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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.
Dear Dranesville Families:
I hope you and your family are having a wonderful, relaxing summer so far. Whether you are traveling, spending time with family, or simply enjoying the slower pace of these warmer months, I hope you’ve found some well-deserved time to recharge.
This summer marks a new chapter for me as I have the tremendous honor of serving as Chair of the Fairfax County School Board. I am deeply grateful for the trust my colleagues have placed in me, and I look forward to working collaboratively with the entire Board, Superintendent Reid and FCPS leadership, staff, families, students, and community partners in the year ahead. Together, we will continue focusing on thoughtful governance and making decisions that support every student across Fairfax County while ensuring the voices of the Dranesville community remain well represented.
While our hallways are quiet right now, the work of FCPS staff and the School Board continues. At the July 16th Regular Meeting, we discussed important decisions related to the Skyview High School boundary, student phasing, and transportation planning. These discussions are critical to ensuring a successful opening for our newest high school while balancing the needs of students and families throughout the surrounding communities. The Board approved the Secondary Mathematics Basal Instructional Resources, which will include physical textbooks for every 6th to 12th grade student. The Board voted on seven, including two I proposed, Educational Technology motions. As technology continues to evolve, we remain committed to creating policies that enhance learning, promote digital citizenship, safeguard students, and provide meaningful opportunities for students to develop the skills they need for the future. You can learn more below.
As always, I appreciate hearing from Dranesville families and community members. Your perspectives help inform my work. Thank you for your continued engagement, support, and partnership.
I wish you a wonderful remainder of the summer and look forward to welcoming our students and staff back for another successful school year.
Regards,
Robyn
2026 ISTE FCPS Students Award Winners
In this newsletter,
The School Board recognizes the FCPS Honors Winners.
2026-27 School Board Leadership
The Fairfax County School Board confirmed its leadership for the 2026-27 school year at its July 9 Regular Meeting. Robyn Lady (Dranesville District) was elected chair, and Kyle McDaniel (At-Large) was elected vice chair.
 I want to thank Ms. Anderson for her leadership through many challenges and important milestones for FCPS. I enjoyed my time working with her as Vice Chair.
Election of Ms. Robyn Lady as School Board Chair
 "I am humbled and honored to be elected by my fellow school board members, as the 2026-2027 Chair of the School Board. I look forward to working with Vice Chair McDaniel, our Board, Superintendent Reid, our dedicated staff, and our community to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Together, we will continue building on FCPS’ tradition of excellence while keeping students at the center of every decision we make."
Election of Mr. Kyle McDaniel as School Board Vice Chair
 “I’m grateful to my colleagues for the opportunity to serve as vice chair and look forward to supporting Chair Lady as we work together on behalf of Fairfax County students, families, and staff. As an FCPS dad, I know our School Board is at its best when we work collaboratively, listen to our community, and remain focused on providing every student with the opportunities and support they need to succeed,” said McDaniel.
July 16th School Board Meeting
Watch the full meeting.
Public Hearing - Skyview High School Proposed Boundaries
Meeting Opening
- National Merit Scholarship Award Recognitions
Key Votes
July 9th School Board Meeting
Watch the full meeting.
Key Votes
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2027-28 and 2028-29 Standard School Year Calendars- The School Board voted to adopt the 2027-28 and 2028-29 school year calendars, as detailed. View more on BoardDocs.
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Formally Supporting a 1% Local Option Sales Tax Referendum on the Ballot for Public Schools Construction, Renovation, and Capital Improvement Projects- The School Board voted to support the option to put a 1% local sales tax referendum on the ballot. View more on BoardDocs.
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Annual School Board Organizational Arrangements, Including Election of the School Board Chair and Vice Chair- The School Board voted to approve annual School Board organizational arrangements, including the election of Robyn Lady as chair and Kyle McDaniel as vice chair. View more on BoardDocs.
Presentations
New Student Representative to the School Board
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. Shosteck has three main priorities as student representative: strengthening the Student Advisory Council while enhancing student representation in decision-making, reforming security policies, and improving mental health services for FCPS students.
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Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tuesday, August 18- Work Session
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Thursday, August 27- Regular Meeting
All times and topics are subject to change. Please check the School Board meeting schedule for the latest times and agenda updates.
How to watch school board meetings and sign up to speak:
FCPS Updates
2026-27 First Day of School
Monday, August 24, is the first day of school for the 2026-27 school year! Be sure to bookmark the 2026-27 School Year Calendar.
