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The Dunne Dispatch - Report Card Edition (July 2, 2026)
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Dear Friends and Neighbors,
This July 4th marks a monumental milestone for our nation as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Two and a half centuries ago, an experiment in self-governance and liberty began—and it remains our shared responsibility to sustain it.
Here in the Mount Vernon District, American history is not just something our students read about in textbooks; it is a legacy we walk through every day. With historic sites like George Washington’s Mount Vernon and George Mason’s Gunston Hall right in our backyard, the Mount Vernon District holds a unique place in American history. It is a privilege to live in and serve a community with such a deep historical legacy of leadership and civic purpose.
Part of America’s greatness lies in the fact that our story is still being written, and its next chapters belong to our children. As your School Board Member, I am deeply focused on ensuring our schools effectively prepare the future leaders, innovators, and engaged citizens who will safeguard our democracy and lead our communities into the next 250 years. To achieve this, we need your active community participation today.
The Mount Vernon District currently has vacant positions on four (4) School Board Community Advisory Committees for the 2026-2027 school year. Through these committees, residents provide input to our Board on a variety of important issues. Read more below for specific vacancies.
Click here to apply.
Applications are due by Friday, July 17. Applicants must live in the Mount Vernon Magisterial District. Use this district look-up tool to confirm your residency. Please help spread the word about these exciting volunteer opportunities.
As plans begin for the upcoming school year, keeping our community informed and engaged remains a top priority. This newsletter includes the latest information on school calendar adjustments and the next steps in our ongoing boundary studies. I am also excited to spotlight the student achievements, national recognitions, and innovative practices that represent the daily excellence taking place in Mount Vernon District schools.
Please email me or my staff at MountVernon@fcps.edu if you have any questions or concerns you would like to share. Your feedback is vital as we work together to ensure every student in our community receives a world-class education.
Very Respectfully,
 Mateo Dunne, Mount Vernon District Representative
Inside this issue:
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Military Family Field Day. I participated in FCPS’s very first Military Family Field Day at Annandale HS. The event brought together families from every branch of service, showcasing the incredible breadth of our military-connected community. Superintendent Michelle Reid, Region 3 Executive Principal Ingrid Bynum, and I had the privilege of meeting and thanking military families and community leaders from across the county. Several student groups from across multiple high schools volunteered their time to lead games, activities, and friendly competitions on the field. Events like this are vital for ensuring our military families feel welcomed, connected, and deeply valued within the FCPS family. Thank you to the organizers and student leaders who made this inaugural event an unforgettable day of community pride!
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“It’s Revolutionary” Trivia Competition. The Fairfax County Government Center traveled back in time to kick off local celebrations for the nation's 250th birthday. I teamed up with At-Large School Board Member Kyle McDaniel to participate in the "It's Revolutionary" Trivia Competition! Competing against our brilliant students, Kyle and I had our own knowledge of colonial history put to the test. As a history buff, it was a fun way to spend the afternoon!
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Boundary Community Kick-Off Meetings. Thank you to those who attended recent boundary study meetings. Several of the areas targeted for further study and possible boundary changes affect schools that Mount Vernon District students attend. Because of the importance of these potential changes to Mount Vernon District residents, I want to make sure your voices are being heard. I advocated for additional meetings to be held at areas that are located in communities that may be impacted including: Gunston ES, Lorton Station ES, Lewis HS, Saratoga ES, and the Hagel Circle community. These meetings were just Round 1 of public engagement. I will be following all the boundary studies closely so I can share information and advocate on your behalf. Read more on the specific boundary studies below.
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Halley ES 30th Anniversary. I joined the Halley ES community to celebrate an incredible milestone: 30 years of dedication, learning, and Hornet pride! Since first opening its doors, Halley has been a cornerstone of our community, shaping the minds of thousands of students and fostering a warm, inclusive environment where young learners thrive. Happy 30th Anniversary to the Halley Hornets! Thank you for three decades of excellence in education, and here’s to many more.
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Dedication of the Marsha Manning Memorial Library. I partnered with School Board Chair Sandy Anderson to sponsor a resolution to name the South County MS Library in honor of the school’s Founding Principal Marsha Manning. On June 15, I joined the South County MS community, including Ms. Manning’s family and several friends and former colleagues to formally name and dedicate the library in her honor.
