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Meeting Recap: Instructional Technology, Superintendent's Contract, and Celebrating our Diversity (June 25, 2026)
Dear Neighbor,
Last week, the Fairfax County School Board held a forum topic discussion and an all-day work session on Tuesday, June 23 (agenda | video), and a regular meeting on Thursday, June 25 (agenda | video). We discussed and advanced several key priorities that reflect our continued commitment to academic excellence, equity, and innovation across the school division.
During the forum discussion and work session, we dug into innovative financing strategies to address deferred maintenance through Energy Savings Performance Contracting, reviewed the Office of the Auditor General’s proposed annual audit plan, received annual reports from the Pre-K and Early Head Start Parent Policy Committee and the Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE), and continued our work developing new policies governing instructional technology.
At our regular meeting, the Board approved a new Responsible Instructional Technology resolution and extended the Superintendent's contract through 2030. We also reviewed recommendations for the phased opening of Skyview High School, received updates on the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair and the Strategic Plan's work to strengthen home, school, and community partnerships.
As always, I invite you to learn more about the various topics discussed during these meetings by reviewing the updates below. You are also welcome to attend School Board meetings (schedule) and register to share your thoughts with us during community participation (sign-up).
In service,
Karl Frisch
Providence District Representative
Fairfax County School Board
Table of Contents:
Forum and All-Day Work Session (June 23, 2026)
At last week’s all-day School Board forum topic discussion and work session, we covered several priorities that will help shape the school division’s long-term planning. During the morning forum session, the Board discussed a proposal related to Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC). The afternoon work session included presentations on the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) Risk Assessment and Audit Plan, the PreK and Early Head Start Parent Policy Committee Annual Report, the Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE) Annual Report, and a discussion of innovative technology policy.
Forum Topic: Energy Savings Performance Contracting and Energy Service Companies
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board unanimously approved a proposal from Mateo Dunne (Mount Vernon) and me concerning Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) and how it could help FCPS address its growing deferred maintenance backlog while advancing the division's sustainability goals. FCPS currently faces nearly $400 million in deferred maintenance needs, a figure projected to grow significantly over the next decade without additional investment. We explored how ESPCs could serve as a financing tool for infrastructure improvements by avoiding upfront capital costs and using guaranteed energy savings to pay for projects over time.
Virginia Energy's established ESPC program has supported more than 300 projects statewide and generated more than $1 billion in energy savings. Potential projects for FCPS could include HVAC replacements, lighting upgrades, roofing, building automation systems, water conservation measures, renewable energy installations, and other critical infrastructure improvements. As a result, the forum directed the Superintendent to evaluate the school division's current and potential future use of Virginia Energy's ESPC program and report back to the School Board with recommendations on whether this approach could help address deferred maintenance needs while improving energy efficiency, reducing long-term operating costs, and advancing the Board's Joint Environmental Task Force sustainability goals.
Office of the Auditor General (OAG) Risk Assessment and Audit Topic
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board received an update from Auditor General Esther Ko on the Office of the Auditor General's Fiscal Year 2026 Mid-Year Briefing and proposed Fiscal Year 2027 Risk Assessment and Audit Plan. The presentation highlighted the Office of the Auditor General's ongoing work to strengthen accountability, improve operational effectiveness, and ensure responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources across the school division. Since the release of its FY2025 Annual Report, the office has completed two performance audits, seven business process audits, continued follow-up on open audit recommendations, reviewed reports of fraud, waste, and abuse, and developed its proposed FY2027 audit priorities.
The proposed FY2027 Audit Plan was developed through an extensive risk assessment process that included benchmarking against other large school divisions, input from School Board and Audit Committee members, interviews and surveys with FCPS employees, and an evaluation of financial, operational, and reputational risks. The proposed plan includes new audits focused on athletic programs and booster organizations, as well as continuous background and professional verification, fundraising activities, and vendor management, while continuing annual audits of business processes, local school activity funds, and ongoing monitoring. The presentation also noted that student transfer processes, capital improvement projects, AI governance, and Career and Technical Education programs may be considered for future audit cycles as circumstances evolve.
PreK and Early Head Start Parent Policy Committee Annual Report
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board received the annual report from the FCPS PreK and Early Head Start Parent Policy Committee, which highlighted the program's continued expansion, student outcomes, and recommendations for strengthening early childhood education across Fairfax County. The report outlined how the program now serves up to 2,426 children across 78 elementary schools through a combination of federal, state, and local funding, while providing comprehensive services that support academic readiness, social-emotional development, health, nutrition, family engagement, and early intervention. It also highlighted the division's continued expansion of inclusive preschool classrooms, increasing access for students with disabilities while exceeding Virginia's state goal for inclusive early childhood education.
