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March Newsletter
Message from Ilryong Moon
 Honoring Custodian and Food and Nutrition Worker Appreciation Month
With an eye toward warmer spring temperatures and the first flowers breaking through, March is a month of new starts. Bright sun and longer days energize me, and we’ll all need it for the important weeks ahead.
This time of year marks the midway point of Budget Season. Both the Superintendent and the County Executive have presented their FY2027 Advertised Budgets and the School Board has worked throughout the month to advocate for full funding of our budget request from the County.
Unfortunately, we are disappointed to be underfunded by Fairfax County by $43.8 million in the county executive's proposal, so we have more work to do.
The Superintendent’s budget request from Fairfax County was $138.4 million to be transferred to the School Operating Fund. When the County Executive presented the FY 2027 Advertised Budget Plan to the Board of Supervisors, he only included $94.6 million for funding to FCPS, leaving a $43.8 million gap in support for our schools.
This shortfall might be closed with additional funding from the State, but without that certainty, we must continue to advocate for a funding level that fully meets Fairfax County Public Schools' vision. We have made a commitment to the students and families in our Division to provide a world-class education, and the shortfall does not align with that obligation.
In the coming days, there are additional questions that I will seek to answer and areas of concern to track. Several services that the County previously paid for are now proposed to shift to the school system’s responsibility. Any cuts to funding that affect student health and safety must be reversed, including getting to school safely, mental health services, and after school enrichment. Goal 2 of our Strategic Plan says that we are committed to ensuring students are Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered.
I have included the upcoming milestones for the budget work in the newsletter below. We have work to do, so please speak up about the issues that matter to you the most. Your voice is an essential piece of this process.
Best,
Ilryong Moon
What's New & What's Next
Skyview High School
Budget: Process Underway
Why I Voted “NO” on the Transportation Motion
Celebrating Outstanding Educators
What's Happened in February
A Day at Marshall High School: DECA Celebrates Career & Technical Education Month, Freshman Orientation, and Boys Basketball
State of Centreville 2026
New Teachers Wanted: Instructional Job Fair at Lake Braddock Secondary School
Woodson Leadership Lab
Lunar New Year at Powell Elementary School and TJHSST
Just World Festival: Passport to the World
Northeast Asia Relations Club
Performing Arts: Oakton Theatre’s Clue and Legally Blonde at Lake Braddock SS
A Night of Korean Tradition at Centreville High School
Annandale Rotary Club
ACE Adult Education Classes
Civil Rights Leader Dolores Huerta at Lewis High School
Celebrating Black History Month at Woodson High School
Reflections Awards—Fairfax County Council PTA
South County Stallions Advance to State Playoffs
Lorton Station Elementary's SPARK EXPO
Bulletin
Kimmy Duong Foundation Scholarship Opportunity
Middle School Transition Fair
Fairfax County Teen Job Fairs and Career Building Workshops this Month
Student Award Opportunity
Skyview High School
 We have a new high school in Fairfax County! Last year, FCPS purchased the former King Abdullah Academy site in Herndon, Virginia, marking an important milestone in addressing student growth and facility needs in the western part of the county.
The School Board selected Skyview High School as the name for the new facilities in the western part of the county. During the meeting, Sully District representative Seema Dixit brought the motion to select the name and I was honored to second the motion. There was much excitement shared by the entire Board.
Budget
Budget Process Underway
Superintendent Reid presented her Advertised Budget to the Board at the January 22 meeting. All budget related materials are on the FCPS Budget webpage. The School Board will hold a public hearing and a budget work session that is open to the public in May.
Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill released its Advertised Budget on February 17. You can share feedback with the County at upcoming public hearings, community meetings, and online. Public hearings will take place April 14-16, and you can sign up to speak. And, starting March 2 there are Budget Town Halls in each district.
The following milestones in the FY2027 budget process are ahead:
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April 14: School Board budget presentation to the Board of Supervisors
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April 14–16: Board of Supervisors Public Hearings
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May 5: Board of Supervisors adopts final budget and sets school transfer amount
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May 7: Approved budget presented to the School Board
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May 12: FCPS School Board Public Hearing
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May 14: School Board Budget Work Session
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May 21: School Board adopts Approved Budget
Why I Voted “NO” on the Transportation Motion
In our recent School Board meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, I made the difficult but necessary decision to vote against the proposed transportation plan.
While these board discussions can be complicated, my reason for voting “No” comes down to a simple principle: Fairness and Consistent Service for our students.
I cannot support a plan that treats students differently. Please note that I was going to support a motion that would provide transportation to all students, and not just high school students.
