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Mason District Community,
Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year!
This fall, we welcome new leadership in several schools serving Mason District students including Holmes Middle School, Edison High School, and Braddock Elementary School.
Additionally, changes to several FCPS practices will be introduced to students and families including a revised cell phone policy, student ID cards for bus riders, and enhanced screening at football games. Please read below for these important updates.
I look forward to seeing many Mason District families at upcoming open house and back-to-school events!
I value input from the Mason District community and will address questions or concerns via email at rjanderson@fcps.edu or by scheduling a phone call with Ms. Coffey, at cmcoffey@fcps.edu.
Back to School video message from Dr. Ricardy Anderson
In this issue:
New Principals
Holmes Middle School
Ms. Jessica Tippins began her service as principal of Holmes Middle School on August 17th. Ms. Tippins has been in FCPS for over 25 years and most recently served as the director of student services at Holmes Middle School.
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Edison High School
Mr. Justin Simmons will begin his tenure as principal of Edison High School starting August 24th. Mr. Simmons has held several administrative positions in FCPS, most recently serving as the principal at South County Middle School.
Welcome to Edison, Mr. Simmons!
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Braddock Elementary School
Ms. Laena Lee will start as the new principal of Braddock Elementary School on August 20th. Ms. Lee joins FCPS after nearly 20 years with D.C. Public Schools, most recently serving as the principal of an elementary school.
Welcome to FCPS, Ms. Lee!
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School Board Decision Alert
At the last School Board Meeting of the 2025-2026 school year, held July 16, 2026, the Board voted on several topics as indicated below.
FY 2026 Year End Budget Review
The Board approved the revenue and expenditure adjustments for FY 2026 year end. I seconded an amendment to provide transportation options for elementary and middle school students eligible for phasing under the new boundary changes. Unfortunately, this was not supported by the majority of the Board and the motion failed.
Secondary Mathematics Basal Instructional Resources
The Board approved the adoption of new secondary mathematics basal instructions resources for students in grades 6-12.
Educational Technology
The Board approved several motions related to educational technology. The following is a summary of the motion language:
- Prohibit use of FCPS-issued laptops and tablets for pre-K and kindergarten students.
- Direct the Superintendent to develop a plan for the storage of laptops and tablets in the classroom.
- Direct the Superintendent to provide an inventory of generative AI tools and solutions provided by or through FCPS and prohibit the use of such tools and solutions by elementary school students. Furthermore, the use of such tools and solutions will only be permissible for secondary students if authorized by administration for specialized student projects or particular uses.
- Direct the Superintendent to develop a pilot program to implement a tiered, positive-list (whitelist-only) firewall architecture at select schools.
- Direct the Superintendent to deliver a report on the technical and operational feasibility of allowing students with a documented medical or developmental need to opt out of the use of FCPS-issued laptops and tablets for instructional purposes.
- Direct the Superintendent to amend all student device regulations to prohibit student use of personal electronic communication and computing devices during the instructional day, requiring the exclusive use of FCPS-issued devices for school-related digital activities.
- Direct the Superintendent to direct the ETRC to prioritize evaluating a plan to implement network-level filters to block direct student access to the YouTube platform for all students in PreK through 8th Grade while utilizing school networks or FCPS-issued devices.
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Feedback Needed
School Resource Officer (SRO) Memorandum of Understanding
FCPS and the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) are developing a new School Resource Officer (SRO) Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to replace the 2018 agreement.
SROs are full-time Fairfax County police officers assigned to most middle and high schools. The MOU establishes a framework for FCPS and FCPD to work together to help provide a safe learning environment for the entire school community.
Please review the current MOU and the Virginia Model MOU, and submit public comments through Monday, September 7.
Visit the SRO MOU webpage for more detailed information.
Executive Limitation 1
While the Strategic Plan Goals are the primary factors used by the School Board to evaluate progress and achievement in Fairfax County Public Schools, the Board is also responsible for monitoring the ways in which the system operates.
The thirteen (13) Executive Limitations reflect the operational guardrails maintained by the Board for how the Superintendent is to operate the Division to achieve division goals. Executive Limitations serve as a measure of accountability for the Superintendent and are reviewed annually through monitoring reports to ensure compliance and progress.
At the August 27, 2026 Regular School Board Meeting, the Board will receive the report and vote to approve Executive Limitation (EL) - 1: Global Executive Limitations.
EL-1 grants the Superintendent global operational authority while establishing expectations for risk management, organizational integrity, strategic accountability, and data-driven continuous improvement.