The committee presented three recommendations for the School Board's consideration: including PreK students in school-based Time to Teach staffing formulas to improve access to specials, expanding after-school childcare and enrichment opportunities for PreK students, and continuing to invest in program expansion so more eligible families can be served, including those facing changing financial circumstances. The report also highlighted the significant demand for early childhood education, with more than 5,200 applications received this year, continued efforts to reduce waitlists, and ongoing professional development, curriculum improvements, and family engagement initiatives designed to ensure every child enters kindergarten ready to learn.
Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE) Annual Report
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board received the annual report from the Foundation for Applied Technical Education (FATE), providing more than $220,000 to FCPS CTE programs during the 2025–26 school year through scholarships, entrepreneurship seed funding, program enhancement grants, residential construction, and Student Auto Sales initiatives. FATE also reported awarding nine scholarships totaling $18,000, funding nearly $25,000 in classroom innovation grants, providing more than $33,000 in entrepreneurship seed funding at 10 high schools, and reinvesting $164,000 into FCPS automotive technology programs through Virginia's only high school-operated independent auto dealership.
The presentation also highlighted the continued success of FATE's residential construction program, including the sale of its 13th student-built home and ongoing work on Lot 14, while emphasizing the need to identify a future Phase III construction site as the current Spring Village Estates project approaches completion by 2030. FATE is exploring new partnerships and work-based learning opportunities to ensure students continue to gain hands-on experience in the skilled trades for years to come.
Innovative Technology Policy Discussion
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board also held a robust work session on two proposed policies that would establish a comprehensive framework for the use of instructional technology in FCPS. The conversation reflected broad agreement that technology should enhance — not replace — the relationship between educators and students, with instructional decisions remaining grounded in teacher expertise and human judgment, while also emphasizing the importance of student privacy, academic integrity, equity, transparency, and developmentally appropriate use of technology. Following the discussion, the Board asked the Superintendent and her team to return with two revised draft policies that incorporate Board feedback for further consideration at a future work session before the policies move forward for formal action.
Regular Meeting Recap (June 25, 2026)
Resolution on Responsible Instructional Technology
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board adopted a Resolution for Responsible Instructional Technology, affirming that education should remain a human-centered endeavor and that technology should be used to support teaching and learning, not replace the essential relationship between students and educators. The resolution recognizes both the opportunities and challenges presented by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and emphasizes the importance of developmentally appropriate technology use.
The resolution also supports the development of policies and regulations addressing screen time, device access by grade level, digital citizenship and literacy instruction, family opt-out options, and accommodations for students who rely on technology as a support. The Board emphasized the need for ongoing evaluation of instructional technology to ensure it promotes student learning, well-being, privacy, and equitable access.
Motion: Dannan, Second: S. Anderson / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Superintendent’s Evaluation and Contract Extension
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board completed its annual evaluation of Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid and found her performance to be Highly Effective across the Virginia Board of Education’s eight superintendent performance standards: Strategic Leadership; Planning and Assessment; Instructional Leadership; Organizational Leadership and Resource Management; Communication and Community Relations; Culturally Responsive and Equitable Division Leadership; and Professionalism. The evaluation recognized Dr. Reid's leadership in advancing the division's strategic priorities and supporting positive outcomes for students, staff, and families. The Board also approved a new contract for Dr. Reid, extending her service as Superintendent through June 30, 2030.
Motion: S. Anderson, Second: Moon / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Skyview High School Student Phasing and Transportation
Video | Meeting Materials
The Superintendent provided the Board with a presentation on recommendations for student phasing and transportation associated with the opening of Skyview High School and the implementation of new western county high school boundaries. Staff recommended the School Board's previously approved phased opening plan, with Skyview serving grades 9 and 10 through an opt-in process in 2026-27, adding 11th grade in 2027-28 with boundary-based enrollment and limited opt-out opportunities, and operating as a full grades 9-12 comprehensive high school with its full boundary in place by 2028-29. The presentation also reviewed how the proposed approach builds on lessons learned from the opening of South County High School, the last comprehensive high school opened by FCPS.
The presentation also outlined recommendations for transportation, athletics, and student activities during the phased implementation period. Staff recommended neighborhood bus stop transportation for students living within the future Skyview boundary and depot-style transportation for students attending from the designated feeder schools of Centreville, Chantilly, Oakton, South Lakes, and Westfield. The Board also reviewed plans for VHSL participation, including Skyview becoming a VHSL member in 2027-28, transportation support for eligible students participating in activities at feeder schools during the transition, and a timeline that includes a public hearing and final School Board action in July 2026.
