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 School Board Meeting 11.13.2025 Presentation Celebrating National Family Engagement Month Proclamation
November is National Gratitude Month, and it began by gifting us with an extra hour as we turned our clocks back for daylight saving time. It offers us the last display of splendid Fall colors before trees shed their leaves in preparation for cooler temperatures and longer nights. It is a transitional month in which we begin to make plans to gather with family and friends as we pause to give thanks for the many personal and collective blessings we share.
In November, we celebrate and express gratitude for our veterans and military families on Veterans Day. We recognize the sacrifice made by all those who serve and those who support them. Our FCPS community is stronger because of the contributions of our military-connected families…grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, sons, daughters, students, and FCPS teachers and staff members. On November 13th, the School Board honored 145 Purple Star schools. I will continue my commitment to serve our military-connected families and to increase the number of Purple Star schools so we can reach 100% participation.
At the November 13th School Board meeting, I was honored to bring forth the first ever Family Engagement Month Proclamation in recognition of our families and the dedicated staff that support FCPS family engagement efforts. As someone who dedicated 26 years to FCPS as a family liaison and interpreter, I am keenly aware of the critical and essential role families play in the success and well-being of their children and scholars. I always say, “Parents are the first and forever teachers of their children.” “Padres de familia son los primeros y para siempre maestros de sus hijos.” When schools and families work together—sharing ideas, supporting learning at home, and building strong partnerships—our students thrive. This month reminds us that meaningful engagement isn’t a single event but an ongoing commitment to listening, collaborating, and strengthening the ties that make our schools welcoming, inclusive places for every child.
It is fitting that as we celebrate Thanksgiving, we also recognize November as Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the histories, cultures, and contributions of Native and Indigenous peoples. In our community, we acknowledge the rich traditions, deep resilience, and enduring leadership of Native nations. We recognize the importance of teaching accurate, respectful histories and creating learning environments where Native students feel seen, valued, and supported.
I encourage families and staff to take time this month to celebrate one another, learn from one another, and continue building community. Fairfax County has a rich and diverse populous, and this Thanksgiving families and friends will gather to break bread in the spirit of understanding, respect and connection. Above all, let us honor and express our gratitude for every student’s identity and every family’s voice.
I, for one, am extremely grateful to serve you and thank you for your partnership and your continued support and commitment to our students and the FCPS family.
Warm Regards,
On the Move with Marcia
Here’s a glimpse into some of the incredible behind-the-scenes work that I have the privilege to engage in.
I had the privilege of working alongside the Family and School Partnership Office to draft and present the Proclamation Celebrating National Family Engagement Month. Standing among so many dedicated professionals, I was truly moved by the commitment of everyone who strives to ensure that children are not the only ones flourishing in our FCPS community. There simply isn’t enough time to express my gratitude to all of you, as there was hardly any more room on the dais this Thursday to convey this appreciation. 🙂
Purple Star Reception
It was a pleasure to celebrate such a wonderful recognition with so many staff members including Principal Burke (Edison HS) and Principal Dimmick (Mount Vernon HS) at the Purple Star reception before our School Board Meeting
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Honoring Our Vets
It was a privilege to honor our veterans and active duty service members during the Clermont Elementary Veterans Day breakfast and the entire school morning meeting dedicated to acknowledging the service and sacrifices of our community heroes. To listen to some of our Clermont ES students pay tribute to our veterans, check out my Facebook post.
Annual Fairfax County Public Schools Artist Teacher Exhibition: Color Stories
If you didn’t get a chance to see my Facebook post about 18th Annual Fairfax County Public Schools Artist Teacher Exhibition: Color Stories. There is still time for you to see this unique Art Show showcasing the amazing creative artwork of our talented FCPS art teachers. For more information visit the Workhouse Arts Center website.
Celebrating our Exceptional Teachers
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Hispanic Educators Association
I would like to extend a heartfelt shoutout to the Hispanic Educators Association for hosting its Fall Mixer at our Willow Oaks Administrative Center, celebrating the conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month on October 28th. With over 27 years of influence in the FCPS community and 19 years dedicated to providing scholarships for FCPS Hispanic/Latino students, they have awarded a remarkable total of over $245,000.
