March 2026 Springfield Scene: Student and Staff News, Student Opportunities, Resources, and More!

Fairfax County Public Schools sent this bulletin at 03/23/2026 11:22 AM EDT

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Sandy Anderson - FCPS School Board Springfield District Representative

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.

Hello, Springfield District,

I want to begin this month by sharing a small but meaningful change to Springfield District communications. Moving forward, you will receive two newsletters from my office each month.

The first, like this one, is the Springfield Scene, where we will highlight the incredible things our students are doing and share engaging opportunities for families. The second newsletter will focus more directly on the work of the Division. Our goal is to make it easier for you to connect with the information that matters most to you.

It has been a busy and inspiring month since my last update. I had the opportunity to join several colleagues at the Lewis Leadership Academy Program in celebration of the birthday of John R. Lewis, where we also had the honor of meeting the remarkable Dolores Huerta. It was truly awe-inspiring to see the impactful work students are leading in our community.

Continuing with that theme of student engagement and future readiness, I attended the i2i Future Ready Conference with my colleague, Sully District Representative Seema Dixit. This event provides students with valuable exposure to a wide range of career pathways and helps them envision their futures.

I also had the chance to attend the Reading Opens the World Family Literacy Fair, hosted by the Fairfax County Federation of Teachers in partnership with the American Federation of Teachers. It is always energizing to see students of all ages excited about reading and learning.

Our students’ innovation and creativity were on full display at the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair awards ceremony. The level of thought, effort, and ingenuity in these projects is truly impressive. That same spirit was evident during Hunt Valley Elementary’s STEAM Night, where students showcased their work and families engaged in hands-on learning experiences alongside our dedicated staff.

This past weekend, I attended the Edu-Futuro 28th Anniversary Gala, Courage for a Cause, and was inspired by the impactful work being done across Northern Virginia to support students and families. I wrapped up the weekend at the Fairfax County Council PTA Spelling Bee finals, where our students demonstrated extraordinary skill while spelling words that left many adults in the audience second-guessing themselves!

I will be in touch soon,

Sandy

Three adults standing together holding books

Left to right: Mount Vernon District School Board Representative Mateo Dunne, Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, and me at the Reading Opens the World Family Literacy Fair.

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

Springfield Scene
Student Opportunities
Community News
Family and Student Resources
Quick Links

Springfield Scene

Congratulations to Centreville High School’s Girls Basketball Team for winning the Northern Region Championship title! The winning continues with Centreville’s Science Olympiad Team winning the Langley Regional Tournament!

Centreville’s Cara Portella recently led “Xavier’s Xtreme Team” in the nationally recognized Student Visionaries of the Year campaign for Blood Cancer United, raising an incredible $108,052.50 in just seven weeks to support blood cancer research and patients. Inspired by her brother’s battle with leukemia, Cara’s leadership and the team’s dedication have made a meaningful impact on countless lives and continue to showcase the extraordinary commitment of the Centreville Wildcats. Check out the full story on Good Morning Washington, ABC 7 WJLA!

Centreville students are launching an exciting environmental project in which they are growing grass in the classroom to support restoration efforts at Mason Neck State Park. If successful, the grass will be transferred in May to help strengthen underwater grass populations in the Chesapeake Bay. This hands-on learning experience allows students to explore environmental science in action while contributing to improved water quality and the Bay’s natural filtration system. Way to go!

Student and teacher planting grass seeds in container

Shout out to Chantilly High School for being selected for the 2026 First Amendment Press Freedom Award among 26 schools nationwide! This is the 12th consecutive award for Chantilly! Read about this honor.

Chantilly Chargers continue to excel with Dev Goda taking first place in Flight Endurance at the Technology Student Association Northern Regional Fair, and the Advanced Cyber Team winning the Virginia High School Cyber Cup, a high-stakes Capture the Flag (CTF) competition that challenges students to solve complex digital puzzles, crack codes, and secure vulnerable systems in a race against the clock.

The winning continues with Chantilly’s Amaan Khan, Utsav Das, and Benjamin Kwon winning the grand prize in Energy: Sustainable Materials and Design at the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair!

