The Braddock Buzz: Summer Send Off

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Congratulations Class of 2026!

Good Afternoon, Neighbors,

First, I hope everyone is recovering from last night’s storm. I’m grateful to Fairfax County Fire & Rescue, Department of Emergency Management & Security, utility crews, and the Red Cross, who’ve been out assisting those impacted. If you still need assistance, you can call the Braddock Supervisor's office at 703-425-9300 or email Braddock@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The way this community comes together for each other is part of why Braddock is so special. I saw this wonderful community on display at the multiple graduations I attended the past few weeks. It was an honor (and a bit humbling) to see kids cross the stage–a number of whom I had coached more than a decade ago.

To our teachers, staff, and volunteers, thank you for everything you’ve done for our kids and our community this year.

To all of our graduates, I wish you the very best in what’s to come. I remember the years graduating high school as some of the most formative of my life. Around that time, a friend told me, “Life isn’t about ‘finding’ yourself. It’s about creating yourself.” Go out and create something amazing.

Yours in Service,

Tom Dannan

Braddock District Representative

2026 FCPS Honors Recognition Ceremony

Fairfax County Public Schools 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.

This year, FCPS Honored two incredible educators from the Braddock District. Lindsey Kearns from Lake Braddock Secondary School was awarded with the 2026 Outstanding New Principal Award.

Additionally, Cori Lonett, a school counselor at Bonnie Brae Elementary School, was named 2026 Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee. 

We are so grateful to have both Principal Kearns and Cori Lonnett in the Braddock District as they continuously exemplify what it means to lead with care, be hardworking, and dedicated to our students.

Braddock Cappies Award Winners

The Cappies of the National Capital area held its annual awards gala honoring excellence in high school theater on June 7 at Constitution Hall in Washington, D.C. Students across all of our high schools earned nominations, and many brought home awards, including these winners from the Braddock District!

• Orchestra: The Kit Kat Club Orchestra, Cabaret (1998 Version), Lake Braddock Secondary School.
• Musical: Cabaret (1998 Version), Lake Braddock Secondary School.
• Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Musical: Murphy Finnegan, Cabaret (1998 Version), Lake Braddock Secondary School.
• Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical: Nathan Lee, Cabaret (1998 Version), Lake Braddock Secondary School.

Huge congratulations to all of these astounding young thespians for all of their hard work paying off! You can view the full list of nominations and winners here as well as the full list of winners and nominations from FCPS here.

Spring Sports Excellence Across the District 

Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2026 Spring sports season.

This year, The Robinson Secondary School Girls Outdoor Track and Field team from the Braddock District took home the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Class 6 state championship in Track & Field. This is a monumental win as it is the very first outdoor Track and Field state championship in Robinson's history!

Below is a full list of Track & Field athletes from the Braddock District who placed in the top five of their respective events.

2026 VHSL Class 6 State Championship Track & Field

Braddock District Individual Crew winners 

• Robinson Secondary School, Crew, Women's 3-4+ 
• Robinson Secondary School, Crew, Women's 2-4+ 
• Robinson Secondary School, Crew, Women's Jr-8+.

Braddock District Crew Runner ups

• West Springfield High School, Men's Crew, VASRA Division I Second Place
• West Springfield High School, Crew, Men's 3-8+.   
• Woodson High School, Crew, Men's Fr-8+.  
• West Springfield High School, Crew, Men's 2-8+. 

In addition, Robinson Secondary School won the Women's Crew, Division 2 Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association (VASRA) Trophy Point Championship and the Robinson Boys Soccer team made it to the State semi-finals finishing 3rd in the state in the 6A class.

Congratulations to all of our outstanding Spring sports athletes!

Scholarship Winners from Across the District 

Asian Leadership Alliance Awards Scholarships to FCPS Seniors

The Asian Leadership Alliance — a certified employee group of FCPS employees — presented scholarships to three FCPS Asian, Pacific Islander, Desi American (APIDA) high school seniors on Wednesday, June 3. One of those Scholarship recipients was Lake Braddock Senior, Manas Puri, from the the Braddock District.

“It's essential that the APIDA community gets involved in the fight against educational inequity because, all too often, our struggles remain invisible. Too many APIDA students grow up believing that asking for help is a sign of weakness, or that their needs simply don't matter enough to mention,” said Manas Puri who is now a Lake Braddock Class of 2026 graduate and will be heading to Stanford University in the Fall to major in Management Science and Engineering and Computer Science.

Fairfax NAACP Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship Winners

Michelle Leete dedicated countless hours to advocating for students and families through her leadership with the PTAs at Weyanoke Elementary, Holmes Middle School, and Edison High School. She also served as vice president of both the Virginia PTA and the Fairfax County Council of PTAs, where she worked tirelessly to expand opportunities for all students.

