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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.
Dear Dranesville Families:
I am pleased we are back to our regular schedule and hope this will be the only major weather event this school year. I know last week’s winter storm proved to be a challenge for families and for FCPS. Thank you for your patience and collaboration. I heard from constituents regarding unsafe conditions near their school and in their neighborhood; their reports assisted FCPS staff and VDOT to ensure the Dranesville District was safe for students. While operational decisions are outside of my purview as a board member, I stayed in regular contact with Dr. Reid and FCPS on the latest conditions and decisions. The Board of Supervisors is creating a volunteer group to assist our communities with clearing snow. More information about this opportunity is below.
The School Board will discuss the FY 2027 Proposed Budget tomorrow at the February 12th Work Session and the Proposed FY 2027-31 Capital Improvement Program at Thursday's Regular Meeting. Tomorrow evening, we will have a public hearing on the budget. I encourage you to watch the meetings to learn more about the FY 27 budget process and the CIP.
This week is Virginia Kindness Week Together, let’s find meaningful ways we can incorporate kindness into our daily lives.
Regards,
Robyn
Robyn Lady and Melanie Meren at the Fairfax County Lunar Year Celebration.
In this newsletter,
February 12 Work Session
Policy 8542, Environmental Stewardship Discussion
Materials
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Discussion
Materials
FY 2027 Proposed Budget
Materials
All times and topics are subject to change. Please check the School Board meeting schedule for the latest times and agenda updates.
Share Your Thoughts on the FY 2027 Budget
Participate in the FCPS budget process by:
View the budget presentation video and slides.
Budget Timeline (through February):
February 10- School Board FY27 proposed budget work session
February 10- Public hearings on the budget
February 17- Fairfax County Executive presents Advertised Budget
February 19- School Board proposed budget work session
February 24- Joint Meeting with Board of Supervisors
February 26- School Board adopts the FY 2027 advertised budget
All times and topics are subject to change. Please check the School Board meeting schedule for the latest times and agenda updates.
New Western High School Name
Dr. Reid presented her recommendations for the name of our new high school located in the western part of the county. The board is scheduled to vote on the new name for the school on Thursday, February 12. Learn more about the new high school.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tuesday, February 10 at 11:30 a.m.- Work Session and Budget Committee of the Whole
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Tuesday, February 10 at 6:30 p.m.- FY2027 Proposed Budget PH
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Thursday, February 12, 2026, 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics are subject to change. Please check the School Board meeting schedule for the latest times and agenda updates.
How to watch meetings and sign up to speak:
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.
Share Your Advocacy with the School Board
The School Board has scheduled the following public hearings (PH).
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February 10, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.- FY2027 Proposed Budget PH
- If you missed the deadline to register to speak at the PH, you may arrive 45 minutes before the hearing begins to sign up to speak in person. You will be placed at the end of the speaker queue.
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May 12, 2026 at 6 p.m.- FY 2027 Approved Budget PH
February Audit Buzz
Engagement and Office Updates- In this issue, we discuss the Office of Auditor General's (OAG) external peer review; provide the first article in the Coffee and Compliance Series; and offer a training opportunity.
Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on OAG website.
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2026 Student Representative to the School Board- Apply Now
Apply for the 2026 Student Representative to the School Board. The student representative serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity, representing the students of FCPS. The Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SAC) student delegates elect the Student Representative to the School Board.
FCPS Students and Fairfax County and Fairfax city residents in 9th, 10th, and 11th grade are eligible. Students must provide:
- A written application- due Monday, February 23.
- A 30-second candidate video statement- due Monday, March 16.
Our Office of the Ombuds Is at Your Service!
Ombuds staff engage with FCPS staff, families, and students to offer resources and improve the experience of each and every member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters.
Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents and schools. Ombuds staff do not make or change decisions, policies, or regulations. They do not take sides, and they do not provide legal advice.
Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email ombuds@fcps.edu, or visit their webpage, where you may submit a question.
Kindergarten Registration: It’s as Easy as 1-2-3
Here is the easy five-step process for parents to register your child for kindergarten. After the appointment at the school (the student and one caregiver must be present), the student will be ready for orientation and any other introductory events each school may host. Parents may register their children online, kindergarten through 12th grade. Register your child today!