School Board Approves Skyview HS & Western Pyramids Boundary Changes
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously voted to approve boundary changes for Skyview HS and western pyramid schools at its July 16 meeting. The changes, recommended by Superintendent Reid, will take effect beginning with the 2027-28 school year.
The changes will affect an estimated 2,544 students in the western part of Fairfax County (less than 8% across the western pyramids): 420 middle school students and 2,124 high school students. The boundary study included the Centreville, Chantilly, Oakton, South Lakes, and Westfield pyramids. Based on community feedback, elementary school attendance boundaries will not change, although some feeder patterns may be adjusted.
Kelly M. Cabezas, New Principal of Kent Gardens ES
We are thrilled to announce Ms. Kelly M. Cabezas as the new principal of Kent Gardens ES, beginning August 3, 2026.
Ms. Cabezas brings extensive administrative and instructional experience, having served as Assistant Principal at Belvedere Elementary since 2019 and Acting Principal at Franklin Sherman ES in 2024.
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She holds a Bachelor's and Master's in Elementary Education from West Virginia University and an Administration and Supervision certification from the University of Virginia.
Ms. Cabezas' ties to FCPS run deep. She and her husband, Sebastian, who also works for the division, are proud parents of two sons attending FCPS schools. She is passionate about closing achievement gaps, strengthening advanced academics, and building strong community connections.
Jeremy Ferrara, New Principal of Haycock ES
We are pleased to announce Mr. Jeremy Ferrara as the next principal of Haycock ES, starting August 3, 2026.
Mr. Ferrara joins us with a robust career in educational leadership. He currently serves as an Assistant Principal at Glasgow MS. There, he honed his expertise in instructional leadership, operational management, and student support systems.
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Prior to his time at Glasgow, he served seven years as an Assistant Principal at both Oak Street Elementary and Mount Daniel Elementary in Falls Church City Public Schools.
Mr. Ferrara holds a B.S. in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education, and a M.S. in Literacy, both from Syracuse University. He also holds a M.S. in Teaching and Leadership from Queens College, Charlotte.
We are incredibly excited for the energy and vision Mr. Ferrara will bring to Haycock. We look forward to the collaborative work ahead as we continue to support our students in achieving their very best.
April Cage Appointed Assistant Superintendent for Region 2
FCPS is pleased to announce the appointment of April Cage as the new Assistant Superintendent for Region 2, which includes the schools in the Falls Church, McLean, and Justice High School pyramids.
Cage brings more than 25 years of experience in Fairfax County Public Schools and a distinguished record of advancing student achievement, strengthening instructional leadership, and monitoring school improvement across diverse learning communities.
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A National Board Certified Teacher, Cage has served FCPS as a classroom teacher, Advanced Academic Resource Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Executive Principal. Each role has strengthened her belief that meaningful relationships, collaborative leadership, and a relentless focus on teaching and learning are the foundation of student success.
Known for her collaborative leadership style, Cage is widely respected for developing leaders, building trusting relationships, and creating systems that promote continuous improvement. Her unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and student success is a big reason why she was recognized as the FCPS Outstanding Principal of the Year in 2023.
No Phones or Devices During Lunch for HS Students
Senate Bill 108 is a new Virginia law that went into effect on July 1. It requires that all schools in the state follow a “bell-to-bell” phone-free policy and prohibit cellphone possession and use for the entire school day. The updated FCPS Cellphone Policy aligns with this law, which means high school students are no longer able to use cellphones, cellphone accessories, or smart devices (like smart glasses, earbuds, headsets, and other items connected to the phone) during lunchtime. Across all grade levels, cellphones, cellphone accessories, and all smart devices must be off and personally stored for the duration of the school day.
This policy does not apply to school-issued devices. However, school-issued devices must be used in accordance with FCPS Regulation 6410, Acceptable Use Policy, which allows the use of school-issued devices for educational purposes.
Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations
Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!
To start school on Monday, August 24, students will need to submit immunization documentation or an Immunization Action Plan to confirm an upcoming immunization appointment. Please check with your health care provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations.
If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, schedule an appointment with Inspire Health Alliance, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!
Immunization Events for FCPS Students
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students with no out-of-pocket costs. Multiple events will be taking place at designated FCPS locations. Additional dates will be made available in the summer and throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary.
Additional immunization resources are also available.
