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The Braddock Buzz: Summer Fun and Preparing for the 2026-2027 School Year
Howdy, Neighbors!
I hope you all have been having a wonderful summer full of fun, family, and making core memories. Ours has so far consisted of lots of spontaneous play dates, swim team events, board games, fishing, and other adventures.
I’ve also attended lots of fun FCPS events while the Board is on our summer recess, including the FCPS Leadership Kickoff, a School Board Member training, and the White Oaks Elementary summer BBQ with Principal Josh Douds—who happened to be one of the speakers on the leadership panel at the FCPS Leadership Kickoff!
 Additionally, I’ve gotten to visit “Popsicles on the Playground” events at Rolling Valley Elementary and Fairview Elementary, with my colleague Sandy Anderson (Springfield District), and I also swung by Bonnie Brae Elementary for their “Popsicles with Principals” event for rising kindergarteners. I enjoyed chatting with parents, seeing their renovations nearly complete, and hearing the excitement for the new spaces.
I also attended National Night Out events at the Long Branch, Middleridge, and Ponds communities. It was nice getting to talk to members of these communities before the start of another great school year!
With the rollout of hard-copy textbooks for secondary math classes, I took a moment to show some neighborhood kids how to wrap their textbooks in paper bags. This was a really fun and nostalgic way to get these kids excited about the new math textbooks they’ll be getting this coming school year.
I hope you all are able to soak up all of the fun and relaxation in these last few weeks of summer.
As always, I love to hear from you! Please don’t hesitate to reach out to braddock@fcps.edu to share your thoughts.
Yours in Service,
Tom Dannan
Braddock District Representative
Braddock Bravos
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.
The teams from Braddock that were state runners-up were:
- Robinson Secondary School, Film Festival, Documentary.
- Robinson Secondary School, Film Festival, Narrative.
The individuals from Braddock who were state runners-up were:
- Paola Mascola, Robinson Secondary School, Speech, Impromptu.
Braddock 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:
- Annandale High School, Newspaper.
- Lake Braddock Secondary School, Yearbook.
Congratulations to all of our 2025-26 academic and activity state champions and runners-up!
Students from Fairfax County Public Schools won top awards at the Future Business Leaders of America, Inc. (FBLA) National Leadership Conference (NLC) held recently in San Antonio, Texas. The event was held from June 29 to July 2 and attracted more than 16,000 middle and high school students, educators, and volunteers from across the country. The NLC provides education, competition, and networking opportunities centered on business.
More than 13,400 students from nearly 2,100 schools across 47 U.S. states, territories, and Canada competed in 108 business-related events for nearly $65,000 in cash prizes. Students also had the opportunity to participate in more than 200 educational workshops and connect with representatives from colleges, universities, and employers.
The following students from the Braddock District were recognized as finalists (top 15) and winners:
- Computer Game and Simulation Programming: Dwij Bhensdadia, Ian Caballero, Javier Caballero, Robinson Secondary School, sixth place.
- Mobile Application Development: Taylor Lindenberg, Valeria Morales, Robinson Secondary School, fifth place.
- Technology Support and Services: Abigail Bruechert, Robinson Secondary School, seventh place.
Learning Doesn't Take a Break
Virginia School Board Association (VSBA) Summer Conference
Before the start of our last regular meeting, I had the pleasure of attending the Virginia School Board Association’s summer conference in Virginia Beach, where I had the opportunity to hear from experts and colleagues about effective special education governance, career and technical education, student advocacy, and building trust. We also got to hear from Dr. Jeffrey Smith, Virginia Secretary of Education, who shared state progress towards modernizing our funding formula and improving curriculum.
FCPS Leadership Kickoff
I was also happy to attend the FCPS Leadership Kickoff that was held at Fairfax High School at the end of July along with my colleagues Sandy Anderson (Springfield District), Ilryong Moon (At-Large), and Marcia St.John-Cunning (Franconia District).
We heard from lots of different leaders like keynote speaker Irvin Leon Scott who talked about leading student success through thematic movements, Dr. Reid who discussed the importance of mission driven work, and a panel of FCPS leaders who talked about how leadership helps drive success.
FCPS Chief of Staff, Marty Smith, was recognized before he retired at the end of July. Marty worked for FCPS for 32 years starting as a second grade teacher and eventually becoming an assistant principal, principal, regional superintendent, and chief operating officer. Although I’ve only had the opportunity to work with Marty for a short time on the Board, I’m very thankful for all the work he has done to support and impact both me and all of the families across FCPS. Enjoy your retirement Marty!
