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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.
Dear Dranesville Families:
Congratulations Class of 2026! It was a joy to attend many Dranesville graduation ceremonies earlier this month. You have accomplished so much during your time at FCPS, and I know you will do amazing things in the future.
While students, families, and educators enjoy the summer break, the School Board continues its work preparing for the upcoming school year. At our next School Board meeting, we will be reviewing and discussing the student calendar to ensure it continues to support meaningful learning opportunities while meeting the needs of our school community. Superintendent Reid will be providing her recommendations on the Skyview High School boundaries, phasing, and transportation plans over our July school board meetings. We approved the Resolution for Responsible Instructional Technology last night, and in the fall, the Governance Committee will continue the important work on the development of the Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy and the Use of Educational Technology Policy. These efforts are intended to provide thoughtful guidance supporting effective, responsible, and innovative use of technology in our classrooms while keeping student learning and well-being at the center of every decision. Thank you for your advocacy around these issues and informing me and the Board on how they affect your family.
Summer offers us a chance to reset. Whether your plans include traveling, spending time with loved ones, exploring our community, or simply enjoying a slower pace, I hope this season provides opportunities to relax, recharge, and create lasting memories. Thank you for your continued partnership and engagement in supporting our students, educators, and schools.
Wishing you a safe, joyful, and restful summer!
Regards,
Robyn
2026 graduation ceremonies and celebrations
In this newsletter,
June 25th Regular Meeting Proclamations and Virginia High School League and Academic Team Recognitions including honoring the McLean HS Film Festival Team, the Langley HS Girls Tennis Team, the Langley HS Debate Team, and the Westfield HS Boys Soccer Team.
June 25th Regular Meeting
Watch the full meeting.
Introduction of Chief of Schools- Megan Vroman
Board Business
Key Votes
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Renew the Division Superintendent's Employment Contract- The School Board voted to renew the Superintendent's employment contract. View more on BoardDocs.
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Centreville HS Lease and Renovation Assessment- The School Board voted to temporarily secure additional land so Centreville HS can meet county zoning rules, reevaluate whether the renovation still fits future enrollment needs, and receive ongoing quarterly updates from the Superintendent about similar zoning issues affecting other FCPS schools. View more on BoardDocs.
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Amendment to Sole Source Contract for Social Studies Fourth Grade Basal Resources- The School Board voted to approve the amendment for Social Studies Fourth Grade Basal Resources contract. View more on BoardDocs.
Presentations
- Skyview High School Student Phasing and Transportation
- Academic Matters - Science Fair
- Strategic Plan Update- Pyramid Art Shows
June 23rd Forum and Work Session
Forum Topic
- Energy Savings Performance Contracting and Energy Service Companies
Work Session Topics
- FY25 OAG Annual Report and FY27 Risk Assessment and Audit Topics
- PreK and Early Head Start Parent Policy Committee 2025-2026 Annual Report
- Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE) Annual Report
- Innovative Technology Policy Discussion
June 11th Regular Meeting
Watch the full meeting.
Key Votes
Policy 1344: Standard School Year Calendar- The School Board voted to adopt the replaced policy language outlined in the amendment to the main motion. View more on BoardDocs.
Instructional Technology- The School Board voted to approve the amended motions pertaining to instructional technology. View more on BoardDocs.
Award of Contract for Architectural and Engineering Services: Skyview High School Project-The School Board voted to approve the contract for Architectural and Engineering Services: Skyview High School Project. View more on BoardDocs.
Presentation
Academic Matters: Civics in Action- Watch how this approach is deepening student understanding and helping to prepare more participatory citizens for the future. View slides from Dr. Reid’s presentation at the June 11 School Board meeting.
Skyview HS Boundary Public Hearing- July 13
The Fairfax County School Board announces a public hearing on the Skyview High School boundaries at 6 pm on July 13, 2026, at Luther Jackson Middle School (3020 Gallows Rd, Falls Church).
- Signups to speak open on Monday, June 29, at 8 a.m. and close at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 9.
- Individuals may sign up to speak for two (2) minutes, in-person or virtually via Zoom.
If you have any questions about the public hearing, please contact the School Board Office at (571) 423-1075, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or email communityparticipation@fcps.edu.