Did you know? The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Academy hosts seventeen high school firefighters from Chantilly Academy as they prepare for careers in fire and emergency services. Having their class at the official Fairfax County Fire Department (FCFC) training facility provides students with a unique learning experience that includes both classroom training and intense, scenario-based practical exercises. Students have access to all of the state-of-the-art facilities and equipment that the Fire and Rescue Academy offers as they train in the same place as Fairfax County Fire Recruits.

In the classroom, high school firefighters build a strong foundation in fire behavior, building construction, hazardous materials awareness, emergency medical response, and other fire service curricula emphasizing safety, critical thinking, and teamwork. As they move to the training grounds, students transform that knowledge into action through hands-on simulations. Wearing their own FCFD-issued protective gear, student firefighters practice hose advancement, ladder raises, search-and-rescue techniques, victim removal, and live-fire simulations in controlled training environments. Chantilly Academy high school firefighters receive their classroom and practical lessons from FCFD fire service professionals with decades of knowledge and experience.

Congratulations to Fairfax High School’s Sauren Kwatra and Bishesh Pokhrel for winning the Junior Varsity division of the 2026 Washington, D.C. Metro History Bowl Championships, also known as the National History Bowl!

Fairfax Data Science students and the Girls Who Code Club visited FCPS’ Wilton Woods Center to see firsthand how data is stored, processed, and managed at scale, and to learn about the wide range of career pathways available in data science, information, technology, and engineering in Virginia.

Adult speaking while standing in data lab and adult speaking to seated students

Fairfax Academy marketing students held this year’s Fashion Around the World fashion show by securing clothing donations from local businesses, designing and building custom modeling sets for each featured country, choreographing the run of show, and executing a high-quality, flawless production!

Way to go to Irving Middle School’s Team “W.A.R.T.S.,” whose name is an acronym for those “Who Actually Read The Stories,” for winning the Middle School Battle of the Books Competition! Read on!

Irving’s Solomon Merriweather was selected by the FCPS Black History Month Planning Committee to perform at the division’s Black History Month Celebration, Rooted in Resilience: Echoes of Excellence, last month at Carter G. Woodson High School. Fantastic!

Keene Mill Elementary School’s Helping Games have been a tradition at the school for the last nine years. The activities, which take place over a month, teach Keene Mill students meaningful life skills and values, such as empathy, compassion, responsibility, teamwork, and collaboration.

During the Helping Games, the entire school community — students, faculty, and staff — is divided into four teams, who then compete against each other to do the most good. Each week brings a new cause to support. The school has already collected canned goods and books, which will be donated to local non-profit organizations ECHO, Northern Virginia Family Services, and Read on Young Readers. Over two more weeks, Keene Mill will hold a shoe drive and collect “Change for Change” to benefit a charity of the student government’s choosing. This year, the school will collect donations for the World Wildlife Fund. Outstanding!

🏆 80 FCPS Students Named as U.S. Presidential Scholars

Eighty Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students have been named as 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. They are part of a group of 5,000 students from around the country — and more than 38% of Virginia’s candidates — selected for the honor.

This recognition reflects not only the extraordinary accomplishments of these students but also the power and promise of public education.

Across Fairfax County, our public schools provide students with access to rigorous academics, innovative programs, and dedicated educators who help them discover their strengths and reach their full potential. These 80 students exemplify what is possible when talent, hard work, and opportunity come together.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!

Fairfax High School

Samuel Park

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Sarah Roelke

Oakton High School

Ryan Shin

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

Joseph George

Bowen MacGillivray

Aditi Narayan

Justin Yu

View the full list in FCPS News.

🕊️ FCPS Students Honored With 2026 Student Peace Awards

Students from 28 Fairfax County public schools have been named recipients of the 2026 Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, designed to recognize young people who work as peacemakers.

The Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County began in 2006 as a way to encourage people to think more about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. Every year, the high schools in Fairfax County are asked to select one junior or senior, or a group of students, whose work has promoted peace. The project is organized by volunteers and funded by donations from 16 secular and religious sponsoring organizations.