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School Calendar Update
On June 11, the School Board voted to adopt Policy 1344, our new framework for building the FCPS school year calendar. I have been vocal about the problems with our calendar - it is too fragmented, too long, and too disruptive for families and students. I am proud that I have been able to draw attention to the problems with the FCPS calendar through my newsletters. While the policy approved is not perfect, it is a real improvement. The new policy prioritizes 5-day school weeks and instructional continuity. The Superintendent assured me that the policy provides sufficient guidance to reverse the trend of fragmented weeks we have seen in recent years in FCPS calendars. I want to thank my colleague Melanie Meren (Hunter Mill) for her work on this issue as Chair of the Governance Committee.
The Superintendent is set to bring draft calendars to the Board on July 9 for SY 2027-28 and SY 2028-29. If these calendars don't reflect the kind of improvement we fought for, I'll be pushing back on her recommendations. We have made progress on the policy, now we need to see it on the calendar.
Educational Technology (Ed Tech) Update
I have long advocated for the use of textbooks over Chromebooks. I believe students should be taught through direct teacher-led instruction. Screens are a poor substitute for an engaging teacher. When technology is used it should be active and purposeful — not passive, not substitutive, and never used simply to keep students occupied.
For months, I've heard so many of you through emails, conversations, and testimony at nearly every Board meeting, asking for limits on the use of technology in the classroom. Along with my colleague, Ryan McElveen (At-large), I've made it a priority to meet with parents in the Mount Vernon District and advocates across the county to hear your concerns firsthand. These conversations have made clear just how far technology has crept into the classroom. One parent showed me her first grader’s Chromebook history with more than 100 tabs open in a single day!
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This direct engagement with parents helped shape how I approach this issue on the School Board. The School Board has been active on Ed Tech over the last several weeks which is a credit to the parents who brought their testimony, their stories, and their persistence to this issue.
Establishment of the Educational Technology Review Committee
In May, the School Board directed the Superintendent to establish an Educational Technology Review Committee (ETRC). The ETRC provides a structured, transparent process for community engagement on the use of educational technology, including artificial intelligence. To ensure transparency in the process, all meetings will be public.
I am happy to share that I have appointed Alix Fetch to represent the Mount Vernon District on the new Educational Technology Review Committee. Ms. Fetch is the parent of a first grader and a preschooler in the West Potomac pyramid. She holds a PhD in Linguistics with a concentration in Interdisciplinary Cognitive Science from Georgetown University. Ms. Fetch grew up around classroom technology in Silicon Valley and brings a grounded, research-based perspective on when and how ed tech belongs in the classroom. Thank you, Alix, for serving in this important role!
Motions to Address the Overuse of Ed Tech
At the June 11 Board meeting I seconded two motions that begin to address the overuse of Ed Tech in FCPS. The first motion brought by Tom Dannan (Braddock) directs the Superintendent to review the feasibility, equity, and educational efficacy and, in consultation with the Educational Technology Review Committee, make recommendations to the School Board on:
- Options for parents to opt out of having an electronic device sent home with their students.
- Restrictions on electronic devices for instruction for students from Pre-K to 2nd grade.
- Options for students in higher grades in elementary school to have electronic devices stored away when not intentionally in use for instruction during the school day.
- Enhanced digital literacy instruction, with sufficient professional development for staff directly instructing students. This curriculum will be publicly available.
The Superintendent’s recommendations must be made to the School Board by November 12, 2026. Recommendations that are passed by the Board must be implemented as soon as practicable, but no later than the 2027-28 school year.
The second motion brought by Dr. Ricardy Anderson (Mason) directs the Superintendent to create an opt out policy for the next school year for parents of preschool and elementary school students who do not want their child’s device sent home. Families of our youngest students don't have to wait for the full review to make that choice for the upcoming school year.
Resolution on Responsible Instructional Technology
At the June 25 School Board meeting, Mr. Dannan and Chair Sandy Anderson (Springfield) brought a Resolution on Responsible Instructional Technology to provide guiding principles as we develop policies on the use of technology in the classroom. This resolution makes clear that education is a human-centered endeavor. Technology may be used to enhance students' education, including by providing differentiated instruction and expanding access to resources. However, the resolution recognizes there are risks associated with technology and it should only be used intentionally and in developmentally appropriate ways. The resolution also supports the development of policies and regulations that include limitations on screen time and device access by grade level, opt-out options for families, and a digital citizenship and literacy plan. This resolution passed unanimously.
This progress is just the beginning. I will continue to work to put safeguards in place to ensure our students are being taught by teachers, not tablets, and their school days are spent reading books, not screens. I will keep you updated as the Educational Technology Review Committee gets to work.
