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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.
Hello Braddock Families,
I want to extend my gratitude to the nearly 71% of voters who voted for this year’s School Bond. The funding for school bonds ensures we can renovate our aging facilities - renovations we are seeing in our own backyard. This year, Wakefield Forest Elementary’s renovations were completed and Bonnie Brae Elementary School’s renovation is well underway. All I can say is thank you!
 Superintendent Reid also sent a message to the community to say thank you – on behalf of our educators and staff, our students, and the hundreds of thousands of community members who use FCPS schools and facilities each year – for supporting the 2025 Bond Referendum on Tuesday’s ballot: “We are so grateful for our community’s continued commitment to the power and promise of public education! Strong schools create strong communities, and bonds are one way that our community invests in FCPS. Bond funds support school buildings, athletic fields, and other capital improvements. Right now, our school renovation cycle is more than 40 years – twice the industry standard of 20-25 years. This latest bond referendum, worth $460 million, is helping FCPS move closer to what our renovation cycle should be and will help keep our facilities modern and well-equipped for our entire community.”
As we celebrate Veterans Day across FCPS, I am proud to announce that 14 schools with students from the Braddock District have been awarded Purple Star status. Purple Star Schools our children attend include: Annandale High School, Braddock Elementary School, Eagle View Elementary School, Fairfax Villa Elementary School, Laurel Hill Elementary School, Cardinal Forest Elementary School, Frost Middle School, Irving Middle School,Kings Glen Elementary School, Robinson Secondary School, Terra Centre Elementary School, West Springfield High School, North Springfield Elementary School and Woodson High School. Purple Star Schools have been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children for their dedication to helping military-connected students and their families. These schools provide so much support to our military families in different ways. Thank you also to all our school staff for supporting our military connected youth and families. And thank you to our many military members and their families here in the Braddock District for their service.
We are also lucky to have Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Military-Connected Youth Family Advisory Council where military-connected family members can provide feedback on their experiences within FCPS. Please see below for more information and how to join.
We have a busy week ahead on the School Board with both a work session and a regular meeting. The School Board Budget Committee of the Whole and Work Session will be held this Wednesday, November 12 at 10AM, the agenda is available for review and topics to be discussed include:
- Fiscal Year 2027 Forecast
- School Year 2025-2026 Legislative Agenda
- Comprehensive School Boundary Review
The next Regular meeting is this Thursday, November 13 at 7PM. The meeting will be preceded by a public hearing on the naming of the New Western High School. The agenda for the regular meeting is also available for review. Highlights include:
- Proclamations celebrating Veterans Day, School Psychologists Appreciation Celebrating National Family Engagement
- Purple Star Schools Recognition and a Purple Star Month Proclamation
- A vote on the programming at the New Western High School
- New Business (no vote at this meeting) - A New Full-time AAP Center at Poe Middle School
- Introduction of the 2026 Legislative Agenda
Also, please mark your calendars for a public hearing on Monday, December 1, 6 - 7PM at Luther Jackson Middle School to discuss the Proposal to Open a Full-Time AAP Center at Poe Middle School (Annandale Pyramid) in SY2026-27.
Tune in to watch and participate in School Board meetings from home.
As always, my team and I are available to answer any questions you might have or address any concerns. Please feel free to reach out to my office at braddockconstituent@fcps.edu.
All my best,
Rachna
In this issue
Terra Centre ES Pumpkin Drop
 It was a great night to join the Terra Centre ES for their PTA Pumpkin Drop & Family Movie Night! I had so much fun seeing so many families enjoying the treats while listening to the announcements of pumpkin names and hearing their final words before being dropped.
I appreciated the references to "KPop Demon Hunters," "Sabrina Carpenter," "Mariah Carey" (yes, already!) and so many other current pop culture topics, like "6-7"! Some pumpkins like "Splatty McSplatface" has serious last words like "Let's just get this over with!" while other pumpkins like "6-7" had more lighthearted last words, such as "No cap, best pumpkin duo ever. We might rot, but the rizz lives on forever. It’s time to rise up to pumpkin heaven. But first our last words are 6-7!"
