Student Presentations About Opportunities at the New Western High School

 

December 1, 2025

This message is being sent on behalf of David Jagels, planning principal at FCPS’ new western high school.

 

Dear Stone Middle School Families,

My name is Dave Jagels. I am serving as the interim principal at Fairfax County Public Schools’  new high school in western Fairfax County. As you can imagine, I am very excited about the new school and will begin visiting rising 9th and 10th graders in the five western pyramids on Monday, December 8. Western pyramids include: Centreville, Chantilly, Oakton, South Lakes, and Westfield.

During these visits, students will hear a short presentation about the new school, including planned academic programs, activities, and what the student experience may be like for the first year the high school is open. The goal is for students to learn more about the new school, ask questions, and begin thinking about their options, especially for those who may have the opportunity to opt in for enrollment during the 2026-27 school year.

We recognize that families have many questions, including how FCPS’ comprehensive boundary review will affect the new high school's boundary. Please keep in mind that:

  • The School Board will vote on the divisionwide boundary review on January 22, 2026.
  • Boundaries for the new western high school will not be defined until late spring 2026.
  • My presentation to students does not mean they will be attending the new high school. And, I can’t stress enough: All FCPS high schools are excellent! Between December 10 and December 19, I will be presenting information to students during their advisory period. Principals will notify families of the date and time a week in advance.
  • Rising 9th and 10th graders within the five western high school pyramids may choose to opt in to attend the new school, based on available spots. For the 2026-27 school year, we plan to enroll 500 9th graders and 500 10th graders.
  • Parents and caregivers may join optional meetings to hear a brief presentation about the western high school and ask questions. Virtual meetings will be held via Zoom at the following times:
    • Friday, December 5, at 9 a.m. Register here to receive a zoom link.
    • Friday, December 5 at 5 p.m. Register here to receive a zoom link.
  • In addition, families may attend an in-person coffee with the principal on Thursday, December 11, at 6 p.m. or on Saturday, December 13, at 10 a.m. Both in-person events will be held at the new high school in the auditorium. 

We have posted the presentation for students to the FCPS website, so families may review it together and discuss next steps based on individual circumstances and interests.

Thank you for your patience as we move toward opening our new high school. I encourage you to visit the FCPS website for more information. If you have questions, please reach out to me at dejagels@fcps.edu

Sincerely, 

David Jagels

Planning Principal

New Western High School


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