I invite you to share your thoughts and feedback prior to next week’s vote.
Bren Mar Park Boundary Update
Thank you to the many Bren Mar Park families who have reached out to share advocacy, personal stories, and concerns regarding the ongoing expedited boundary review. I hear your passion for the BMP community, your concerns over historic disruptions, and your desire for stability for your students.
A dedicated community meeting for Bren Mar Park families is scheduled for September 3rd at 6:30 p.m. at Bren Mar Park ES. This meeting will be a critical time to discuss the path forward and help shape the final recommendations staff will present to the School Board.
Registration is open to attend in person or virtually.
Beech Tree / Belvedere / Glasgow Boundaries
Expedited Boundary Study #4 includes Glasgow MS changes related to Beech Tree ES and Belvedere ES to address the capacity deficit at Glasgow MS.
The Superintendent held several boundary meetings with affected communities in April and June and is now analyzing feedback and refining scenarios to be presented at a meeting scheduled for September 23 at 6:00 p.m. at Edison High School. More details will be shared soon and will include an option for virtual attendance.
Additional information about Study #4 can be found on the website.
Mason Moments
Class of 2026: Where are They Headed?
As the Class of 2026 steps into the future, their next chapters this fall are as diverse as they are inspiring. A substantial number of graduates are preparing for traditional colleges and universities to pursue higher education, while a growing segment is selecting trade and technical schools to fast-track into high-demand, specialized careers. Others are answering the call of duty by enlisting in the military to develop leadership skills and serve, while a dedicated group is entering directly into the workforce to make an immediate, professional impact. No matter which pathway they have chosen, their resilience and dedication have brought them to this moment. I wish all of our graduates the best!
Class of 2026
Hispanic Leadership Alliance Scholarships
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 on Monday, May 4.
Scholarship recipients were recognized for leadership and mentoring skills in their educational and social activities. Candidates are committed to furthering their education while improving their communities.
Congratulations to the 10 Justice High School students awarded scholarships from the Hispanic Leadership Alliance:
- Erick Santiago Elvir, Scholarship for Leadership
- Diana Gómez López , Scholarship for STEM
- Liz Mejía-Maravilla, Scholarship for STEM
- Venus Mejía-Martínez, Scholarship for STEM
- Dayana Meruvia, St. John Family Legacy Scholarship
- Jordin Ramos Galdamez, Scholarship for Engineering
- Kelly Romero-Romero, Scholarship for Entrepreneurship
- Vania Trejo, Roberto Mosheim Scholarship for STEM
- Estefani Vega-Galicia, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents of DC, Maryland, and Virginia Scholarship
- Ariela Ventura-Palomo, Humberto Moore Cruz Memorial Scholarship
Music: Not Impossible
Mason District resident and Woodson High School senior Maia Kim recently championed a project with her orchestra teacher, Devyn Wilcox, and the nonprofit Music: Not Impossible to bring an orchestral performance to students who are deaf or hard of hearing. The music was translated into vibrations to allow the students to experience the rhythms, dynamics, and emotions from the music. Learn more about the project and Maia’s efforts to make concerts more accessible and inclusive.
Justice High School Scholarship Fund
I am inspired by the Justice Scholarship Fund Board and donors. This event commemorates expanded access and opportunity to so many students. $340,500 in scholarships was awarded to the Class of 2026!
Understanding Student Rights and Responsibilities Updates
Please review the 2026-27 FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document, which outlines expectations for student behavior.
Important Points
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Cell phones - Under a new Virginia cellphone law (SB108) FCPS was required to update its Cellphone Policy. Beginning August 24th, high school students will no longer be able to use cell phones and other smart devices during lunch time and passing periods. This includes watches that serve a dual purpose, such as smart watches, as well as earbuds, headsets, smart glasses, and other items connected to the internet. During the school day, including during lunch time and passing periods, students across all grade levels must keep cellphones and other smart devices off and stored in a locker, backpack, pouch, purse, etc.
Student Device Use
Beginning this school year, students may only use FCPS-issued devices for school-related digital activities during the instructional day.
In an effort to reduce firewall breaches, the School Board voted on July 16 to prohibit student use of personal electronic communication or computing devices, including personal laptops, tablets, smartwatches, smartphones, and similar devices.
Students may only use a personal device if allowed by an accommodation in an IEP or 504 Plan. Principals may approve a limited, course-specific exception for students in a specialized class requiring technology tool or software that isn’t available on a standard FCPS-issued device.