FCHD Back-to-School Immunization Clinics
The Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) is offering back-to-school immunization clinics during Summer 2026. Appointments are encouraged but walk-ins are also welcome.
Free Virtual Mental Health Services for MS & HS Students
Since 2023, Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) has partnered with Hazel Health to offer virtual mental health services to FCPS high school students. These services are now available to all FCPS MS students.
Parents are encouraged to contact Hazel Health directly if they are seeking mental health support for their child, have noticed changes in their child’s mood or behavior, or are having difficulty connecting with a therapist in the community.
Licensed therapists can help with:
- Mood/behavior changes, motivation, grief/loss.
- Anxiety, worry, fears.
- Social skills, bullying, sexual identity challenges, peer and family relationships.
- Academic stress.
Summer Meals Now Available
School is out, summer meals are in! Breakfast and lunch will be available at no cost to all children 18 years of age and younger. Meals will be provided, on a first come, first serve basis, at the sites and times. Children must remain onsite while consuming their meals.
Dranesville Student School summer meal sites:
- Through August 22
- Hutchison ES (13209 Parcher Ave, Herndon)
- Through July 31
- Aldrin ES (11375 Center Harbor Rd, Reston)
- Clearview ES (12635 Builders Rd, Herndon)
Families Can Eat Together
This year, thanks to generous support from Educate Fairfax, families may also receive one no-cost breakfast and lunch per adult at six sites.
Summer Resources Help Students Stay Curious, Healthy, and Busy
The 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 curious until August. Summer is the perfect time to help your student explore new interests, reinforce concepts, and stay engaged!
Family Information Phone Lines
 FCPS family information phone lines are available in nine different languages. An FCPS employee will respond to your call in your preferred language within 24 hours, Monday through Friday.
Call the phone line with questions about your child’s education or FCPS, and someone will help connect you to resources or arrange for you to speak to the appropriate school employee.
Community Updates
Virginia Sales Tax Holiday- Aug. 7 to Aug. 9
Save on School Supplies! Mark your calendars! Virginia’s annual three-day Sales Tax Holiday kicks off on Friday, August 7 at 12:01 am and runs through Sunday, August 9 at 11:59 pm. This is a great opportunity for families to save on back-to-school essentials and more. For more details and a full list of eligible items, visit the Virginia Department of Taxation website.
Notable New State Laws Effective July 1, 2026
Most laws that were passed by the General Assembly during the 2026 legislative session took effect on July 1, 2026. A few are highlighted below:
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S B 673- updates the definition of stalking to capture cyberstalking and online harassment, including through email and social media.
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§10.1-1424.3- passed in 2021, banning the use of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) by food vendors. The ban is also applicable to Virginia schools.
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HB 343 permits localities to adopt ordinances to require children 14 years or younger to wear helmets whenever riding or being carried on a motorized skateboard or scooter or nonmotorized scooter.
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HB 320 prohibits anyone from livestreaming while driving a car on the highways.
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HB 250- allows park authorities to restrict certain convicted sex offenders at park facilities where there is a playground, athletic field/facility or gymnasium, creating equitable authority between localities that own their own park facilities and park authorities.
Understanding the Child Supervision Guidelines
Have you ever wondered what age it's safe to leave your child at home by themselves? Maybe you're unsure when it's okay for them to babysit their younger brothers and sisters and for how long? The answers depend a lot on your child's maturity and level of comfort with being alone, and the child supervision guidelines can help you know what is right for your family.
FC Health Department Expands Walk-In Hours
The FC Health Department is expanding walk-in hours at all four of its public health centers.
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While appointments remain available, the extended walk-in hours will make accessing Health Department services easier, including vaccinations, sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, maternity services such as pregnancy testing, and other public health services.
GWMP Construction Updates
The National Park Service has reached substantial completion of the north parkway rehabilitation project on the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Some finishing work will continue during off-peak travel hours. Motorists can expect travel impacts once crews begin rehabilitation efforts on the Route 123 Interchange bridge. Visit the NPS website for more information.
Scroll Smart. Post Smart. Stay Safe.
The Fairfax County Police Department encourages teens and parents to stay informed, have open conversations about digital safety, and practice smart online habits throughout the summer months. Read recommendations to stay safe online this summer.