Congratulations to Quander Road School’s Brycen Smith and Robinson Secondary School’s Caitlyn Murphy! I’m so proud of you!

🏆Fairfax County Council Parent Teacher Association Reflections Award Winners

The Fairfax County Council Parent Teacher Association (FCCPTA) is thrilled to announce the winners of this year’s Reflections program! Centered around the student-selected theme, "I Belong," this volunteer-led initiative celebrates the vital role the arts play in student success—from building confidence to fostering a lifelong love of learning. Through their original works, students across all grade levels explored their creativity and developed the artistic literacy essential for success in school and beyond.

Congratulations to the following Springfield District Students who earned the Outstanding Interpretation (first-place) Award! These students will advance to the Virginia PTA Reflections round.

Hunt Valley Elementary School

Dax Douglass (Photography)

Connor Huber (Photography)

Irving Middle School

Ruby Mehta (Music Composition)

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Brianna Le (Literature)

Sangster Elementary School

Chelsea Yom (Visual Arts)

Waples Mill Elementary School

Yesha Mehta (Visual Arts)

View the full list of winners.

🏅 17 FCPS High Schools Named to 2025 Advanced Placement School Honor Roll

The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the 2025 Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll. Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction.

Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

The AP program offers college-level courses and exams that students can take in high school. By taking AP exams, students can earn college credit. FCPS pays the fees for the first six AP exams taken by each student for FCPS courses in which they are enrolled for high school credit.

Congratulations to the following schools serving Springfield District students!

Silver Distinction Schools

Centreville High School

South County High School

West Springfield High School

Gold Distinction Schools

Chantilly High School

Fairfax High School

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Platinum Distinction Schools

Oakton High School

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Woodson High School

🎭 4 FCPS Teachers Among Wolf Trap Grant Winners for Performing Arts

Four FCPS teachers are among 13 public middle and high school teachers to receive grants from the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. Wolf Trap’s Grants for Performing Arts Teachers fund music, dance, and theater projects in public school classrooms in Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.

The grants are part of an annual program to support area public school teachers who are working to bring innovative performing arts experiences to their communities. Congratulations to Rocky Run Middle School’s Meghan Pafumi and Woodson High School’s Christopher Rushing!

🎭 Upcoming School Performances

Don’t miss the many upcoming school performances featuring our outstanding Springfield District students! Among them are:

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science & Technology

Anastasia: The Musical

April 16-25

Buy tickets

Centreville High School

The Play That Goes Wrong (high school edition)

April 17-19

Buy tickets

Katherine Johnson Middle School

Moana, Jr.

April 23-25

Buy tickets

Lake Braddock Secondary School Middle School Theatre

As You Like It

April 23-26

Buy tickets

South County High School

Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella (Broadway version)

April 23-25

Buy tickets

Frost Middle School

Anything Goes: Youth Edition

April 24-25

Buy tickets

Key Middle School

The War of Winter

April 24-25

Buy tickets

Robinson Secondary School

Legally Blonde, The Musical

April 24-May 2

Buy tickets

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 not assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parents or guardians before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity. Families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.

♻️ High School Students Invited to Join the Superintendent’s Youth Environmental Council

The Superintendent's Youth Environmental Council (SYEC) was founded by students for students and represents students from across the division who are dedicated to making FCPS a global leader in sustainability. SYEC would like representation from every high school! If you know a high school student or you are a FCPS high school student, email superintendent@fcps.edu with name, school, and contact information to join.

☀️ Registration Open for Values in Prevention Summer Camps

We believe every student is a very important person (VIP). Our mission is to provide a safe, enriching environment where your child can stay active, spark new interests, and build lasting friendships.

Led by the experts from FCPS Middle School After-School Programs and Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services, our campers enjoy a dynamic mix of sports and games, fitness, creative arts, and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) activities.

The Values in Prevention Summer Camps are for rising 7th and 8th-grade students residing in Fairfax County and will be held at middle school locations throughout the county. The camps will take place from Wednesday, July 1, to Thursday, July 30 (closed Friday, July 3) from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the following locations.