Save the Date: Back-to-School Nights
Dates/times are subject to change. Please check with your school for the most up-to-date information.
New Student ID Cards for Bus Riders
NEW Starting this school year, students who ride FCPS buses will be expected to tap on and tap off the bus. This new ID will only track when a student enters or exits a bus. Parents/guardians will be able to track the progress of the school bus using a new app that will launch later this fall, replacing the Here Comes the Bus app. Learn more about the new transportation system and student ID cards HERE.
Apply Today for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
Families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals can receive breakfast and lunch for their students at no cost or at a reduced cost. The 2026-27 application for FRM is now available! Families should reapply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.
Security Screening & Clear Bag Policy at Football Games
Beginning this season, all spectators will participate in weapons security screening at all varsity football games. A standardized clear bag policy will also be in place to help ensure a safe, efficient entry process for attendees.
Approved bags are limited to:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc bags no larger than 12”x 6”x12”
- Small clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
- Medical and diaper bags permitted but subject to inspection
Please allow extra time for screening and review the clear bag policy in advance.
Early Release Wednesdays
FCPS will continue with limited Early Release Wednesdays for elementary schools during the 2026-27 school year. The number has been reduced from eight to four days.
Elementary school early release dates are scheduled by pyramid. A list of schools in each pyramid can be found on the Region/Pyramid map webpages.
Annandale, Edison, Falls Church, and Woodson Pyramids: September 30, November 18, January 13, April 7
Justice Pyramid: October 21, December 2, February 10, May 5
Immunization Events for FCPS Students
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Learn more and schedule an appointment for an upcoming event:
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Thursday, August 20, 3:00 - 6:30 p.m. at Willow Oaks Administrative Center (8270 Willow Oaks Corporate Dr., Fairfax)
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Saturday, August 29, 9:00 a.m. - noon at Frost Middle School (4101 Pickett Rd., Fairfax)
SAT and PSAT School Day 2026
SAT School Day and PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) exams for the 2026-27 school year will be held at each high school on Wednesday, October 7, at no cost to families. The digital SAT School Day exam is offered to 12th grade students, and the digital PSAT/NMSQT exam is provided to 10th and 11th grade students.
If you have a multilingual learner entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade, please review the ML support request process and return forms by Thursday, August 27 if you wish to request ML support for the October 2026 PSAT/NMSQT or SAT School Day.
Find out more about SAT and PSAT assessments in FCPS.
Regional Assistant Superintendents
FCPS is divided into six geographic regions, each led by a regional assistant superintendent (RAS) who is responsible for monitoring student achievement, school improvement, and principal evaluation.
While most questions and concerns are best handled directly with your child's teachers or principal, your regional assistant superintendent is always available as an additional support. If an issue cannot be resolved at the local school level, your RAS is able to help.
New - Region 2 Assistant Superintendent
Ms. April Cage - the new assistant superintendent for Region 2 for schools in the Falls Church and Justice pyramids.
Ms. Cage has served the FCPS community for 25 years, most recently as an executive principal for Region 6.
Ms. Cage can be reached at ALCage@fcps.edu or 571-423-1120.
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New - Region 6 Assistant Superintendent
Ms. Rhonda Honoré - the new assistant superintendent for Region 6 for schools in the Annandale pyramid.
Ms. Honoré comes to FCPS from the Houston Independent School District, where she served as executive director of instruction.
Ms. Honoré can be reached at RMHonore@fcps.edu or 571-423-1160.
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2026-2027 School Board Student Representative
Newt Shosteck, a rising senior at Hayfield Secondary School, has been elected by the countywide Student Advisory Council (SAC) to serve a one-year term as student representative to the Fairfax County School Board. Newt will participate in School Board meetings as a nonvoting member, succeeding Faith Mekonen, who recently graduated from South County High School. He will be the 56th student representative to the School Board.
Learn more about Newt and his priorities as student representative.
Regular School Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- August 27, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
- September 10, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)
- September 8, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
Where can I watch the meetings?
How can I speak at a Board meeting?
- You must register in advance: Registration Link
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Registration Timeline and Process: For Regular School Board Meetings, registration opens at 8 a.m. four business day before the meeting (usually a Friday) and closes 48 hours before the meeting (usually 7 p.m. on a Tuesday).
- A total of 16 speaker slots are available for each meeting – a random lottery process is used if this number is exceeded.
Please see the Community Participation webpage for additional details.
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.
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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