through the school year and extend 30 days into the next.
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County & Community Support: Fairfax County Government and local organizations offer food, financial, and housing assistance. Visit the Fairfax County Human Services Resource Guide (HSRG) for more information.
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Reduced Transit Fares: The Fairfax Connector’s TRIP program offers 50% off fares for eligible low-income residents aged 18–65.
- Free Community Resources: Fairfax residents enjoy access to excellent public libraries, parks, and recreation areas. All FCPS students have a Library Equity Access Pass to check out up to three items for six weeks.
We remain optimistic that the shutdown will resolve swiftly. Meanwhile, we encourage those in need to utilize these resources. There are also several job fairs and opportunities listed under Community Information in this newsletter. Together, we can support each other and help our community thrive.
Warm Regards,
 Marcia St. John-Cunning
Franconia District Representative
Fairfax County Public School Board
Focus on Franconia
Tooting Franconia’s Horn with our amazing Music Departments and so much more...
🏆🎶The West Potomac Marching Wolverines competed at South County High School in their first competition of the year. The band put on a very strong performance of their show, “Rock The Ring!” Our Marching Wolverines were awarded first place among a very competitive field and won the captions of “Best Music,” “Best General Effect,” and “Best Percussion.”
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Congratulations to all the Hayfield Secondary students who auditioned this year!
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Edison’s Marching Eagles took first place in Group 1 at the Loudoun Invitational!
The band also earned top recognition in Music, Visual Effects, Color Guard, and Percussion for Group 1.
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I want to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Mohammad Al-Towaiti from Bryant High School and Nelson Hernandez-Franco from West Potomac High School for securing 1st Place in the HVAC competition at the SkillsUSA Virginia State Fair! |
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And please make sure you have taken the time to welcome the new addition to our Franconia Family, Franconia Elementary School’s New Mascot, WADDLES, I enjoyed their Instagram post with the big reveal. |
Impact Awards
 I had the great pleasure of attending the FCPS Impact Awards on October 8. I enjoyed celebrating the achievements of all the FCPS recipients, and of course an extra cheer every time our Franconia District was recognized! Please see the Impact Awards Event Program and Impact Awards Event Photos and join me in recognizing this impressive group!
Franconia District Recipients🥁
Collaboration and Partnerships Individual Impact Award Winners
- Robert Stringham, HVAC Teacher, Edison High School
- Kyoko Vaughan, Japanese Language Teacher, Hayfield Secondary School
Innovation and Improvement Individual Impact Award Winners
- Benjamin Bedard, Resource Teacher, Hayfield Secondary School
- Cindy Waddell, Technology & Engineering Education Teacher, Bryant High School
Student Achievement and Success Individual Impact Award Winners
- Irene Veltri Hall, Cosmetology Teacher, Edison High School
Collaboration and Partnerships Team Impact Award Winners
- Edison Safety and Security Team: Justin Dellow, Julian Gaither, Ariel Jaime Rodriguez, Angel Kristine Santee, Eric Toto, and Glenn Wheeler
Innovation and Improvement Team Impact Award Winners
- West Springfield High Front Office Staff Team: Jessica R. King, Katie Matis, Kristin L. Salvato, Christine Simpson, and Mary Beth Vaughn
- Whitman Attendance Team: Liliana F. Aberger, Colleen M. Hooper, Soria M. Khatib, Ana Elsy Lopez, Lee Maguire, Michael J. McPhatter, Lindsey Miller, Raquel Monterrosa Romero, Tiashia Roberts, Cara Shirley, and Harmony Tahy
Student Achievement and Success Team Impact Award Winners
- Bryant Project Opportunity Team: Rosaleen Gray, Florence “Pipi” Harrison, Alicia P. Leonard, and Margaret Veenstra
Franconia Events this Fall Season
Events you don't want to miss!
 Hayfield Secondary School:
Who: DramaHawks
What: Green Day's American Idiot Where: Rebecca S. Wilburn Auditorium Hayfield Secondary School
When: October 23, 24, and 25 at 7pm
Matinee performance- October 25 at 2pm Tickets cost: $12 Purchase Tickets Online
*This show does contain some content that is not suitable for all ages.
