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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.
April is a meaningful month across our community as we recognize the Month of the Military Child, National Arab American Heritage Month, School Library Month, and Autism Acceptance Month. Each of these observances highlights the diversity, strength, and unique contributions of our students, families, and staff. We are reminded of our shared commitment to ensuring every student feels seen, supported, and valued.
This month has been filled with opportunities to connect with our community and engage in important work, from the Franconia District Budget Town Hall and School Board work sessions to the Lewis HS Meet Your Legislators event and the Lewis Leadership Program Exhibition of Learning. I also enjoyed visits with Principal Ebony Opie at Lane ES and Principal Mary Duffy at Bush Hill ES, as well as conversations with constituents at Greenspring.
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The recent student-led Mock School Board Forum was especially inspiring. I am proud of our student leaders for their thoughtful work and the strong proposals they developed to address key issues within FCPS.
Congratulations to Newt Shosteck, the Franconia District Student Representative, for his leadership in advancing the Student General Assembly forum topic during the forum. I continue to be inspired by the voice, leadership, and promise of our students.
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As we continue conversations around the FCPS 2027 budget, I want to share a simple but important message: our schools are an investment in our future. FCPS serves more than 177,000 students who speak nearly 200 languages, supported by a dedicated team of professionals who work every day to create welcoming, safe, and engaging learning environments. The majority of our budget goes directly into classrooms: supporting instruction, student services, and the staff who make it all possible while also strengthening family engagement through expanded translation services and meaningful partnerships.
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At our recent Governance Committee meeting, we continued important work to strengthen and streamline our policies, particularly those related to technology in our schools. I emphasized the importance of ensuring our policies are clear, cohesive, and accessible for both staff and families. This includes exploring ways to better align and consolidate overlapping technology policies into a more unified framework, while maintaining clear distinctions between instructional guidance and operational or information technology functions.
We also discussed the importance of using consistent, student-centered language and ensuring that policy documents remain concise and user friendly. As technology continues to evolve, it is critical that our policies reflect a comprehensive approach that incorporates the broader landscape of digital learning with evidence based data aligned with best practices.
At the April 9th regular meeting discussion was had on the school calendar and my work on developing a thoughtful calendar policy continues in the Governance Committee. Unique circumstances impacted the calendar this year, including special elections, mid-week holidays and severe weather conditions. Next year’s calendar reflects a reduction in days off that by comparison to this year has 33 days off instead of the unusually high of 40 this year. Moving forward it is important to me to balance competing priorities that consider our diverse community regarding holidays, increased consistency in instructional time and honoring the need for professional development and planning time that complies with our collective bargaining commitment while incorporating community feedback. I will continue to work with my colleagues and the Superintendent to find a path forward that benefits as many students as possible, which is always my goal. I encourage you to be involved in the process and give in person feedback at the Superintendent’s scheduled Community Conversations Wednesday, April 22, at Crestwood Elementary School and/or to respond to the electronic calendar survey when it is distributed.
After 26 years in our schools, I know firsthand that the impact of FCPS goes far beyond numbers. It is seen in the opportunities we create, the relationships we build, and the futures we help shape.
Thank you, as always, for your continued partnership and support.
Kind Regards,
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Focus on Franconia
🏈Hayfield Football Welcomes New Head Coach
I’m excited to share that Coach Liam Yao has been named Head Coach of Hayfield’s Varsity Football team.
With more than 13 years of coaching experience in Northern Virginia, including three years at Hayfield, Coach Yao has built a strong reputation for developing student-athletes both on and off the field. He was recently named Assistant Coach of the Year by the Northern Virginia Football Hall of Fame, reflecting his leadership and impact.
Coach Yao brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach focused on character, teamwork, and growth. I look forward to seeing the continued success of Hayfield Football under his leadership.
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🏆 241 FCPS Students Named 2026 National Merit Finalists
I am proud to share that 243 students from 18 Fairfax County Public Schools have been named 2026 National Merit Scholarship finalists. These students will compete for nearly $26 million in scholarship awards to be announced this spring.
Finalists are selected based on outstanding academic achievement, strong recommendations, and other rigorous criteria.
