The division’s school health specialists (pictured above) recently prepared “go bags” for all schools to use in case of an emergency. In advance of National School Nurse Day (tomorrow), thank you for your support county public health nurses, licensed practical nurses, and school health aides!
2027 Pay Changes and MyPath Update
MyPath, the new FCPS human resources and payroll system, is launching in December 2026. This system has been designed to streamline the employee experience and will be rolled out over several phases. In December, MyPath will replace UConnect, MyTime, and Lawson with a single portal for pay, leave, and benefits.
In response to employee feedback, the following will begin in January 2027:
- FCPS will move to year-round pay for less than 12-month employees who are paid monthly. This change will also provide a standard hourly rate across the year.
- Less than 12-month contracted employees who are paid biweekly will receive a consistent monthly amount across their contract year.
Impacted employees in both of these groups should have received an email with additional details. Please note that 12-month employees and hourly non-contracted employees will have no change to their current pay schedules.
For more information, please visit the MyPath Project page and Payroll’s What You Need to Know page.
Happy Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week
This week is National Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. During this week, we recognize the remarkable contributions of our educators and staff members who go above and beyond every day to support, challenge, and inspire students.
From the Young Male Leadership Club to the annual Glowwalk and Color Fun Run, discover how Jason Ericson from Dogwood Elementary School uses community partnerships and fundraising to ensure every student has the opportunity to play, lead, and belong.
And when Emmeline Mejia noticed the difficulty some students faced while trying out for sports, she built a partnership with local clinics, allowing Justice High School to register many kids who had never been able to participate in sports before. Hear more about her work on this athletics inclusion project.
Read more about these teachers — and Andrea Edmonson, third grade teacher at Little Run Elementary School — who were recognized as outstanding FCPS teachers at last year’s honors.
See more teacher and staff highlights and inspiration in the In the Spotlight playlist.
Thank You, Teachers, for Tailoring Support to Every Student
In her Weekly Reflections, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid invited the community to view a video message offering appreciation for our hard-working and dedicated teachers and staff. Read more in Dr. Reid’s latest Weekly Reflections.
Instructional Assistant Teaches, Calms, and Cheers on Students for 26 Years
13,000. That’s how many steps Pam Lieber can take in one day on the job as an instructional assistant at Kings Park Elementary School, where she’s worked for 26 years.
13,000 is a big number of steps, but they add up to something even bigger: more moments where students get feedback, practice, and confidence — she does it all by putting one foot in front of the other. Read more about Pam’s impact on her school community.
Become a National Board-Certified Teacher
Thinking about becoming a National Board-Certified Teacher (NBCT)? Join the Office of Professional Learning for a virtual information session on Wednesday, May 20, from 5 to 6 p.m.
Ask questions, hear from current NBCTs, and find out if this is the right path for you. Register for this session on MyPDE. Learn more about the FCPS NBCT program on Atlas. Please contact Mary Beth Anderson if you have any questions.
Instructional Coach Learning Cohort: Apply Now
Applications are now open for the Instructional Coach Learning Cohort (ICLC), a program designed to prepare passionate teacher leaders for the impactful role of an instructional coach. Educators interested in pursuing this role for the 2027-28 school year are encouraged to apply now.
The cohort includes eight in-person sessions beginning October 8. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is recommended. Read more about ICLC and access the application.
FCPS Celebrates the Lasting Impact of 160 Retiring Staff Members
The annual FCPS Retirement Ceremony was held on April 29. Retirees — including Cheryl Clark, first grade teacher at Bonnie Brae Elementary School (pictured above with Dr. Reid) — along with their families and friends, the FCPS senior leadership team, and members of the School Board attended the event. Each of the 160 retirees who attended had a profile read by a member of the leadership team and received a gift.
Thank you to all our newly retired staff members for all the ways you have supported and empowered our students and families, each other, and our division over the years. You’ve made an invaluable impact on our community. View the ceremony program, photos, and video.
Explore Your Benefits this Spring
Be sure to take time to explore your employee benefits this spring! Learn what’s available and how to make the most of your coverage by visiting Benefit Services on Atlas.
Mental Health and Substance Use First Aid
Mental Health First Aid teaches individuals how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges among adults.
CareFirst and EveryMind offer free virtual Mental Health First Aid Training to all FCPS employees. Training is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, May 18 (Register by Tuesday, May 12), and Thursday, May 28 (register by Wednesday, May 20).
Additional dates and information on Mental Health First Aid are available on Atlas.
Fertility Educational Webinar for CareFirst Members
CareFirst members are invited to a webinar on Wednesday, May 6, featuring WIN Fertility, CareFirst, and CVS Caremark. Sessions will take place at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Click on your preferred time to register.
Learn more about WIN Fertility, provider networks, lifetime maximum fertility treatments and specialty medications, and tools and resources available, including the WIN Family App. CareFirst and CVS Caremark representatives will explain topics including the prior authorization process, fertility benefits, and pre- and postnatal preventative measures.
Visit Atlas for more information on the WIN Fertility webinar for CareFirst members.
Expectant Parents Workshop
A virtual workshop on Tuesday, May 12, from 4 to 5 p.m., will provide information on the leaves and disability benefits offered by FCPS following the birth of a child (maternity and paternity), adoption, or fostering of a child.
Participants will learn about FCPS leave benefit programs (including paid parental leave), application procedures, and health and wellness resources, and review the enrollment process for health insurance and other optional benefits.
The workshop is open to all employees who would like more information on the benefits and resources provided by FCPS. Register for this workshop in MyPDE.
Collaboration and Calm Composure Build Trust in the Power of Public Education
Tracey Wynne, senior manager of communications, joined the FCPS Office of Communications nearly 12 years ago. She thrives on using her strategic communication expertise to inform, educate, and engage FCPS staff, families, and community members. She understands how effectively communicating with these groups can impact student success and enhance the division’s reputation.
Read more about Tracey and why she was recognized as a finalist for the Outstanding Nonschool-Based Professional Employee last year.
FCPS Recognized with Financial Reporting and Transparency Awards
FCPS received a Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting award from the Association of School Business Officials International. It also received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for its comprehensive annual financial report from the Government Finance Officers Association of the U.S. and Canada. Both awards recognize FCPS for its comprehensive annual financial report for the fiscal year that ended June 30, 2025.
Nominations Open for the Bussey Memorial Equity Award
The Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award recognizes an employee, student, or community member who has demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.
Any employee, student, or community member can nominate an individual for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Monday, May 18. Full details and the nomination information form can be found on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award website.
Services at Dunn Loring Center to Relocate to Pimmit Hills Center
This month, several family support services at the Dunn Loring Center will be relocated as the building is being renovated and returned to use as a school.
The Family Resource Center closed yesterday. The last day for student registration appointments at Dunn Loring will be Friday, May 8. The last day for early childhood testing appointments will be Friday, May 15.
Services will reopen at Pimmit Hills Center beginning Monday, June 1. Learn more about the relocation.
School Board Meeting Thursday, May 7, at 7 p.m.
The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Thursday, May 7, at 7 p.m. On the agenda are several motions related to the FCPS annual school calendar, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and a presentation on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget.
View the complete agenda. Find out how to watch and participate in School Board meetings.
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!
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