Skyview High School and Western Pyramids Boundary Study. At the meeting, the consultant shared a recap of the boundary process, reviewed community feedback, presented the final draft scenario (map), answered questions, and facilitated breakout discussions with meeting participants.
2025-26 Governance Committee Work
You can watch previous Governance Committee Meetings where we discussed the Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy and the Calendar Policy.
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June 16- Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy
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May 19- Calendar Policy
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April 21
- Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy (at 01:13:23)
- Calendar Policy (at 00:04:20)
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April 14
- Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy (at 00:19:40)
- Calendar Policy (at 01:40:10)
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March 17
- Innovation in Instructional Technology Policy (at 00:02:55)
- Calendar Policy (at 01:23:00)
Deputy Clerk Opening
Come work with me and the Fairfax County School Board! We are seeking a Deputy Clerk to help ensure our elected School Board is meeting its mission to provide an excellent education to our 180,000+ students and maintains its status as a top employer for our 40,000+ educators and staff!
This high-level job is fast-paced; includes working with policy and legal matters; and requires strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills. This position will require flexible hours that may include weeknights and occasional weekends.
The position works from the FCPS Central Office in Falls Church, right off of I-495 (the Capital Beltway). Contact Christina Setlow, Clerk of the Board, at cksetlow@fcps.edu with questions, and please share with others!
June Audit Buzz Newsletter
In this issue, we summarize the June 15 Audit Committee meeting; provide an article on Shifting Internal Audit Frameworks in Today’s Modern Age; and offer a training opportunity. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived here on Office of Auditor General (OAG) website.
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Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
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Monday, July 13 at 6 p.m.- Skyview HS Proposed Boundaries Public Hearing
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Thursday, July 16 at 7 p.m.- Regular Meeting
All times and topics are subject to change. Please check the School Board meeting schedule for the latest times and agenda updates.
How to watch school board meetings and sign up to speak:
FCPS Updates
Summer Meals Now Available
School is out, summer meals are in! Breakfast and lunch will be available to all children 18 years of age and younger. Meals will be provided to all children without charge and are the same for all children regardless of race, color, national origin, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), disability or age, and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Meals will be provided, on a first come, first serve basis. Children must remain onsite while consuming their meals.
Dranesville Student School summer meal sites:
- Available now through August 22- no meals on July 3
- Hutchison ES (13209 Parcher Ave, Herndon)
- July 6 through July 31
- Aldrin ES (11375 Center Harbor Rd, Reston)
- Clearview ES (12635 Builders Rd, Herndon)
Families Can Eat Together
This year, thanks to generous support from Educate Fairfax, families may also receive one no-cost breakfast and lunch per adult at six sites including Hutchison ES.
Updated FCPS Cellphone Policy Starts July 1
Under a new Virginia cellphone law (SB108) and the updated FCPS Cellphone Policy, high school students at FCPS will no longer be able to use cellphones and other smart devices during lunch time, starting July 1. This includes watches that serve a dual purpose as well as earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other items connected to the internet. Visit the FCPS Cellphone Policy webpage for more information.
Early Release Wednesdays for SY2026-27
FCPS will continue with limited early release Wednesdays for elementary schools during the 2026-27 school year. The number of days has been reduced from eight to four. Early release Wednesdays provide elementary teachers with a dedicated block of time to prepare lessons, participate in professional development and training, and collaborate with their peers. A well-supported and continuously improving teaching staff leads to better educational outcomes for students.
The early release Wednesday dates for the Herndon, Langley, Marshall, and McLean pyramids are:
- ERW 1 - September 30
- ERW 2 - November 18
- ERW 3 - January 13
- ERW 4 - April 7
The Westfield pyramid’s early release dates will be: October 21, December 2, February 10, and May 5.
Provide Feedback on Secondary Mathematics Instructional Resources
FCPS will adopt new mathematics instructional resources for Math 6 (middle school only) through Algebra 2 for the 2026-27 school year. The public is invited to review and provide feedback on the proposed resource.
Access the proposed resource for middle school Math 6 through Algebra 2 in person or on the Mathematics Basal Resource webpage through Sunday, July 12. Those reviewing instructional materials will provide feedback through a digital form. All community feedback will be shared with the review committee and the Fairfax County School Board before a board vote in July.
Hard copies of instructional materials will be available for review at Willow Oaks Welcome Center, Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Email MathBasalReview@fcps.edu to arrange to review outside of these hours.