Capital Bikeshare For All: $5 Annual Membership
Capital Bikeshare for All is one way the county is expanding access to safe, healthy, low‑cost transportation while bikeshare stations continue to grow at Metrorail stations and into more neighborhoods. Eligible residents can get a full‑benefit annual membership for just $5, with:
- Unlimited 60‑minute rides on classic bikes
- Discounted rates on e-bikes
- A $40 monthly ride credit
Your Guide to Cycling in Fairfax
Cycling is a fun, sustainable and healthy way to explore, enjoy and commute in Fairfax County. In the last 20 years, there’s been a significant increase in bicycling on county trails, sidewalks and roads. Fairfax County’s Guide to Cycling will get you ready for your next ride with safety tips, a bike map, parking information and more!
Dranesville Supervisor Bierman's Newsletter
Sign up for Supervisor Bierman's Thursday Dranesville Dispatch newsletter to keep up to date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Four FCPS Teams, 11 Individuals Win 2025-26 VHSL Academic and Activity Championships
FCPS students compete in a variety of academic and activity-based competitions throughout the school year. In the 2025-26 school year, four teams and 11 individuals won the Class 6 Virginia High School League (VHSL) academic championship, and five teams and nine individuals were the state runners-up. There were also 19 publications recognized in the VHSL Media Championships Trophy class category.
Congratulations to these Dranesville student schools and Dranesville students:
The teams winning the championship were:
- Thomas Jefferson HSST, Scholastic Bowl.
- Langley HS, Debate.
- McLean HS, Film Festival, Public Service Announcement.
The individuals winning the championship were:
- Elakshi Nedungottil, Langley HS, Debate, Lincoln-Douglas.
- Victoria Starykh, Langley HS, Debate, Student Congress.
- Caden Peng and Kylie Pereira Kim, Langley HS, Speech, Humorous Duo Interpretation.
The teams that were state runners-up were:
- Thomas Jefferson HSST, Debate.
- McLean HS, Film Festival, Commercial.
Schools that were recognized as Trophy Class winners of the VHSL Media Championships, which were announced in October 2025 but represented work completed in the 2024-25 school year, were:
- Marshall HS, Magazine.
- McLean HS, Magazine.
- McLean HS, Newsmagazine.
- Thomas Jefferson HSST, Newsmagazine.
- McLean HS, Online News.
- Marshall HS Yearbook.
- Langley HS, Yearbook.
- McLean HS, Yearbook.
- Thomas Jefferson HSST, Yearbook.
- McLean HS, Broadcast.
2026 VHSL All-State Athletes
Dranesville Students named on All-State First and Second Teams:
VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Lacrosse
- Second Team
- M- Jordyn Nowinski, McLean HS
- GK- Brooke Buursink, McLean HS
VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Lacrosse
- First Team
- Face-off- Cole Samburg, Langley HS
VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Soccer
- Second Team
- Goalkeeper- Aimee Abraham, McLean HS
VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Soccer
- Second Team
- F- Emmanuel Mequanint, Herndon HS
- M- Reyes Torres- Fuentes, Westfield HS
VHSL Class 6 All-State Softball
- First Team
- 3B- Riley Staats, McLean HS
- OF- Gennie Fagan, McLean HS
VHSL Class 6 All-State Baseball
- First Team
- OF- JW Riggins, McLean HS
- Second Team
- C- Noah Wantuck, Herndon HS
Dranesville 2026 National Merit Scholarship Winners
School Board Honors FCPS 2026 National Merit College-Sponsored Scholarship Winners
Congratulations to these Dranesville students:
2026 National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships
- Michaela Frey (urban/city planning), Langley HS.
- Elliot Pomper (environmental science), Langley HS.
- Aakriti Rustagi (business administration), Langley HS.
- Julie Daniel (biomedical engineering), McLean HS.
- Clement Ding (physics), McLean HS.
- Justin Kim (medicine), TJHSST.
- Rushil Kukreja (physics), TJHSST.
- Justin Ma (computer science), TJHSST.
- Sarah Trainer (classics), TJHSST.
- Ella Zhang (economics), TJHSST.
2026 National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships
- Risha Potluri (business administration), Langley HS, National Merit General Dynamics Corporation Scholarship.
- Nicholas Lee (undecided), McLean HS, National Merit Northrop Grumman Scholarship.
2026 National Merit College-Sponsored Scholarship Winners
- Eesha Kaushik (medicine) Langley HS, National Merit Emory University Scholarship.
- Atul Kotamraju (bioengineering) McLean HS, National Merit Vanderbilt University Scholarship.