Addressing our Deferred Maintenance Backlog through Energy Savings Performance Contracts
FCPS has a deferred maintenance backlog that is approaching $400 million. Much of this cost is related to our aging HVAC. As we saw at Hayfield SS, when we don’t maintain and upgrade our HVAC systems, it has costly effects. Not only did the HVAC at Hayfield SS need to be fixed, but the resulting mold needed to be professionally abated, increasing costs substantially. FCPS must address our deferred maintenance backlog to provide safe, inviting schools for students and teachers.
At the work session on June 23, I introduced a forum topic, along with Karl Frisch (Providence), on using Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC). ESPC would allow FCPS to address deferred maintenance with no upfront capital costs, using guaranteed energy savings to finance upgrades. Almost any energy efficiency upgrade can be included: HVAC, lighting, building envelope, solar installations, and roof replacements. In addition to tackling our deferred maintenance backlog, these upgrades are critical to meeting our Joint Environmental Taskforce (JET) goals.
ESPCs are time-tested vehicles that have been used by many other school districts. Virginia established a state program in 2001, managed by Virginia Energy, that has facilitated 310 projects across the Commonwealth. The program allows state agencies, higher education facilities, and school districts to significantly reduce energy costs and update infrastructure through conservation and operational efficiency measures. Virginia Energy maintains a list of 19 pre-approved vendors, called Energy Service Companies (ESCOs). Taking advantage of Virginia Energy’s program would allow FCPS to streamline the procurement process, solicit bids from multiple companies, and receive technical assistance from experts throughout the process.
There was consensus among the School Board at the forum to direct the Superintendent to report back to the School Board on future plans to use Virginia Energy’s program to develop an energy savings performance contract to address our deferred maintenance backlog.
School Boundaries Update
I wrote to you in my May 6 newsletter about the areas designated by the Superintendent for study and potential revisions before the next comprehensive boundary review in 5 years. The Superintendent will make recommendations on these areas to the School Board in January 2027. Any changes approved by the School Board will take effect for the 2026-2027 school year.
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Study #2 (Halley ES, Gunston ES, Laurel Hills ES, Lorton Station ES). Read more about this study on the Boundary website here.
- Community meetings were held virtually and in-person at Hagel Circle, Gunston ES, Lorton Station ES, and South County HS.
- View the slides from the community meetings here.
- View the maps shared at the community meetings here.
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Study #3 (Bren Mar Park ES). Read more about this study on the Boundary website here.
- Community meetings were held virtually and in-person at Edison HS and Lewis HS.
- View the slides from the community meetings here.
- View the maps shared at the community meetings here.
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Study #5 (Rolling Valley ES). Read more about this study on the Boundary webpage here.
- A community meeting was held at West Springfield HS. Because this study directly affects future enrollment at Key MS and Lewis HS, I requested an additional meeting in the Lewis pyramid. That meeting was held on Monday, June 15 at Saratoga ES.
- View the slides from the community meeting here.
- View the maps shared at the community meeting here.
Advocacy to Keep Top Talent in Local Schools
Recently, a local school selected a highly qualified teacher to join its staff. Unfortunately, a county-level administrative decision unexpectedly overturned the school's choice, threatening to cost the community a dedicated local educator. After learning of this situation, I immediately engaged with Human Resources to advocate for the applicant, review the county's decision, and support the school's initial hiring choice.
Within 24 hours of that inquiry, the roadblock was cleared. The position was reopened, and the school was able to officially extend the offer. If you or someone you know is experiencing a roadblock within FCPS, please do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.
Protecting the Vital Role of Social Workers in Our Local Schools
Recently, a proposal threatened to reduce the availability of full-time social workers at several schools, including Mount Vernon District’s Riverside ES. Social workers are not an added luxury; they are essential. They play an indispensable role in navigating the complex external challenges our vulnerable students face by intervening in crises, supporting daily attendance, and connecting families with critical community resources.
When community members brought the proposed reduction to my attention, I immediately pushed back against these cuts, advocating strongly with district leadership on behalf of our students and staff. My advocacy secured a crucial policy adjustment. Schools now have the explicit flexibility to utilize Title I funds to preserve these essential positions.
Join a School Board Community Advisory Committee
The Mount Vernon District currently has vacant positions on four (4) School Board Community Advisory Committees for the 2026-2027 school year.
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Advanced Academic Programs Advisory Committee (AAPAC): Reviews the local plan for the education of gifted students, including revisions, and determines the extent to which the plan for the previous year was implemented. Meets monthly, 1-Year Term.
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Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD): Examines current practices within FCPS regarding data collection and progress monitoring for students with disabilities and learning differences in the division. Meets monthly, 1-Year Term.
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Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC): Ensures equitable access to and evaluates the availability of career and technical education programs relevant to workforce needs. Meets monthly, 1-Year Term.