Enjoy Using School Grounds This Summer
"School's out for summer" as the popular lyrics go. In addition to all possibilities at Fairfax County parks and other places to enjoy summer, our Fairfax County Public Schools also welcome you. School blacktops, playgrounds, outdoor basketball and tennis courts, and tracks are available for use by individuals (not organized groups) without being scheduled.
Please keep the following in mind when using these facilities:
- Use is allowed from dawn to dusk, except during school hours or when being used for school activities or other scheduled programs.
- Facilities must be shared with anyone else who wishes to use them.
- Please leave the facilities as you found them. Remove any waste or debris from the property.
Virginia PTA Honors FCPS Superintendent With 2026 Power Partner Award
Commitment to community involvement and family engagement are two of the reasons the Virginia Parent Teacher Association (PTA) honored Dr. Reid with a 2026 Power Partner award during its June 5 Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony. Read about this PTA recognition.
Now Hiring: Residential Electrical Instructor
FCPS is excited to launch a brand-new Residential Electricity pathway at Fairfax Academy. We’re looking for an experienced, passionate electrician to help shape it from the ground up. This is a full-time, high school-level teaching position that spans a three-course sequence: Electricity I, II, and III, covering everything from foundational electrical theory and OSHA 10 safety standards to real-world skills like reading blueprints, wiring circuits, installing conduit and service equipment, and navigating the National Electrical Code (NEC). Students will get hands-on experience using industry-standard tools and materials, working through series, parallel, and combination circuits, troubleshooting systems, and exploring career pathways in the trades. The goal is simple: send graduates to the workforce or into apprenticeship programs, with the skills and confidence to hit the ground running.
For more information, please contact Andrea Cook, Academy Administrator, AmCook@fcps.edu or Whitney Ketchledge, Senior Manager III, wsketchledge@fcps.edu.
Community Updates
From FC Police Department:
Scroll Smart. Post Smart. Stay Safe.
The Fairfax County Police Department encourages teens and parents to stay informed, have open conversations about digital safety, and practice smart online habits throughout the summer months. Read recommendations to stay safe online this summer.
Know Before You Ride: Multimodal Safety in Fairfax County
As more neighbors choose bikes, e-bikes, scooters, and other ride-on devices to get around, safety is everyone’s responsibility. The Fairfax County Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section has released a helpful Bike, E-Bike and Recreation Safety guide to keep all road users informed and protected.
Highlighted important safety requirements:
- Helmet laws: Helmets are required for riders age 15 and under
- Strongly encouraged for everyone!
- Youth supervision rules: Certain devices require adult supervision for riders under 14.
- Shared responsibility: Bicyclists and motorists have the same rights and duties under traffic laws.
- Hands-free driving: Virginia is a hands-free state.
- Crosswalk & school zone safety: Stop for pedestrians and obey school bus signals.
- Trail etiquette: Give an audible signal before passing and always yield to pedestrians.
Whether you're purchasing a new device, commuting by e-bike, or riding for fun, the message is simple: Know before you ride. Understanding the rules and following safe riding practices helps prevent injuries and keeps our community moving safely together.
Help Control Spotted Lanternflies While They’re Still Small
If you spot a nymph, you can help stop it from becoming a mess and a problem for trees. These nuisance pests have mostly completed hatching and can be within a few feet of the ground on herbaceous plants, according to our urban foresters. Vacuuming or squashing nymphs are the easiest ways to reduce the population of spotted lanternfly, without using pesticide.
This month (June), spotted lanternflies are still in the young “nymph” stage (black with white spots) and are small enough to squash without too much of the “ick” factor. The nymphs will start to form red spots and will become adult spotted lanternflies starting in July.
VA Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics Community Resources
Access this continuously updated platform from affordable childcare to school supplies to healthcare support. Use your zip code to find information about services. Search this free resource to access over 466,000 social care programs.
Back-to-School Pediatric Health Fairs – Free School Physicals & Immunizations
Families with children ages 5 and older are invited to attend the upcoming pediatric health fairs hosted by Inova Cares. Free school physicals and immunizations for the SY26–27 will be provided for children who are uninsured or enrolled in Medicaid.
Appointments are required and walk-ins cannot be accommodated. Families should bring their child's vaccination records to the appointment.