Kindergarten Readiness
FCPS recognizes that parents are their children’s first teachers. Resources on the School Readiness and Transition to Kindergarten webpage provide parents with ways to support their children to help ensure a smooth transition to kindergarten.
Kindergarten Open Houses
Kindergarten open houses are being held this spring to give parents of students entering school in August an opportunity to learn more about kindergarten at their school. View an alphabetical list of open houses. Contact your school directly if it is not included in the list.
SY 2026–2027 FCPS PreK and Early Head Start- Apply Now
The FCPS PreK and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children ages 6 weeks to 4 years old. Apply now.
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PreK: For children who will be age 3 or 4 by September 30, with priority given to 4-year-olds.
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Early Head Start: For children ages 0–2 and pregnant women who live in the Reston and Herndon area.
Early Intervention: Child Find
Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs 20 months- 5 years by the FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) program. Screenings are FREE to children ages 20 months to 5 years old who reside in Fairfax County. Call with questions or to schedule a FREE assessment 571-423-4121.
Dual Immersion Program Lottery Closes Soon
The 2026-27 Dual Language Immersion (DLI) Program lottery closes soon. The program offers students in kindergarten and first grade the opportunity to learn in English and another language — French, German, Japanese, Korean, or Spanish — for half of each instructional day. The online, countywide lottery is open to Fairfax County residents. Closing dates:
- For first grade programs- Thursday, February 12.
- For kindergarten programs- Monday, March 2.
Help Keep Our Schools Phone-Free
Please remind your child that cell phones and personal devices (earbuds, headsets, other items connected to the internet) must be off and away for the entire school day (bell to bell) — except for high school students during lunchtime in designated lunch spaces.
FCPS’ cell phone policy helps students stay focused, safe, and engaged at school. Visit our Cell Phone Policy webpage for more information and answers to frequently asked questions. If you need to contact your student during the school day, please call your child’s school.
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External Athletics Investigation at Fairfax HS and Hayfield SS Completed
An independent outside investigation of allegations surrounding student athlete transfers and eligibility practices at Fairfax HS and Hayfield SS has determined there were violations of Virginia High School League (VHSL) rules in 2024. The findings and recommendations have been provided to the School Board and Superintendent who implemented numerous corrective measures in 2025 to close the identified gaps in division systems and processes to ensure future compliance with VHSL standards and rules. The investigation regarding the allegations was conducted by the law firm of Baker McKenzie, LLP. More detailed information about the investigation and findings is available on the FCPS website.
Community Updates
Robyn Lady at Floris United Methodist Church Feeding the Homeless
Fairfax County Human Services Resource Guide
 The Human Services Resource Guide (HSRG) is a searchable database that contains information on thousands of nonprofit and government services available to Fairfax County residents. Anyone with an Internet connection has 24/7 access to the HSRG, including from mobile devices.
The primary focus of the database is on human services programs for those in need and the bulk of the information is about programs, including detailed service descriptions, eligibility, locations (maps and directions), and contact information.
Fairfax County Energy Assistance Program
Eligible households may receive help with heating, cooling, or energy emergencies through Fuel, Crisis, and Cooling Assistance programs. Support can include help paying utility bills, heating fuel, deposits, or repairing/replacing heating or cooling equipment. Applications are accepted online via CommonHelp, by phone, or through local DSS offices during program-specific application periods. Benefits are based on availability of funds.
Scott’s Run Nature Preserve To Close Temporarily for Urgent Sewer Repairs
Beginning on Monday, Feb. 16, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve (7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean) will be closed for an urgent sewer project to renew and rehabilitate the Scott's Run Siphon wastewater facility. Contractors for the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services will complete this work, expected to take approximately three months to complete, depending on weather conditions.
6 2026 Measles Cases in Virginia
The Virginia Department of Health is reporting a confirmed case of measles in an adult resident of Northern Virginia. To protect the patient’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information about the patient. Health officials are coordinating an effort to identify people who might have been exposed. Any additional exposure sites identified in Virginia will be posted to the VDH Measles website.
