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English | Español | á ááá | äžæ | íê”ìŽ | Tiáșżng Viá»t | ۧÙŰč۱ۚÙŰ© | ÙŰ§Ű±ŰłÛ | ۧ۱ۯÙ
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.
 Marciaâs Message
As I reflect on these past few weeks, I am filled with gratitude and pride for the incredible work happening across our schools and community. From student performances and school celebrations to community meetings, scholarship events, budget discussions, and recognitions of outstanding service, each event has reminded me of what makes FCPS so special: our people.
This reflection feels especially meaningful as we also celebrated Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week. So many of the moments I had the privilege of attending were made possible because of the dedication, creativity, and care of our staff. At the center of that work are our teachers, who give so much of themselves each day to champion our students. Their commitment often extends far beyond the school day, whether they are sponsoring a club, staying after school to provide SOL remediation and extra support, preparing students for performances, cheering them on at events, or simply taking the time to make sure every student feels seen, valued, and encouraged.
Over the past several weeks, I attended boundary adjustment community meetings, school performances at Franconia Elementary, Mount Vernon High School, Lewis High School, West Potomac High School, and Hayfield Secondary School, as well as celebrations such as Bush Hill Elementary receiving the Special Olympics Unified Champion Banner, the FCPS Inclusion Exhibition, the Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship Banquet, the Lighthouse Schools Celebration, and the Hybla Valley Park ribbon cutting. I also participated in important School Board work, including work sessions, committee meetings, budget discussions, and public hearings.
This time of year is also a season of celebration across FCPS. From our youngest learners being promoted from pre-K to kindergarten, to elementary students preparing for middle school, middle school students taking their next steps into high school, and our high school seniors preparing to graduate, each milestone is a powerful reminder of the journey our students take and the many people who support them along the way.
Graduation and promotion ceremonies are more than just events on a calendar. They are moments of pride, reflection, and joy for students, families, teachers, staff, and school communities. Behind every student walking across a stage, receiving a certificate, or preparing for a new chapter, there are educators and staff members who have encouraged them, challenged them, supported them, and believed in them.
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As we celebrate these milestones, the School Board also took an important step in support of our students and staff by adopting FCPSâ Fiscal Year 2027 Advertised Budget. This needs-based budget reflects our continued commitment to sustaining excellence while focusing on the essential supports our school division is accountable for providing. Nearly 85% of the FCPS budget remains dedicated to classroom instruction, directly supporting our students and teachers.
This budget prioritizes competitive compensation for all employees, including commitments connected to collective bargaining agreements, because attracting and retaining outstanding educators and support staff is central to student success. It also begins to restore some of the reductions made last year, including the full restoration of Special Education Department Chair positions and Advanced Academic Resource Teacher positions at non-Title I schools, as well as partial staffing formula restorations across elementary, middle, and high schools.
Each of these events and milestones tells a story of commitment: commitment to students, families, inclusion, opportunity, and excellence. I am deeply grateful to our educators, administrators, support staff, families, and community partners who make this work possible. Most of all, I want to thank our teachers and staff for the countless ways they show up for students, often giving their personal time, energy, and hearts to help each child succeed.
As we close out the school year, celebrate promotions and graduations, and continue the important work of planning for the future, I remain proud of the impact our schools make every day. Our teachers and staff are the foundation of everything we celebrate, and I am grateful for their unwavering dedication to our students and families.
Â
Kind Regrads,
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Focus on Franconia
Hispanic Leadership Alliance
2026 Awards Ceremony
 I had the privilege of attending the Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship Banquet, where 29 Fairfax County seniors were presented with $1,000 scholarships. These inspiring students were recognized for their leadership, mentoring, commitment to education, and dedication to improving their communities. HLA has supported first generation college bound FCPS students for over twenty years. As a long-time member of HLA I am proud to see how far it has come and to welcome back recipients who have excelled in their chosen career path.
