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The Dixit Dialogue – November 2025
 Graphic saying 'Thank you, Veterans' accompanied by an American flag on the right.
Dear Sully District Families and Community Members,
November is such a wonderful time to celebrate all the energy, creativity, and dedication happening in our schools.
This month, I’m excited to share updates on the new FCPS high school for Western Fairfax County, highlights from recent school visits, and the many ways our teachers, staff, and students continue to make our school community such a special place.
We’re also taking time to honor our veterans and thank them for their service and sacrifice, especially as our schools celebrate Veterans Day.
And we have even more to celebrate! More than 70% of Fairfax County voters approved the $460 million school bond referendum on November 4. This incredible show of support will help fund much-needed renovations, facility upgrades, and capital improvements across the county. It’s a major step toward ensuring all our schools remain safe, modern, and inspiring places to learn and grow.
Strong schools make strong communities, and I’m so grateful for everyone who continues to support our students and schools.
In partnership,
Seema Dixit
Sully District School Board Member
Inside this Newsletter:
Updates on the Nov. 13 Traditional High School Motion and Start Times Vote
Please be sure to watch or follow the Regular Meeting on Thursday, November 13 at 7 p.m. I’m excited to present this motion, as I’ve personally advocated for this site to become a traditional high school. You can watch the meeting live on FCPS YouTube channel or on Channel 99.
At the last Regular Meeting, the Board also voted to postpone any divisionwide changes to school start times until no earlier than the 2027–28 school year to allow for full implementation of the new transportation routing software and consideration of boundary updates. The motion also directs the Superintendent to present, by December 2026, budget-neutral options for healthy school start times that minimize impacts on staff.
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Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) Town Hall
 ACSD Town Hall flyer
Join the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) for its annual Town Hall Meeting:
📅 Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: 8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Room 1000B, Fairfax, VA
This is your opportunity to share concerns, kudos, or ideas about special education in FCPS. Each speaker will have three minutes to offer thoughts on supporting students with disabilities and learning differences.
Can’t attend in person? You can still participate! Join via Zoom, submit a video in advance, or provide written comments to be read aloud during the meeting.
Email ACSDChair@fcps.edu by 5:00 PM on Tuesday, November 11 to request virtual access. No RSVP is needed if you plan to attend in person.
🎁 Give the Gift of Learning This Holiday Season
Tired of giving more “stuff”? This year, skip the sweaters and gadgets and give something meaningful — an experience they’ll truly remember.
Why Experiences Make the Best Gifts
Experiential gifts, like classes, workshops, or adventures create memories that last far beyond the holiday season. They bring joy through anticipation, shared moments, and personal growth. Plus, younger generations are leading the shift toward giving “things to do” instead of “things to have.”
Gift Ideas They’ll Love
Fairfax County Public Schools Adult & Community Education (FCPS ACE) offers creative and affordable learning experiences for everyone on your list. Choose from:
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🍳 Cooking classes to explore new cuisines
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💻 Coding and tech courses for fun and future skills
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💬 Language lessons for travel or personal growth
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❤️ CPR and health classes to build confidence and care for others
Not sure which class to pick? FCPS ACE gift cards are available in any amount — perfect for anyone who loves to learn.
Start your holiday shopping at www.fcpsace.org and give a gift that inspires, connects, and lasts.
Open House for New FCPS High School for Western Fairfax County
 Collage of the new FCPS high school
I enjoyed attending the open house for the new western Fairfax County high school on Saturday, October 25. The facility is truly impressive—located on a nearly 33-acre site and spanning approximately 355,000 square feet of modern learning spaces. It features multiple gyms, an indoor eight-lane heated pool, science and robotics labs, a 653-seat theater, outdoor classrooms, and athletic fields with a turf field and track.
This state-of-the-art high school will open for the 2026–27 school year, serving over 2,000 students and providing a collaborative, innovative learning environment for our community. It was exciting to see firsthand the space that will soon welcome our future students!
Families can continue to follow updates, including the name selection and boundary process, at fcps.edu.
School Visits to Bull Run ES and Brookfield ES
 Collage of school visits to Bull Run and Brookfield ES
In October, I had the opportunity to visit both Bull Run Elementary School and Brookfield Elementary School on October 17 and 30, respectively.