Health Fair Dates & Locations:
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Saturday, July 25: Inova Cares Clinic for Families Falls Church, 9am-1pm
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Saturday, August 8: Inova Cares Clinic for Families Herndon, 9am-1pm
To schedule an appointment, call 703-698-2550.
HealthWorks Free School Physicals
HealthWorks for Northern Virginia will be offering free school physicals for Fairfax and Loudoun County children ages 3–18 who do not have health insurance and are entering a Virginia school. These comprehensive appointments include a physical exam, dental screening, hearing and vision tests, TB screening, and immunizations. Please note that sports physicals are not available through this program. Families can register or sign up to be notified when registration opens on July 10.
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August 3, 1 to 4 p.m. at HealthWorks Leesburg
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August 10, 1 to 4 p.m. at HealthWorks Herndon
A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child during the appointment. These events are for new HealthWorks patients only. Current HealthWorks patients should schedule a school physical through their regular provider.
Dranesville Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Dr. Cheronda Farrish Named Principal of Herndon High School
Dr. Farrish brings more than 20 years of educational experience and a deep commitment to student success, inclusive practices, and collaborative leadership. She began her career as an instructional assistant before joining Fairfax County Public Schools in 2009 as a special education teacher. Throughout her career with FCPS, Dr. Farrish has served students and families across multiple levels of education to include Elementary, High School, Public Day and at a university level.
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She began teaching at the elementary level before transitioning to high school education. Dr. Farrish's leadership journey continued at James Madison HS, where she championed student achievement and staff development. She served as Assistant Principal at James Madison HS for seven years demonstrating her commitment to fostering positive school culture, academic excellence, and meaningful partnerships with students, staff, families, and the community. Building on her leadership experience, Dr. Farrish went on to serve as Principal of Cedar Lane School, where she led a diverse learning community dedicated to supporting students with unique educational needs.
2026 FCPS Honors Recognition Ceremony
 FCPS is committed to excellence in teaching students, leading schools, and providing support. The Department of Human Resources sponsors the recognition of outstanding employees who seek to create and demonstrate the best instructional and support practices.
Dranesville Schools' FCPS District Honors Recipients:
- 2026 Outstanding Elementary New Teacher - Clark Levine, 6th Grade, Haycock ES
- 2026 Outstanding Secondary Teacher - Scott McCormick, Langley HS
A full list of winners, finalists and school recipients.
Five FCPS Teams, 15 Individuals Win 2026 Spring VHSL Sports Championships
Westfield HS Boys Soccer State Champions.
Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2026 spring sports season. This year, five teams and 15 individuals won the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 championship in their respective sports, and five teams and 13 individuals were the state runners up.
Dranesville Student School State Champions:
- Westfield High School, Boys Soccer
- Langley High School, Girls Tennis
The Dranesville state team championship runner up:
- Langley High School, Boys Tennis.
Full list of winners.
Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association (VASRA) Crew is a non-VHSL sport.
Individual winners for Crew are:
- Langley High School, Crew, Women's 3-8+.
- Langley High School, Crew, Men's Fr-8+.
- Langley High School, Crew, Men's Jr-8+.
The runners-up for Crew are:
- Langley High School, Women's Crew, VASRA Division I Second Place.
- Langley High School, Men's Crew, VASRA Division II Second Place.
- McLean High School, Crew, Men's N-4+.
- McLean High School, Crew, Women's 3-8+.
- McLean High School, Crew, Women's N-8+.
- Langley High School, Crew, Women's 2-8+.
Spring 2026 VHSL Academic Activities Team Recognitions
- Langley High School, Debate Team
- McLean High School, Film Festival Team
2026 Cappies
 The Cappies (Critics and Awards Program) is an international program which was launched in FCPS. It recognizes, celebrates, and provides learning experiences for high school theater and journalism students, and teenage playwrights.
Congratulations to these Dranesville student schools' Cappies winners:
Bill and Jane Strauss Graduating Critic (12th grade)
- Mary Campbell, Westfield High School
Special Effects and/or Technology
- Jonah Johnson and the SFX Team, Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at Certain School of Magic and Magic Young Wizard Edition, Westfield High School
Sets
- Carson Brownlee, Mubeen Ahmad, Trevor Freeman, Serena Indrisano, Arsenic and Old Lace, Herndon High School
Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Play
- Cara Ethington, Arsenic and Old Lace, Herndon High School
Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Play
- Yann Lam, The Play That Goes Wrong, Langley High School
Critics Team
Shining a Light on Success in FCPS
Every FCPS school has a unique story to tell. This series showcases the amazing work happening in our buildings every day. From innovative classroom projects to the strong sense of belonging felt by our students, these stories show why every school is great because it is part of FCPS.