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School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC): Assists with the development of health policy and the evaluation of the status of school health, health education, the school environment, and health services. Meets monthly, 1-Year Term.
Click here to apply.
Applications due by Friday, July 17. Applicants must live in the Mount Vernon Magisterial District. Use this district look-up tool to confirm your residency. Please help spread the word about these exciting volunteer opportunities.
Congratulations Class of 2026
I was honored to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2026! Whether pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or dedicating themselves to military service, our graduates are prepared to lead and innovate on a global stage.
Watch highlights from several graduations:
- Hayfield SS highlights here.
- Pulley Center here.
- South County HS highlights here.
- Edison HS highlights here.
- West Potomac HS highlights here.
- Mount Vernon highlights here.
- Lewis HS highlights here.
- Fairfax County Adult High School here.
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While we celebrate every single graduate, I want to particularly recognize our Honor Graduates and Military Graduates. I personally signed and sent letters to all Mount Vernon District residents who graduated with a 4.0 GPA or higher and to our local graduates who have committed to military service. I also sent personal letters to students who earned an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma or certificate and to graduates from our nontraditional high schools.
To every member of the Class of 2026: the future is yours to shape, and we cannot wait to see the impact you will make. Congratulations, and best of luck in your next chapter!
Congratulations to Mount Vernon District’s National Merit Scholar Finalists
Congratulations to Malyha Bashar (Edison HS), Shaan Nagda (West Potomac HS), Micah Sorli (Thomas Jefferson HS), and Zoe Stanfield (Edison HS) who were named National Merit Scholar Finalists! Two hundred and forty-four (244) FCPS students earned this distinction. Read more here.
Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce Recognizes Distinguished Students
The Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce recently named its 2026 Distinguished Business Scholars. Scholarships were awarded to graduating high school seniors who plan to continue their education and pursue careers in business and related fields. Congratulations to the 2026 Business Scholars from our Mount Vernon District community schools:
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Mount Vernon HS: Ethan Santos and Kate Hood
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South County HS: Nicole Cousins and James Song
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Edison HS: Andrew Binetti, Lucy Little, Nathan Roeschlein, and Mason Brown
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Hayfield SS: Brooklynn Jones and Preston Simpson
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West Potomac HS: Henry Lang
South County Combined Drumline Brings Home Bronze Award
Congratulations to the South County Combined Drumline on earning a bronze medal at the WGI World Championships in Dayton, Ohio, with a score of 91.538! This is the ensemble's first time medaling at the event, and they are only the 3rd FCPS ensemble ever to bring home a World Championship medal.
The group features talented student-musicians from South County HS, Hayfield SS, and West Potomac HS who have been working on their show, “Redacted,” since last fall. Thank you to Director Grant Butters, Merold Saffa, Holden Brettell, Will Egger, Raatib Rahman, and Charlie Gorham for their relentless work preparing these students for the national stage.
Check out their award-winning performance here.
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Hayfield Robotics on the Global Stage
Congratulations to Hayfield SS’s Robotics Team for their incredible journey to the FIRST Robotics World Championship in Houston! Competing against more than 600 teams from over 10 countries, these brilliant students proudly represented both their school and FCPS in one of the most competitive youth robotics events in the world. The team is led by Joey Kerns, a dedicated robotics coach, teacher, and Hayfield SS alum. Mr. Kerns has built an incredible program where mentors continually adapt to support the highly technical, innovative ideas of their students. Read the full story here.
All Virginia Band and Chorus
Congratulations to our talented musicians and vocalists in the Mount Vernon District! These students were among high school students across the state who were selected to perform at the 2026 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, and Orchestra event.
All Virginia Band
Hayfield SS: Alexander McConachie; South County HS: Sneya Mayya; West Potomac HS: Aiden Bratten, Molly Gorman, Owen McLenithan, Molly Mead, and Lexi Zwerdling
All Virginia Chorus
Mount Vernon HS: Mariah Palencia, Emlyn Pascoe, and Juliet Pascoe; South County HS: Alexander Nailing and Vincent Snow; West Potomac HS: Grace Barrett, Hannah Kavanagh, Olivia Peck, Jonathan Sorli, and Andrew Stroman
FCPS Students Take Home FBLA
One hundred ninety-six (196) 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 at the 2026 Virginia Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) State Leadership Conference. 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. Read more online here. Winners from Mount Vernon District schools include:
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Edison HS: Lina Mered, Introduction to Information Technology, 4th Place
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Hayfield SS: Ramy Alridge, Network Design, 4th Place
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Hayfield SS: Eric Goering, Network Design, 4th Place
Students and Staff Recognized by the Hispanic Leadership Alliance
The Hispanic Leadership Alliance (HLA), a certified employee group of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) employees, presented scholarships to 29 high school seniors, adult learners, and community leaders last month. Scholarship recipients were recognized for leadership and mentoring skills in their educational and social activities. Candidates demonstrated a commitment to furthering their education while improving their communities. Read more about HLA here.