What This Means for Families
When the School Board approves boundary changes (changing which school a neighborhood is assigned to), we have a "Phase-In" policy. This gives students in certain grades the “Right to Stay” at their current schools so their education isn't interrupted. However, a right to attend a school is hollow if a student has no way to get there. Busing is essential to make this work.
I opposed the amendment for three primary reasons:
- The final plan created a "split" system—providing busing for older students while denying it to younger ones. Providing transportation for younger students is even more critical not just for fairness but also for their safety.
- With 5,000 fewer students expected in our district next year, we will already see natural savings in transportation costs. We should use those savings to protect the group of students who rely on us to get to the schools they have a right to attend.
- I was happy to support a budget that includes nearly $18 million to fairly pay our highest-earning employees. If we can find the resources to ensure our staff is taken care of, it is even more imperative to find $3.1 million to treat our students with the same level of fairness.
My Commitment to Our Students and Families
We cannot force boundary changes on families and then take away the essential services that make those transitions possible. My vote was a commitment to ensuring that “Equity” isn’t just a buzzword, but a standard we apply to every student in our division.
Celebrating Outstanding Educators
FCPS is fortunate to have more than 40,000 employees working tirelessly to make our schools the best in the nation. The Division finds numerous ways to show our appreciation for that hard work and I had the pleasure of celebrating three staff this month. In surprise visits, Liberty Middle School Band Director Joe LaBrie was named the Region 4 Outstanding Secondary Teacher and Lynn Eckerman, Annandale High School Biology teacher, was named the Region 6 Outstanding Secondary Teacher. Additionally, I was at Newington Forest Elementary to congratulate art teacher Nathan Drake, in his recognition as the Outstanding Elementary Teacher in Region 4.
 Region 4 Outstanding Secondary Teacher Joseph LaBrie, Band Director at Liberty Middle School
 Region 6 Outstanding Secondary Teacher Lynn Eckerman, Biology Teacher, Annandale High School
 Art teacher Nathan Drake recognized as Outstanding Elementary Teacher in Region 4
What’s Happened in February
A Day at Marshall High School: DECA Celebrates Career & Technical Education Month, Freshman Orientation, and Boys Basketball
DECA Celebrates Career & Technical Education Month
I spent a great afternoon with Marshall High School’s DECA group for their “Policy Makers Highlight” series. Students were focusing on career and technical education so I shared highlights of the amazing offerings of FCPS to be career-ready—more than 67,000 students are enrolled in over 160 Career and Technical Education courses. I’m always inspired when I spend time with students–their curiosity and vision for the future remind me of my personal journey into public service. I’m confident that these DECA members will find ways to positively impact their community through leadership, public service, and policymaking.
 Members of Marshall High School's DECA club
Freshman Orientation
On the same evening, families and incoming freshmen filled the Marshall auditorium for their first orientation. Staff walked the newest Statesmen through schedules, courses, and expectations, setting them up for a great start in August.
 Freshman orientation at Marshall High School
Boys Basketball - Marshall vs. Yorktown
The Statesmen bested the Yorktown Patriots 55-50 after coming from behind in the last minutes of the game. With 11 three-point shots made, the student section cheered on their team at max volume.
 Marshall vs. Yorktown varsity boys basketball
State of Centreville 2026
At the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce's annual State of Centreville ‘26 conference, I spoke about the importance of education in this wonderfully diverse and dynamic community. Education is a shared priority that connects us all, and it is important to elevate the strengths and needs of Centreville families. I felt inspired by the many organizations who are investing their time and effort in Centreville. The collaboration across private business, education and child enrichment entities, public facilities, and faith groups was a great reflection of the Centreville community.
I made a small donation to an organization providing social services in the Centreville area to encourage others to do the same. There are many organizations that need our support and donations from individuals and business can have a significant positive impact.
 Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce's State of Centreville meeting
New Teachers Wanted: Instructional Job Fair at Lake Braddock Secondary School
Prospective new teachers braved the cold to attend FCPS’ Instructional Job Fair at Lake Braddock Secondary School. Alongside Superintendent Reid and Chief of Schools Dr. Ponce (everyone bundled up with scarves!) I met numerous people who were answering the call to inspire the next generation and I reconnected with one of our current Ambassador teachers.
 At the instructional job fair at Lake Braddock SS
Leadership Lab at Woodson
 Student leaders from around the county gathered at Woodson for Leadership Lab.