 Department of Information Technology: Accelerate 2026 Conference
FCPS held a two-day conference in July, Accelerate 2026, which provided FCPS staff with information about the current state of Artificial Intelligence and ways to better innovate, collaborate, and perform their work. On the first day, staff members heard from nationwide experts such as Dr. Jules White of Vanderbilt University, Geoffrey Schaefer of the Washington Center and Casey Cuny, the 2024 California Teacher of the Year. They also heard from FCPS staff who have used AI to level up their work. On the second day, staff members were able to register for a variety of breakout sessions aimed at providing practical learning and strategies geared to the variety of work done by FCPS staff - teachers, administrators, technology specialists, and central office staff. The event was well attended and gave FCPS staff the chance to learn and grow and to connect with each other on the important and timely topic of Artificial Intelligence. Thank you to my staff for attending on my behalf!
Ramping Up for the 2026-2027 School Year
Join your School’s PTA/PTO
With the school year quickly approaching, consider joining the parent teacher organization within your school! These organizations are an essential part of community building within your school.
From supporting teachers, staff, and students well-being in different ways, raising money for school needs, sponsoring student enrichment, helping fund extracurricular activities, and so much more. Being a part of your school's parent teacher organization is a way to positively impact your school.
Here are links to all of the PTA/PTO/PTSO’s for Braddock schools. Sign up today!
New Student ID Cards Coming for Bus Riders This Fall
As part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening layered safety and security programs, FCPS will implement a new student ID system for students who ride our school buses.
The implementation of the student IDs is designed as an additional safety measure for our 130,000 students who ride the bus each day, ensuring they are on the right bus and that they get on and off at the correct bus stop, as well as making sure only authorized students are on our buses.
The IDs will be provided to students who ride the bus. Those students will be expected to tap on and tap off the bus. The student IDs do not track student movement. The only information available is when a student taps on or off a bus. Much like our Here Comes the Bus app, our new app will allow parents/guardians to track the progress of the school bus.
It is possible that the ID program will expand in the future to include uses such as library cards and meal payment. Learn more about the new transportation system and student ID cards.
Bookmark the School Year Calendar
Be sure to bookmark the FCPS school year calendar to keep track of school holidays, breaks, and observances:
- Days marked blue with an “H” are student holidays. Schools are closed on these days.
- Days marked orange with an “O” are religious and cultural observance days (or evenings, if only half marked). There is school on these days, but certain events that cannot be made up may not be scheduled on these days.
- Days marked as TW, SD, and SP and in pink are holidays for students but working days for teachers and staff.
Please note that some holidays and observances, such as Eid al-Fitr, may shift, and the calendar may be adjusted.
Back-to-School Immunization Requirements
Make sure your child has all of their required immunizations before the first day of school. Check their immunization records to see what they might be missing. You can:
- Request immunization records online through the Virginia Immunization Information System (a free service).
- If your child was immunized outside of Virginia, get records from those states’ systems.
- Request records from your healthcare provider. Some may charge for copies.
Review school-required immunizations to verify that your child is up to date.
Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
Several immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grades.
- All students entering 7th grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
- To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
- To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
- To meet the HPV requirement, the vaccination should be given between the ages of 11 and 12, but can be given as early as 9 years old.
- As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student not to receive the HPV vaccination.
- All students entering 12th grade are to receive two doses of Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school.
- To meet the MenACWY 12th grade requirement, one dose must be administered at age 16 or older.
As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.
Where to Receive Immunizations
If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your family’s healthcare provider or one of the following immunization events.
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, with no out-of-pocket costs. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations. Additional dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student. Participation is voluntary.
If you do not have a healthcare provider, you can also visit a Health Department clinic. Fairfax County Health Department (FCHD) clinics offer immunizations to all Fairfax County students, as well as those who are behind on their scheduled immunizations or need a booster.
Summer back-to-school immunization clinics are also available. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are also welcome. FCHD offers limited walk-in hours for immunization services on a first-come, first-served basis. Immunizations are also available by appointment.
Inova Cares Back to School Pediatric Health Fairs provide children ages 5 and up with free school physicals and immunizations. Weekend clinics are available in July and August. These health fairs are for VA Medicaid or Uninsured Inova registered patients only. Appointments are required. Call 703-698-2550 to make an appointment. Bring vaccine records to the appointment.
Local immunization clinics and additional resources are available on the FCPS Immunization Resources webpage and from the FCHD.
Apply Today for Free and Reduced-Price Meals!
According to the Centers for Disease Control, eating breakfast at school is associated with better attendance rates, fewer missed school days, and better test scores. Studies show that students who eat both school breakfast and lunch tend to have healthier diets than those who don't participate in school 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. This includes more than one-third of FCPS students. Families must complete the Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FRM) application before the start of each school year. Approved applications may also qualify students for additional benefits.
The application for FRM is now available for the 2026-27 school year. Students who were approved for FRM last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should reapply as soon as possible so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
Access the application and view criteria and up-to-date information on the FRM webpage. Families should reach out to their schools with questions or for assistance.