Recipients of this year’s Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship were celebrated at this year's Michelle Leete Memorial Scholarship Brunch at the Gum Springs Community Center. Congratulations to our recipients from the Braddock District:

• Emily Martineau, West Springfield High School.
• Sovay Reid, Lake Braddock Secondary School.

Canterbury Woods 6th Grader honored as Safety Patroller of the Year

Sixth-grader Will Kinne, safety patrol captain at Canterbury Woods Elementary School in Annandale, has kept his fellow students safe through rain, shine, and even Snowcrete.

Known for his calm demeanor, his ability to think quickly on his feet, and stay focused despite distractions from peers, Will was named this year’s Safety Patroller of the Year by the American Automobile Association (AAA). He learned of the honor during his sixth-grade promotion ceremony.

This is the second straight year that a Canterbury Woods patrol officer has received this recognition from AAA, which invites all schools in Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia to nominate a patrol for the award.

“It means a lot to me,” Will said. “I have been trying my best, working hard all year, to keep people safe. This job shows you how to be a leader. Sometimes it can be pretty hard, but you push through it and learn you can handle tough things.”

Woodson Sophomore Competes on American Ninja Warrior

Grace Walk, a Sophomore at Woodson High School, got to show off her skills on the biggest stage for obstacle course runners, and competed on NBC's American Ninja Warrior. Walk began ninja training when she was just 9 years old. After watching the show, she joined a local ninja gym, fell in love with the sport, and with the help of her coaches, learned how to approach all kinds of obstacles. She was dedicated early on and once she got more serious about competing, would train every morning before school by going on runs, doing pull-ups, and then heading to ninja practices right after school.

This isn’t her first time on the big Ninja stage. She made her first on-screen appearance on American Ninja Warrior Junior at age 11. After her time on American Ninja Warrior Junior, Grace continued to train and compete and applied for the adult show as soon as she was old enough. In August, she received the call that she was chosen to compete on American Ninja Warrior. In September, she and her family flew to Las Vegas to film.

Grace’s run aired on Monday, June 15th, and although she conquered the first few obstacles, she did not move on to the next round. Grace said,“I felt very happy with how my run went. I don’t think I was disappointed with my experience, and I think it probably, if anything, made me even more excited to hopefully get to compete again, because it was just really fun.” Way to represent the Braddock District on a national stage so wonderfully, Grace!

Exploravision Award Winners

Keya Pawar, a fifth grader from the Braddock District, brought home one of the highest honors in K–12 STEM education. Keya and her team from Willow Springs elementary school were recently named national first-place winners in the prestigious ExploraVision competition for their innovative project, Bug Botics: Technology Meets Sustainable Farming. 

As national first-place winner, Keya earned a $10,000 U.S. Series EE savings bond and an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. where she attended an action-packed awards weekend. The awards weekend gave national winners a taste of the national spotlight. The young innovators had the incredible opportunity to present their project at a science fair at the U.S. Congress. Rep. James Walkinshaw from Virginia's 11th district reviewed students' projects and encouraged them to keep innovating. The team participated in a studio media tour featuring live TV interviews at the National Press Club. The awards were presented by global Toshiba presidents and National Science Teaching Association (NSTA) executives who flew in from around the world to celebrate the winners. To top off an already excellent experience, they even got to meet and interact with Bill Nye, the Science Guy.

FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid recently praised the duo during a visit to Willow Springs, highlighting the team's impressive ability to think critically about real-world agricultural challenges and develop creative, purposeful solutions. Congratulations to this powerhouse team!

Edison HS Cosmetology Academy Class Sends Cardinal Forest Sixth Graders Off for Summer in Style

Nails? Check. Hair tinsel or chalk? Check. Face Painting? Check. The Edison High School Academy Cosmetology students helped make the Cardinal Forest Elementary 6th-grade party one for the books as they provided students and even some staff with fun and fresh looks to wrap up an amazing school year.

Several students were proud to have their faces painted with the flag of their cultural background, while others chose to get “32” painted on their nails to represent their future high school graduation year (2032). These students in the Cosmetology Academy program showed off their skills while creating an inclusive, fun, and welcoming environment. They also brought awareness to these sixth graders about what an academy program is, and how they can be a part of one once they are in high school. 

Special shout out to the Cosmetology Academy students from the Braddock District who helped make this day such a success!

• Liz Thamasett- West Springfield High School
• Piper Borkenhagen- Lake Braddock Secondary School
• Lucy Hebdon-  West Springfield High School

Summer Extravaganza

The third annual FCPS Summer Extravaganza brought together nearly 2,000 community members, including more than 500 students, for a day of discovery, creativity, and connection.