At Bull Run ES, where my own children once attended and where I volunteered for ten years, it was wonderful to reconnect with Principal James Marotta and many familiar faces among the dedicated staff and administrators. Highlights included the book vending machine that rewards students for positive behavior, hands-on STEM activities, and a schoolwide celebration of Stand Up to Bullying Day—showcasing the school’s creativity, care, and commitment to inclusion.
At Brookfield ES, I had the pleasure of visiting classrooms with Principal Lesley Hassen and my School Board colleague Kyle McDaniel. One standout moment was observing a class where a general education teacher, special education teacher, and instructional assistant worked together seamlessly to support students—an inspiring example of inclusive learning in action. I was also impressed to see Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) in action and students'/teachers' reflections. AVID teaches students foundational college and career readiness skills, including organization, critical thinking, and collaboration.
Sully District Happenings
🌟Recognizing Excellence in FCPS: The 2025 Impact Awards
The Impact Awards—formerly known as the Excellence Awards—honor FCPS employees who make exceptional contributions toward advancing the goals of our Strategic Plan. These awards recognize staff who exemplify collaboration, equity, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success.
The following staff proudly represented the Sully District with excellence this year:
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- Riley Barrows, After-School Specialist, Rachel Carson Middle School
Riley built strong partnerships with parents, businesses, and community organizations to support more than 50 after-school activities each quarter. His inclusive programs engage over 250 students daily across a wide range of enrichment and academic opportunities.
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- Jennifer Miley, Director of Student Services, Rachel Carson Middle School
Jennifer fosters collaboration among staff, families, and community members to ensure every student feels supported. Under her leadership, the counseling department earned the Recognized American School Counselor Association Model Program designation.
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Congratulations to all of this year’s Impact Award recipients for their innovation, collaboration, and commitment to helping every student thrive.
🏅Honoring Our Purple Star Schools💜⭐
I’m proud to share that several schools in our community have been recognized as 2025 Purple Star Schools by the Virginia Department of Education for their strong support of military-connected students and families.
First-time honorees include:
- Brookfield ES
- Bull Run ES
- Carson MS
- Centre Ridge ES
- Lees Corner ES
- Navy ES
- Oak Hill ES
- Oakton ES
- Virginia Run ES
Cub Run ES earned this distinction for the second time, while Powell ES and Rocky Run MS are celebrating their third recognition.
These schools have shown an incredible commitment to welcoming and supporting military families, ensuring every student feels connected and at home in our FCPS community.
🥇 Westfield Bulldogs Band Takes First Place at 36th Oakton Classic!
Congrats to the Westfield Bulldogs Band, who won first place at the 36th Oakton Classic competition, earning Outstanding General Effects, Outstanding Visuals, Outstanding Color Guard, and the 2025 Gold Winner Award!
🏆 Westfield Cheer Makes History!
Congratulations to the Westfield High School Cheer Team, who are the Northern Region Champions for the first time in school history! The team now advances to the State Tournament. Best of luck to these amazing athletes as they represent our community at the state level!
Student Opportunities
Disclaimer: Opportunities 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.
📝 Applications Open for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Eighth graders who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2030 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
The application will be available Monday, October 20, at 4 p.m. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, November 12, with a submission deadline of 4 p.m. Friday, November 14. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information, including a schedule of upcoming information sessions at middle schools.
🚀 Fairfax High School Shark Tank Challenge!
 Fairfax High School Student Shark Tank Technology Challenge flyer
High school students in Fairfax County, Fairfax City, and Falls Church: design innovative products or apps that help older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, or wounded warriors live more independently and fully. 💡💻
Focus on health, safety, recreation, caregiving, or social connection—from apps to assistive devices, robotics, or web services. 👵🤖💖 Observe real-world needs, get feedback from users, and create solutions that truly make a difference.
📅 Key Dates:
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Proposal: Dec 19, 2025
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Full Project: Feb 25, 2026
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Shark Tank Event: Apr 10, 2026
Details: www.fairfaxcounty.gov – search “Shark Tank.”