Academic Matters: Science and Engineering Fair
Video | Meeting Materials
 The Superintendent provided the Board with an Academic Matters presentation on the Fairfax County Regional Science and Engineering Fair, a competition that provides high school students with opportunities to conduct original research, design experiments, analyze data, and apply scientific and engineering practices. The presentation highlighted how participation in the fair supports the FCPS Portrait of a Graduate by fostering critical thinking, communication, collaboration, civic responsibility, and community engagement.
The Board also reviewed highlights from the 2026 fair, which featured more than 400 projects, over 600 student participants, and 300 professional judges. FCPS students continued to excel at the state and international levels, earning numerous awards at the Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair and the International Science and Engineering Fair, including Grand Prize recognition and top-category placements.
As part of the presentation, the Superintendent shared the following video with the Board:
Strategic Plan Update: Vibrant Home, School, & Community Partnerships
Video | Meeting Materials
The Superintendent provided the Board with a Strategic Plan update on Pillar B: Vibrant Home, School, and Community Partnerships, which focuses on building trusting relationships that sustain a safe, inclusive culture for learning and work through collaboration, respect, honesty, and transparency. Staff highlighted how meaningful engagement between schools, families, and community members strengthens student success and helps create welcoming environments where all students feel connected and supported.
As part of the update, staff showcased FCPS Pyramid Art Shows as an example of the Strategic Plan in action. These annual events bring together students, families, educators, and community members to celebrate student creativity and achievement while creating opportunities for authentic engagement beyond the classroom.
Staff explained that the art shows support multiple Strategic Plan outcomes, including strengthening connections between schools and families, increasing student engagement and persistence, elevating student voice, expanding access to opportunities, developing critical and reflective skills, ensuring equitable representation of diverse perspectives, and fostering a stronger sense of belonging and inclusion.
As part of the presentation, the Superintendent shared the following video with the Board:
Proclamation: Immigrant Heritage Month
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board proclaimed June 2026 as Immigrant Heritage Month, recognizing the generations of immigrants who have strengthened our nation, economy, and communities through their work, leadership, innovation, and cultural contributions. The proclamation also recognized World Refugee Day on June 20, honoring the courage of refugees and reaffirming the importance of welcoming and supporting those seeking safety, opportunity, and a better future.
Motion: R. Anderson, Second: St. John-Cunning / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Proclamation: Caribbean Heritage Month
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board proclaimed June 2026 as Caribbean Heritage Month, recognizing the rich cultural heritage and lasting contributions of Caribbean Americans to the United States. The proclamation celebrated the diversity of the Caribbean diaspora and honored the many individuals of Caribbean heritage whose leadership, innovation, and public service have helped shape our nation and communities.
Motion: Dixit, Second: Dannan / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Proclamation: LGBTQIA+ Pride Month
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board proclaimed June 2026 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month, recognizing the history, resilience, and contributions of LGBTQIA+ individuals and communities. The proclamation reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and welcoming schools where all students, families, and staff are respected, supported, and able to thrive free from discrimination, harassment, and violence.
Motion: St. John-Cunning, Second: R. Anderson / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Proclamation: Gun Violence Awareness Month
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board recognized June 2026 as Gun Violence Awareness Month, honoring the lives lost to gun violence, supporting survivors, and raising awareness about the importance of prevention and community safety. The recognition reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to providing safe and supportive learning environments and highlighted ongoing efforts by schools, families, community organizations, and public officials to help prevent gun violence and protect children and communities.
Motion: S. Anderson, Second: Moon / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Proclamation: Honoring Mary Porter of Real Food for Kids
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board honored Mary Porter for more than 15 years of service to Real Food for Kids and her longstanding commitment to improving student health, nutrition, and food security across Fairfax County. The proclamation recognized her leadership in initiatives such as Food Day, the annual culinary challenge, SNAP outreach efforts, and support for students and families during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as her extensive service to FCPS advisory committees and the broader community.
Motion: McElveen, Second: Dunne / Vote: Yes 12, No 0
Recognition: Virginia High School League and Academic Team/FCPS Middle School Sports/FCPS Sponsored Club Sports Recognitions
Video | Meeting Materials
The Board recognized several championship teams serving Providence-area students during the winter and spring 2026 seasons, including Oakton High School's Girls Wrestling team; James Madison High School's Girls Lacrosse and Boys Tennis teams; McLean High School's Film Festival team; and Frost Middle School's Girls Outdoor Track and Field team.
Student Performance of the National Anthem
The Board meeting began with a beautiful performance of the national anthem by a Soloist from Daniels Run Elementary School under the Direction of Michelle McCarten:
Upcoming School Board Meetings.
Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
- Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
All meetings are broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website. Meetings are also recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS YouTube channel. Visit the community participation webpage to sign up to speak at regular meetings or public hearings.
Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español: Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya alcanal de YouTube de FCPS en Español.
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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