Created and led by the Fairfax County Public Schools Office of Community Relations, the Summer Extravaganza reflects FCPS's commitment to supporting student success by providing engaging, interactive learning opportunities that inspire curiosity, creativity, and learning beyond the classroom. What began as a vision to extend educational experiences into the summer has grown into a signature FCPS event that connects students, families, staff, and community partners through meaningful opportunities for exploration and engagement.

A Message from Your Braddock District Supervisor

End-of-school-year update from Supervisor Rachna Sizemore Heizer

Hello, Braddock Families!

What a year it has been! Six months into my role as your Braddock District Supervisor, I remain just as passionate about this community as ever. Attending graduation ceremonies this season, watching the joy on graduates' faces and the pride of their families, reminds me exactly why this work matters. I'm grateful for my strong partnership with Tom Dannan, our new awesome Braddock District School Board member, as we work together to serve Braddock.

In case you are wondering what I’ve been up to since I left the school board, on the Board of Supervisors, I chair both the Housing Committee and the Health and Human Services Committee. Housing is a defining issue of our time: the median home price in Fairfax reached $770,000 in 2024 (which would require an income of $230,000 to afford), and we're adding only one housing unit for every two jobs created. Staff has been directed to find solutions such as streamlining permits and pursuing transit-oriented development. I am committed to this work for the long haul.

Through Health and Human Services, I continue fighting to ensure people have what they need to thrive: housing, food, mental health support, disability inclusion, childcare, and more. Along with meeting basic needs, we need to make sure everyone can live fully, joyfully, and on their own terms.

I'm also focused on ending domestic violence through my role on the Council to End Domestic Violence, and on shepherding key Braddock projects like the Audrey Moore rec center renovation, Lake Accotink, and Braddock Road improvements.

Want to follow along? Subscribe to my newsletter, the Braddock Beacon, for weekly updates.

In Service,

Rachna

Summer Resources

Summer Resources Help Students Stay Curious, Healthy, and Busy 

FCPS’ Summer Resource Guide has activities and tips on a variety of subjects and interests, from camps and activities to health and safety resources. 

Be sure to check back over the summer, as more resources may be added. 

Learning Doesn’t Take a Vacation and Neither Does Fun!The FCPS Summer Learning webpage offers ideas and strategies for families to keep students throughout the summer. It’s the perfect time to help your student explore new interests, reinforce concepts, and stay engaged!

Summer Meals

Summer Meals for Students

Starting Monday, June 22, no-cost meals will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis at the sites and times listed on the FCPS Summer Food Service Program webpage. Students must remain on site while eating their meals.

This year, thanks to generous support from Educate Fairfax, families may also receive one no-cost breakfast and lunch per adult at the following elementary schools: Braddock, Dogwood, Glen Forest, Hutchison, Hybla Valley, and London Towne.

Summer sites will continue to be added, so please check the Summer Food webpage regularly for updates.

Math Basal Resources

Provide Feedback on Secondary Mathematics Instructional Resource

FCPS will adopt new mathematics instructional resources for Math 6 (middle school only) through Algebra 2 for the 2026-27 school year. A review committee composed of community members, administrators, and teachers met to review materials submitted by vendors. 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 from Saturday, June 13, to 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, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you need to review materials outside of these hours, please email MathBasalReview@fcps.edu.  

End of Year/Summer Special Education and Section 504 Newsletter

View the latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and Section 504 Newsletter. Topics in this 2026 End of Year/Summer issue include:

• Celebrating 50 Years of IDEA

• A Year of Inclusion in FCPS

• Advancing Success for Twice-Exceptional (2e) Learners

• Extended School Year (ESY)

• Your Guide to a Fun and Inclusive Summer

• Play, Plan, Grow: Summer Activities for Executive Function

• Keep SEL Growing all Summer Long

• New Resources to Support Life after High School

• Make an Impact as a Special Education Teacher

• Fairfax County SEPTA News

Subscribe to the Special Education and Section 504 Newsletter.

ACE Opportunities

Trades Scholarship Application Window Opening

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 Monday, June 15, through Saturday, August 15, for $1,000 towards an FCPS ACE Trades Apprenticeship class starting this Fall. See more details and explore trade programs.

Apprenticeship 101: Core Construction Skills

Due to high demand, a third course section is now open for Apprenticeship 101: Core Construction Skills, through FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE).

Prepare 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.

This course 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. Earn 80 hours of apprenticeship-related instruction as well as an industry-recognized, registered credential. And 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.

Summer Courses for SAT Prep

Make the most of your time this summer to get confident and ready to “ACE” your SATs. Affordable classes are available through FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) to prepare you for either (or both) the Math Part 1 or Part 2 exams. Or, strengthen your overall test-taking strategies with a Reading/Writing Skills and Strategies class to enhance speed, accuracy, and confidence. Choose either day or evening classes to fit your summer schedule.

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

Web | Email Tom | Phone: 571-423-1088

Email the Braddock District Team | Phone: 571-423-1076