2025-26 VA Army National Guard Cup Honors
FCPS is celebrating two schools that have earned a top statewide recognition from the Virginia High School League (VHSL). McLean HS received the 2025-26 Virginia Army National Guard Cup for Academic Activities, its first, recognizing outstanding performance in VHSL academic competitions and activities. The awards celebrate the dedication of student participants, coaches, sponsors, teachers, administrators, families, and school communities whose collective efforts contribute to student success.
Students Achieve National Honors at FBLA National Leadership Conference
FCPS students won top awards at the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) National Leadership Conference in June. The conference provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business.
Bright Beats' Afterschool Music Program Build Joy in our Pyramid
Bright Beats was founded by current president, Ryan Qi, a Thomas Jefferson HSST student. The program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides free and inclusive music programs for children with diverse learning and communication needs. Since Fall of 2025, McLean HS student volunteers have fostered joy and connection through Bright Beats' afterschool sessions at Franklin Sherman ES. Each session featured unique programs including sing-alongs, rhythm games, movement, and instrument play. Their dedication made a meaningful impact on the children they served, while helping the volunteers themselves develop essential empathy and community leadership skills.
Franklin Sherman ES
 Franklin Sherman ES is getting a fresh new look this summer! Thanks to the creativity and hard work of Ms. Eaton and a group of talented McLean High School students, we're excited to showcase beautiful new wall art throughout the school. We can't wait for our students and families to see it when it has been completed when they return in August!
Disability Pride Month
Disability Pride Month is a time to honor the strength, identity, and contributions of people with disabilities and celebrating disability as a vital and valued part of human diversity. July was chosen because the Americans with Disabilities Act was signed into law on July 26, 1990.
Clean Fairfax- Plastic Free July
Plastic Free July is a perfect time to shake up your habits and challenge yourself to swap single-use plastic bags for durable reusable bags. All ten of the Fairfax County’s Farmers Markets are plastic bag-free this year. Help out your local farmers and vendors by remembering your own reusable produce and shopping bags.
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Disposable Plastic Bag Tax
Since it went into effect in January 2022, the Disposable Plastic Bag Tax has generated over $10 million in revenue to support environmental education programs, pollution, litter mitigation, cleanup efforts, and the distribution of reusable bags to residents in need. Over 3.4 million fewer bags have been used since the tax went into effect.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
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’re 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. Want to plan an alumni event? Please email Alumni@EducateFairfax.org
Help Us Celebrate Outstanding FCPS Alumni
Educate Fairfax is accepting nominations for the fifth Annual FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame, honoring distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions in their professions, communities, and beyond. Nominees must have graduated from high school at least five years ago and demonstrated notable achievements, leadership, and positive contributions to society. Nominations are open through Aug. 31.
FCPS ACE 26-27 Opportunities
Fall Apprenticeship Classes
With a skilled apprenticeship through FCPS ACE, you can secure industry-recognized credentials and valuable job skills on an “earn-while-you-learn” pathway to a rewarding, high-paying career. In today's competitive market, employers are looking for skilled professionals with proven training. FCPS ACE apprenticeship programs give you an affordable way to develop the skills employers want and advance your career. Fall classes begin the week of September 8, 2026, with convenient evening hours so you don't have to choose between work or training.
We offer online, self-guided classes in the Trades and hundreds of other industries. Browse our full catalog and find the specific courses.
Cornerstones Back-To-School Drive
Cornerstones is accepting donations for their Back-To-School Drive through their Amazon Wish List, as well as in‑person drop‑offs every Friday in July from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Community members can bring backpacks, school supplies, and hearty weekend snacks to the free from Hunger Center (22560 Glenn Drive, Unit 105, Sterling). Questions, email events@cornerstonesva.org.
Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards
 The 2026 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards honors youth, coaches, and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Award categories include: female athlete, male athlete, coach, and parent in each Supervisory District. Those who participated in youth athletics from Fall 2025 through Summer 2026 are eligible. Complete the nomination form to recognize deserving athletes, coaches, and parents from the Dranesville District. Nominations are due October 1.
Fairfax County Trail Buddy App
Fairfax County Park Authority has more than 334 miles of amazing trails. Want to find a trail near you? The Fairfax County Trail Buddy can help you find one. Just type in the address where you’d like to find trails nearby and map will display the closest trails near you. Use the Trail Buddy app to find your next adventure. Be cautious of extreme heat and hike responsibly.