Congratulations to all scholarship recipients, particularly those who attend Mount Vernon District schools:
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Bryant HS: Stephanie Lemus-Ortiz, (School Counselor), Gómez Portillo Family Adelante Scholarship
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West Potomac HS: Jessica Maldonado-Cueva, Scholarship for Leadership
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Lewis HS: Jennifer Manzanares Martínez, John Lewis Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarship
FCPS Students Shine at the 2026 Scholastic Writing Awards
I am incredibly proud to share that Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) student writers earned an impressive 162 awards—including 24 Gold Keys—at the 2026 DC Metro Region Scholastic Writing Award competition! All Gold Key-winning entries will automatically advance for consideration at the national level.
A special congratulations goes to Langley High School student Amenah Rashid, who was named an American Voices Nominee for her speculative fiction entry, “On this beach rots the bile of the sea.”
Presented by the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is the largest and longest-running recognition program of its kind in the United States. Students compete across a wide variety of writing categories, including journalism, poetry, dramatic script, personal essay, and science fiction. Read more about the Regional Scholastic Writing Awards here. Congratulations to award recipients from Mount Vernon District schools:
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Edison HS: Sophia Shi, the weak and sick, Poetry, Gold.
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Twain MS: Angela Chen, Tomato Land, Speculative Fiction, Honorable Mention.
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Edison HS: Maggie Chen, a brief ode to pickle juice (in memoriam), Poetry, Honorable Mention.
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Mount Vernon HS: Sydney Stokes, That Letter I Wrote, Poetry, Honorable Mention.
Mount Vernon HS Senior Headed to West Point
This June, Mount Vernon High School senior Audrey will prepare to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point. While her journey as a military-connected student brought her to eight different schools, Audrey credits her pivotal years at Mount Vernon HS as the true catalyst for her success and leadership development. Read Audrey’s full story here.
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West Potomac Academy Students Train for Emergencies Through Live Simulation
West Potomac Academy held a live emergency simulation giving students in its EMT, 911 Dispatch, and Criminal Justice programs hands-on experience responding to a mock crisis — a runner injured during a 5K race that escalated when a fight broke out among bystanders. EMT students treated patients on scene, 911 Dispatch students handled incoming calls from inside a real mobile call center brought in by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, and Criminal Justice students worked alongside actual police officers to manage the crowd.
The exercise was supported by several community partners, including the Fairfax County Police and Fire Departments, CERT, and the Department of Public Safety Communications, who provided real-time feedback and mentorship. The collaboration was designed to show students how multiple agencies work together in real emergencies.
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South County MS Wins 2nd Place at Battle of the Books Competition
Three cheers to our incredible student-readers at South County Middle School! After a hard-fought run-off competition, the team took home the 2nd place trophy at the 2026 Fairfax County Battle of the Books. Facing off against schools from across the county, our students demonstrated phenomenal teamwork, strong comprehension skills, and an inspiring passion for reading. These young scholars represented the South County community with excellence and determination. We thank the coaches and staff who made this literary victory possible!
Congratulations also to Whitman MS for making its first-ever appearance in this countywide competition. Watch the Wildcats take on the competition here.
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Bucknell ES Student’s Drawing Decorates Metrobus
Sebastian Pedroza Nares, a talented 4th grader at Bucknell ES, was selected for his incredible artwork which was selected to be featured on a Metro Bus in honor of Earth Day! His creativity and commitment to environmental stewardship are now rolling through the streets, inspiring everyone across the DC Metro area to go green and take public transit.
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West Potomac HS TSA Qualifies for Nationals
Congratulations to the West Potomac HS Technology Student Association Club Members who placed at the State Competition last week at Technosphere. They have all qualified to attend Nationals in June.
- 1st place in Animatronics: Sean Collins and Robert Weidenfeller.
- 2nd place in Data Science: Tina Copty and Hannah Golden.
- 3rd place in Drone Challenge: Eli Brading and Joseph Scully.
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Celebrating Mount Vernon District's Spring Athletic Accomplishments
From the courts to the track, Mount Vernon District’s spring athletic teams have represented our community with incredible pride, resilience, and sportsmanship. Congratulations to all the FCPS student athletes who participated in the 2026 spring sports season.
