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The Dixit Dialogue – December 2025
 Snowy forest with tall pine trees covered in freshly fallen snow.
Dear Sully District Families and Community Members,
December is here — and with it, our first enchanting snowfall of the season! As we close out the year, I’m filled with gratitude for our incredible school communities, dedicated educators, and the families who make Fairfax County such a special place to learn and grow. This month is always a meaningful time to reflect on our progress, celebrate our students’ achievements, and look ahead with optimism to the opportunities a new year brings.
At the November 13 School Board meeting, we approved Western High School as a comprehensive high school with traditional boundaries, including a special programming pathway option. The enrollment plan will begin with grades 9 and 10 opting in for the 2026–27 school year. I was proud to bring this motion forward, and I’m grateful for the thoughtful discussion from my colleagues.
I’m continually inspired by the creativity, resilience, and kindness I see in our classrooms, and I’m honored to support the work that helps every student feel seen, supported, and empowered. Thank you for all you do each day to make our schools vibrant, welcoming, and joyful.
Wishing you a peaceful and bright holiday season and a wonderful start to the new year!
In partnership,
Seema Dixit
Sully District School Board Member
Inside this Newsletter:
New Western High School Updates
 The entrance of the new FCPS high school.
Families with rising 9th and 10th graders in the five western “pyramids” (Centreville, Chantilly, Oakton, South Lakes, and Westfield) will have the option to “opt in” for the new school. For the 2026-27 school year, FCPS plans to enroll roughly 500 freshmen and 500 sophomores.
To help families understand their options and ask questions, FCPS is offering in-person “coffee with the planning principal” sessions in the new school’s auditorium on:
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Thursday, December 11 at 6 p.m. and
- Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m.
A presentation about the new school is posted online, so families can review it together and begin thinking about what might work best for them. For any questions, parents may reach out to Mr. Dave Jagels, the planning principal, at dejagels@fcps.edu.
Explore CTE and Academy/Specialty Programs
As academic advising season approaches, families are encouraged to explore the many pathways available for rising and current high school students.
Learn more about FCPS academies, specialized programs, and high school Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses at the Pathway Fair on Wednesday, December 10, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Robinson Secondary School.
FCPS central office leaders and academy counselors will share insights about CTE programs, pathways, and opportunities across the school division.
Find additional information, including dates for academy open houses. Contact Bonnie Wannett with questions.
🎤 Upcoming 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.
📓 Help Us Write FCPS’s Next Chapter: Fiscal Year 2027 Budget
 Book with "FCPS Budget" written on the spine.
The School Board met with the Board of Supervisors December 2 to discuss the budget forecast. View the meeting materials and learn more about FCPS' FY27 budget.
There’s a story behind the success of every FCPS student — a story about what’s possible with the appropriate funding for world-class teachers, rigorous academics, and future-ready learning experiences. At FCPS, student success starts with a strong budget!
FCPS is currently developing the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget, which is for the 2026-27 school year. In January, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid will present a proposed budget to the School Board.
During this process, we’ll be sharing FCPS’ budget story with you. The different chapters will explain the impact of chronic underfunding, why strong funding benefits all of Fairfax County, what’s at stake when FCPS doesn’t receive the support it needs, and more.
We invite you to follow along and learn how you can help write our next chapter!
Recent Updates to Volunteer Opportunity Levels
Due to the overwhelming response from our community, FCPS is temporarily pausing fingerprint requirements for most Level 3 volunteers. 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 comprehensive background check that includes fingerprinting).
To ensure continuous safety, all new volunteers are required to sign a Volunteer Certification Statement. This statement is a legal confirmation that you have no history of violent felonies, physical or sexual crimes against children, or crimes of moral turpitude (dishonesty, fraud, things that are immoral by society’s standards).
By visiting the Volunteer Portal on the FCPS website, individuals can complete a volunteer orientation.
Take Your Legislator to School Month Highlights
 Collage of the "Take Your Legislator to School Month" school visits.
This November has been filled with inspiring school visits alongside our state and local leaders as part of the Virginia School Boards Association’s “Take Your Legislator to School Month.”
On Friday, November 7, I had the joy of joining Delegate Karrie Delaney at Poplar Tree Elementary School, where Principal Sue Andujar welcomed us for a morning of hands-on learning. From students practicing phonics with sand trays to a lively tech-team brainstorming session, the energy in each classroom was contagious. We were even filmed for the school’s newsletter video—a wonderful showcase of students and staff shining in real time.
On Friday, November 14, I visited Cub Run Elementary School with Senator Stella Pekarsky, where Principal Miller and Assistant Principal Nausheen Haider were incredibly hospitable. Guided by the exceptional Get2Green student leaders, we explored the calming, plant-filled Get2Green room, the flourishing outdoor garden, and the thoughtful share table fridge. We also learned about their meaningful school “dens”—Exploration, Wonder, Discovery, and Adventure—which connect students across grade levels and embody their motto, “Together, we belong!”