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Purple Star Designation School
This is the eighth year VDOE and the Virginia Council have designated Purple Star Schools. Once designated, Purple Star Schools retain the designation for three years before being required to reapply.
To qualify for a Purple Star, schools must have a staff member designated as the point of contact for military students and families. Schools must also demonstrate their commitment to meeting the needs of military students by engaging in professional learning and providing resources and programming on issues important to military families. Each Purple Star School must also have an active peer-led transition team, such as Student Ambassadors, to welcome new military-connected students and support their transition and connection to their new school community.
If you’re unaware of the significance and influence of our Purple Star Schools, I encourage you to listen to the inspiring speeches delivered by three of our FCPS students during the School Board Meeting on November 13th. A heartfelt thank you to Breanne, Carly, and Miah for your wonderful words!
Youth Athletes, Coaches, and Parents Honored as 2025 Champions of Character
October 29, 2025
The Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards celebrate youth athletes, coaches, and parents from every magisterial district in Fairfax County for their remarkable commitment to achieving victory with integrity both on and off the field.
Congratulations to everyone who upholds Fairfax County's rich tradition of athletics, fostering values such as teamwork, leadership, sportsmanship, and community service. I am particularly proud to acknowledge our Franconia District for their outstanding contributions.
- Male Athlete - Kibowen Kirui, Soccer, Lee-Mt. Vernon Sports Club
- Female Athlete - Vivienne Jensen, Soccer, Lee-Mt. Vernon Sports Club
- Coach - Russell Balikian, Soccer/basketball, Lee-Mt. Vernon Sports Club
- Parent - Tara Suga, Baseball, CSLL/Patriot/Hayfield HS
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39 FCPS Students Earn Spots in 2025 All-Virginia Jazz, Choir, and Orff Ensembles
Thirty-nine students from 18 FCPS high schools and two elementary schools have been selected for the 2025 All-Virginia Orff Ensemble, Jazz Band and Ensemble, and VMEA Senior Honors Choir. They will rehearse and perform with top musicians in Norfolk from November 18–22. The final performances are free and open to the public.
Students across Virginia underwent rigorous auditions to earn spots in these prestigious ensembles, where they'll work with nationally recognized conductors.
A special shout out to those students from the Franconia District:
- Molly Claflin, Hayfield Secondary School
- Jeremy Lacey-Kline, West Potomac High School
Concert Schedule:
- Thursday, November 20: Orff Ensemble and Jazz performances from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- Saturday, November 22: Senior Honors Choir from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
For more details, visit the VMEA Conference 2025 website.
Family Life Education (FLE) Parent Information Session for Edison Pyramid
 Turkey Bingo is Back!
- Join the Woodlawn PTA for Turkey Bingo on Saturday, November 22, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM in the Woodlawn Elementary School Cafeteria.
- Play to win themed baskets and turkeys!
- Bingo cards and markers are $2 each at the door.
- Snacks are $1 each.
- All proceeds support the Woodlawn PTA and our students.
 🌟 Key Center School-Based Technology Specialist Is a Tireless Advocate for Her Students
 This National Educational Support Professionals Day, we’re shining a spotlight on one of our truly outstanding team members: Beth Curtis, school-based technology specialist (SBTS) at Key Center School.
Beth’s unwavering commitment, leadership, and boundless energy exemplify the critical role our school-based staff members play in making FCPS a place where all students can thrive. Read more about Beth.
 November is National Family Engagement Month
Every November, we celebrate our families and all the ways you support your children every day. We are so grateful for our FCPS families! Families are children’s first and most important teachers, helpers, and supporters. Research shows that students do their best when families and schools work together as a team.
This month, we shine a spotlight on the power of family engagement. When families and schools partner together, students grow, learn, and succeed—and every bit of your support makes a difference!
In honor of Family Engagement Month, we’re excited to launch the new Family Café series! These sessions give families a chance to come together, learn, and connect. More Family Café sessions will be offered in other locations across the division later this school year—stay tuned for more!