A special shout-out to student athletes from Mount Vernon District schools who won state championships or were state runners up:
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Dillon House, Edison HS, Boys Long Jump.
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South County HS Men’s Crew, Division 2 VASRA Trophy Point Championship.
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South County HS Crew Individual Championship winners: Men's N-8+, Men's 2-4+, Men's 1-4+.
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South County HS Crew State Runners-Up: Women's Jr-8+ and Women's 1-4+.
Join us in also congratulating the following teams and individuals on their phenomenal spring seasons:
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West Potomac HS Boys Soccer: Regional Champions.
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West Potomac HS Boys Tennis: Regional Champions.
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West Potomac HS Girls Tennis: Regional Runner-Up.
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West Potomac HS Boys Lacrosse: Regional Runner-Up.
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Edison HS Boys Baseball: Regional Runner-Up.
Track and Field Standouts
Our athletes also had an impressive performance in Spring Track and Field. Congratulations to all our student-athletes who placed in their events:
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Mount Vernon HS: Erick Yanes Flores (4th, 110m Hurdles; 7th, 300m Hurdles), Malakai Gagnon (6th, Pole Vault), Miles Ward (12th, High Jump), Dawit Volcy (13th, Triple Jump), O’Neal Allotey (15th, Triple Jump), and Arion Cole (18th, High Jump).
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West Potomac HS: Alex Rudolph (3rd, 200m), Robert Leonard (3rd, 800m), Max Tuttle (4th, High Jump), Addalia Sylvester (4th, Discus), Daniel Black (15th, 3200m), Jaylin Alston (16th, High Jump), alongside strong finishes by the Boys 4x800 (7th), 4x400 (8th), and 4x100 (17th) relay teams.
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Hayfield SS: Sierra Guarango (4th, Pole Vault), Danziel Marshall (6th, 110m Hurdles), Gavin Zais (10th, 3200m; 12th, 1600m), Joshua Brown (12th, Long Jump), Lar’Rya Cooper (14th, Discus), Raven Sow (14th, Shot Put), Josiah Stephens (15th, 300m Hurdles; 18th, Triple Jump), and Jacob Banocy (24th, 3200m).
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South County HS: Amaya Curry (3rd, Long Jump; 15th, 400m), India Young (6th, Triple Jump; 15th, Long Jump), Andrew Desir (8th, 100m), Alex Featherly (12th, 3200m), Mykal Mason (13th, Triple Jump), and the Girls 4x100 relay team (9th).
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Edison HS: Diego Barrera (8th, 3200m; 18th, 1600m) and Alena Guilloid (10th, High Jump).
We are incredibly proud of the hard work these students put in both inside the classroom and out on the field. Congratulations to all.
Mount Vernon District Educators Take Home Two Top Division Awards
2026 Outstanding Principal: Rashida Green, Bucknell ES, Region 3
Bucknell ES Principal Rashida Green was named FCPS 2026 Outstanding Principal of the Year! Known as an innovative leader, she partnered to launch both the Virginia Tech Think A Bit Lab and FCPS’ first Montessori program, providing specialized opportunities for students who might not typically have them. She ensures students have access to meaningful academic, social, and emotional growth while fostering a culture where everyone feels deeply valued and affirmed. Read more here.
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2026 Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher: Charlotte Smith, History & Social Studies Teacher, Whitman Middle School, Region 3
Charlotte believes learning should be creative, engaging, and fun. With a strong passion for theater, she discovered her calling integrating the arts into general education. Charlotte creates a vibrant classroom environment that promotes empathy, empowerment, and a love of learning. At Whitman MS, she founded Boys to Men, represented her school on the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council, served as the keynote speaker at the Virginia Council for Social Studies conference, and led a fashion club. Read more here.
Congratulations also to the Award Finalists from all schools where Mount Vernon District students attend!
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School Leader Award Finalists
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Outstanding Principal Finalist: Janice Edwards-Dalton, Laurel Hill ES, Region 4. Known as the “Kid Crusader” at Laurel Hill ES, Janice’s leadership is defined by fierce student advocacy and authentic relationships. She cultivated a resilient, joyful community where everyone belongs by constantly asking, “How do we make school work better for every student?”
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Outstanding New Principal Finalist: Matthew Mough, Mark Twain MS, Region 3. Matt fosters a vibrant, inclusive community at Twain Middle, balancing high expectations with empathy and care. As the collaborative leader of “Team Twain,” his goal is for every student to feel respected and safe—ensuring their middle school experience is one of “triumph, not trepidation.”