It was also meaningful to celebrate Dr. Geovanny Ponce, FCPS Chief of Schools, who received the HLA Leadership Award for his vision, advocacy, and service to students and families across FCPS. I left the evening inspired by the powerful stories shared and proud of the many ways our students, staff, and leaders continue to uplift and strengthen our community.Â
On a personal note, this year was particularly meaningful because two extra scholarships were made possible by generous donors in memory of my father, Marshall St. John. Congratulations to all the recipients, including:Â
- Dayana Meruvia, Justice High School, who received the St. John Family Legacy Scholarship
- Carla RodrĂguez Morales, Marshall High School, who received the St. John Memorial Scholarship
- Jessica Maldonado-Cueva, West Potomac High School, Scholarship for Leadership
- Jennifer Manzanares MartĂnez, Lewis High School, John Lewis Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship
Meet the New Principal at
Lewis High School
I am excited to welcome our new Leading Lancer, Mrs. Serena GirĂłn, to the school community. Most recently serving as principal of Holmes Middle School, Ms. GirĂłn brings strong experience in instructional leadership, equity, and community engagement. Her passion for student success and supportive learning environments will be a tremendous asset to our students, staff, and families. Please join me in giving her a warm Lancer welcome!Â
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Welcome Assistant Superintendent for Region 6Â Â
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rhonda Honoré as the new assistant superintendent for Region 6, which includes the schools in the Annandale, Hayfield, and Lewis high school pyramids.
Ms. Honoré brings more than a decade of leadership experience with a strong track record of improving student outcomes, strengthening instructional systems, and building leadership capacity across multiple schools. Prior to the RAS position, she served as executive director of instruction with Houston Independent School District, where she supported a diverse portfolio of schools and led districtwide efforts to improve teaching and learning. She coached principals and leadership teams to provide consistent, high-quality instruction, while aligning campus goals with broader district priorities. Under her leadership, schools have demonstrated significant academic gains, including increasing college and career readiness at one high school from 61% to 94% in a single year.
Throughout her career, Ms. HonorĂ© has been recognized for building strong leadership pipelines, implementing data-driven systems, and maintaining a clear focus on equity and outcomes for all students.Â
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Welcome Chief of Schools
FCPS has appointed Megan Vroman, currently Assistant Superintendent of Region 2, as the new Chief of Schools. She brings extensive experience, a strategic vision, and a proven record of instructional excellence. Previously, Ms. Vroman was a special education teacher and founding principal in DCPS, where she earned an outstanding principal leadership award. In Region 2, her measurable impacts include achieving the highest increase in 8th grade Algebra 1 access and leading the division in English language acquisition growth for multilingual learners. A hallmark of her leadership is her commitment to developing other leaders, guided by the conviction that student success requires evidence-based practice and strong relationships.
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Lewis High School Students Give Back Through âThe Yarnâ Service Project
Iâm pleased to share a wonderful service project from Lewis High School students. The Yarn, a student group made up of students in grades 9â12, spent the school year creating handmade welcome blankets to support families in crisis through FACETS, a Fairfax County organization.
The group was founded two years ago by students who first learned to knit while attending Crestwood Elementary School. With support from Lewis librarian Mimi Marquet, former Lewis parent and volunteer Michele Duell, and several community volunteers, students built their crochet skills during Advisory throughout the year. Their work resulted in beautiful granny-square blankets, each requiring 49 squares, designed and assembled by the students.
The project reflects many hours of dedication, teamwork, and community support. As one 10th grade student, Angelo W., shared, âCreating these welcome blankets has taught me how much I enjoy crochet and has given me a chance to help others. I hope that whoever receives these blankets feels welcomed in our community.â
Congratulations to the students of The Yarn and the many volunteers who helped make this meaningful project possible. Their efforts are a wonderful example of service, perseverance, and care for others in our community.
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Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship
 It was an honor to join the Crestwood Elementary School community on April 27 to dedicate the Irene Rosenbaum Memorial and celebrate Ms. Anh Thu âTinaâ Vo, as the inaugural recipient of the Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship.
Although I did not know Irene personally, I feel I have come to understand her extraordinary spirit through knowing her son, Gillieâan upstanding, generous, intelligent, funny, and kind young man. Ireneâs compassion, quiet service, and unwavering belief in the dignity and potential of every child left a lasting mark on Crestwood.
In her memory, the Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship was created to carry that legacy forward. The scholarship provides $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years, to a John R. Lewis High School student who demonstrates academic excellence, resilience, kindness, and a commitment to serving others.