Congratulations to our Franconia District finalists:
Edison High School: Malyha Bashar and Zoe Stanfield
Thomas Jefferson High School: Soren Johnson and Emilia Sloan
West Springfield High School: Kennedy Leary
✍️ Students Honored With 2026 Regional Scholastic Writing Awards
FCPS student writers earned 162 awards in the 2026 DC Metro Region Scholastic Writing Awards, including 24 Gold Key honors. Gold Key winners advance to the national competition.
Presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, this prestigious program is the nation’s longest-running recognition for creative teens across a wide range of writing categories.
Congratulations to our Franconia District students:
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Sophia Shi, Edison High School – Gold Key (Poetry)
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Sydney Stokes, Mount Vernon High School – Honorable Mention (Poetry)
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Angela Chen, Twain Middle School – Honorable Mention (Speculative Fiction)
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Maggie Chen, Edison High School – Honorable Mention (Poetry)
👉 View the full list of winners on the FCPS website
🎵 FCPS Students Chosen for 2026 All-Virginia High School Band, Orchestra, Chorus and Middle School Chorus Group
I am proud to celebrate students from across Fairfax County Public Schools who have been selected for the 2026 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra, as well as the Middle School Chorus. These students earned their place through a rigorous statewide audition process and will perform with top student musicians from across Virginia.
Congratulations to our Franconia District honorees:
Band
Hayfield Secondary School: Kyle Haes, Benjamin Jacobs, Noah Roberts
West Springfield High School: Lucas Liu, James McDowell
Chorus
Edison High School: Jackson Byrd
Hayfield Secondary School: Kayleigh Haes
West Potomac High School: Lydia Assefa, Noura Barka, Jeremy Lacey-Kline
Orchestra
Lewis High School: Elizabeth Hunt
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology: Lucia Ishii
Middle School Chorus
Irving Middle School: Dahlia Padilla
📃 2026 National Board Certified and Recertified Teachers
At the April 9 School Board meeting, FCPS recognized educators who achieved or renewed certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
Congratulations to our Franconia District honoree:
Bhumika Saxena, Twain Middle School Newly Certified – Science, Early Adolescence
🎭 Upcoming School Performances
Key MS
The War of Winter (Student Written)
Written by Arina Dotsenko and Allie Harris
Showtimes:
April 24 and 25 at 6:30pm
Ticket Sales: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15619/
This Grant-award winning musical is about some of our favorite Greek Gods, and some you may not know about. Here is a note from the student writer & director! “Things are getting chilly on Olympus as Boreas, the God of the Winter Wind, continues to steal days from spring. Demeter, Goddess of Harvest, has a big issue with this because it means her daughter, Persephone, the Goddess of Spring, cannot come home. Demeter and Boreas cannot find common ground, so Zeus demands that they vote to see who wins: Boreas or Demeter.”
Hayfield Secondary School
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella
Showtimes:
May 1, 2, 8, 9 at 7pm
May 2 at 2pm
Ticket sales: hayfielddrama.com beginning April 21 @ 5pm
Mt Vernon HS
Once Upon A Mattress
Showtimes:
April 30 at 7pm
May 1, 2 at 7pm
Saturday May 2 at 1pm
Ticket sales: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15601/
West Potomac HS
Into The Woods
Showtimes:
April 30 at 7pm
May 1, 2, 7, 8, 9 at 7pm
Saturday May 2 and 9 at 1pm
Ticket Sales: https://www.westpotomactheatre.org/
Lewis HS
Mean Girls High School Version
Showtimes:
April 30 at 7:00 PM
May 1 at 7:00 PM
Saturday May 2 at 2:00 PM and 7PM
Ticket Sales: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15640/lewis-high-school-theatre
West Springfield HS
Mamma Mia The Musical
Showtimes:
April 30 7pm
May 1,2, 7, 8, 9 7pm
Ticket Sales: https://www.etix.com/ticket/v/15472/
*National Essay Contest*
1st Place is a Trip to Spain!