Bookmark the Shining a Light YouTube playlist to see all the previous videos, including this school year’s Dranesville successes:
- Lemon Road ES- Roar into Middle School with algebra Skills
- Franklin Sherman ES’s Inclusive Classrooms Empower Every Student
- Raising the Bar: Expanding Access to AP Success at McLean HS
- Breaking Barriers Accelerating Algebra Access at Herndon ES
- At Haycock ES, Kindness Makes our School Stronger
- Davis Career Center Class of 2026 Celebrates Growth, Independence, and “MAGIC”
Eco-Schools Green Flag
This achievement reflects the dedication of our students, staff, families, and community partners who have worked together to promote environmentally responsible practices throughout their school.
Colvin Run ES
We are proud to announce that Colvin Run ES has been awarded the prestigious Green Flag designation, recognizing our school's outstanding commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and student leadership. From conservation efforts and waste reduction initiatives to outdoor learning experiences and student-led environmental projects, Colvin Run has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating a more sustainable future.
Great Falls ES
This recognition is a reflection of the collective efforts of our students, staff, and PTA to make a positive impact on our school, community, and world. Beginning next school year, we will proudly fly the Eco-Schools Green Flag on our flagpole as a symbol of this achievement and our continued dedication to environmental responsibility.
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Clearview ES
 Clearview ES students recently delivered five performances of Finding Nemo KIDS in June 2026. This production was made possible through an educational partnership with the local professional company, NextStop Theatre.
Forestville ES
Global Problem-Solving Competition- Forestville Odyssey of the Mind team's students worked together to navigate a train through a course and turn its cargo into an art piece. The team, which included seven Forestville fourth grade students, competed against 53 other teams representing eight countries at the Odyssey of the Mind World Finals.
Hutchison ES
Over a thousand students at Fairfax County's Hutchison ES were able to "Splash into Reading" thanks to a RIF / RIF NOVA matching grant. Activities included summer themed coloring pages, songs, and bookmarks. What made the biggest splash? Choosing a new book to keep.
Spring Hill ES
 What have Kindergartners learned after 1 year in school? Roxanne Strouk of ABC7 News went back to Spring Hill ES to find out. A few days before they are officially 1st Graders, Roxanne spoke to the same students from a segment back in September. Watch the full segment.
Herndon HS
At the AI Hackathon, our team of seniors, took home First Place in the overall judging and also earned the award for Most Creative Use of AI! Our students developed an innovative website called STEM PathFindR, which is focused on helping students explore STEM paths through intelligent, AI-driven guidance. Their ingenuity, relentless work ethic, technical skills, and academic excellence truly made the difference.
- Tomas Bentolila
- Sevan Bland
- Gayathri Vongolu
As the First Place winners, our students have earned some incredible opportunities, including:
- A summer internship at the AWS Headquarters in Arlington.
- A private, guided tour of the Arlington facility this coming Tuesday.
- An exclusive lunch with AWS staff
Langley HS
 National Economics Competition- A team of Langley HS students brought their economic knowledge to the national stage, placing third in a competition hosted by the Council for Economic Education. The two-day competition tested 16 teams of high school students from 11 states with complex questions on micro- and macroeconomics, as well as current global economic events. Watch the full segment on FOX5.
McLean HS
The Brandon Victor Dixon (BVD) Awards celebrates, recognizes and encourages high school musical theatre talents and achievements across the DMV area (Washington, DC; Maryland; and Virginia) that surrounds The National Theatre. Congratulations to Senior Alex Valencic who was a Top 5 finalist for Best Actor in the Region and had the honor of singing "Laura, Laura" from High Fidelity the musical at the National Theatre at the BVD Awards.
Broadcast Journalism Students Place in Multiple Categories at VHSL Film Festival- students earned 1st place (and 7th!) in the category of PSA and 2nd place in the category of commercial at the VHSL Film Festival this weekend! And the winners are…
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Public Service Announcement:
- 1st – “The Crash Hits Harder” by Adrian Wiklund
- This also won the “Audience Choice” award.