Tina could not be a more deserving recipient. As an immigrant student, she has shown remarkable resilience while adapting to a new country, language, and school system. By supporting fellow multilingual learners, she has helped build relationships, dignity, and access for others.
Tinaâs goal of becoming a nurse reflects her deep commitment to service and compassion. She carries forward the hopes and sacrifices of her family and is turning that sacrifice into service for others.
This is what community investment looks like: honoring the past while creating pathways for the future. Tina embodies Irene Rosenbaumâs legacy and reminds us that when we lead with kindness and dignity, we uplift the entire community.
Franconia District Schools Featured in FCPSâ Global Classroom Project
I was proud to see several Franconia District schools featured as part of FCPSâ Global Classroom Project, a wonderful initiative that helps bring the world into our classrooms. For the 2025-2026 school year, more than 110 K-12 teachers across elementary, middle, and high schools are participating in this work.
Through meaningful use of technology and creative instruction, students are connecting with peers in nearly 40 countries across five continents. These experiences give our students the opportunity to learn with and from others, build cultural understanding, and develop the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly connected world.
Participating schools included Cameron Elementary, Mount Eagle Elementary, Crestwood Elementary, Lane Elementary, Twain Middle, Hayfield Secondary, and John R. Lewis High. Students are collaborating with partner schools across Morocco, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Greece, Slovakia, India, and Nigeria. Students collaborated with international peers through research, virtual exchanges, presentations, reflections, and action projects focused on making a positive impact in their local and global communities.
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Recognizing Excellence With First-Class Awards
At the Special Education Family Conference, the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) recognized 13 individuals and teams for excellence through its First-Class Awards.
The First-Class Award celebrates individuals who support, implement, or design programs and activities that include students with disabilities and improve outcomes for all students.
Franconia District came out to shine!
Congratulations to our honorees:
Elementary School Administrator
- Christina Berry, Assistant Principal, Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School
Students
- Kairo-Aicha Boyd, Senior, Edison High School
- Madison Roegner, Senior, Edison High School
Read more about the First-Class Awards.
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đ©âđŒđšâđŒFCPS Students Earn Top Honors at 2026 Virginia FBLA State Leadership ConferenceÂ
Twenty-six Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students won first place awards at the 2026 Virginia Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference held recently in Reston. More than 90 students placed in the top four in their event and qualified to compete in the FBLA National Leadership Conference in San Antonio in June. A complete list of winners is below.
One hundred ninety-six students from FCPS high schools competed in 72 events ranging from 3-D Animation and Accounting to Cyber Security, Computer Problem Solving, and Public Speaking. FBLA is the largest career and technical student organization in the world. Each year, the organization helps over 200,000 members prepare for careers in business. More information about FBLA is available online.
Franconia District winners are:Â
- Lina Mered, Introduction to Information Technology, Edison High School, Fourth Place
- Ramy Alridge, Network Design, Hayfield Secondary High School, Fourth Place
- Eric Goering, Network Design, Hayfield Secondary High School, Fourth Place
- Sarthak Pandey, Retail Management, Edison High School, Third Place
Celebrating Our SEPTA Stars
Congratulations to all of the outstanding SEPTA Award nominees who were recognized for their dedication to supporting students with disabilities. SEPTA, the Special Education PTA, shines a well-deserved spotlight on the educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, specialists, students, schools, and community members who go above and beyond to create opportunities, foster growth, and advocate for every studentâs success.
The Franconia District was especially proud to celebrate one of its own, Ben Smith from Edison High School, who earned the Bronze Award of Merit. It was a wonderful evening honoring the compassion, commitment, and tireless efforts of so many individuals who make a lasting difference in the lives of students and families. I am grateful for their impact and proud of the work they do every day.
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Celebrating FCPS IB Diploma and
Career-related Certificate RecipientsÂ
Congratulations to the nearly 400 FCPS students who earned the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and the 76 students who earned the IB Career-related Certificate in 2025. These rigorous two-year programs challenge juniors and seniors to complete advanced coursework, assessments, exams, service learning, and research or reflective projects that prepare them for higher education, careers, and lifelong learning.