Southern VIP Camp at South County Middle School: This camp welcomes students from the Frost, Lake Braddock, Irving, Robinson, and South County middle school neighborhoods.
Western VIP Camp at Liberty Middle School: This camp welcomes students from the Franklin, Katherine Johnson, Liberty, Rocky Run, and Stone middle school neighborhoods.

Find more information and register on the FCPS website.

☀️ Therapeutic Recreation Camps

Fairfax County’s Neighborhood and Community Services Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS) is offering modified summer day camps for elementary and teen campers, specifically structured for the disability community. The inclusive camps are open to participants with a wide range of needs, including developmental and intellectual disabilities, neurodivergence (such as autism or ADHD), and physical, emotional, or learning challenges.

Their programs go beyond just having fun; they focus on building independence, discovering new interests, and fostering peer connections. For the youngest participants, the TRS Preschool Camp provides an inclusive, structured play environment for children of all abilities.

Find more information and register online.

📣 West Springfield High School Sports Camps

West Springfield High School will hold a Kids’ Cheer Camp for students in grades K-8 on Monday, April 6, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additionally, the school will hold a variety of sports camps this summer. Summer camps include:

🏀Girls Pro Basketball Camp
🏈Girls Flag Football Camp
🏐Spartan Girls Volleyball Camp
🥍Girls Lacrosse Youth Camp
🏀Girls Basketball Camp
🏐Spartan Boys Volleyball Camp

🎭 Fairfax High School KPop Broadway Hunters Drama Camp

Fairfax High School Theatre is holding a spring KPop Broadway Hunters Drama Camp on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Fairfax High School for students in grades 1-8. The cost is $65 per child and $45 for children of FCPS employees.

Mr. Chris Whitney, Fairfax High School Theatre Director, is the Camp Director, and the FX Players, the dedicated and talented high school theatre students, are the counselors. Parents from the Theatre Boosters will be on hand as chaperones. Activities will include action, improv, musical theatre, props, costumes, and dance. The camp will conclude with a 3 p.m. performance for parents.

🤖Oakton High School STEAM Symposium

The Oakton High School Cougar Robotics Team would like to invite students to Oakton High School’s STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) Symposium!

During this event, students will be able to explore the STEAM clubs of Oakton High School and other FCPS high schools through various booths and activities proctored by each of the clubs. Through this symposium, they hope this event will foster STEAM interest and learning in your students and get them excited about all the opportunities available in the near future.

This event will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. in the Oakton High School Auxiliary Gym. It will be set up in a rotational manner so that your students may come and go as they please. Concession will be sold.

⚽ TOPSoccer for Students with Disabilities

Developed by US Youth Soccer, TOPSoccer provides young athletes with disabilities a safe, nurturing space to master the game. By pairing players with volunteer coaches and youth mentors, the program fosters physical, social, and emotional growth, ensuring every child feels empowered as a valued member of the soccer community.

TOPSoccer’s spring sessions will take place on Sundays from April 12 to June 7 (excluding May 24) from 4 to 5 p.m. at the Nancy F. Sprague Technology Center in Annandale. The sessions are for students ages 5 to 18.

Find more information and register online.

🌳 Fairfax County Environmental Quality Advisory Council Student Members Needed

Fairfax County’s Environmental Quality Advisory Council (EQAC) is seeking a student member to join the council for the July 2026 through June 2027 term! The application is open to all interested high school sophomores and juniors who are in good standing. Eligible public school, parochial, private school, and homeschooled students are encouraged to apply. Apply by Sunday, April 12, 2026.

🔖 Educate Fairfax Student Bookmark Art Contest

“Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader”

Educate Fairfax, the 501(c)3 education foundation that partners with the community to support Fairfax County Public Schools students and educators, is launching a division-wide Student Bookmark Art Contest. FCPS students in grades K–12 are invited to design a 2” x 7” bookmark celebrating the power of learning and creativity under the theme “Today’s Reader, Tomorrow’s Leader.”