Proposed Volunteer Snow Removal Program
The Board of Supervisors recently proposed a Volunteer Snow Removal Program. The program would connect volunteers with neighbors who may be disabled, homebound, or seniors to help clear snow from their driveways and sidewalks. County staff will work with Volunteer Fairfax to develop the program, including safety protocols to protect both volunteers and residents. A full plan will be presented to the Board in the coming months, along with a review of similar programs in other Virginia communities.
Dranesville Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Mountain View HS Winter Graduation
FCPS Excellence on Display at the Olympics
As Team USA prepares for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, Team FCPS is celebrating two alumni whose dedication has carried them from FCPS to the world stage. These Olympians’ journeys represent the potential within each student across FCPS to achieve their dreams.
One of those Olympians is Ilia Malinin, a 2023 graduate of Marshall High School and a Vienna resident, competes in figure skating at his first Winter Olympics. Known as “The Quad God,” Ilia has pushed the sport’s limits by landing a record six quad jumps in competition, including the quadruple axel, the most difficult jump in figure skating. He helped Team USA earn a gold medal yesterday.
Also, representing Team USA is Brandon Kim, a 2020 graduate of Thomas Jefferson HSST, competing in short track speedskating. Brandon earned a bronze medal at the World Junior Short Track Speedskating Championships as a TJHSST junior and has since represented the United States at two world championships.
Nine Schools Receive FCPS School Communications Awards
The 2025 Awards of Communication Excellence celebrate the creation of excellent websites, newsletters, and social media content that inform and engage readers. The winners are examples of the substantial talent within the FCPS school communicator community.
Congratulations to Dranesville’s awardee, Forestville ES:
Forestville Elementary School’s website excels by prioritizing clear, purposeful, and student-centered content that supports effective communication with families and the school community. The site consistently reflects instructional priorities, school culture, and a commitment to student success. Read more about Forestville's website.
Forestville ES’s recognition of Ms. Kattera, Webcurator
 At the annual FCPS Communicators Conference, Forestville Website was named Best Elementary School Website - thanks to our curator, Ms. Heather Kattera! This is a tremendous honor with more than 140 elementary schools in FCPS. Ms. Kattera was specifically recognized for her timely content, selection of pictures, crisp design and special features. She is also our content curator for all our social media.
FCPS Launches ARTiFAX, Honoring Teen Artists With 299 Awards
Photo above: Student artwork created by Thomas Chestnut from McLean High School. Title: "Pinning Hopes."
FCPS has launched ARTiFAX, a new art recognition program created exclusively for FCPS teen artists in grades 7–12 enrolled in visual art programs. Designed to honor artistic excellence, creative growth, and student voice, ARTiFAX highlights the depth and diversity of visual arts education across the school division.
An exhibition featuring award-winning ARTiFAX artworks will be on view at Northern Virginia Community College’s Ernst Community Cultural Center in Annandale from February 12 through March 13. The ARTiFAX Awards Ceremony and reception will be held on Wednesday, February 25.
Langley Pyramid's Rise Against Hunger Event
Colvin Run ES hosted the annual Langley Pyramid Rise Against Hunger meal packing event. They had over 450 volunteers at Saturday's event representing all Langley pyramid schools. 54,500 meal were packaged at Saturday's event. With each meal package feeling 6 people, the Langley pyramid event prepared enough packages to feed 327,000 people. They will find out later where in the world our meals are earmarked.
Clearview ES
 The Clearview ES Science Olympiad team was honored by the Town of Herndon for winning 1st Place in the Hovercraft competition at the 2026 Langley Regional (Division B).
Westfield HS
Girl Wrestlers Develop Character and Life Skills on the Mat- Now in its second season as an official sport in FCPS, varsity girls wrestling is also one of the school division’s fastest-growing athletic programs. Westfield’s team has grown from eight athletes in its inaugural season to 22 strong! Read more about Westfield’s Girls Wrestling Team.
TJHSST Athletics Program Makes State History Appointing Women to Lead Both Baseball and Football Programs
Thomas Jefferson HSST is renowned worldwide for its outstanding academic achievements. Now, the school can add another honor to its roll. Yet before the 2026 seasons begin, the science magnet school can boast two historic wins – appointing the first female head coaches to lead baseball and football high school varsity teams in Virginia.
