Welcome to a New School Year!

Gonzalo


Gonzalo Bernal, from the Office of Community Relations, shares FCPS resources at a back-to-school fair for military families.


Keep the FCPS Mobile App Handy This School Year

Screenshots of the FCPS Mobile App


As we gear up for the 2026-27 school year, be sure to download the official FCPS mobile app! It serves as a handy tool for staff and families alike, providing quick access to school and division calendars, breakfast and lunch menus, school contact info, and frequently used FCPS resources.

Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.


Weekly Reflections: Staying Connected With Team FCPS

In her August 10 Weekly Reflections, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid highlighted the many ways Team FCPS is preparing for the 2026-27 school year and celebrating success across the division. 

Dr. Reid also recognized FCPS educators who were recently named Virginia Teachers of the Year in their respective fields, highlighted the leadership and innovation of FCPS students, and acknowledged the work of employees and community partners who help students feel safe, supported, included, and empowered.

Read this week's Weekly Reflections to stay in the know with Dr. Reid.


New Student ID Cards and Bus Navigation System

student getting off of the school bus


As part of the ongoing commitment to strengthening layered safety and security programs, FCPS is launching a new bus navigation system. Part of this new system includes student ID cards which will be issued to every FCPS student who rides the school bus. Students will then use these cards to tap on and off the bus, helping FCPS and families know exactly which students are riding which buses.

In the next few weeks, schools will receive the new student ID cards and printers. The FCPS Office of Transportation will provide training to designated school administrators who will help manage the ID cards.

Learn more about the new system and how it will improve route efficiency, safety, and transparency with families.


Walktober Registration Is Now Open!

Back by popular demand, the Walktober Challenge runs from Thursday, October 1, through Saturday, October 31. Whether you’re new to FCPS or a returning participant, join thousands of colleagues for a monthlong challenge focused on getting active, building healthy habits, reducing stress, and engaging in a little friendly competition.

Register for the Walktober Challenge now through Saturday, October 10. Employees can participate on their own or join a team of five to 10 colleagues. Each day, aim for 6,000 to 10,000 steps — whether you’re walking, rolling, biking, gardening, or finding other ways to stay active.

There are even more opportunities to win this year! Participants can compete for weekly individual prizes, end-of-challenge team prizes, and new worksite prizes, with chances to win a bike, gift cards, wellness swag, and much more!

Visit Atlas for more Walktober information and to register ,and to view 2025 Walktober Challenge results. Please email EmployeeWellness@fcps.edu if you have questions.


Skyview Aviators Are Building a First Class Community

YouTube video


Hundreds of founding Skyview families attended the school’s latest Come In Unity event. It’s part of a series of events designed to help founding Aviator students and families build relationships, ask questions, and help shape the culture of the newest high school in FCPS. 

Read about the new school and its community-building events. Hear from Skyview staff.


Football Game Safety and Security Update

As we prepare for another exciting fall sports season, FCPS is implementing additional safety and security measures at all varsity football games.

Beginning this season, all spectators will participate in security screening using the same weapons detection technology introduced in our high schools and middle schools last school year. A standardized bag policy will also be in place to help ensure a safe, efficient entry process for everyone attending football games. 

These enhancements are designed to support a safe and welcoming environment while allowing families, students, and community members to enjoy Friday night football. We encourage attendees to arrive a little earlier than usual to allow time for screening.

Please be aware of these changes as students and families may have questions about what to expect on game day. Learn more about weapons screening at football games.


Share Your Feedback on the School Resource Officer Memorandum of Understanding

FCPS and the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) are developing a new school resource officer (SRO) memorandum of understanding (MOU). 

SROs are full-time Fairfax County police officers assigned to most middle and high schools. The MOU establishes a framework for FCPS and the FCPD to work together to help provide a safe learning environment for the entire school community. 

Visit the FCPS SRO MOU webpage to review the current MOU, the Virginia Model MOU, and submit public comments by Monday, September 7.


School Board Elects New Chair and Vice Chair for 2026-27 School Year

School Board chair and vice chair


The Fairfax County School Board confirmed its leadership for the 2026-27 school year at its meeting on July 9. Robyn Lady (Dranesville District) was elected chair, and Kyle McDaniel (At-Large) was elected vice chair. Read more about the new chair and vice chair. Learn more about the Fairfax County School Board.


Calendar Reminder: 2026 First Day of School

Monday, August 24, is the first day of school for the 2026-27 school year.

View the 2026-27 school year calendar and employee calendar for other important dates. 


Elementary School Early Release Wednesdays

Three-hour early release will continue for the 2026-27 school year. This year, each school will have four early release Wednesdays instead of eight. Learn more about early release Wednesdays for elementary schools.


Strengthen Your English Skills Through FCPS ACE

Build practical English skills and confidence for work, family, community, and everyday life through FCPS ACE adult English classes. Classes are available for learners from beginner to advanced, with day and evening options at convenient FCPS locations. Career-focused courses are also available.

Fall Adult ESOL registration is also underway, and scholarships are available. Testing is required for new students to determine the appropriate class level. Visit the FCPS ACE website for information and to register.


Staff Staples

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