Check out the Family Engagement Month webpage to learn more ways to celebrate and partner with the school!
Sign Up to Volunteer! Make a difference in your community by tutoring, mentoring, or helping at school events. Every contribution matters!
Learn more about how to sign up for VolunteerFCPS here.
Academic Resources
FCPS Family Academy - A hub of information for families to explore and connect to!
FCPS Family Resource Center - Offers free family information phone lines in different languages, consultations with professionals, workshops, webinars, a library, and more!
Family Engagement eLibrary - Explore supportive resources in English and Spanish for parents and guardians to enhance their child’s learning and wellbeing.
FCPS Parent Technology Help Desk - Do you have a technology issue with your ParentVUE or Schoology account? You can submit a support request here or contact the Parent Technology Help Desk at (833) 921- 3277.
Varsity Tutors - Offers free tutoring services. To access Varsity Tutors, please login to the Clever dashboard and explore the different types of tutoring services offered. To view the student login guide please see here.
Family Resource Center Tutoring List - One-on-one tutoring services are available. To access this year’s Family Resource Center tutoring list, please submit this interest form.
Upcoming December Webinar from the Family Resource Center
💻Recognizing, Understanding, and Responding to Impact of Traumatic Stress
December 5, 10-11:30 a.m.
Come learn how trauma impacts the brain and gather valuable information to help you recognize what is happening, why it is happening, and how to effectively respond in ways that promote safety and support.
💻Safe and Supportive Learning Environments for All Learners
December 12, 10-11:30 a.m.
This presentation explores how trauma-informed practices and social-emotional learning (SEL) support student well-being and academic success. We discuss the impact of stress and trauma on children, how it can manifest in their behavior, and the importance of creating safe and supportive learning environments. We will highlight protective factors that foster student resilience and growth. Additionally, we will showcase helpful practices at school that teach and reinforce essential skills such as self-awareness, self-management, and relationship building. Finally, we will explore practical strategies families can use at home to strengthen these skills and nurture resilience in their children.
💻The Power of Restorative Justice Practices to Support Students and Families in Schools and at Home: Part 2
December 19, 10-11:30 a.m.
Come join this webinar to learn about Restorative Justice (RJ) Practices in FCPS! You’ll learn about what’s available to students and families in schools and how RJ Practices support students and families feeling empowered and connected to their school communities. We will also share how you can implement a simple restorative justice practice to create connection in your family.
FCPS Showcases Student Talent and Innovation at 2025 State of Our Schools Event
Staff, students, and community leaders — including the Chantilly Chamber Orchestra conducted by Aaron Mynes, pictured above — came together for this year’s FCPS State of Our Schools event to celebrate student achievement, community partnerships, and the bright future of public education in Fairfax County. Read about the celebratory event.
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‘Tis the Season for Learning! And you’ll save 20% when you register for any of the hundreds of classes offered through Fairfax County Public Schools Adult and Community Education (FCPS ACE).
- Register for as many classes as you want, all at 20% off!
- Give the Gift of Learning and save 20% when you purchase a class for family or friends!
- From advancing your career skills or fun and enriching classes, FCPS ACE offers a wide range of in-person and online courses to fit your needs.
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This Black Friday sale runs from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 27th through Sunday, November 30th, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to save on the full range of career and enrichment classes offered through FCPS Adult and Community Education. Go to www.fcpsace.org during the sale for all the details and to save!
Add classes to your shopping cart and see your discount applied at checkout. Offer valid only from 6:00 p.m. on 11-27-25 through 11-30-25 at 11:59 p.m. Cannot be combined with any other discount. Does not apply to Gift Card purchases.
Services for Hearing-Impaired and Visually-Impaired Students
Students with sensory disabilities require special services and support to access instruction that is typically presented auditorily (by means of hearing) and visually. FCPS provides educational services to students who are deaf, hearing-impaired, or visually impaired. They are supported in various settings, including at their school site or through itinerant specialists who travel to different schools to work with students, rather than being based in a single school. Learn more about Services for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing and Services for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired.