Principal Gidoni and Assistant Principal Tim Signorelli joined me in the fun and dropped pumpkins a few pumpkins themselves. Even Spiderman made a special appearance to drop some pumpkins!.Although it was cold outside, it was heartwarming to see the TCES community come together and I was grateful to be included in the festivities.
Meeting the Moment FCPS AI
 FCPS hosted Meeting the Moment: FCPS Forward: AI & the Future of Learning to discuss and learn about artificial intelligence and its role and impact on the future of FCPS. Upon arrival, attendees took the "What is your AI personality?" quiz to help start thinking about how they view AI. Thank you to FCPS Chief Information Technology Officer Gautam Sethi, Steven Butschi from Google, Hilah Barbot from Playlab, and Superintendent Dr. Reid for an engaging panel on AI and FCPS. It was great to hear about so many new opportunities where FCPS can innovate. The discussion also focused on the positive and negative impacts AI will have on our community and ways in which our teachers are already implementing the technology.
AP Capstone Diploma and AP Seminar and Research Certificates for 2024-25 School Year
 Congratulations to 187 FCPS students who earned the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma and 22 students earned the AP Seminar and Research Certificate during the 2024-25 school year.
AP Capstone is a diploma program from the College Board based on two year-long AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. Both courses prepare students for college and career success through the development of critical thinking, academic research, collaboration, presentation, and time management skills.
To earn the AP Capstone Diploma, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar, AP Research, and on four additional Advanced Placement Exams of their choice. To receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate, students must earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research. More information about the Advanced Placement courses is available online.
Three Braddock District students earned the AP Capstone Diploma - Carter Nichols and Karis Shim from Fairfax High School, and Sarah Narragon from Lake Braddock Secondary School. Congratulations! Go Lions! Go Bruins!
Additionally, Sanindu Nallaperuma from Lake Braddock Secondary School was the sole Braddock District student to earn the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. Go Bruins!
2025 All-Virginia Jazz, Choir, and Orff Ensembles
 Thirty-nine students representing 18 FCPS high schools and two FCPS elementary schools have been selected for the 2025 All-Virginia Orff Ensemble, the 2025 All-Virginia Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble, and the 2025 Virginia Music Education Association Senior (VMEA) Honors Choir. Students will rehearse and perform with other premier musicians from across the state.
Students throughout Virginia went through a rigorous audition process to audition for positions within these ensembles. Participants will rehearse with nationally recognized conductors and collaborate with fellow musicians during the event.
Congratulations to the two Braddock District Students who were accepted into the Senior Honors Choir:
- Emma Fig from Woodson High School
- Tyler Miller, Annandale High School
Go Cavaliers! Go Atoms!
Culminating performances are free and open to the public. The concerts will be held in Norfolk on Thursday, November 20, (All-Virginia Orff Ensemble and All-Virginia Jazz Band and Jazz Ensemble) beginning at 11:30 a.m. and ending at 1:30 pm, and Saturday, November 22, (Senior Honors Choir) beginning at 1 p.m. and ending at 2 p.m.
For more information, visit VMEA Conference 2025
VHSL 2025 Multimedia Contest Winners
 A total of 503 examples of outstanding scholastic journalism – writing, photography and design – are recognized in VHSL’s 2025 competition for magazine, newspaper, yearbook and broadcast journalists. They were selected from entries submitted by 20 different student publications. Judging was based first on meeting standards for outstanding journalism then top entries were ranked on the basis of quality in each category by VHSL group. Certificates of achievement were presented to all winners in October.
Congratulations to the following eight Braddock District winners! Go Rams! Go Bruins!