More than 100 student leaders from nine area schools gathered at Woodson High School for the Leadership Lab. Participants were selected because of their roles as student government officers, committee chairs, and general leadership members. I was happy to share a bit of advice for these young, aspiring leaders to help them build leadership skills and find ways to continue public service in the community.
Lunar New Year at Powell Elementary and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
The colors and sounds of the Lunar New Year celebrations at Powell Elementary and TJHSST brought great joy to everyone in attendance. High energy performers captured the spirit of the Year of the Fire Horse with artistic flair. At Powell, the dancing and beautiful costumes kept the symbolism of this year at the forefront of my mind–energy, strength, and change. At TJHSST, I met a parent who has four children who have moved through the doors—two past and two current, Class of 2018, 2022, 2026, and 2029 and everyone received a Hong Bao, or red envelope gift given at special celebrations to symbolize good luck, prosperity, and joy.
 Top: Performers at Powell Elementary; Below: Bold colors at the Year of the Fire Horse at TJHSST
Just World Festival: Passport to the World
Annandale High School’s Just World Interact Club held the 20th Annual Festival celebrating global culture with student-led exhibits and service projects. There was a mix of international food and music, and attendees heard from FCPS’ own Edward Osborne, a Global Education Specialist as the keynote speaker. The event sought to promote sustainability and global awareness and create and empower belonging. In the center picture below, at a table for the Peace Corps, I am placing a pin on the city of my birth on a world map.
 Just World Festival at Annandale High School
Northeast Asia Relations Club
I was honored to be invited to speak at the first meeting of the McLean High School’s Northeast Asia Relations Club. I shared my personal history as a Korean immigrant and how my family’s story is tightly woven with the political and economic history of the Korean peninsula. I hope that hearing stories like mine will help the next generation better understand the lasting impact of conflict on families near and far.
 Northeast Asia Relations Club at McLean High School
Performing Arts: Oakton Theater's Clue and Legally Blonde at Lake Braddock
 Playbills from last month's Clue and Legally Blonde, "Elle" and "Emmet" after the play, and the cast of Clue
Spring theater performances are underway and I continue to be amazed at the talent on display by cast, crew, and musicians. This month I saw Clue at Oakton High School and Legally Blonde at Lake Braddock Secondary School.
Whodunit? I remember Colonel Mustard and Ms. Scarlett from the boardgame, but the students at Oakton brought the murder mystery to life. Could you guess who committed the crime?
Elle Woods continued blazing her path to the top while draped in pink, of course. Her insistence and persistence on defining success her own way is a great story of defying expectations and celebrating the things that make each of us unique.
Congratulations to all of the participants on wonderful productions—your hard work paid off.
A Night of Korean Tradition at Centreville High School
 Performers at A Night of Korean Tradition
Families from around the area attended A Night of Korean Tradition and were treated to a selection of beautiful music and dance performances. I enjoyed the traditional dances including the fan dance, Bu-Chae-Chum, and ceremonial dance, Giwonmu. The beats and rhythms of MEGA DRUM demonstrated a blend of traditional and modern style, balance among players, and communication between the performers and audience.
Annandale Rotary Club
I've been a member of the Annandale Rotary Club since 1998 and I recently had the privilege of introducing Superintendent Reid to the group of community members. Dr. Reid spoke about student success in the Division and asked for Rotary members to continue their important work of collaborating and advocating for improved access and opportunity in our area.
 Superintendent Reid presenting to Annandale Rotary Club
ACE Adult Education Classes
 Continuing education students at Plum Center
I believe strongly in the power of lifelong learning and I have the great responsibility of acting as the School Board Liaison to FCPS’ Adult & Community Education Committee. While at the Plum Center I joined students who are taking beginner and intermediate English as a Second Language classes. I am inspired by these adult learners who are focusing their time and energy on the challenge of learning a new language. I practice what I preach—I am auditing a class at George Mason University this semester on American History.
Classes are available year round and offered at times that can work in anyone's schedule. ACE is having a sale March 14-16 with discounts for multiple classes, and there is a $100 scholarship available for online career courses. Visit ACE's website for more information about these opportunities.
Civil Rights Leader Dolores Huerta at John R. Lewis High School
 With civil rights leader Dolores Huerta
Civil rights leader Dolores Huerta spoke at John R. Lewis High School at an event focused on service, justice, advocacy, and civic engagement. Ms. Huerta is 95 years old and has been an influential voice in American civil rights and labor movements.
Her messages resonated so strongly with the audience--we are all one race, the human race, she said. She spoke about the hope of young people, and that they need to fight for the changes they want to see in labor, women's rights, and LGBTQ issues. She challenged the students to go college, and to get out and vote.
