Music teacher Caroline Crocker works with a fifth grader performing their recorder at Sleepy Hollow Elementary School.
School Board Approves “Skyview High School” for New High School Name
The School Board unanimously voted to name FCPS’ new school “Skyview High School” at its Thursday, February 12, meeting. Read about the new name and school.
Reid Reflects: Celebrating Student Achievements
Read Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid’s Weekly Reflections to learn about her work throughout the week. Her latest issue includes reflecting on the Mountain View High School winter graduation ceremony, pictured above.
File Your 2025 FSA Claims Before the March 31 Deadline
If you have 2025 flexible spending account (FSA) expenses, the deadline to submit your claims is Tuesday, March 31. Learn how to file your claim and find more information on Atlas.
Health Reminder: Measles Vaccination Awareness
This is an important health reminder following recent notifications from the Virginia Department of Health regarding confirmed cases of measles in communities across Northern Virginia.
At this time, the Fairfax County Health Department has confirmed that there is no indication of increased risk within FCPS schools or facilities. However, measles is a highly contagious virus. This situation underscores the critical role vaccination plays in protecting individual health and preventing the spread of illness.
FCPS strongly encourages all staff to ensure they are up to date on the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is the most effective protection against measles. Public health guidance recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for full protection.
Staff who are unsure of their vaccination status or who have questions about the MMR vaccine are encouraged to contact their health care provider. Additional information is also available through the Fairfax County Health Department website.
Maintaining high vaccination coverage helps protect our students, colleagues, and community — particularly those who may be medically unable to receive vaccines.
Thank you for your continued commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy learning environment.
🚍 Love the Bus Heart Health Initiative
On Monday, February 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., all FCPS employees are invited to stop by Lorton Transportation Center for a free wellness event to check in on your health, get benefit support, grab a healthy snack, and recharge in the Zen Den.Â
What’s available:
- Biometric screening (qualifies for your annual $100 health incentive!).
- CareFirst and Kaiser representatives.
- The Zen Den, which features seated massages, aromatherapy, and relaxation.
- A wellness table featuring resources, swag, and information.
- Snacks and games.
Claim your spot by signing up for the Love the Bus Heart Health Initiative event. Walk-ins are also welcome.
Book Time With a CareFirst Representative
Aricia Pinson is FCPS’ dedicated CareFirst representative. Book time with Aricia to schedule a meeting to discuss CareFirst benefits questions or concerns.
Survey on Changes to Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) Closes Friday
The survey on proposed changes to FCPS’ SR&R for SY 2026-27 closes Friday, February 20.
These changes include universal discipline matrices, standards for in-school suspensions of students with disabilities, and accommodations for multilingual learner student statements. The survey is open to all FCPS school-based staff, parents/caregivers, and middle and high school students.Â
Please check your email (including your spam folder) for the survey, or you may take it online.
Volunteer FCPS: Find Opportunities and Register as a Volunteer
Through Volunteer FCPS, individuals can register and search for volunteer opportunities in the school division.Â
All volunteers need to register within Volunteer FCPS. This includes FCPS staff who work as student mentors, volunteer at their child’s school, or help in any unpaid capacity in the school system.
Once they have registered and their employment is verified, staff are cleared for opportunities at all levels due to their background check being on file.Â
Register and complete a short volunteer orientation. Learn more about Volunteer FCPS.
How to Add a Volunteer Opportunity to Volunteer FCPS
Schools and departments are asked to centralize the volunteer management process by posting all opportunities through Volunteer FCPS. This helps ensure that all volunteers are undergoing background checks and understand expectations.Â
To simplify this process, a Request a Volunteer Opportunity Form is now available in Atlas for FCPS staff to request a post on Volunteer FCPS. Schools and central office staff may use this form to submit details about volunteer needs.
Once the form is submitted, the volunteer point-of-contact for that location will review the request and seek administrator approval before posting on Volunteer FCPS.Â
Find more information about Volunteer FCPS on Atlas.
Students Celebrate 100 Years of the Living Rhythm of Black History
Music Teacher Riccardo Emilien grew up in New Orleans and passed on to his students the “living rhythm of Black history.”Â
Read how Riccardo shared his musical experiences and background with his students.