Save the Date
Who: DramaHawks
What: The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition
Where: Rebecca S. Wilburn Auditorium Hayfield Secondary School
When: November 20-22 at 7pm
Matinee performance-November at 2pm
Twain Middle School:
Who: Twain's Advanced Theatre
What: Everyone Gets Eaten by Sharks
Where: Twain Cafeteria
When: November 14 and 15 at 7:00 pm and November 15 at 2:00 pm
Tickets cost: $5 for students, $8 for adults, and can be purchased at Twain's Theatre's eTix online ticket page.
Edison High School
Who: Edison HS Choral Program
What: Threads That Bind Us
When: October 23 at 7 PM
Where: Edison HS Auditorium
Save the Date
Who: Edison HS Theatre
What: Chicago: Teen Edition
When: November 14-22
Mount Vernon High School
Who: Mount Vernon HS Theatre
What: The Golden Loc
When: November 20- 22 at 7pm and Matinee performance-November 22 at 2pm
Where: Mount Vernon HS Little Theater
Who: Mount Vernon Pyramid
What: Mount Vernon Pyramid Choir Concert
When: November 12 at 7pm
Where: Mount Vernon HS Field House
West Potomac High School
Who: Theatre Company at West Potomac High School
What: Hadestown Teen Edition
When: October 30-November 1 & November 6-8 at 7pm and Matinee performances November 1 & 8 at 1pm
Where: West Potomac HS Kolgelman Theatre
Join the Fun and Come Out to Support
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October 17
6:30pm - 7:30pm
Clermont Elementary School Trunk or Treat
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October 18
5:00pm-7:30pm
West Springfield Trunk or Treat
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October 23
5:00PM - 8:00PM
“Once Upon a Trunk” – Registration Open!
Every trunk tells a tale! Celebrate the joy of reading at our story-themed trunk-or-treat, where cars are transformed into scenes from favorite books and classic stories. Bring your little readers and adventurers for treats, photo ops, and a story-filled night of fun.
This event is free to attend, but pre-registration is required to help us determine the quantity of candy needed.
Sign up to host a trunk: https://tinyurl.com/ICESTrunk25
Sign up to register:https://tinyurl.com/ICESTrunk25Reg
Sign up for a special sensory-friendly walk-through before the whole event begins: https://tinyurl.com/ICESPTATrunk25Sensory
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October 24
4:30pm
West Springfield Homecoming Parade
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October 25
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Bush Hill Elementary Fall Festival
We need your help to make the Fall Festival Fantastic! All ideas, talents, and energy are welcome! To join our Fall Festival planning committee, please email ptabushhillelementary@gmail.com.
We are also seeking a day of volunteers
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10:00am-2:00pm
Mount Vernon High School
Fall Festival
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October 26
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Lane Elementary Trunk or Treat
Join the Lane PTA for Trunk or Treat at Lane Elementary on Sunday, October 26! There are only 50 parking spaces available for you to set up a table or decorate your vehicle and hand out candy, so reserve your spot now at the signup link: https://signup.com/go/zDoTVpe.
Please remember that this is not a drop-off event, parental supervision is required.
Want to participate, but can’t attend? Drop off candy at Lane or send in candy with your student any time before the end of the school day on Thursday, October 25. (Look for the hungry candy monster…she loves candy).
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October 29
4:00pm-9:00pm
Electrical Construction & Engineering will host their annual Haunted House. The event is open to the community from 4pm-9pm with a cost of just $1! For the evening event, students MUST be accompanied by an adult.
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October 30
5:00pm-7:00pm
Key MS Trunk or Treat
What is Trunk or Treat? It is a fun and safe way for our students and their families to “trick or treat.” Faculty, Staff, and Community members will be giving out candy from their decorated trunks.
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5:30-6:30pm
Riverside Elementary Trunk or Treat
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5:00pm-8:00pm
Whitman's Fall Festival
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November 7
6:00pm to 8pm
Mark Twain Middle School Fall Tiger Night
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November 8
9:00am-3:00pm
Edison Fall Craft Fair
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FCPS News You Need
🎓 Your Next Chapter Starts Here: College Fair and Virtual Postsecondary Night
Prepare for your student’s future at College Fair and Postsecondary Night. The annual FCPS College Fair will be held Sunday, October 19, at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena, from 4:00pm to 6:00p.m. Approximately 200 colleges and universities will be represented, including two- and four-year schools and U.S. Service Academies.