The IB Diploma and Career-related Programs help students become internationally minded, knowledgeable, and compassionate leaders ready to make an impact in their communities and beyond. I am especially proud to recognize the Franconia District students who earned this outstanding achievement. For a full list of students visit FCPS Website.
Franconia District IB Diploma Recipients
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Edison High School
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- Alison Pinto-Cruz
- Anna Kinney
- Artashes Hovhannisyan
- Austin Pereeratanasomporn
- Bailey Hawa
- Chloe Lee
- Cole Wigode
- Cora Reese
- Derek Stephan
- Emily Love
- Emmanuelle Issa
- Eric Chien
- Gurvir Singh
- Hanna Najia
- Isabella Chang
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- James Mitchell
- Jordan Najia
- Joshua Kohm
- Katherine Osorio-Olivares
- Layla Lahlou
- Maggie Lin
- Maggie Rowland
- Mastura Rahman
- Nicolas Zunic
- Noor Ul Huda Shahid
- Rebecca Lisko
- Sofia Asiello
- Sophia Virden
- Tiffany Dao
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Lewis High SchoolÂ
- Alex Ewing
- Armanpreet Sahi
- Faith Kitthanawong
- Madison McLaughlin
- Sayeed Hossain
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Mount Vernon High SchoolÂ
- Jennifer Villalobos-Saenz
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Franconia District IB Career-related Certificate
Mount Vernon High SchoolÂ
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- Adama Boiro
- Alex Jimenez-Harding
- Angela Portillo
- Annie Osorio Martinez
- Briana Contreras
- Chelsea Mercado- Pereira
- Dahlia Trott
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- Dalia Barua
- Diana Calles
- Evelyn Achiaa
- Jason Ventura-Zapata
- Princela Quarcoo
- Sia Keister
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 Franconia District Students Recognized at Science and Engineering Fair
Congratulations to Franconia District students who earned special and category awards at the 2026 Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair. These outstanding students demonstrated creativity, innovation, and dedication through their research projects and scientific inquiry.
Franconia District award recipients include:
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Category
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Project Title
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Students
(For group projects-Franconia students in bold)*
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School
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Second PlaceÂ
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Chemistry
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Glycerin's Effect on Algae Yarn
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Jaqueline Aguilar Chavez
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Computer Science and Math
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FCDÂł: A Novel Neural Network Optimizer for Personalized Speech-to-Text Modeling
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Jacob Percy, Lucas Trachtenberg
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Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
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Earth and Environmental Sciences
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The Effect of Natural Filters on Removing Impurities From Water
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Halle Knott, Kendall Knott, Rhys Smith
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Edison High School
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Earth and Environmental Sciences
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The effect of different colors of light on the speed of Planaria to completely cross a line from light to darkness
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Elijah Fortes
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Mount Vernon High School
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Materials Science
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The Effect of Polyester Composition on Swimsuit Elasticity Under Chlorine Exposure
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Yuna Kong, Rylie Meek
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Plant Sciences
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Habituation in Mimosa pudica Plants
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Maya Newman, Hazel Owens
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Plant Sciences
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The Effect of Different Preservation Methods on the Shelf Life of Bananas
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Veronica Adedeji, Aashima Saxena
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Physics and Astronomy
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The Effect of Various Properties of Materials on the Amplitude and Frequency of Sound Waves
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Chantelle Boahen, Kloe Conforti, Kathia Cruz Coto
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Mount Vernon High School
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Third Place
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Animal Sciences
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How do Millipedes Effect Soil?
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Brooke Per Lee
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Behavioral Sciences
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The effect of band instrument sound frequencies on human heart rate
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Julia Davis, Emma Kowalchick
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Environmental Engineering
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Windy current: Harvesting energy from the wind
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Josh Mejia-Andino, Ashley Taylor
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Engineering Technology
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Mitigating Noise in Consumer-Level FDM 3D Printed Gearsets
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Demir Doven, Jack Downey
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Edison High School
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Materials Science
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What is the Effect of Cornstarch on the Elasticity of a Polymer Ball?