Yearbook
- Student Life Coverage - Third – Beren Kasimcan, James W. Robinson Sec. Sch. – Sounds of Summer
- Clubs/Organizations Coverage Third – Emily Wendel, James W. Robinson Sec. Sch. – Unfolding the Story
- Personality Profile Photo(s) Third – Beren Kasimcan, James W. Robinson Sec. Sch. – Playing with Pride
Broadcast
- News Package - First – Leah Bridon & Sydney Treon, Lake Braddock Sec. Sch. – New Security Screening Measures
- Video Story - First – Anne Abuelgasim, Talah Abuelgasim, Hannah Lim & Asli Jama, Lake Braddock Sec. Sch. – Student Spotlight: Taylor Perkins
FCPS Leads Nation in “Green Flag” Honors for School Sustainability Work
 Terra Centre Elementary School is one of 44 Fairfax County Public Schools being recognized for their environmental efforts by the "Green Flag Schools" program from the National Wildlife Federation. First grade students are planting tulips in a test garden they’ll monitor all year for the first signs of spring; fifth graders are growing corn in vertical farming units; and sixth graders conduct water testing to check for nitrites, nitrates, oxidation levels, and pH levels. getting noticed for their sustainability efforts. You can read more about their efforts online.
Principal Mueck at Ravensworth ES
 Congratulations to Shannon Mueck, the new principal of Ravensworth Elementary School. Last Thursday, her appointment was announced by Region 4 Executive Principal Kim Greer, and there was a spontaneous outpouring of support by the Ravensworth staff members and the visiting Lake Braddock pyramid principals.The cafeteria was rocking with applause and shouts of joy!
The warm reception her appointment was greeted with reflects the bond she has already built with her staff during her 3-month tenure as Interim Principal at Ravensworth Elementary. Ms. Mueck is a dedicated and experienced instructional leader with a deep commitment to instructional excellence and inclusive practices. As a leader, she prioritizes the fostering of a caring culture, the cultivation of highly effective collaborative teams, and the improved outcomes for all learners.
Prior to Ravensworth, Ms. Mueck was the Assistant Principal at Silverbrook Elementary School, where she was instrumental in developing instructional capacity, leading the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and managing special education administration. Her expansive career includes teaching and leadership roles in tribal schools and Department of Defense schools across Japan, California, Washington, and Virginia. She has received significant recognition, including the DODDS Woman Educator of the Year and multiple FCPS SEPTA awards.
I want to add my congratulations to Principal Mueck and I look forward to working with her and the whole Ravensworth community.
Frost MS Students attend Commanders Business Day
 Frost Middle School sent 31 Young Scholars to attend the Commanders Business Day! Students heard from business professionals including the Director of Ticketing, Suite Sales Manager, and a representative from Human Resources.
Frost students were fully engaged and asked thoughtful questions during the Q&A sessions. One Commanders staff member remarked to Ms. Short that a student’s question was “the best I’ve heard all week.” The organization gave glowing feedback, noting that our students were insightful, engaged, and well-behaved. They also said they’d “100% invite us back next year.” Many students expressed how thankful they were for this unique experience, an opportunity they said they wouldn’t have had without this field trip.
A huge thank you to Meghan Short and Ellen Reed for chaperoning and special thanks to Mr. Harris and Mrs. Berlin for making the logistics run so smoothly. This field trip wouldn’t have happened without your support.
Military-Connected Youth Family Advisory Council
 Fairfax County Public Schools’ (FCPS) Military-Connected Youth Family Advisory Council provides a space for military-connected family members from across the division to provide critical feedback on their experiences within FCPS.
The Advisory Council meets quarterly with Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, and serves as a unique opportunity for military families to share insights and concerns directly with school leadership.
Military-connected family members who would like to participate are encouraged to complete this Google form to express their interest in joining these important conversations. Please submit the interest form by Friday, November 21, 2025.
All Military-Connected Youth Family Advisory Council scheduled meetings are at Gatehouse Café (8115 Gatehouse Rd, Falls Church, VA 22042):
- Monday, December 8, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, February 3, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
- Thursday, April 30, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
For more information, please contact Katie Server, Family Partnerships Specialist, Military-Connected Youth & Families, kaserver@fcps.edu.
Volunteer Registration Update
Due to the overwhelming response from our community, FCPS is temporarily pausing fingerprint requirements for most Level 3 volunteers.
Those scheduled for an upcoming fingerprinting appointment, please cancel your appointment unless you are a mentor, host parent, or non-parent volunteer having frequent, direct, and unsupervised contact with students, which will still require fingerprinting. FCPS will be charged if individuals miss a fingerprinting appointment without canceling in advance.
Those who have already been fingerprinted will be processed to be eligible for all Level 3 opportunities.
Field trip chaperone opportunities will now be classified as Level 2 (not requiring a background check).