The virtual postsecondary night event will be held on Tuesday, October 21, from 5 to 8 p.m.
Both events will help students prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. Learn more about the College Fair and Virtual Postsecondary Night.
Roadmap to College: What Students Should Do Each Year of High School
Join FCPS’ Family Resource Center for a webinar on what high school students should do to stand out on college applications. Receive clear strategies for college preparation and success. This webinar will take place on Friday, October 31, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., and is for families of eighth graders and high school students. Register to attend.
Upcoming Boundary Review Community Meetings
Thanks to all who participated in our September community boundary review meetings. October community meetings will begin on Monday, October 13.
The new draft map, Scenario 4, will be shared with the community for feedback at those meetings. It is now uploaded to the Boundary Explorer Tool, where community members can provide feedback at their convenience.
As a reminder, the community provided feedback on draft scenarios 1-3 in the spring. Scenario 4 builds upon the first three scenarios. It is informed by the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee, which reviewed community feedback received in the spring to help develop priorities that the consultant used to create Scenario 4
Visit the FCPS Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information.
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Friday, October 17, 6:30-8 p.m., at Falls Church High School - For Marshall and Falls Church High School Pyramids
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Tuesday, October 21, 6:30-8 p.m., at Annandale High School - For Justice and Annandale High School Pyramids
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👉Wednesday, October 22, 6:30-8 p.m., at Hayfield Secondary - For South County High School and Hayfield Secondary School Pyramids
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👉Friday, October 24, 6:30–8 p.m., at Mount Vernon High School - For West Potomac and Mount Vernon High School Pyramids
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Monday, October 27, 6:30-8 p.m., at Fairfax High School - For Woodson and Fairfax High School Pyramids
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Tuesday, October 28, 6:30-8 p.m., at Chantilly High School - For Westfield and Chantilly High School Pyramids
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👉Wednesday, October 29, 6:30-8 p.m., at Lewis High School - For Edison and Lewis High School Pyramids
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Thursday, October 30, 7-8:30 p.m., at Irving Middle School - For Lake Braddock Secondary School and West Springfield High School Pyramids
 👨👩👧👦National Family Engagement Month Kick-Off Celebration
Let's kick off National Family Engagement Month (NFEM) together! Family involvement is a key part of student success, and we're excited to start the month with a great celebration.
Stop by our Kick-Off Celebration to connect with others and get ready for a month of engagement!
What you can do:
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Pick up your NFEM t-shirt (if you ordered one!)
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Tour the Family Resource Center
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Network with colleagues and staff
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Learn more about the resources our office offers
Details:
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Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
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Time: Stop by anytime from 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
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Location: Dunn Loring Administrative Center (2334 Gallows Rd), Door 2, Room 111
We look forward to a great month!
Please contact our Family Liaison, Julie Bueno, if you have any questions. Call/text 571-363-0397 or email ybueno@fcps.edu.
🩹 Immunization Events for FCPS Students
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students with no out-of-pocket costs. Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year.
Immunization clinics will take place from 3 to 6:30 p.m. at Willow Oaks Administrative Center on:
- Thursday, November 6
- Tuesday, November 18
- Wednesday, November 19
- Thursday, November 20
A clinic will also take place at Frost Middle School on Saturday, November 15, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Participation is voluntary. Additional immunization resources are available. Parents or guardians may schedule an appointment for their student.
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Careers with FCPS
Many in our community have lost their jobs serving us in the federal government, where they played critical roles in scientific advancements, national security, law enforcement, and more. FCPS welcomes their expertise to help shape the future of our students. Visit our careers website for more information about current job openings, job fairs, and recruitment events.
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Community Information
 Are You a Food For Neighbors Red Bag Donor?
We have two schools in our district that benefit from the Red Bag Initiative
Food For Neighbors helps Edison High School and West Springfield High School keep their pantries stocked by collecting food donations from the community five times each school year.
Sign up to become a Red Bag Donor.
The next collection is Saturday, October 25. If you're able, please consider signing up to be a Red Bag Donor and make a meaningful difference in our school communities
Food for Neighbors are also looking for a few volunteers to help the mornings of October 25; January 17; March 7; and April 25.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact springfieldvc@foodforneighbors.org
and THANK YOU!