Ms. Huerta emphasized these important values—Don't expect someone else to do the work for you. Do good work. Fight for change. Si se puede. Yes we can!
Celebrating Black History Month at Woodson High School
Rooted in Resilience, Echoes of Excellence was the theme of this year’s Black History Month Celebration. Students shined and truly reflected excellence in their performances which lifted up the impact of influential Black Americans on the direction of this country, and showcased the tradition and celebration of Black culture present in all of our lives.
It is fitting that the celebration took place at Carter G. Woodson High School—Mr. Woodson is considered the “Father of Black History.”
The performance of two young women really stood out to me—Eden Ephraim offered a reflection on Bayard Rustin, activist and organizer of the March on Washington Movement, and Sofia Almonte reflected on Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first female self-made millionaire.
 Clockwise from top left, students Eden Ephraim and Sofia Almonte, Jeff Clark with the history of Rosenwald Schools, the Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School choir, and dancing the electric slide
Reflections Awards—Fairfax County Council PTA
Fairfax County Council PTA hosted the Reflections Awards ceremony showcasing student submissions for the theme, "I Belong!" Students created works in photography, visual arts, dance performance, film, literature, and music. Several FCPS students have advanced to the National PTA Reflections competition level. Congratulations to all!
 FCCPTA's Reflections celebration, with middle school participant Allison Kwon
South County Stallions Advance to State Playoffs
 Team celebrations, in game action, and checking my height against South County students Adriana Mayorga (senior point guard, top right) and Michael Robinson (senior center, bottom center) at the Class 6C Regional basketball playoff games
The high school basketball season has now entered the state-level competition, with the state quarterfinals starting this week. We have four boys and four girls teams in the tournament. On the boys side are Edison, Marshall, South County, and Westfield, while Centreville, Oakton, South County, and West Potomac will compete on the girls side.
I was in person to see the Stallions boys beat Lake Braddock with a last second shot to finish 37-36 in the 6C Region semifinal match. South County then went on to win the Region final beating Edison. I also witnessed the South County team besting West Potomac in the Region 6C final in the girls' bracket.
I'll be at South County for the State quarterfinal doubleheader on Tuesday, March 3. The state semifinals will be on Friday, March 6, and the finals on March 12. I encourage you to get out and cheer on these excellent FCPS athletes. I hope that our Fairfax County teams win both boys and girls state championships.
Lorton Station Elementary's SPARK EXPO
 Student science and engineering presentations at Lorton Station's SPARK EXPO
At the SPARK EXPO at Lorton Station Elementary, hard work and creativity shined in student created science and engineering projects. I spoke with students who examined energy from multiple sources—6th grader Dariel worked with two other students to show energy options including solar, electric, wind, and hydraulic power. Jeremy, a 5th grader, showed how vegetables can create energy. I considered a second career possibility—Astronaut! Congratulations to all of the students for demonstrating the power of a curious, scientific mind.
Bulletin
Kimmy Duong Foundation Scholarship Opportunity
Middle School Transition Fair—Future Planning for Elementary and Middle School Students in Special Education
Coming up soon, March 4. Register here to attend.
Fairfax County Teen Job Fairs and Career Building Workshops this Month
March 7, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Chantilly High School
March 21, 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, West Springfield High School
RSVP here to attend the fair and workshops.
Student Award Application
The American Association of University Women's "Inclusion in Action" student award application is open now. For high school juniors who actively promote inclusion and belonging. The deadline is April 7.
Upcoming School Board Business & Meetings
Broadcast & open to the public:
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Tuesday, March 3, 2026, 11:30 a.m. All Day Work Session
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Wednesday, March 4, 2026, 4:00 p.m. Administration Committee
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Thursday, March 5, 2026, 6:30 p.m. Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee
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Tuesday, March 17, 2026, 4:00 p.m. Governance Committee
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Thursday, March 19, 2026, 6:15 p.m. Swearing In Ceremony for New Braddock District Magisterial Representative
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Thursday, March 19, 2026, 6:45 p.m. Public Hearing, Advanced Academics/AAP Center-North Springfield Elementary School
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Thursday, March 19, 2026, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
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Thursday, March 26, 2026, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
Individuals should check BoardDocs for the agenda for School Board meetings since there are closed meetings that often occur before the public portion of the meeting begins.
School Board Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are broadcast live and available to the public on several platforms:
If you miss the live broadcast of any School Board Meeting or Work Session, you can also watch archived broadcasts:
** Dates & times are subject to change. Please check the 2025 School Board Annual Work Calendar for the latest information.
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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