Virginia Kindness Week- February 9 through 13
Virginia Kindness Week is February 9 to 13, 2026. This annual initiative highlights the power of everyday acts of kindness in creating schools and communities that are more compassionate, safe, healthy, and welcoming places to live, work, learn, and play.
Black History Month
Black History Month is an annual celebration of achievements by African Americans and a time for recognizing their central role in U.S. history. Learn more about Black History month.
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Black History Month Scavenger Hunt at Herndon Fortnightly Library- Saturdays in February, 10a.m. to 6 p.m.: Stop by the Information Desk to do a scavenger hunt about Black heroes in history and win a small prize! Herndon Fortnightly Library (768 Center Street, Herndon)
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Unite, Uplift, & Celebrate- February 20, 5 to 8 p.m.: Join County leaders for a celebration. Enjoy local entertainment, resource tables, enlightening speakers and light refreshments with your neighbors! Fairfax County Government Center (12000 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax)
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FCPS Black History Month Celebration- February 25, 6 p.m.: The community is invited to a Black History Month celebration — Rooted in Resilience: Echoes of Excellence at Carter G. Woodson HS (525 Main St, Fairfax).
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Celebrate Black History Month by Visiting the County’s Historical Markers- This Black History Month, we invite community members to explore five historical markers that honor the lives and legacies of Black Americans who shaped our community. These markers, installed through the Black/African American Historical Marker Project, tell powerful stories of resilience, leadership, and advocacy. An added bonus, they’re right here in our neighborhoods.
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Where to find events and places to visit: From historic sites to community celebrations and special exhibits, there’s plenty to explore. Visit the Visit Fairfax guide to African‑American history to find local events, places to visit, and meaningful experiences you can plan for Black History Month and beyond.
Love the Bus Month
Love the Bus Month is supported by the National Association for Pupil Transportation (NAPT).
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February 20: wear yellow to show your appreciation for transportation professionals who safely support students across FCPS.
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Career and Technical Education Month
By enrolling in a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course or program, students learn the technical applications of many occupations while preparing for higher education or entry-level employment. A core program of CTE courses is offered in every middle and high school including Business and Information Technology, Family and Consumer Sciences, Health and Medical Sciences, Marketing, Technology and Engineering Education, and Trade and Industrial Education. Since this is an elective, course offerings may vary by school. Learn more on the FCPS CTE webpage.
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School Resource Officer Appreciation Day- February 15
Thank to our the FCPD and HPD School Resource Officers, serving our Dranesville students, for their hard work, care, and dedication to keeping our school community safe and supported.
Presidents' Day- February 16
Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February each year. It is a time to honor and remember the birthdays and achievements of the country's most distinguished leaders, and to reflect on the president's role in shaping the nation's history and development.
Lunar New Year- February 17
새해 복 많이 받으세요! 新年快乐! Chúc mừng Năm Mới! Wishing good fortune to those in our community who celebrate Lunar New Year! For those in many East and Southeast Asian countries, including Pacific Islanders, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year and is all about ushering in luck and prosperity with family
Ramadan- Begins Sunset February 17
Ramadan Mubarak to those in our community who observe! In Islam, Ramadan is the most sacred month of the year. During this month Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day while striving to increase their spirituality, through prayers, charity, and good deeds. Muslims believe it was during this month that God revealed the first verses of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad.
Ash Wednesday- February 18
Ash Wednesday is observed as a holy day of prayer and fasting in many Western Christian denominations. It marks the beginning of Lent, a time of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving leading up to Easter. Many Christians attend special Ash Wednesday church services, at which churchgoers receive ashes on their foreheads as a sign of penance.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
Free DADs Parenting Group- Febraury 10
Dads, sign up for our upcoming classes to improve parenting skills and build better relationships! Fairfax County residents or dads with children living in Fairfax are welcome. Language interpretation services are available. The next sessions begin on Tuesday, February 10 and Wednesday, March 11.
Boost Your Child's Success: Join Our Executive Functioning Training Series
Behavior Intervention Services (BIS) is excited to offer families a no-cost, four-part “Building Skills for Success” training series on executive functioning skills.