Artwork must be original, flat (no glitter or pop-ups), and include the student’s name, grade, and school on the back. Entries will be judged on creativity, connection to the theme, and overall effort. Four winners (K–2, 3–6, middle, and high) will each receive a $25 gift card, and winning designs will be printed and shared in schools and the community. This initiative supports FCPS Goal 3 by promoting literacy and student engagement.

Submissions may be mailed to Educate Fairfax (8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Drive, Fairfax, VA 22031) or emailed to info@educatefairfax.org. By submitting, students confirm FCPS enrollment and grant permission for printing and promotion (first name and grade only; parent/guardian signature required for winners).

Find more information and submit your bookmark by Friday, April 17, 2026.

Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship

The Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship provides $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four (4) years (contingent upon continued enrollment and eligibility), to Lewis High School seniors to support their postsecondary education.

For nearly 20 years, Irene Rosenbaum gave her time, heart, and steady presence to the students and staff of Crestwood Elementary School. She volunteered five days a week—supporting children after school, assisting teachers, and making sure students felt seen, supported, and valued.

Irene believed deeply in the power of education to change lives. She cared especially about students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and understood that access, encouragement, and opportunity could shape a child’s future.

Established by her family, the Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship continues her legacy by supporting students who reflect her values of resilience, service, and perseverance.

The scholarship application is open until Friday, April 17, 2026. Apply online.

Educate Fairfax Scholarships

Educate Fairfax Scholarships open doors, ensuring FCPS students have access to college and career opportunities, including clinicals, internships, apprenticeships, and more.

We are deeply committed to ensuring every FCPS student has the opportunity to succeed beyond high school, regardless of their background or financial situation. Many of our talented students face financial barriers that prevent them from pursuing their dreams.

They offer multiple scholarships to students to help them reach their dreams. The applications are open until Friday, April 17, 2026. Apply now !

Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators Scholarship

The Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators (FABSE) is dedicated to advancing the academic achievement of all students, with a primary focus on children of African descent. Their mission is built on the four key pillars of professional networking, skill enhancement, advocacy and awareness, and collaborative problem-solving.

The FABSE Scholarship Program is open to eligible graduating seniors planning to attend college, university, and/or a technical or trade program. The scholarships are not based on financial need but on academic excellence. Students who demonstrate academic effort and growth, leadership and community involvement, and a commitment to personal and educational success should apply.

Apply online by Monday, April 20, 2026. Contact Krylstel Trammel at kmtrammell@fcps.edu with questions.

🌎 Call for Volunteers: Earth Day Fairfax 2026

Fairfax County is seeking volunteers for its premier Earth Day Fairfax celebration at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston. This large-scale event, scheduled for April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., aims to foster environmental appreciation through workshops, vendors, and interactive exhibits.

To ensure a successful experience for our 7,000+ attendees, we are recruiting volunteers for various roles, including guest assistance, activity support, and event set-up. This is a great opportunity for students seeking service hours!

All volunteers must be at least 15 years of age. Multiple shifts are available to accommodate different schedules.

This is an excellent opportunity for students and community members to engage in meaningful service. Interested individuals should register via the Volunteer Fairfax website.

⚙️ Techstravaganza 2026

Ignite your curiosity at Techstravaganza, Northern Virginia’s premier hands-on STEM fair for elementary and middle school students. Whether it’s through mind-blowing demonstrations or interactive experiments, this event is designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

🧪 What to Expect

This isn't your average science fair. With over 70 unique labs and a history of hosting more than 4,500 attendees, Techstravaganza offers a self-paced journey through the world of STEM.

Custom Exploration: You choose the path! Visit the booths that spark your interest.
Elite Exhibitors: Learn from the best, including NASA SCaN, the National Air and Space Museum, George Mason University, and student-led clubs from TJHSST.
Perks & Prizes: Keep an eye out for raffles, exclusive merchandise, and goodie bags throughout the day.

📅 Event Details

When: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST)
Cost: Free and open to the public!

Note for Title I Schools: Complimentary lunch will be provided in the cafeteria from 12 to 1 p.m. Transportation details will be coordinated directly through your school’s primary contact.