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Outstanding New Principal Finalist: Abigail Ragan, Saratoga ES, Region 6. Abby is a courageous leader and passionate advocate for inclusive education. From restructuring the master schedule to support special education inclusion to fostering teacher growth and strong family partnerships, she inspires a unified commitment to student success.
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Teacher Award Finalists
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Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher Finalist: Gavin Jackson, Business & Information Technology Teacher, South County High School, Region 4. A passionate educator, Gavin champions inquiry-based learning and cultural inclusion. Inside his welcoming classroom and through clubs like Animal Allies, he inspires students to discover their curiosity and become lifelong learners.
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Outstanding Secondary School Teacher Finalist: Morgan Intrieri, Learning Disabilities Teacher, Edison HS, Region 3. Morgan redefines academic accessibility by empowering students with disabilities to conquer rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) coursework. Through inclusive co-teaching and deep, trusting relationships, she creates a safe space where students dismantle their fear of failure and reach their full potential.
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Outstanding New Elementary Teacher Finalist: Jenine Chamblee, Kindergarten Teacher, Fort Belvoir Primary School, Region 3. A former FCPS parent and volunteer, Jenine became a teacher driven by an unwavering commitment to equity. She creates a deeply inclusive classroom that celebrates cultural and neurological diversity, ensuring every student has the exact resources they need to succeed.
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Outstanding Elementary School Teacher Finalist: Bailey Chandler, Second Grade Teacher, Riverside ES, Region 3. Bailey empowers her second graders to reach ambitious goals through targeted instruction and hands-on learning. By celebrating growth and perseverance, she builds a classroom of confident learners while actively supporting staff connection and morale across the Riverside community.
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Outstanding Elementary School Teacher Finalist: Nathan Drake, Art Teacher, Newington Forest ES, Region 4. Nathan empowers students to use art for meaningful creative expression and problem-solving. A recognized leader in the FCPS Fine Arts community, he mentors new teachers and enriches the school environment by co-leading the Get 2 Green and Garden Clubs.
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School-Based Professional Employee Award Finalists
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Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee Finalist: Michael Abrams, School Based Technology Specialist, Mount Vernon HS, Region 3. Often referred to as Mount Vernon HS’s “Swiss Army knife,” Mike ensures technology is a bridge to success, not a barrier. By translating complex tech jargon into clear, accessible support, he empowers our students, staff, and families while actively mentoring students for life beyond graduation.
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Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee Finalist: Benjamin Bedard, Resource Teacher, Hayfield SS, Region 6. As Systems of Support Advisor and track coach, Ben champions restorative practices and early intervention. His leadership has sharply reduced absenteeism while boosting school culture through engaging initiatives like “Word of the Week,” creating a truly unified, supportive learning environment.
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Outstanding School-Based Leader Finalist: Kristen Lehner, Assistant Principal, Belle View Elementary School, Region 3. Kristen blends a relationship-centered approach with strong, proactive systems for student support. A visible and trusted presence, she partners closely with families and staff to build an inclusive, equity-driven environment where every student is empowered to succeed.
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Shout-out also to Erin Crowley, Director of Student Services, Annandale HS, Region 6 for her recognition as a Finalist for Outstanding School-Based Leader. You can read the complete listing of winners and finalists here.
Celebrating Mount Vernon District’s Special Education Champions
FCPS is known for excellence in special education, and the Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) recently celebrated this commitment at its 2026 Awards Ceremony.
The annual event honors the outstanding educators, staff, students, and community members who go above and beyond to support and uplift our students with disabilities. Read about the SEPTA Award winners.
Congratulations to Mount Vernon District’s 2026 SEPTA Award Winners:
- Reflections: Bronze Award of Merit - Ben Smith, Edison HS
- Mark Stewart Memorial Award:
- Outstanding Elementary Special Educator - Patricia Rothweiler, Stratford Landing ES;
- Outstanding Elementary Special Educator - Larissa Miller Pullam, Silverbrook ES;
- Outstanding Secondary Special Educator - Jason Collazo, Quander Road Center
Special Education PTA (SEPTA) is a PTA organization affiliated with the State and National PTA, specifically established to support students receiving special education services, students with disabilities, and their families. To learn more, click here.
FCPS Spotlights Lorton Station ES Special Education Teacher
"I grew up in a family of educators and learned from a very young age the impact that teachers and principals can have on students and their families. I love teaching my students that they are strong, intelligent, kind and that they can do hard things, all while having fun and finding joy in being together.