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February 13, 2026: How To Develop Flexibility With Your Child
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March 13, 2026: How To Develop Emotional Regulation
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April 17, 2026: How To Develop Organizational Skills With Your Child
Visit the Family Resource Center to learn more information and sign up for the virtual sessions.
Explore February Family Academy Opportunities
Stay up to date on all offerings throughout February! The Family Academy is excited to offer a variety of classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families. Find registration opportunities and more details on the “Learn With Us” tab of the FCPS Family Academy page.
2026 First-Class Awards: Nominations Open
First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the First-Class Awards nominees who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in FCPS in seven categories with up to 14 awards. You may nominate an administrator, a staff member, or a student due February 20. Questions, email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu.
SY 25-26 Special Education Parent Involvement Survey
All parents of school-aged children and youth with disabilities who receive special education services in Virginia are requested to complete the VDOE annual Special Education Parent Involvement Survey. Please complete one survey for each of your children currently receiving special education services during the 2025-26 school year. If you have any questions regarding this survey, please contact Dr. Chiquita Seaborne, Family Engagement Specialist Special Projects Coordinator, via email at Chiquita.Seaborne@doe.virginia.gov or at (804) 418-4672.
Self-Paced Training Offered by the VCU Rehabilitation Research and Training Center Autism Center for Education
The Autism Roadmap: A Family's Guide is a self-paced online course that is always available. Getting an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis for a child marks the beginning of a unique and meaningful journey for your family. This course will equip you with knowledge, strategies, and confidence to make informed decisions and serve as your roadmap, from diagnosis to independent adulthood. Explore all lessons or jump to the most relevant to you. Registration is free but required.
Mott Million Dollar Challenge
Young people across the country are full of powerful ideas, and the Mott Million Dollar Challenge is giving them the stage to share them. This national pitch competition invites K-12 students to submit a short, 30-90 second video showcasing an idea that would make a positive impact in their school, home, or community. Students may enter individually or in teams of up to three, and a total of $1 million in prizes will be awarded. Submissions are due February 27, 2026. Submit your pitch today!
Student Scholarship Opportunities
Latino/Hispanic FCPS Seniors Scholarship
Apply now for the 2026 Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA) scholarship. This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate leadership, academic commitment, and clear goals for their future. Students should contact the HLA Scholarship Committee Co-Chair, Jane Cruz (jane.ellen.cruz@gmail.com) to request the application form. Closes February 20th.
Apply for the Michelle Leete Scholarship
This year, Fairfax County NAACP is proud to award five scholarships to students who demonstrate leadership, service, and a commitment to equity in our community. We invite eligible Fairfax County students to apply. Access the application and learn the full eligibility details. Closes February 26th.
Community Foundation for Northern Virginia- Scholarships
Funding Your Future Scholarships- The 2026 Scholarship Cycle at the Community Foundation for Northern Virginia is officially open. High-school students from Northern Virginia may now select from over thirty CFNOVA scholarship funds to apply. Individual scholarship awards are for students interested in a specific field of study at the undergraduate level or with specific interests. Closes March 5th.
Asian Leadership Alliance Scholarship
Applications for the 2026 Asian Leadership Alliance (ALA) Scholarship have opened. Graduating FCPS Asian/Pacific Islander/Desi American seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible to apply. Closes March 13th. Email questions to fcpsasianeducatorsassociation@gmail.com
Virginia PTA Senior Scholarships
Virginia PTA Scholarships – Virginia PTA support graduating Virginia HS seniors who demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, service, and a commitment to community advocacy. All applicants must be members of their school PTA/PTSA for the 2025-26 school year to be eligible. Closes April 1st.
Seeking Students for New Paid Work Program
Fairfax County's Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) is excited to announce its new Work Student Program, starting January 2026. This paid program is open to students ages 16+, college students, and young adults, offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and career exploration in public service. Participants will work flexible, part-time hours to accommodate busy schedules, with jobs available across Fairfax County.
The program is designed to build skills in public service, program management, and administration—all aligned with the county’s One Fairfax Policy. Students will be matched with positions using their resumes and areas of study, in roles offering varying responsibilities and pay scales. Don’t miss this chance to gain meaningful experience while making an impact in the community!