🚔2026 Teen Police Academy

Fairfax County rising high school 10th through 12th-grade students are invited to apply for the upcoming Teen Police Academy. This immersive program covers core police functions and law enforcement career paths through interactive, hands-on learning.

Program Details

Dates: Monday, July 13 – Friday, July 17. 2026
Attendance: Participants are expected to attend all daily sessions (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
Location: Public Safety Headquarters, 12099 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA
Transportation: While most students provide their own transport, assistance may be requested via email to Captain Deanna Weand at the time of application.

Apply online by Monday, June 29, 2026.

👮‍♀️ Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement

The Fairfax County Police Department is proud to offer a free program for Northern Virginia rising 10th through 12th-grade high school-age girls interested in exploring a career in law enforcement. Future Women Leaders in Law Enforcement highlights core police functions—including patrol, aviation, and forensics—while providing direct mentorship from today's women leaders in the field.

Program Details

Dates: July 27 – 31, 2026
Curriculum: Hands-on sessions at the Public Safety Headquarters, 12099 Government Center Parkway, Fairfax, VA
Commitment: Participants are expected to attend all classes during the week.
Transportation: While most students provide their own transport, assistance may be requested via email to Captain Deanna Weand at the time of application.

Apply online by Monday, July 13, 2026.

⛹️‍♂️South County High School Boys Basketball Camp

The South County High School Boys Basketball Team is hosting two Boys' Basketball Camp sessions this summer for students ages 7 to 15. Session one will take place from June 22-26, 2026, and session two will take place from June 29-July 3, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Each session costs $195 or $175 for additional siblings and will be held at South County High School.

🌱 Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District Poster Contest

Calling all K-12 student artists! The Northern Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District is seeking students to design posters for the 2026 Youth Poster Contest. The theme for this year is ‘Soil. Where It All Begins.” Students may enter hand-drawn, digital, braille, and additional assistance categories. Entries are due June 30, 2026. Learn more about the poster contest categories and guidelines, and download your entry form.

🏀 Lewis High School Girls Basketball 2026 Summer Camp

The Lewis High School Girls Basketball Team is holding a basketball summer camp July 6-10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for students in grades 1-10. The camp will be held at Lewis High School. The cost for the campus is $120 for the week or $40 per day. Register by Thursday, April 30, 2026, and receive an early bird discount of $100 for the week!

Questions? Email Coach Sam at swpartonen@fcps.edu.

⛹️‍♀️ Chantilly High School Girls Basketball Camp

The Chantilly High School Girls Basketball Team is holding a summer camp for rising 2nd through 9th-grade girls at Chantilly High School. Session 1 will take place July 6-10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and session 2 will take place July 20-24 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. The cost is $220 per session or $400 for both sessions.

For more information, call 703-424-5868 or email chantillygirlsbasketball@gmail.com.

🏀 Chantilly High School Boys Basketball Camp

Join the Chantilly High School Boys Basketball Team for a summer camp taking place July 13-17, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Chantilly High School gym. Campers will receive fundamental instruction in ball handling, shooting, passing, catching, offensive moves, offensive and defensive footwork, team defense, and team concepts. There will also be a one-on-one team and skill competition. The price per camper is $185.

🦀 Chesapeake Bay Girls Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Camp

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is hosting Bay Eco-Camp: Girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), a five-day environmental program for girls aged 13–14, taking place from August 3 to August 7, 2026. Participants will travel to Port Isobel Island to conduct scientific investigations, habitat testing, and ecological analysis within the Chesapeake Bay. The registration deadline is June 1, 2026. For more information and register online.

Community News

Fairfax County Health Department Measles Update

Measles is a highly contagious virus that infects 9 out of 10 people who are exposed, if unvaccinated or not immune. It has been in the news lately due to cases in Northern Virginia and among people who have traveled through local airports.

If your spring break or summer plans include traveling abroad or to an area in the United States with high measles activity, the Fairfax County Health Department encourages you to ensure your family is protected.