New Microcredentials for Instructional Staff Launching February 25
The Office of Professional Learning, in collaboration with Instructional Services and Special Services, is launching two new microcredential learning opportunities available to all instructional staff starting Wednesday, February 25. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a $600 stipend and one Academy credit per microcredential.Â
Instructional staff may choose to participate in one or both microcredentials. Each consists of six modules, requiring approximately 30 hours of self-directed learning, classroom tasks, and reflections. The microcredentials include:
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Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Explore strategies for creating inclusive learning environments and universally designing your classroom practices during the planning, teaching, and assessing phases of instruction.
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Empowering Multilingual Learners: Enhance your instructional practice and foster equitable classrooms with high-leverage, research-based strategies proven to support the academic success of multilingual learners.
To participate, instructional staff must attend one of the required Orientation Meetings via MyPDE on Wednesday, February 25, from 4:30 to 6 p.m., or Tuesday, March 3, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Participants will have up to 90 days or until June 30, 2026, whichever comes first, to complete the microcredential. A trained assessor will provide initial feedback and evaluate submissions. Your direct supervisor will grant the final approval.
Visit the microcredential Atlas page for additional information and registration details.
Your Pathway to Leadership: Information Sessions on Cohorts
FCPS educators who are interested in earning licensure in administration and supervision are invited to explore George Mason University’s Education Leadership (EDLE) Program. The program is designed for working professionals and offers options to earn a master’s degree or a graduate certificate in education leadership.Â
This summer, an FCPS-based cohort will launch in a hybrid format. Educators can learn more and register for an upcoming virtual information session by clicking on one of the following dates:Â
Info session attendees receive an application fee waiver. For more information, contact the George Mason Education Leadership Program office at edleprog@gmu.edu or 703-993-3633.
AI Course Available in MyPDE
An optional, one-hour, self-paced professional learning course titled Safe and Ethical Use of AI in Schools is now available in MyPDE. This asynchronous course focuses on the ethical and safe use of AI in K-12 education.Â
When utilizing AI tools, participants should also consult FCPS AI Principles and the Digital Ecosystem Library. See more information on safe and ethical use of AI on Atlas. Contact School Technology Innovation Partners in DIT at DIT_AI_Team@fcps.edu.
Coding Creativity: A Teacher’s Guide to Canva Code
EdTech Lunch Bytes monthly sessions are designed to fit a busy schedule. Attend a 30-minute, workshop-oriented session for practical ways to integrate educational technology with FCPS-approved tools.
This month, don’t let the word “code” intimidate you! If you can write a prompt, you can use Canva Code. Discover the power of combining coding with creativity in this hands-on session where teachers will gain insights into using Canva Code to create interactive, engaging activities for students like flashcards, study guides, games, review activities, card sorting, interactive rubrics, and more.Â
Sessions will take place on:
- Tuesday, March 3, at 10:45 a.m., 11:45 a.m., and 12:45 p.m.
- Friday, March 13, at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 1:30 p.m.
Register for EdTech Lunch Bytes in MyPDE.
Supporting Students and Families With Digital Tools
In the Strategic Plan Update portion of the recent School Board meeting, the topic was Pillar B: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships. In particular, the presentation focused on the FCPS Department of Information Technology (DIT).Â
As part of her presentation, Dr. Reid shared a video highlighting how DIT supports students, educators, and families through reliable systems, responsive support, and accessible digital tools. Read more in Weekly Reflections.
Back to Fairfax Prepares Students for Employment With FCPS
In the Academic Matters portion of last Thursday’s School Board meeting, Dr. Reid discussed Back to Fairfax. The program is a Grow Your Own initiative for FCPS students and alumni. It aligns with career and technical education, work-based learning, job shadowing, and internship experiences that build early career awareness and prepare students for future FCPS employment. Read more in Weekly Reflections.
Calendar Reminders: Divisionwide Spirit Day
All FCPS students, teachers, and staff are invited to shake the wrinkles out of their brightest outfits and tropical wear to help brighten everyone’s moods on Thursday, February 19.Â
Black History Month Celebration
Families and community members are invited to reflect on the past, celebrate the present, and uplift the voices shaping our future at FCPS’ Second Annual Black History Month Celebration. Rooted in Resilience: Echoes of Excellence will take place on Wednesday, February 25, at 6 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School.
Staff Staples
Note: Some links in this email require a connection to the FCPS network. If you have any questions, please visit the FCPS Tech Support Portal to search for self help articles or submit a ticket.
Submit an Employee News request. Submissions are due by 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. Thank you!Â
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