Trail Ranger Program
The Trail Ranger Program is a volunteer initiative that empowers residents to support walking, biking, and rolling throughout the county by caring for the paths we use every day. Trails and sidewalks are essential for getting around, but they aren’t regularly swept or monitored. Trail Rangers help fill that gap and make a visible difference in their community.
Home Delivery Service: Library Materials Mailed to Your Home
If a temporary or permanent disability makes it hard to visit the library, Fairfax County Public Library’s Home Delivery Service can bring the library to you. Fairfax County and City of Fairfax residents of all ages may qualify for free home delivery of books, large print, magazines, CDs, and DVDs. You can choose your own materials, or let the reader advisory staff pick titles based on your interests.
BeFriend-A-Child Seeks Volunteer Mentors
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Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of young people? Join the Department of Family Services' two-year mentoring program to empower kids ages 5 to 12. They are actively seeking dedicated volunteers like you to help guide, inspire, and support our youth as they navigate crucial developmental stages in their lives.
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Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
Fairfax County Summer 2026 Guide
 It’s summertime and there are plenty of things to do here in the area. Explore pools, splash parks, and lakes; enjoy more than 120 performances through the Summer Entertainment Series; participate in the Summer Reading Adventure; find out how to make use of FCPS school grounds throughout the summer; and learn how summer meal programs help ensure that hunger doesn’t take a vacation for kids.
"1776"- Weekends through August 2
Commemorate America's 250th anniversary with the McLean Community Players' production of "1776". This musical brings the debates, determination and humanity behind the Declaration of Independence to life through unforgettable music, humor and history. Performances at the Alden Theatre are at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Library of Congress' (LOC) Summer Events
6 p.m.- Award-winning jazz pianist Justin Kauflin joins six talented emerging disabled musicians in a showcase performance for the 2026 Access/VSA International Young Musicians Program. This concert commemorates Disability Pride Month and the signing anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
LOC's Thursday Summer Movies Series
 This year's summer film series is part of the Library of Congress' (LOC) celebration of the nation's semiquincentennial, America 250: It's Your Story. The series will be presented Thursday evenings at sundown on the north lawn of the Library's Thomas Jefferson Building.
Scheduled films include "A League of Their Own" on July 30, and "Apollo 13" on Aug. 6.
National Book Festival- Aug. 22
The Library of Congress National Book Festival will return on Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. Part of the Library’s celebration of America 250: It’s Your Story, this year’s festival is an invitation to further appreciate the country’s history.
Yes! The festival is free and open to the public. Tickets will be required. More details on ticketing will be available closer to the date of the festival.
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FRC Magical Moments Together - July 29
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.- Join us for engaging stories and imaginative activities! All are welcome, but recommended for children ages 2-5 years old. Registration required. Limited Spaces Available. Register here at the Pimmit Hills Center - Family Resource Center (7510 Lisle Ave, Falls Church).
Traffic Safety Town Hall- July 29
6 to 8 p.m.- The Fairfax County Police Department's McLean District Station invites you to attend a Traffic Safety Town Hall at McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean) to learn about current traffic initiatives, hear from local transportation experts, and ask questions about the issues that matter most to you and your neighborhood.
Can't make it or have a question you'd like addressed during the meeting or need a special accommodation? Email FCPDMcLeanCPO@fairfaxcounty.gov.
Back-to-school Military Fair- August 1
10 a.m. to 12 p.m.- Blue Star Families and FCPS invite you to join our Back-to-School Military Fair on Saturday, August 1, 2026at West Springfield High School (6100 Rolling Rd, West Springfield). FCPS and community resources will be available to families, and school supplies will be provided for students in all grade levels. Please note there is a limited amount of supplies.
This opportunity is open to Active Duty, National Guard, Reserve, and Veteran families. Parents and students must attend the event in person to receive the school supplies.
Partnering with Your Child’s Middle School- August 3rd or 6th
This presentation helps families explore ways to stay connected to their students’ learning in middle school while maintaining strong family-school partnerships throughout their secondary education. Families are invited to this virtual meeting to discuss their changing roles as middle school parents or caregivers. There will be time for questions and answers at the end of the presentation.
Recognize Our Staff Who Go Above and Beyond
The FCPS CARES Program is an opportunity for parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care. We invite you to submit your story, so we can all acknowledge the good work of FCPS employees.
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The views contained within this newsletter reflect the views of the individual school board member who is the publisher of this newsletter and may not reflect the views of the Fairfax County School Board.
© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia
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