Children 12 months and older should have one or two doses before traveling. Depending on your specific travel plans, your health care provider may also advise you to vaccinate infants 6 to 11 months old. Read more about these recommendations.

👗 West Springfield High School Prom Dress-Up Drive

Prom season is just around the corner! If you have formal wear collecting dust, West Springfield High School welcomes donations for its Prom Dress Drive. They will be accepting items until March 26, 2026.

Drop off an accepted item on a hanger to the main office. Please include a tag/notecard with the size. Accepted items include: formal dresses, suits, dress shirts, ties, shoes, and other accessories.

🌟 Celebrate Those Making a Difference in our Special Education Community!

Nominations are now open for Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association’s (SEPTA) Annual Awards Ceremony, honoring the FCPS students, staff, and community members who go above and beyond to support and empower students with disabilities. These dedicated champions create opportunities, foster growth, and ensure every child receives the support they need to thrive. Anyone can submit a nomination—you do not need to be a SEPTA member to nominate someone or to be nominated.Submit your nomination by Friday, March 27, 2026, and save the date for the Awards Ceremony on Saturday, May 2, 2026.

Review of the 2020 Digital Learning Integration Standards of Learning

At its November 13, 2025, meeting, the Virginia Board of Education authorized the Virginia Department of Education to begin reviewing the Digital Learning Integration (DLI) Standards of Learning (SOL). The review is expected to be completed by Summer 2027.

An important part of the review process is gathering public feedback. Classroom teachers, students, parents, administrators, curriculum supervisors, Instructional Technology Resource Teachers (ITRTs), librarians, and other stakeholders are invited to share their input using the 2020 DLI SOL Public Comment form. It will remain open until March 30, 2026. The form also includes application questions for those interested in serving on the review committee. Selected steering committee members will be contacted in March, and review committee members will be contacted in May.

🏃‍➡️ Lancer 5K and Fun Loop

The Lewis High School Lancer 5K is back, and this year, they’re also adding a Fun Loop at the school. Whether your family enjoys running, walking, or just coming out to cheer people on, it’s a great way to get active together and support our school.

The 5K starts at 8 a.m., on Saturday, April 18, 2026, followed by the Fun Loop. All proceeds go directly to support Lewis High School athletics.

Grab a friend, bring the family, and join us for a fun morning with the Lancer community.

Find more information and register online. Register now. Prices will be raised starting April 15!

April Statewide Election: No School for Students

There will be no school for students on Tuesday, April 21, for the Virginia statewide election. Student activities, athletic practices, and events may proceed as scheduled. Principals and directors of student activities may adjust event start times and entry points to ensure clear separation between student activity areas and polling spaces.

Fairfax County Public Schools will still exceed the required number of instructional hours for students, as set by the Virginia Department of Education.

FCPS Teachers and staff should check their email for a message from the division (sent this morning, March 11) with additional details.

Family and Student Resources

Fairfax County Stronger Foundations for Parenting Workshop Series

The Fairfax County Department of Family Services - Children, Youth, and Families is offering a free weekly workshop series for parents and caregivers of children ages 0–18. This program focuses on strengthening parent-child relationships, enhancing parental resilience, and supporting healthy child development and well-being.

Virtual workshops include:

Building a Supportive Parenting Network - Wednesday, April 8, 6 to 8 p.m.
Virtual Parent Café: The Power of Play in Parenting - Tuesday, April 14, 6:30-8 p.m.
Holistic Child Well-Being: Mind, Body, and Community - Wednesday, April 24, 6 to 8 p.m.

In-Person workshops include:

Healthy Relationships: Parenting with Empathy (offered in English) - Wednesday, April 8, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Sherwood Regional Library
Healthy Relationships: Parenting with Empathy (offered in Spanish) - Thursday, April 23, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Centreville Regional Library

There are prizes for all who participate!

For more information, email buildingstrongerfamilies@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-7720.

Northern Virginia Community College Vision 2026

FCPS and the Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), Annandale Campus, are offering an opportunity for students with disabilities interested in attending NOVA to learn about available options. The orientation, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 4:15 to 6:15 p.m., will include presentations from Accommodations and Accessibility Services and Counseling Services, a mock NOVA classroom experience for students, and a NOVA student panel with a question-and-answer session.