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Liam Braunger, Nima Shorish
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Edison High School
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Physics and Astronomy
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Battle of Insulators
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Vanessa Angela, Elise Beltran Mendez
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Honorable MentionÂ
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Biochemistry
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The Effect of Temperature on the Rate of Enzyme Activity and Total Oâ Produced in Catalase
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Kwame Amoah-Ofori, Darpan Barua, Abdoulaye Boiro
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Mount Vernon High School
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Biochemistry
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Effect of Yeast Type on CO2 Produced (ppm) through Cellular Respiration
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Natalia Kassam
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Edison High School
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Chemistry
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Osmosis
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Justine Olson
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Edison High School
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Chemistry
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The Effect of pH on Alka-Seltzer Dissolution
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Malk Ali, Carter Lazear
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Environmental EngineeringÂ
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The Effect of AI Based CO2 on Algae Growth
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Samya Adyel, Emeli Cruz Cedillo, Lauren McVaney
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Mount Vernon High School
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Materials Science
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How does sugar affect the bounce height of a polymer ball?
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Ingrid Flass, Ryo Patten
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Edison High School
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Materials Science
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The effect of different surface types on the coefficient of friction
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Tanya Garcia, Lynette Ortiz-Rojas
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Edison High School
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Microbiology
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How Clean is Your House? Tested Through Zone of Inhibition
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Odelia Abebe, Emma Crawford, Vivian Crider
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Edison High School
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Physics and Astronomy
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The Effect of Density on the Intensity of Light Transmission
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Cate Andrews, Emily Fontana, Mikayla Mullen
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Edison High School
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Special Awards
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Award
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Project Title
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Students
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School
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3rd in Technology Achievement Award--Certificate
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Design and Validation of A Low-Cost In-Shoe Impact Measurement System for Footwear Shock Attenuation Analysis
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Helina Sisay
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Edison High School
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HM--Certificate and Ribbon
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Low-Cost Water Filtration Systems
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Kevin Chicas Guzman
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Taking the Pulse of the Planet AwardâCertificate and Letter
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The Effect of AI Based CO2 on Algae GrowthÂ
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Emeli Cruz Cedillo, Samya Adyel, Lauren McVaney
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Mount Vernon High SchoolÂ
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$50 Gift Card, Certificate, and Medal
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Glycerin's Effect on Algae Yarn
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Jaqueline Aguilar Chavez
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Hayfield Secondary School
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Sustainable Development Awardâ Certificate
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Low-Cost Water Filtration Systems
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Kevin Chicas Guzman
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Hayfield Secondary School
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A full list of FCPS student winners is available at the FCPS Science Fair WebsiteÂ
Technosphere 2026
Congratulations to all the Franconia students who participated in the annual State Student Leadership Conference and Competition for the Virginia Technology Student Association. A special shout out to the winners from Twain Middle School, Edison High School, Hayfield Secondary School, Lewis High School, West Springfield High School, and Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology!
Full list of all the winners: https://tsavirginia.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/2026-Technosphere-TSA-Awards.htmlÂ
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Franconia District Performances
Student Opportunities
Teens in Action
Join Congressman Walkinshawâs 2026 Youth Leadership Council
Are you a high school student in Virginiaâs 11th District looking to make a difference? Congressman James R. Walkinshaw is now accepting applications for his Youth Leadership Council, a platform for students in grades 9â12 to engage in civic leadership, review legislation, and present policy recommendations.
Program Highlights
- Engagement: Meet with peers and community leaders to discuss district issues.
- Commitment: 8 scheduled meetings per year (5:30 PM â 6:30 PM); students must attend at least 6.
- Experience: All complete applications earn an interview with congressional staff.
Application Details
Required Materials:
- Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts
- Essay & Resume: A one-page essay on your interest and a current resume
- Recommendation: One letter from a school official to be emailed directly to adkison@mail.house.gov. An optional second letter from a community member is also welcome.
- Forms: Completed Application and Signed Consent Form
Eligibility Note: Please confirm that you reside in and/or attend a school in the district by entering your address here. Only applicants who reside in and/or attend school in the district should apply.
Apply by Friday, June 26, 2026, at 5 p.m.
Questions? Contact Kris Adkison at kris.adkison@mail.house.gov or call (703) 256-3071.
Community Opportunities
My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Fairfax Summit: Saturday, May 30, 2026 - 10am - 2pm
Community members are invited to attend the MBK Fairfax Local Action Summit on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School in Falls Church. This free event is open to youth ages 14 and older and adults. Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Registration is encouraged by May 26, 2026, though walk-ins are welcome.