Raíces is a national essay contest for U.S. secondary students that shines a light on the living presence and contributions of the Hispanic community across the United States. Students are invited to tell the story behind a street name, a monument, a festival, a local leader, an organization, family recipe, culinary tradition, or even a neighborhood restaurant that connects their community to the Hispanic world. The goal is simple and powerful: to make visible what is often overlooked and affirm that Hispanic communities are here and are an active part of our shared society.
First place is a trip to Spain with an additional person, the teacher who helped them submit, & a companion for the teacher!
Click HERE for more information.
🧑🚒 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:
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Practical tips for positive interactions with police and rescue teams.
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Hands-on CPR practice and emergency demonstrations.
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Free Blue Envelopes to assist with disability disclosure in high-stress moments.
Find more information and register online.
🛠️Fairfax County Public Library Fix-It Clinic: May 9, 2026
Have a broken or damaged item you’ve been looking to get repaired but it’s too costly or inconvenient? Bring it by a Fairfax County Public Library Fix-It Clinic on Saturday, May 9, from 1-5 p.m.
We will have fixers skilled in various types of repairs available to help you bring your items back to life for FREE!
Types of repair assistance offered at the clinic will include:
- Electrical repair
- Fabric mending
- Jewelry repair
- Knife sharpening
- Small appliance repair
- Bike repair
Volunteer Your Skills
Are you skilled at bringing broken and damaged things back to life? We are looking for volunteer fixers to help with the event. We welcome fixers skilled in the types of repairs above and other types of fixing as well!
Participating branches:
* Repair services available will vary branch by branch. Please call the branch of your choice to confirm the services available.
🧑⚖️Circuit Court Satellite Services
Fairfax Circuit Court Satellite service is coming to the Gerry Hyland Government Center in South County on the 2nd Tuesday of every month starting on April 14th. Pop-up services will include marriage license issuance, FREE notarization of documents, certified copies of court records and filings into existing civil cases.
Richmond Highway BRT Community Survey
 Fairfax County is incorporating community-inspired artwork into Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) stations through the “Community Charm” initiative, reflecting the identity and history of nearby neighborhoods.
Share Your Input (April 6–May 8, 2026)Review and rank artwork designs for each station via an online survey (available in English and Spanish).
Attend the Open House 📍 Bryant High School, Alexandria 📅 April 29, 2026 | ⏰ 6:30–8:30 PM View artwork, ask questions, and provide feedback.
Free childcare, shuttle service, and bilingual support are available (request by April 22 at ncscrccregion1@fairfaxcounty.gov ).
👉 Learn more and access the survey on the Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) webpage.
SUN Bucks is Coming! Update Your Address to Get Benefits
Virginia SUN Bucks is a one-time benefit to help families with the cost of groceries during the summer when children are not in school. Some families will automatically qualify for SUN Bucks based on participation in SNAP, TANF, income-based Medical Assistance, or free or reduced-price meals at school. Whether you're applying for SUN Bucks or automatically qualify, make sure your child's school and/or Public Assistance and Employment Services (PAES) have your correct address. Learn more about SUN Bucks and how to apply.
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📅No School April 21/Meals for Students
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.
FCPS will offer lunch and a snack at no cost to children aged 18 and under on Tuesday, April 21, at participating schools. The meals must be eaten on site, and enrichment activities will be available for the children. For more information, visit the FCPS Food and Nutrition Services webpage.
🗣️Community Conversations: Share Your Thoughts With Dr. Reid
As a listening leader, connecting with community members across our school division is critical to FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid. Her Community Conversations are opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ask questions. Events will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on:
Click on a date to register to attend that event. Registration is not required, but it helps with planning, especially for child care and interpretation services. Events are open to all. Visit the superintendent’s engagement page for the most up-to-date information.
🗣️Conversaciones con la Comunidad: Comparta su Opinión con la Dra. Reid
Siendo una líder que sabe escuchar, la Dra. Reid considera muy importante conectarse e involucrarse con miembros de la comunidad en toda la división escolar. Sus reuniones Conversaciones con la Comunidad representan oportunidades para que comparta sus ideas y opiniones y para que haga las preguntas que tenga. Los eventos se realizarán en estas fechas, durante la primavera (de 6:30 a 7:30 p.m.):
Se ofrecerán servicios de Cuidado de Niños y de Traducción. Estos eventos están abiertos para todas las personas. Visite la página de participación comunitaria de la superintendente para que encuentre la información más reciente.