To ensure continuous safety, all new volunteers are required to sign a Volunteer Certification Statement. This statement is a legal attestation confirming you have no history of violent felonies, physical/sexual crimes against children, or crimes of moral turpitude.
Want to volunteer? Visit Volunteer FCPS to find and sign up for volunteer opportunities. Contact Volunteers@fcps.edu with any questions.
Tutoring Resources for Families
Some families may be looking for additional resources to help support their child’s academic success. The FCPS Family Resource Center (FRC) maintains a list of FCPS employees who hold a valid Virginia teaching credential and who are available to hire as tutors. This list is a resource offered by the FRC, but families are responsible for contacting and working directly with the tutors. This list is not approved by FCPS and is only meant to be a resource to families.
FCPS also partners 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.
Rock for Schools
 Save the Date! Sunday, December 7 is the perfect night out for FCPS parents, staff, and community members who love great music and want to make a difference for students. Get ready to rock for a great cause - proceeds support Educate Fairfax - with your favorite hits from the 80s and 90s—and a few surprises—as two incredible bands featuring teachers, The Randos and Aftermath Band VA , take the stage at Jammin' Java in Vienna. 🎟️ Get your tickets here.
Shark Tank
 Fairfax County’s Department of Neighborhood and Community Services is now accepting entries in the Fairfax Area High School Student Shark Tank Technology Challenge. Initial proposals are due December 19, 2025.
Open to all students in Fairfax County, the 2025-26 challenge invites youth to develop an innovative device or app that will have a positive impact in the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, or wounded warriors. Last years winners developed wearable technology that allows EMS personnel to quickly access patient medical information.
The winning students will be recognized with cash awards provided by sponsor IntegrityOne Partners. Winners will also be recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors at a spring 2026 reception. For more information about the challenge, visit the 2026 Shark Tank Technology Challenge page.
Give the Gift of Learning
 Join the trend and give the gift of learning. This holiday season, give your loved ones a learning experience. There are many creative and affordable classes available locally and affordably through Fairfax County Public Schools Adult & Community Education (FCPS ACE). Gift them a cooking class where they can explore cultural cuisine and learn lifetime culinary skills! Learning a new language is exciting and useful. How about a CPR class to empower them for emergencies or pique their interest in a medical career? Computer coding classes are fun and practical for gaming as well as employment opportunities. Or find a class that YOU want to take and give-one-get one for yourself! Gift cards in any amount are available if you’re not sure yet what class to choose. Start your holiday shopping now at www.fcpsace.org.
Resources for Furloughed Families
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Impact of Federal Shutdown on Local Community Fairfax County is home to around 80,000 federal employees and thousands of federal contractors. Its Federal Workforce Resource Hub is intended to help navigate current and future issues for residents, government employees, active military/veterans, contractors, nonprofits and businesses who may be affected by actions, changes, or disruptions to federal services or employment.
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Community Resources for Families in Need Through partnerships with community-based organizations and other Fairfax County agencies, Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) provides information, referrals, and advocacy to help individuals connect with services, including: basic needs (food, shelter, clothing), financial assistance, health care services, and referrals to services and resources. Visit the CSP website or call 703-222-0880 for assistance.
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How to Access or Donate Food to Those in Need View the Emergency Food Access Providers webpage to see where to access food or donate to your local food bank.
November Is National Family Engagement Month
Family Engagement Month is a time to remember that parents and caregivers are children’s first and most important teachers, advocates, and nurturers.
The FCPS Family Academy supports the continued success and well-being of each and every student within the FCPS community. The Academy offers a variety of positive and engaging learning opportunities and meaningful connections to transform the FCPS experience into a welcoming environment for all families.
FCPS Family Café Series: Support Your Child’s Growth and LearningThe FCPS Family Academy announces the launch of a monthly series called the FCPS Family Café. These fun and helpful sessions are designed to keep families informed and involved in their child’s education. At Family Café, parents are key partners in helping children succeed. Click on the topic to register to attend.
✨ FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan Pillar B: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships, reminds us to empower families through trusting partnerships that sustain a safe, inclusive culture for learning.
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.
© 2023 Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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