Location: Luther Jackson Middle School, 3020 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042RSVP: MBK Fairfax Local Action Summit Tickets, Saturday, May 30 âąÂ 10 AM - 2 PM | Eventbrite Â
A Community Resource Fair will also be held during the event. Organizations interested in reserving a table may email NCSMyBrothersKeeper@fairfaxcounty.gov
Mental Health Matters
May Wellness Tip: Mental health matters every day. This month, take time to check in with yourself and others. Common signs of stress or anxiety include trouble sleeping, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength.
Reach out by calling or texting 988, day or night.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Visit the County website to learn about the free resources that are available.
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Farmers Markets are Back
Fairfax County Park Authority operates 10 farmers markets across Fairfax County. The mission of the Fairfax County Farmers Markets is to provide residents access to locally grown products and create market opportunities for area farmers and food producers. For more information visit the county website.Â
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 West Springfield Public Health Center Closing
The West Springfield Public Health Center, located at 8136 Old Keene Mill Road in Springfield, will close after Friday, June 12, 2026.
After that date, residents can receive services at the Franconia-Springfield Public Health Center, located at 6564 Loisdale Court in Springfield, near the Franconia-Springfield Metro station and several bus lines.
Please recycle or throw away any printed materials that mention West Springfield Public Health Center, Springfield District Office, or Joseph Willard Health Center, since those locations are no longer current.
Fairfax County Public Library Presents:
Cultural Heritage of Fairfax County Residents
This library guide provides online resources related to race, demographics and culture; recommended reading on cultural diversity; and community events that celebrate our neighbors' culture.
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Library of Things
Explore the many additional things you can check out with your library card, including board games, meters, nature backpacks and thermal cameras!
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đBridge 2 Resources- Platform for VA Community Resources
Virginia Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics has created a platform to provide information about VA community resources. From affordable childcare to school supplies to healthcare support, use zip code to find information about services. Search this free resource to access over 466,000 local and state social care programs. Access this continuously updated platform here.
Infant and Toddler Resources
Resources to Help Infants and Toddlers Meet Milestones
Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged childâs development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas: communication, fine and/or gross motor skills, self-help skills, problem-solving, and attention skills. Learn more about typical developmental milestones.
The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) provides evaluations and services for children (0-36 months) who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns.
Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30).Â
FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to call 571-423-4121 with questions.
Skilled Trade and Emergency Response Summer Courses
Build your career with a strong foundation -
Enroll in Apprenticeship 101: Core Construction Skills, through FCPS ACE
Prepare yourself to succeed in any skilled-trade career.
This rigorous course from the National Center for Construction Education & Research (NCCER) covers all the basic skills you need to begin an apprenticeship and a career in the Electrical, HVAC, Plumbing, or other Construction trades.
Core Construction Skills is a prerequisite to all other Level 1 NCCER trades curriculum and is required to gain NCCER craft qualification. Learning is condensed into three weeks of
intensive training, combining both in-person and online classes. Youâll earn 80 hours of apprenticeship-related instruction as well as an industry-recognized, registered credential. Plus, youâll connect with employers who may sponsor your career!
Enroll Today
These classes fill quickly. The tuition price has been subsidized by grants to make it an affordable start to building your career.
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Certified EMT Training
Emergency Medical Technicians are in high demand.
You can become a lifeline to help people in crisis, while earning a stable income on a flexible work schedule.Â
Certified EMT Training through FCPS ACE puts you on the fast-track to an exciting career and gives you a strong foundation for advancement as a paramedic, firefighter, nurse, or physician assistant.
Registration is open now for morning or evening classes to fit your schedule.
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 $700 Scholarships Available for Veterinary Assistant Careers!
Turn your love for animals into a rewarding career. With an affordable, 16-week class through FCPS ACE, you'll learn every aspect of veterinary assisting and gain the skills you need to land an in-demand job.
A limited number of $700 scholarships are available to make this affordable course an even better value. If youâre interested in a scholarship, please email before registering for the class.
Spaces fill quickly so enroll today to learn everything you need to know to be successful in your new, fulfilling career as a veterinary assistant!