- 7th – “Lock Your Cars” by Eva Braccia, Lorelei Horgan & Artin Safaie
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Commercial:
- 2nd – “Fresh Baguette” by Leighton Forde & Atheena Monkam
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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 that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
Congressman Walkinshaw's Youth Leadership Council
Applications are now open for Virginia’s 11th District 2026 Youth Leadership Council! VA-11 HS students in grades 9–12 may apply to join the Congressman and his team for conversations about leadership, public service, and the issues shaping their lives and communities. Apply by June 30, visit Rep. Walkinshaw's website.
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Help Us Celebrate Outstanding FCPS Alumni through Aug. 31
Do you know an FCPS graduate who has made a lasting impact? Educate Fairfax is accepting nominations for the 5th Annual FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions in their professions, communities, and beyond. Nominees must have graduated from high school at least five years ago and demonstrated notable achievements, leadership, and positive contributions to society. Hall of Fame inductees represent the very best of the FCPS alumni community and serve as examples for current and future students. Nominations are open through Aug. 31, 2026.
FCPS ACE Trades Scholarship Application
If you’re seeking a career in the electrical, plumbing, or HVAC trades, FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) can help you get started with a certified Apprenticeship program and a $1,000 scholarship toward your classes.
Apply for the scholarship apply by Saturday, August 15. The $1,000 scholarship can be used toward an FCPS ACE Trades Apprenticeship class starting this fall.
Teen Cover Art Contest
 Teen Cover Art Contest! Instructions:1) Choose a dystopian or Science Fiction Young adult book; 2) Redesign the cover; and 3) Include the book title and author in your design. To participate, you must be a rising Fairfax County 7th-12th grader. All art (no AI art will be considered) should be submitted via our online form through August 19 , 2026.
FCPL Summer Reading Adventure
 The Fairfax County Public Library Summer Reading Adventure is for both youth and adults. Participating is as easy as 1-2-3. Printed reading logs are available in branches and online.
Help Map Extreme Heat Across Northern Virginia!
Volunteer sign up for Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions (FACS') Urban Heat Island Mapping Project in partnership with George Mason University is now open! We're seeking 30 volunteer teams to help collect temperature and humidity data across Fairfax County, Arlington County, and the City of Alexandria during a hot day in July.
By participating, you'll become a citizen scientist helping identify neighborhood heat hotspots and providing valuable data to inform future planning and resilience efforts. No scientific experience is required, and training and equipment will be provided.
2026 TEENS IN ACTION SUMMER CAMP
Registration is now open for the Teen in Action Camp.
Program Information:
- Program hours are Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Enrollment is free.
- Lunch and morning and afternoon snacks provided.
Summer Sports Camps
Langley HS
Click the Saxon Camp Link for additional information.
- Softball Camp July 6-10
- Boys Basketball July 6-10
- Girls Basketball July 20-24
Westfield HS
Sports summer camps are a great avenue for your child to learn from the best coaches in the area and are a great fundraiser for our teams.
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June 29 - July 2: Youth Baseball Camp (Ages 8-12)
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July 13-17; July 20-24: Girls Volleyball Camp
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July 20-23: Freshman Football Camp
WaterWise Kids – Free Swim Lessons
FREE swim lesson program at the Herndon Community Center (814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon). Classes will focus on water safety, swimming skills, and building confidence in the water. Lessons are Saturdays 12:30- 3pm with session July 25 through August 15. Register now to save your spot since classes are limited to 20 participants per lesson.
Due to the incredible interest, we've added two NEW Teen Swim Lessons for participants ages 13-17, beginning July 25!
- 1:10 PM - 1:40 PM
- 2:30 PM - 3 PM
Tennis Opportunities in the LRES Community
Two Lemon Road alumnae (current McLean high school students) are offering free tennis lessons! The next session is coming soon and the lessons are typically held at Longfellow Middle School. Rackets will be provided if needed. Please use the Sign Up Genius link if your child is interested in trying tennis!
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events 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 that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
Herndon Camp on the Go!
Camp On The Go is a free drop-in program, for elementary-aged children 5-12, offered by Herndon Parks & Recreation. Children can enjoy games, crafts, activities, and special visits from community partners throughout the summer. Through August 7, 2026 2 PM to 4 PM Note- Camp will be canceled in the event of inclement weather. No sign-up, no cost—just come to the park and have fun!