2026 Special Education Family Conference: Rescheduled

The 2026 Special Education Family Conference has been rescheduled to Saturday, April 18, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Marshall High School.

Updated conference details are now available on the Special Education Family Conference webpage. Please register for the event.

If you registered before the date change, please re-register for the new date. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this date change may cause and appreciate your understanding.

❤️ Beyond the Likes Virtual Youth Forum

The American Academy of Pediatrics Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health invites teens (ages 14-19) to participate in Beyond the Likes - Social Media, Mental Health & You, a free virtual youth forum on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 12 to 3 p.m.

This interactive event will empower young people to navigate the digital world with confidence, engage in meaningful conversations with peers and experts, and gain practical tools for managing their digital lives. Earn a Certificate of Completion and get a chance to win prizes!

Clubs and organizations whose members participate in the forum may be eligible for a small stipend; interested groups can contact Marija Hegel at mhegel@aap.org for more information.

🎓 Flash Forward: Postsecondary and Employment Options

Join the Office of Career and Transition Services for Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Woodson High School. This event is designed to provide students with disabilities seeking a standard or advanced diploma and their families with an introduction to the options available after high school. Representatives from adult education, employment, and community programs (college, military, apprenticeship, trade school, gap year, and employment) will host information tables.

🧑‍🚒 First Responder Interaction Day

Fairfax County’s first responders are teaming up with The Arc of Northern Virginia for a special day of learning and empowerment for individuals with disabilities on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Academy. This free event is all about making sure everyone feels safe, seen, and prepared. Whether you want to practice calling 911 or meet the people behind the uniform, there is something here for everyone.

Highlights include:

Practical tips for positive interactions with police and rescue teams.
Hands-on CPR practice and emergency demonstrations.
Free Blue Envelopes to assist with disability disclosure in high-stress moments.

Find more information and register online.

Become Unskippable: Share the Facts About Fentanyl With Teens

Talking with teens about the facts of fentanyl is a conversation you can’t skip. Learning about fentanyl gives teens a better understanding of the risks and effects of the drug, and what they can do to keep themselves and their communities safe.

Share these important facts with your child:

Even half a fentanyl-laced pill can be fatal. Just a few salt-sized grains of fentanyl are enough to cause an overdose.
More than half of local street pills contain a deadly dose of fentanyl. As of 2023, seven in 10 counterfeit pills in the U.S. contain enough fentanyl to cause a fatal overdose.
Fentanyl is usually taken accidentally. Many people have no idea they’ve taken it until they overdose because you can’t see, smell, or taste it in pills and powders.
Overdose can happen in an instant. In as little as four minutes, the lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage and even death.

Learn more about how to have conversations with your child in a way that will make you Become Unskippable.

No-Cost Mental Health Teletherapy for All High School Students

Is your student experiencing anxiety, behavior changes, or challenges with peer and family relationships? If so, you may refer your child for weekly therapy with a licensed therapist through Hazel Health. Visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for information on this service.

Free Workshops and Events from the Family Resource Center and Family Academy

Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC). Sign up for the FRC newsletter for their latest offerings or visit their webinar webpage.

The Family Academy is a one-stop shop for resources, tools, and learning opportunities for families. The Family Academy offers in-person and virtual classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families in our learning catalog. Sign up for the Family and School Partnerships newsletter or visit the Family Academy catalog for classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families.

March and April offerings include:

March 27, 10-11:30 a.m. - Countdown to Kindergarten
April 10, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - in person at the Gum Springs Community Center, Sibshops and SibTeens
April 14, 6 p.m. - Partnering with Your Child’s Middle School

April 28, 7 p.m. - Partnering with Your Child’s Middle School
April 17, 10-11:30 a.m. - How to Develop Organizational Skills with Your Child
April 24, 10-11:30 a.m. - Literacy Instruction for Students with Significant Disabilities

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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.

Contact: Sandy Anderson | 571-423-1080

Springfield District Staff | 571-423-1065

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