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FCPS News You NeedÂ
đ°Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Update
On Friday, May 8, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid provided an update on the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Budget. FCPS receives the majority of its funding from the Fairfax County Government and the Commonwealth of Virginia.Â
The Fairfax County Government recently adopted its FY 2027 Budget, and at the funding levels provided, there is currently a $28 million budget gap. In addition, the state budget has not been finalized. At last Thursday's School Board meeting, the superintendent proposed adjustments that would balance the FCPS budget.Â
Read Dr. Reidâs message to the community for more information on the budget process and budget priorities.
đ”New Cellphone Policy Starts July 1
On Thursday, May 7, the Fairfax County School Board approved changes to the FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R). The approved changes include updated guidance for cellphone possession and use, to align the FCPS cellphone policy with Senate Bill 108. This new Virginia law goes into effect on July 1 and states that all schools in the Commonwealth must follow a âbell-to-bellâ phone-free policy.
This means that starting July 1, 2026, across all grade levels at FCPS, student cellphones, phone accessories, and all smart devices (including watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other other items connected to the internet) must be off and personally stored (i.e., put away in backpacks) for the duration of the school day â thus, no cellphones from bell to bell.Â
High school students will no longer be able to use cellphones and personal devices during lunchtime. More details are available on the FCPS Cellphone Policy webpage.Â
đOther SR&R Changes for the 2026-27 School Year
Visit the FCPS website or the School Board agenda to learn about additional updates, including:
- Added guidance and procedures for in-school and out-of-school suspensions and discipline investigations, including supports for students with disabilities and multilingual learners.Â
- Expanded guidance and standardized disciplinary procedures (âUniversal Grade Matricesâ) related to harassment, hate speech, discriminatory behavior, and Title IX reporting requirements.
- Responses to incidents involving intimate images, fighting, physical aggression, object throwing, and drug policy violations.
đStudent Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation
All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and access the application, which can be returned to the front office.
Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult.
đBus Discount Program for Adults
Fairfax Connectorâs Transit Ridership Incentive Program (TRIP) provides 50% off fares for low-income residents ages 18-65. Learn more about the TRIP program and how to apply.
đDiscover Exciting Summer Learning Activities and Ideas
Join Fairfax County Public Schools for a free, family-friendly community celebration filled with hands-on STEM, arts, and creative experiences for students of all ages. This yearâs Summer Extravaganza takes place on Saturday, June 6, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Woodson High School.
Explore summer learning resources and connect with FCPS offices and community partners. Donât miss the Student Market and a full day of engaging activities designed to spark learning, growth, and inspiration for the whole family.
For more information, visit the Summer Extravaganza webpage.
đ°District News/In Case You Missed ItÂ
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- 2027 Budget Updates
- New Cell Phone Policy
- Stay Up-to-Date with the Mobile App
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
Keep You In the Know
May 5: Agenda: School Board Work Session đ„ Recording
May 7: Agenda: Regular Meeting đ„Recording
May 11: Agenda: Audit Committee Meeting   đ„Recording
May 12: Agenda: Public Hearing: FY 2027 Approved Budget đ„Recording
May 13: Agenda: Administration Committee Meeting đ„Recording
May 14: Agenda: Budget Committee of the Whole Evening Meeting đ„Recording
May 19: Agenda: Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee (CPDC) Meeting đ„Recording
May 19: Agenda: Governance Committee Meeting đ„Recording
May 21: Agenda: Regular Meeting đ„Recording
Franconia District Educators Recognized for National Board Certification
 (April 9th) Congratulations to Franconia District educators who earned or renewed National Board Certification, a nationally respected credential that reflects high standards for teaching practice and a deep commitment to student success. FCPS proudly recognizes Bhumika Saxena of Twain Middle School for earning initial certification, and Christopher Roeseler of Bucknell Elementary School and Nina Miller of Cameron Elementary School for renewing their certification for an additional term.
See the full list of new and renewed certified teachers.Â
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
-Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.Â
Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)
-Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
Committee Meetings (Gatehouse Administration Center)
-Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. - Advisory Committee Summit
-Tuesday, June 15, 2026, at 4:00p.m. - Audit CommitteeÂ
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Please note: Times and topics are subject to change.Â
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 EspañolÂ
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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