On Monday, November 24, my colleague, Chair and SBM Sandy Anderson, and I were grateful for our visit to Centreville High School on Monday, November 24. The engagement from Principal Healey, the students, and our legislators, Delegate Dan Helmer and Fairfax County Supervisor Kathy Smith, made it especially valuable. The students offered thoughtful reflections on what’s working well and where they see room to grow, giving us real insights into their experiences.
On Wednesday, December 3, I had the pleasure of visiting Rachel Carson Middle School alongside Delegate Shin. The building is beautiful—so many vibrant murals, including the inspiring Albert Einstein one with the quote “I am neither clever nor especially gifted. I am only very curious.” I loved watching students create Shrinky Dinks in the library makers-space. It felt great talking with teachers, Principal Washington, and staff, and getting a peek at the new outdoor classroom underway. Wrapping up this visit really felt like the perfect way to close out Take Your Legislator to School Month—a chance to reconnect with our school community and stay connected for what’s ahead.
A heartfelt thank you to every student, educator, and leader who made these visits so warm, uplifting, and memorable.
Sully District Happenings
Welcome School Board Leadership Development Program Students! 🎉
 Fairfax County School Board Student Leadership Development Program 2025-26 Cohort
Congratulations to all of the students selected for this year’s School Board Leadership Development Program. We are grateful to every student who applied, and I continue to be inspired by your passion for leadership and your commitment to making a positive impact in our community.
A special shout-out to Anvita Tangella from Centreville High School, who will represent the Sully District this year. Student voices are essential to the future of education, and I look forward to the thoughtful perspectives and ideas that Anvita and all of these remarkable students will bring to the table. The School Board Leadership Development Program is designed for students interested in law, government, or public policy, and I am excited to see the meaningful contributions they will make.
Welcome to the program, and congratulations once again!
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🎉 State Championship Triumph! 🎉
 Caroline Sapperstein crossing the finish line at the VHSL Class 6 State XC Meet.
Congrats to our very own Sully-area standout, Caroline Sapperstein of Oakton High School, who claimed the 2025 VHSL Class 6 State Cross-Country Championship! She conquered the 5,000 meter course in an impressive 17 minutes 58.60 seconds at the state meet 🏃♀️💨🙌
🏈 Oakton Makes History! First FCPS Girls Flag Football Champions
 Oakton High School Girls Flag Football Champions
Big congrats to Oakton High School, the first-ever FCPS girls flag football champions! With college scholarships already in play and the sport heading to the Olympics in 2028, the future is brighter than ever for our student-athletes.
This historic season saw 775 students join the new FCPS girls flag football program, made possible with support from the Washington Commanders. Thanks to all the players, coaches, athletic staff, officials, and supporters who made this launch a success.
🎶 Honoring Our Sully-Area Musicians!
We’re so proud to celebrate Sully-area students who earned spots in the 2025 All-Virginia ensembles at the VMEA Conference in Norfolk!
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From the All-Virginia Jazz Band/Ensemble: Aden Hill (Chantilly HS)
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From the Senior Honors Choir: Jaden Boissy (Oakton HS), Aadya Deshmukh (Chantilly High School), Jackson Sobel (Centreville High School)
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From the All-Virginia Orff Ensemble: Heaven Smith (Powell Elementary School)
Congrats to each of them for their dedication, talent, and representation of music excellence!
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.
🚀 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.
🎄Buy Your Christmas Tree and Support the Chantilly HS PTSA!
 Christmas Tree Sale Flyer
EJB Roofing, a local Greenbriar business, is giving back this holiday season by hosting a Christmas Tree Sale at the Greenbriar Pool parking lot from Black Friday through Christmas Eve. For every tree sold, $5 will be donated to the Chantilly High School PTSA.
The sale runs daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with delivery available, and pool members receive $5 off their purchase.
We appreciate Eric Brunner and EJB Roofing for their generous partnership and support of our community. View the Christmas Tree Sale Map for more information.
🎁 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.
Mental Health Resources for Families
This month's theme: Do Good December
This month, we're encouraging you to carry out small acts of kindness.
Go to Action for Happiness for ideas to help you take action for a happier and kinder world.
 December 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 Business & Meetings
 12 FCPS School Board members at the dais.
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Tuesday, December 9, 3 p.m. - Governance Committee Meeting at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Wednesday, December 10, 4:30 p.m. - Administration Committee Meeting at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Thursday, December 11, 4:30 p.m. - Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee Meeting at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Monday, December 15, 4 p.m. - Public Engagement Committee Meeting at Gatehouse Administration Center, Room 1600
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Tuesday, December 16, 6 p.m. - Joint Work Session with the City of Fairfax School Board
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Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting, Final New Western High School Naming Public Hearing, at Luther Jackson Middle School
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Thursday, January 8, 7 p.m. - Regular Meeting at Luther Jackson Middle School
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Thursday, January 10, 10 a.m. - Public Hearing: School Boundaries 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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