Meals for Students Available Through August 21
No-cost meals will be provided to students on a first-come, first-served basis through Friday, August 21, at the sites and times listed on the FCPS Summer Food Service Program webpage. Students must remain on site while eating their meals.
Pre-K Registration
Give Your Kids a Strong Start: Apply for Early Childhood Education Programs
FCPS Pre-K and Early Head Start programs provide a high-quality early learning experience for qualifying children ages 6 weeks to 4 years living in Fairfax County with economic and educational risk factors.
- The pre-K program prioritizes 4-year-old applicants but also accepts applications for children who will be 3 years old by September 30.
- Early Head Start is located at three elementary schools — Clearview, Crestwood, and Dogwood — and accepts applications from expectant mothers and parents/guardians of children 6 weeks to 2 years old.
Families are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. However, space is limited and provided based on need, not on a first come, first served basis. Applications are accepted online, by email, by postal mail (printable application), or in person at 7423 Camp Alger Avenue, Falls Church, Virginia 22042. If you have a question about the application process or status, please call 703-208-7900 (English) or 703-208-7901 (Spanish).
Following the 2025–26 Beyond the Bell pilot program, Fairfax County's Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) — in partnership with Fairfax County Public Schools — will move forward with a phased expansion of Beyond the Bell, beginning with 21 elementary schools during the 2026–27 school year. The expansion is driven by Superintendent Dr. Reid and the Fairfax County’s Board of Supervisors, in support of their shared commitment to reduce waitlists and expand school age child care access for Fairfax County families.
The following Braddock schools are included in the first phase of expansion:
- Cardinal Forest ES
- Laurel Ridge ES
- White Oaks ES
Community Information Sessions
To help the community better understand the transition, NCS will host a series of community information sessions this summer. Current SACC families, families on the waitlist and members of the community are encouraged to attend to learn more about Beyond the Bell and what the transition means for families. These sessions will also provide an opportunity to ask questions and hear directly from NCS leadership.
Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
- 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual Only: Zoom link (same link for both sessions)
Thursday, Sept. 10, 2026
- 11a.m. – 12 p.m.
- 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual Only: Zoom link (same link for both sessions)
Understanding Student Rights and Responsibilities Updates: New Universal Grade Matrices for Families
Families are encouraged to review the updated FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) document, which explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses in order to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment.
Updates for the 2026-27 school year include new Universal Grade Matrices (UGMs). UGMs are charts that show behavior expectations and school responses by grade level (K-3, 4-8, and 9-12). These at-a-glance resources (in Appendix D of the SR&R) are designed to make it easier for parents and caregivers to understand how schools respond to different types of behavior concerns.
Visit the SR&R webpage for more information and to review additional updates to the SR&R for the 2026-27 school year.
Virtual Mental Health Services Now Available for Both Middle & High School Students
 Since 2023, FCPS has partnered with Hazel Health to offer virtual mental health services to FCPS high school students. These services became available to students enrolled in all FCPS middle schools on July 1.
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.
To make it easier for families to access services, FCPS has partnered with Hazel Health to streamline the referral process. Parents can visit the Hazel Health in FCPS website to enroll their child in services or visit the FCPS Teletherapy webpage for more information.
FCPS Family Literacy Program
FCPS's Family Literacy Program is returning to the Mission Center this fall!
This program offers FREE English classes for adults, along with guidance on how the school system works so parents can better support their children's education. Kids aged 2-5 are welcome!
Classes begin Tuesday, September 22nd and Wednesday, September 23rd:
Morning Session
- Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
- Kids ages 2–5 are welcome to attend with their parents
Evening Session
- Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- School-aged children are welcome to attend with their parents
Location:
Mission Center
7901 Heritage Dr, Annandale
Families can register through the QR code and/or by using this link here.
PSAT/SAT Accommodations
Request PSAT and SAT School Day Testing Accommodations and Multilingual Support
FCPS high schools will give the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) to 10th and 11th graders on Wednesday, October 7. That same day, 12th graders will participate in SAT School Day.
Because these exams are operated by the College Board, students do not automatically receive testing accommodations or multilingual support. Families can view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about College Board accommodations on the FCPS website.
If you have a multilingual learner (ML) in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade this school year, 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.
New ParentVUE Mobile App Launched July 28
On Tuesday, July 28, a new ParentVUE mobile app became available in the Apple and Google app stores. This new app provides parents and caregivers with a more secure sign-in. The current “classic” app will remain active for about six months. Families must download the new app by December 2026 to ensure they have continued mobile access to their child’s school data.
In the new app, families can enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) for FCPS Single Sign-On. While enrollment is optional, we strongly recommend that everyone enable this security feature.
Learn more about installing the new ParentVUE app. Parents needing assistance should submit a Parent Support Request.
FCPS News
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
- Back-to-School Checklist
- Stay Up to Date with the FCPS Mobile App
- New Menu Platform
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
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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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