Locations & Days:
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Tuesdays & Thursdays- Alabama Dr. Park (1100 Alabama Dr, Herndon)
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Wednesdays & Fridays- Chandon Park (900 Palmer Drive, Herndon)
Summer Concert Series
McLean-Thursdays- Our famous, free concerts are back at the McLean Central Park amphitheater! Grab your family and friends and enjoy live music every Thursday evening through July 30 at 7 p.m.
Herndon Friday Lights- Fridays- The DC-area’s Best Free Outdoor Concert Series. Every Friday through Sept 4 on the Herndon Town Green at 6 pm.
Great Falls Sunday Summer Concerts- Sundays- Pack up the family, a blanket, lawn chairs, and a picnic dinner - or grab takeout from one of our local restaurants - and join us at the gazebo for a laid-back evening of good music and good times with your neighbors. All concerts take place on Sunday evenings 6 to 8 pm at the Village Centre gazebo.
Enjoy a Summer of Wonder with Arts in the Parks
Prepare to be enchanted by performances that spark the imagination of children across Fairfax County at Arts in the Parks. Turn off the screens and head into the parks this summer to enjoy this series of free, family-friendly shows.
Fairfax County Park Authority is offering these free shows throughout the summer at nine different locations, including Saturday mornings at 9 a.m.- Spring Hill Rec Center (1239 Spring Hill Rd, McLean) and Strawberry Park at Mosaic District (2911 District Ave,Fairfax).
HerndonPRIDE - June 27
12 to 5 p.m.- The 3rd Annual HerndonPRIDE Fest returns to Arts Herndon on Saturday, June 27, 2026 — bigger, brighter, and more exciting than ever. Celebrate Pride Month with a full day of live music, local vendors, new activities, theatre, and a vibrant ‘Hands on Art’ children’s arts space. Arts Herndon (750 Center St, Herndon)
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MCC Independence Day Fireworks Celebration - June 27
Independence Day Fireworks Celebration!- June 27th 5 to 10 p.m.- Celebrate America's birthday with your friends! Free admission at Langley High School (6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean).
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Dranesville Fourth of July Celebrations
- Great Falls parade in the morning & activities and fireworks 6 to 9pm at Turner Farm (925 Springvale Rd, Great Falls)
- Town of Herndon 6:30 to 9:45pm at Bready Park
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Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with an unforgettable evening of community, music, and fireworks at Bready Park (814 Ferndale Ave, Herndon).
- Limited parking available: Herndon MS & Herndon CC
United States Semiquincentennial Events
First-Ever Drone Light Show for America’s 250th at Lake Fairfax- June 27th
As part of Experience Fairfax 250, the Fairfax County Park Authority, in partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission and the Fairfax County Park Foundation, will debut its first-ever drone light show during the Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27.
“The American Revolution", Episode 1 - June 29
6:30 p.m.- Commemorate America’s 250th with the latest series by legendary documentarian Ken Burns. Together we will watch the first episode, “In Order to Be Free,” after a primer from a Revolutionary War scholar at The Alden Theatre (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean) Registration required and use promo code "Alden250" for free tickets. Only four tickets are allowed per transaction, and all tickets are general admission.
July Family Day: The Declaration of Independence
10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.- Celebrate America’s birthday with activities highlighting the Declaration of Independence and its legacy. Explore the Constitution with library staff, view collections and write thank you letters to veterans with the National Veterans Memorial Museum. Learn more.
USA250 Events Across Fairfax County
Visit Fairfax has compiled a list of events and experiences across the region to help residents and visitors engage with the upcoming USA250 commemoration, marking 250 years since the founding of the United States.
The curated collection highlights a variety of ways to experience Fairfax County’s history and culture, including:
- Historic sites and landmarks throughout the region
- Community events and cultural programming
- Educational opportunities tied to local and national history
- Tourism experiences that showcase Fairfax County’s heritage
Why does this matter? As we approach this historic milestone, USA250 provides an opportunity to reflect on our shared past while celebrating the rich history and vibrant destinations that make Fairfax County unique.
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Celebrate America's 250th and Read!
Through December 31 Join FCPL's America 250 Reading Adventure, available only on Beanstack. Finishers who complete the full bingo card will be entered into drawings for prizes
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Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.
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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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