The Virginia Department of Education also provides information about Additional Resources for Serving Students with Sensory Disabilities.
💻 Hazel Health: Virtual Therapy for High School Students
Teletherapy services are available for all FCPS high school students at no cost. Sessions can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hazel Health’s highly qualified therapists specialize in working with teens. Learn more on FCPS’ teletherapy webpage.
Free Counseling Services for All FCPS Employees
All FCPS employees and their dependents can access six free counseling sessions per issue, per year through the Employee Assistance Program. ComPsych Guidance Resources are available 24 hours a day. Sessions are confidential and can be accessed in person, online, or by phone.
Visit Guidance Resources and enter the organization web ID “FCPS,” or call 1-855-355-9097. Please reach out to the Employee Wellness Team with questions at EAPSupport@fcps.edu.
The FCPS Mobile App
In her Weekly Reflections, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid shared an update on the FCPS mobile app. It provides a custom district-branded platform for iOS and Android that helps keep families connected and informed from their smartphones.
Families can access essential information, including news, live updates, calendars, district and school-specific notices, cafeteria menus, and more, all in one place. Users can access updates and content without having to sign in, making it easy for everyone to stay informed.
Learn more about the new mobile app, and hear from parents TeAndra Nelson and Roy Dykes.
Download the Fairfax County Public Schools mobile app by going to the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and searching for “FCPS.” Read more in Dr. Reid’s Weekly Reflections.
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November is Adoption Awareness Month
This Adoption Month, we are highlighting the urgent need for more permanent homes for many children in foster care. Across the nation more than 45,000 children are legally free for adoption and more than 1,000 of those children are waiting for adoptive families in Virginia. Our theme, “Love Grows through Adoption” emphasizes the strong and supportive relationships that can flourish in adoptive homes and produce positive outcomes for the entire family. Learn more.
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Springfield Art Guild Fall 2025 Virtual Show
Springfield Art Guild is a non-profit group founded in 1969 and serves the community’s interest in fine art, fine crafts and photography. The Guild sponsors educational programs, art exhibits, juried shows, classes for adults and children, art scholarships for high school or college students, and local art events. The Fall 2025 Virtual Show theme is “Artist’s Choice” and includes artwork in a variety of media and styles. Visit the show. If you are interested in purchasing, contact Danica Arehart at sagcurating@gmail.com.
All of the artworks in this show are eligible for the “People’s Choice” award. To vote, review the artwork in the show, select your favorite piece, and click on the People’s Choice Ballot JotForm link to vote.
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Woodlawn Faith Community Art Expo
Sundays and Wednesdays through November 30
7010 Harrison Lane, Alexandria
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 Now Open: Hybla Valley Park
Hybla Valley park is officially open!
The newly renovated park is packed with awesome features for everyone:
- Dedicated futsal court and basketball court
- Brand-new playground suitable for all ages and abilities
- New site furnishings
Come explore, play, and enjoy this community space! Hybla Valley Park is located at 3431 Lockheed Blvd.
Franconia-Springfield Planning Study
 At the November 8th Franconia-Springfield In-Person Open House, community feedback was gathered through a variety of exercises. The November 13th virtual community session introduced an online survey tool. This survey is meant to allow those who were unable to attend the Open House sessions, provide their perspective on the future of Springfield. Please take the survey by December 5th, 2025. You can take the survey online at Franconia-Springfield Planning Study Visioning Survey - PublicInpu.
Virtual Focus Group for Individuals 65+
Adults aged 65 and older in the Springfield community are invited to join a virtual focus group on Thursday, November 20, 7:00 - 8:15 p.m. Participants will be asked to share feedback on current conditions and their future vision for the Franconia-Springfield area. Participation is limited to fifteen individuals to encourage dialogue and detailed input, so please register in advance using this link: bit.ly/47DUvPi.
Learn more on the study webpage: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/planning-development/plan-amendments/springfield-tsa-cbc.