🗣️ O’Connor Institute Ambassadors
High schoolers (grades 9–12) can join the free Online Civics & Debate Club to build leadership skills, compete for a $5,000 scholarship, and strengthen college applications. 🌟📚
🎓 Early College Scholars
High school students working toward an Advanced Studies Diploma can apply to the Early College Scholars Program to earn at least 15 transferable college credits through AP or dual enrollment courses. Requirements include maintaining a “B” average and signing the Governor’s Early College Scholars Agreement, now available in the Parent Digital Consent portal (or as a paper form from your school counselor). ✍️🎯
🎓 VSBA Regional Scholarship Opportunity 🏆
The Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) has announced a new scholarship for high school seniors graduating in Spring 2026 who attend a public high school within one of the nine VSBA regions. Fairfax County Public Schools is a member of VSBA and part of the Northeastern Region.
The VSBA Board of Directors Regional Scholarship awards $5,000 to one student per region in recognition of outstanding achievement in academics, leadership, and community service.
The application deadline is January 30, 2026, at 4 p.m. ⏰
Apply here: VSBA Scholarship Application.
Varsity Tutors Provides On-Demand Support at No Cost
FCPS is partnering with Varsity Tutors to provide students and families with extra resources for learning. Every student can take advantage of Varsity Tutors’ services at no cost, including weekly live online classes; on-demand 24/7 chat tutoring; essay editing; and study resources such as recorded content, practice problems, and diagnostic tests. Learn more about online tutoring with Varsity Tutors.
🎤 Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Dr. Reid
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid wants to hear from you! At FCPS, parents are partners, working with us to set our students up for long-term success at school and in life.
A series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division to discuss current challenges and future opportunities. These events are also a chance for you to share your thoughts and ask questions about FCPS. Events are planned for the following dates from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.:
Child care and interpretation services will be provided. Events are open to all.
Mental Health Resources for Families
This month's theme: New Ways November
This month, we're encouraging you to try something new!
Go to Action for Happiness for ideas to help you take action for a happier and kinder world.
 November calendar with daily ideas for action.
Student Wellness: Tips and Strategies
Feeling super stressed? Worried about a friend's mental health—or your own? Get tips to help manage your emotions and see what to do if you are in crisis.
Mental Health and Resiliency
Helping students to manage stress, make better choices, and develop healthy habits.
FCPS Family Resource Center
Staff is available by phone 703-204-3941 or email frc@fcps.edu to help! The FCPS Family Resource Center offers free workshops, consultations, a lending library, and more to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs and disabilities.
No Cost Virtual Therapy for High Schoolers
Virtual therapy sessions are available to FCPS high school students at no cost to provide a safe space to address concerns such as:
- Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss.
- Anxiety, worry, fears.
- Social skills, bullying, peer and family relationships.
- Academic stress.
Students can be referred by a guardian or designated school staff member. You may refer your child by calling 571-749-2940 or by contacting an FCPS school counselor, social worker, psychologist, or director of Student Services. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
🌱 Your Child's Mental Wellness Matters: Access Comprehensive Services
Reach out to the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) for specialized youth mental health services designed to help your child succeed. The CSB has individual and family counseling, psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response, recovery supports that include medication assisted treatment (MAT), intensive services, and other services.
Get started with CSB Entry and Referral by calling 703-383-8500 or emailing csb@fairfaxcounty.gov.
George Mason University’s new Center for Community Mental Health (9900 Main Street, Fairfax) provides evidence-based, accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive therapy and testing services to those in need, regardless of income. The Center sees children as young as age 5, and works with community members of various ages, including addressing the mental health needs of veterans.
The center’s Emotional Help Line provides free, anonymous, confidential support in both English (703-215-1898) and Spanish (703-914-3878). The line is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS. Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
 12 FCPS School Board members at the dais.
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Wednesday, November 12, 10 a.m. - Work Session at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Thursday, November 13, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting at Luther Jackson Middle School
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Tuesday, December 2, 10:30 a.m. - Work Session at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Thursday, December 4, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting at Luther Jackson Middle School
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Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting at Luther Jackson Middle School
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.
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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Contacting Me
To contact me, it is most helpful if you can please use the official School Board Contact Form. This form prioritizes emails to me from constituents and helps me track communication so I can be sure you receive a response. If you are unsure of your county magisterial district, you can look up that information in My Neighborhood.
To keep up with updates between newsletters, be sure to follow me on Facebook.
Quick Links
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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