Genesys Works- Student Internships
Students- When you join Genesys Works, you gain access to a community dedicated to making your career aspirations a reality. Boost your professional skills, expand your network, and work with top companies. Build a standout resume, contribute meaningfully to a team, and in a paid position—all in your senior year of high school. Apply within the National Capital Area.
FCPS Adult & Community Education
Presidents' Day Sale- February 16
Register for any class from FCPS ACE on 2-16-26 and get 10% off every class! But only when you register on Presidents' Day, February 16, 2026.
New Scholarship Opportunities Available
FCPS ACE is now offers a $100 scholarships for our online career courses. Students may apply for a $100 scholarship applied towards the tuition of any online, self-guided career courses they take through FCPS ACE. Scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis and are not entirely need-based.
If you are not in need of a scholarship but would like to help support career education and advancement, we'd appreciate your donation in any amount!
Volunteer Fairfax
Volunteer Fairfax aims to increase volunteerism across the Greater Washington region by acting as a bridge between volunteers and local nonprofits. Through a variety of programs and events, we enhance the capacity of our nonprofit partners and public agencies while expanding their reach and effectiveness.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
Getting to Know Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS): A Military Family Orientation
Military families new to FCPS or moving to FCPS soon may attend this interactive presentation. Please fill out this Google form to register and receive the Zoom link. Families will learn about:
- FCPS programs, school staff, and digital resources
- Strategies to support student success
- Early enrollment for military families
- The Military Interstate Compact
This virtual presentation will be held via Zoom on
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Tuesday, February 10, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m., and
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Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Game On, Calm On: Helping Your Child Conquer Sports Anxiety- February 12
7 p.m.- Learn insights from sports psychology to help your children and teenagers regulate anxiety in competitive sports at this free program cosponsored with McLean Safe Community Coalition at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean). The aim is to equip parents with the tools to support their child's emotional well-being and optimize their performance.
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Safe and Supporting Learning Environments- February 11
10 to 11:30 a.m.- This virtual presentation will explore how trauma-informed practices and social-emotional learning (SEL) support student well-being and academic success.
“Year of the Red Fire Horse Lunar New Year Celebration”- February 18
7 to 8 p.m. All ages.- Welcome to the Year of the Red Fire Horse—a symbol of speed, strength, beauty and freedom in Chinese culture. The Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company returns with their Lunar New Year production that intertwines traditional and contemporary dance. Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean).
Northern VA Soil and Water Conservation District Native Seedling Sale- Order February 19
Are you ready for seedlings? The Soil and Water Conservation District’s 2026 seedling sale will open Thursday, February 19 at 10am. Order pick-up dates will be Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 at the Sleepy Hollow Bath and Racquet Club in Falls Church. Learn more and get ready to order from the NVSWCD Seedling Sale.
The Social Lives of Twice-exceptional (2E) Students: Friendship, Belonging, and Identity
Friday, February 20: 10 to 11:30 a.m.- Families will understand how to support 2e students establishing authentic connections and how they navigate peer relationships. Register here.
Herndon Community Center Hollywood Nights Dance- February 21
6:30 to 9 p.m.- Roll out the red carpet for a night of Hollywood glitz and glam! This semi-formal (dress) evening is designed for children ages 4–12 and the Very Important Person (VIP) in their lives. Guests will enjoy a red carpet entrance, a paparazzi-style photo booth, music from a live DJ, light refreshments, and special VIP touches throughout the night. Herndon Community Center (814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon) Ages: 4–12 accompanied by a special adult in their lives.
Virtual Gap Year Fair- February 24
6 to 7p.m.- FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas will co-host the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on February 24, now available virtually. This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning about opportunities for the year following high school graduation. Students should register at USA Gap Year Fairs.
V.A. Education Benefits Virtual Workshop- February 26
6 to 7 p.m.- Whether you are a service member, a veteran, or a military family member, figuring out college benefits can be tricky. It often takes a lot of time and can feel confusing. Please fill out this Google form to register and receive the Zoom link. A benefits expert from George Mason University (GMU) will explain the different ways the government helps pay for school. Topics covered will include:
- The Post 9/11 GI Bill
- The Yellow Ribbon Program
- The Montgomery GI Bill
- Chapter 35 benefits for families
Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.
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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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