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Holiday Gift Card Drive
This holiday season marks the 12th Annual Victim Services Division Holiday Gift Card Drive, supporting child victims and witnesses of domestic violence, sexual violence, and those grieving the loss of a loved one to homicide.
If you would like to contribute, please consider donating gift cards in any amount (Target, Walmart, Giant, Amazon, Visa, etc.).
Donations can be dropped off or mailed to:
Saly Fayez
Fairfax County Police Department – Victim Services Division
12099 Government Center Parkway
Fairfax, VA 22035
All donations must be received by Thursday, December 19.
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Camp Fairfax Winter and Spring Program
 Winter Break camps and activities are now open for registration. If you have eligibility letters from Food and Nutrition Services, make sure to keep those to apply for scholarships and discounts.
● Fairfax County Park Authority Fall and Winter Camp Catalog
● Camp Fairfax Winter and Spring Break Camp - Registration has started for Kindergarten to sixth grade children residing in Fairfax County or City of Fairfax. Program hours are 7 a.m. - 6:15 p.m. Sliding fee scale available for income-eligible families. Breakfast, Lunch, and afternoon snack included.
Camp Fairfax Winter Program
Session 1: Dec. 22-26* (Three day program closed Dec 24 & 25)
Session 2 Dec 29-Jan 2* (Four Day Program closed Jan 1)
Camp Fairfax Spring Program
March 30-April 3* (Five Day program)
*Program dates subject to change
Pet Pantry
Our Pet Pantry offers free pet food, both dry and canned, and often has other essentials such as crates, carriers, leashes and collars. Supplies can be picked up by appointment at either shelter campus.
To arrange a pickup, call 703-324-0299 or email PetResourceCenter@fairfaxcounty.gov.
The pantry is open to any Fairfax County resident experiencing financial hardship. It’s one of the many ways we help pets stay with the people who love them.
📍Michael R. Frey Campus
4500 West Ox Road, Fairfax
📍Lorton Campus
8875 Lorton Road, Lorton
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My Brother’s Keeper Youth Advisory Council
Applications are being accepted to participate in the MBK Fairfax Youth Advisory Council, Applications are due by November 21, 2025. To learn more about eligibility and what youth can gain from participating, please download the flyer and share with your networks.
My Brother’s Keeper Fairfax Youth Advisory Council Flyer
Career Resources
💻Free Webinars for Job Seekers
Looking for a new job? Sharpen your skills from the comfort of your couch with our live webinars!
🎤The Art of Interviewing
Learn how to sharpen your job-hunting skills, use new techniques to engage an interviewer, and determine if the job is a good fit for you. Held the third Wednesday of each month at 11 a.m.
Register now for November 19 at 11 a.m.
📝How to Write an Effective Resume
Learn how to catch an employer's eye, be conspicuous in a crowd, and highlight your skills and accomplishments in a resume that will get you the job interview. Held the second Wednesday of each month at 11 a.m.
Register now for December 10 at 11 a.m.
Can't make the live sessions? No problem!
View all of our pre-recorded webinars at your convenience.
Thanksgiving Family Skate and Dance Night
Saturday, Nov. 22, 6 - 9 p.m.
Gather with friends and family to roller skate and dance at the Franconia Rec Center. A live DJ will play old-school songs and today's top hits. Please bring your own skates. Learn more
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Turkey Trots in Fairfax County
Saturday, Nov. 22, and Sunday, Nov. 23, times vary
Start a new tradition with your family by joining one of the many 5k or 10k Turkey Trots that are happening around the county. See Visit Fairfax's list of upcoming runs. Learn more.
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Keeping you in the Know:
Let’s Talk Budget 2027
November 13, 2025 School Board Meeting Highlights
October 9, 2025 School Board Meeting Highlights
Upcoming School Board Meetings
 Photo of all 12 FCPS school board members.
December 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. - AAP Annandale Public Hearing
December 18, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. - Final New Western HS Naming Public Hearing
January 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. - Comprehensive School Boundary Proposal Public Hearing
January 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. - FY2027 Proposed Capital Improvement Program
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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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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