Every single day, I look forward to showing my students new things and then celebrating their growth and achievements, no matter how big or small. I am extraordinarily lucky that I get to experience so many firsts; from first spoken words, first time reading and writing, to first friends."
Mary Cassell, Multiple Disabilities Teacher, Lorton Station ES
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South County HS Principal Named a 2026 Principal of Distinction
Congratulations to South County HS Principal Samuel Khoshaba! He was named to the Virginia Department of Education's inaugural class of Principals of Distinction. This program was established in partnership with the Virginia Association of Secondary School Principals, the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals, and the Virginia Board of Education. This is a well-deserved honor for principals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and a dedication to building strong school cultures where students and staff thrive. Congratulations, Principal Khoshaba!
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Mount Vernon District Schools Earn 2026 Virginia Music Educators Association Blue Ribbon Award
Congratulations to John R. Lewis HS, Mount Vernon HS, Twain MS, and West Potomac HS for receiving the 2026 Virginia Music Educators Association Blue Ribbon Award! The VMEA Blue Ribbon Award is the highest award given to school music programs in the Commonwealth of Virginia. It recognizes achieved excellence in Band, Orchestra, and Choral Performance. All top eligible performing groups must receive a final Superior rating at VMEA District Concert Performance Assessment to qualify for this award. In 2026, 130 schools across the state earned this distinction. Read more about the VMEA Blue Ribbon Award here.
Mount Vernon HS Music Director Named GRAMMY Quarterfinalist
Mount Vernon HS Orchestra Director Al Rodriguez has been named a Quarterfinalist for the 2027 Music Educator Award by the Recording Academy® and GRAMMY Museum®!
This is the second time Mr. Rodriguez has earned this national distinction—a testament to his sustained excellence, innovation, and passion for the arts. Our community knows firsthand how transformative his leadership is. Beyond his phenomenal care-based teaching at Mount Vernon, he also directs the Washington Metropolitan Youth Orchestra (WMYO), helping students from all backgrounds find their voice through symphonic music.
We are incredibly proud to have a world-class caliber educator leading our students. Congratulations, Mr. Rodriguez, on this well-deserved honor! We are rooting for you as you advance to the next round!
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West Potomac HS Teacher Josh McFarland Brings the Classroom to Life
Josh spent years working as a petroleum geologist before finding his true calling in the classroom. He has a knack for making science accessible and memorable for students with disabilities, using humor and hands-on energy to help concepts actually stick. His students don't just learn — they connect with the material in ways that last. Beyond science, Josh weaves life skills and career readiness into everything he does, stressing the value of grit and consistent effort. Watch more here.
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Gunston ES AVID Program Selected as National Demonstration Site
Gunston ES has officially been recognized as an AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) Elementary National Demonstration School—an elite, highly selective distinction that places them among the top tier of schools across the country.
To earn this milestone, Gunston hosted a national validation team that evaluated the school’s instruction, school culture, and leadership. The team was profoundly impressed by our Gunston Eagles, specifically noting our students' active engagement, ownership of their own learning, and confidence in communicating complex thinking in every single classroom.
This historic achievement means Gunston ES will now serve as a model site for educators from across the region and country to visit and learn from this Mount Vernon District school. Thank you to the dedicated teachers and staff whose high expectations and collaborative culture made this national recognition possible.
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Summer Meals Available
School is out, summer meals are in! Fairfax County Public Schools is participating in the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be provided to all children without charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Breakfast is available 9-10 AM and lunch is available at 12-1 PM at the following Mount Vernon District area schools: Bucknell ES, Cameron ES, Groveton ES, Hybla Valley ES, Lorton Station ES, Riverside ES, Woodlawn ES, Key MS, Sandburg MS, Mount Vernon HS and West Potomac HS.
Trades Scholarship Application Window Open Until August 15
If you are seeking a career in the Electrical, Plumbing, or HVAC trades, FCPS ACE can help you get started with a certified Apprenticeship program and a $1,000 scholarship toward your classes. Apply now through August 15, 2026 for $1,000 towards an FCPS ACE Trades Apprenticeship class starting this Fall. See more details and explore programs available today.
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Join the FCPS Alumni Network Today
Educate Fairfax is proud to sponsor the FCPS Alumni Network — an online community connecting alumni, teachers, parents, caregivers, and community members who share a bond with FCPS.
Whether you are a recent graduate, a long-time supporter, or someone who’s returned to Fairfax to work or raise a family, this network is here to celebrate you. Take a peek at their website and find inspiring stories, news, events, reunions, homecomings, and other information.
Want to plan an alumni event? Email Alumni@EducateFairfax.org.
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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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