 ⭐Fairfax Forward: Fairfax Connector Route 670
 Fairfax Forward: Highlighting Achievements, Success and Innovation
Fairfax Connector recently introduced an exciting new bus route — the Cross County Connector, offering limited-stop service between Chantilly and Franconia-Springfield.
Route 670 makes commuting faster and easier with key stops at:
📍 Monument Garage 📍 Vienna Metro 📍 Inova Fairfax Hospital
📍 Dunn Loring Metro 📍 Franconia-Springfield Metro
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Mentoring plays a vital role in the growth and development of children. From building self-esteem to promoting educational success, the influence of a caring adult can be transformative. Volunteers are essential to providing children with the support they need to overcome challenges and realize their potential. Mentors are needed now! The next training for new mentors will take place virtually on Saturday, November 8 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Learn how you can help. |
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Want to Get Hired? Meet Employers Face to Face at Free Hiring Events
It’s hard to stand out from the crowd with online job applications so make your first impression in-person at an upcoming hiring event! At last week’s Meet the Employer event, 38 job seekers met directly with representatives from Lansdowne Resort, ABM, and Northwestern Mutual. Department of Family Services – Public Assistance and Employment Services works with top employers in the region to bring free hiring events to the community. Learn more and register for our upcoming October job fairs.
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 Explore Regional Jobs with Talent Capital
Looking for opportunities to grow your career? Talent Capital, a regional initiative by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, connects you to jobs that match your skills while helping strengthen the Capital Region.
What Does Talent Capital Offer?
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Free job matching: Discover roles that align with your skills and interests.
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Career training and reskilling: Gain new abilities to advance your career.
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Credentialing and coaching: Get the qualifications and guidance to succeed.
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Personalized support: Tap into resources from employers, nonprofits, and government partners across the Washington, D.C. area.
Using a combination of advanced technology and personalized support, Talent Capital makes it easy for you to navigate regional job postings, access resume-building tips, and explore top-notch career resources.
 Job Fair and Career Expo: Route 1 Corridor 🛣️
Don't miss this free Job Fair & Career Expo featuring employers who are actively hiring along the Route 1 Corridor and beyond. Whether you’re entering the workforce, changing careers, or seeking a new opportunity, this event is for you. Don’t miss your chance to walk away with practical tools, new confidence, and valuable connections to help you succeed.
What to expect:
✅ Meet with local employers
✅ Engage with county resources
✅ Build your skills in breakout sessions
✅ Participate in on-site interviews
Wednesday, October 22, 2025 11 a.m. - 3.00 p.m. WISH Center 7950 Audubon Ave Alexandria, VA 22306
Events for Adoptive and KinGAP families
The Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.) and the Northern Post Adoption Consortium (NPAC) have some exciting events for adoptive and KinGAP families coming up.
Feel free to reach out to Katie Quinn, outreach liaison, at quinn@adoptionsupport.org if you have any questions about these events or how C.A.S.E. and NPAC can support families and professionals!
Strengthening Healthy Relationships among Our Youth (en español)
Small Business Workshop in Spanish
Don’t Miss: Fall Fur-ward Family Fun Day
 Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Location: FCAS, Lorton Campus, 8875 Lorton Road, Lorton, VA
Get ready for a heartwarming celebration of pets, families, and community at Fall Fur-ward! This free, family-friendly event is your chance to see how Fairfax County’s animal services are evolving, while enjoying a full day of fun, learning, and connection.
Here’s what you can look forward to: • Enjoy seasonal crafts and face painting • Create your own souvenir button! • Meet Fairfax County Animal Services Officers and explore their rescue vehicles • See police motorcycles, a fire truck, and an ambulance up close! • Enjoy yummy treats and seasonal activities for all ages • Make free Child ID Cards with the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office • Meet adoptable pets ready for their new homes • Connect with our partners from Pender Veterinary Center, Friends of the Fairfax County Animal Shelter, Adopt-a-Bird Network, and the Office of Emergency Management
Bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a day filled with learning, laughter, and hands-on fun. From meeting officers and exploring rescue vehicles to making crafts and greeting adoptable pets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Fall Fur-ward! Admission is free, and everyone is welcome!
School Board News
 Photo of all 12 FCPS school board members.
Keep You In the Know
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- Thursday, October 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.
Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)
- Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
- Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.
Please note: Times and topics are subject to change.
Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.
Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
The work sessions and regular meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.
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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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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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