⏩Explore Life After High School at Flash Forward Postsecondary Education and Employment Options Event
Fairfax County Public Schools’ Career and Transition Services will host Flash Forward: Postsecondary Education and Employment Options on Wednesday, April 22, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., in the cafeteria at Woodson High School.
The event is designed for students with disabilities pursuing a standard or advanced diploma and their families. It offers an introduction to postsecondary pathways, including education, employment, and community programs. Representatives from adult education, workforce programs, and community organizations will be available to share resources and answer questions.
Families are encouraged to register in advance to attend.
🚸Family Resource Center- Upcoming May Webinars
Join us this May for informative sessions designed to support and empower families with practical tools and insights.
May 1 (10–11:30 AM) College Admissions Strategies for Students Without Perfect GPAs Practical guidance for helping “average” students with strong potential succeed in the admissions process.
May 8 (10–11:30 AM) Kinship Part 4: Supports for Families Raising Children with Special Needs Explore resources and support systems available to kinship caregivers.
May 15 (10–11:30 AM) Twice-Exceptional Series Part 3: Beyond High School Learn strategies to help 2e students build executive functioning and life skills for college, careers, and independence.
May 29 (10–11:30 AM) (En español) Caring Without Neglecting Yourself A workshop on emotional support, reducing stigma, and strengthening family support networks for caregivers of children with special needs.
Month of the Military Child
April is the Month of the Military Child! Every year we take the opportunity to recognize military-connected youth for their service and contribution to our community. Fairfax County Public Schools is proud to have over 14,000 military-connected youth as a part of our student body. We appreciate the varied life experiences they bring to our school community, and recognize their strength and resilience. Learn more about Month of the Military Child and FCPS resources for military families.
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National Arab American Heritage Month
FCPS is proud to celebrate National Arab American Heritage Month in April. This special month provides an opportunity to recognize the history and valuable contributions of Arab Americans. Arab Americans have ancestry in one of the world’s 22 Arab nations, which are located from northern Africa through western Asia. The people of these nations are ethnically, politically, and religiously diverse but share a common cultural and linguistic heritage. Learn more about the heritage months, celebrations, and traditions celebrated in FCPS.
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School Library Month
April is School Library Month and it's a great time to celebrate the essential role that school librarians play in the lives of students. School librarians ensure students have access to a wide variety of high-quality books and resources that connect them to the world and build a culture of literacy. Librarians develop lessons that are meaningful to students and help them develop critical thinking, inquiry, and information literacy skills. They support learning across all subject areas by teaching students the skills to be independent problem-solvers and creative thinkers. By creating a safe environment for all students to be engaged and curious learners, FCPS libraries are places where everyone belongs. Take a moment to learn more about FCPS Library Programs and share your appreciation of your school librarian!
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Autism Acceptance Month
April is Autism Acceptance Month. One in 31 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder in the United States, according to the CDC. Our schools and staff play a vital role in creating and ensuring inclusive environments that accommodate and affirm autistic students.
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District News/In Case You Missed It (ICYMI)
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Support Military Children
- National Merit Finalists
- School Board to Present Budget to Board of Supervisors
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
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School Board News
Keep You In the Know
March 26, 2026 School Board Meeting Update
April 9, 2026 School Board Meeting Update
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Regular Board Meetings
Luther Jackson Middle School
- Thursday, April 23 at 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, May 7at 7:00 p.m.
Work Sessions
Gatehouse Administration Center
- Tuesday, May 5 at 11:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, June 23 at 11:30 a.m.
Please note: Times and topics are subject to change.
Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at a regular meeting. Visit BoardDocs for more meeting logistics, agendas, and handouts.
Interested in School Board action items? Sign up to get an update on School Board votes the morning after the School Board meeting.
The work sessions and regular meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and the FCPS website. Both will be recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel.
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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 o escanee el código QR.
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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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