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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:
Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! I visited several Dranesville schools, as students and staff returned, and Back to School Nights. It is wonderful to see hallways and classrooms once again filled with smiles, energy, and enthusiasm. A smooth opening takes tremendous preparation, and I want to thank our custodians and facilities teams for getting our buildings ready; our principals, teachers, and school staff for managing the countless details that come with welcoming students back; and our PTA, PTSA, and PTO leaders: our Food and Nutrition staff; and bus drivers and transportation staff.
I also want to share an update regarding the ongoing concerns about crossing guards at our high schools. As of yesterday, several high school crossing guards are on duty, including at McLean High School. Crossing guards are an important part of school safety, but keeping students safe around our schools requires all of us. Pedestrians need to follow traffic rules, remain alert, and be aware of their surroundings. Drivers should allow additional time during arrival and dismissal, expect delays around our schools, and watch carefully for students walking and biking. Parents and caregivers who drive students should follow their school’s designated Kiss and Ride procedures rather than creating alternate drop-off or pick-up locations. And, when school bus transportation is available for your student, I encourage families to use it. Each of these actions can help reduce congestion and make arrival and dismissal safer for everyone. Shared below is how you can share your advocacy with the Board of Supervisors regarding funding for high school crossing guards and other safety measures to keep students safe.
On another note, I have an opening on the 2026–2027 Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC). I encourage Dranesville residents with an interest in career and technical education, workforce development, business and industry, or preparing students for future opportunities to consider applying. Please see below for additional information.
There is much to look forward to in the months ahead, and I am eager to see what our students, educators, and school communities accomplish together. I look forward to continuing to spend time in our schools, attend community events, listen to students, families, and staff across Dranesville.
Please continue to reach out and share your questions, concerns, and perspectives with me. I value hearing from you and wish all our students, families, and staff an engaging, rewarding, and successful 2026–2027 school year.
Regards,
Robyn
In this newsletter,
High School Crossing Guard Funding
Crossing guards are provided by Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, not FCPS. Last year, the Board of Supervisors voted to cut funding for the crossing guards, details of the Fairfax County budget crossing guard cuts can be found here. The start of the school year saw an increase of dangerous situation at the crosswalks students depend on to get to school, leading to an incident when a student was struck near South Lakes High School.
Read Chairman Jeff McKay's newsletter on high school crossing guards.
September 15th BOS Public Hearing
There will be a Board of Supervisor's Public Hearing on the FY 2026 Carryover Funding at the Sept. 15th, 10:30 a.m. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend in person but will submit written testimony.
The sign-up information and other details:
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10:30 a.m.- Public hearing on the County and Schools' FY 2026 Carryover Review to amend the appropriation level in the FY 2027 Revised Budget Plan.
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Ways to Provide Public Hearing Testimony
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All public hearings allow for speakers to have 3 minutes to testify if speaking as an individual and 5 minutes if speaking on behalf of an organization.
- Sign up to be added to the speakers list by using the speakers sign up form or by calling the Department of Clerk Services at 703-324-3151, TTY 711.
All full Board of Supervisors meetings are televised on Channel 16 and streamed live online with closed captions provided in English and Spanish (los subtítulos en español). Meetings are also available to view on demand following the meeting.
August 27th Regular Meeting
Watch the full meeting.
Key Votes
Presentation
Academic Matters- Building Supportive School Communities
AAP Middle School Expansion Plan
The School Board voted to expand AAP Centers to every middle school. View more on BoardDocs.
Upcoming Regular School Board Meeting
The next regular board meeting will be held Thursday, September 10, at Luther Jackson Middle School, at 7 p.m.
August 18th Work Session
Work Session Topics
- Middle School Afterschool Programs Discussion
- Digital Literacy Discussion
2026-2027 Dranesville CTEAC Opening
The Dranesville Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee (CTEAC) representative provides recommendations to the School Board on current job needs, the relevancy of career and technical education programs offered, and to assist in the development, implementation, and evaluation of the local plan and application. The Dranesville representative will serve through July 2027, and meeting days are monthly on Thursdays.
If you are interested in this committees, fill out this interest form to share why you would like to be a representative and why you would be a good fit for this committee. Please email Dranesvillestaff@fcps.edu if you have any questions.
School Board Office Staff Opening
The School Board Office is looking for a full-time Administrative Assistant I. This position will provide wide-ranging office support and serves as the Administrative Assistant to the Board and School Board Clerk. We are looking for a proactive, friendly, organized, and adaptable individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment. The job position closes on Friday, September 4, 2026.
Upcoming School Board Meetings
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Tuesday, September 8, 10:30 a.m.- All Day Work Session
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Thursday, September 10, 7 p.m.- 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:
Office of the Auditor General
The Office of Auditor General (OAG) reports to the School Board. OAG’s mission is to independently determine whether the ongoing FCPS processes are designed and functioning effectively, efficiently and be accountable to the Fairfax County community members. Sign up for their newsletter, Audit Buzz, which provides an update into OAG’s work.
August 2026 Audit Buzz Newsletter
Welcome to the August 2026 issue of Audit Buzz for the new school year! In this issue, we kick off Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Audit Committee; highlight recent events; and offer a training opportunity. Prior editions of Audit Buzz are archived on the Office of Auditor General (OAG) website.
Calendar Reminders
September 4-7: Labor Day Break: Schools and Offices Closed
September 21: Yom Kippur Holiday: Schools and Offices Closed
FCPS 2026-27 School Year Calendar
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FCPS Updates
Second Day of School at Herndon Middle School
Robyn visited Herndon MS with Dr. Reid on the Second Day of School.
Robyn's 2026 Back to School Message
Find your Back To School Night
All Back-to-School event dates are listed on individual school websites and on each region's website.
Dranesville student’s Back to School Night information:
Upcoming Immunization Events
If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your family’s healthcare provider or for one of the following immunization events.
Inspire Health Alliance Partnership with FCPS
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 child. Participation is voluntary.
Healthworks- New Student Health Screen and Immunizations
HealthWorks is offering free school physicals to children ages 3-18 without health insurance who are entering a Virginia school for the first time. Appointment includes a physical exam, dental screening, hearing and vision test, TB screening, and immunizations. Sports physicals are not available. A parent/legal guardian must be present with the child during the appointment. Please see the attached flyer for more information.
Cellphone and Device Policy Reminders
A new School Board requirement prohibits students from using personal electronic communication or computing devices, including personal laptops, tablets, smartwatches, smartphones, and similar devices.
Students may only use a personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan. A principal or the principal’s designee may approve a limited, course-specific exception for students enrolled in a specialized class when the curriculum requires a technology tool or software that isn’t available on a standard FCPS-issued device.
Learn more about the FCPS cellphone policy and device policy.
Safety Near our Schools
 From the Fairfax County Police Department:
Whether you’re driving, walking, biking, riding a scooter, or taking the bus, stay alert, make safe choices, and look out for one another. A safe school year starts with all of us.
Safety around School Buses
- If a school bus is stopped with red lights flashing to load or unload children, drivers in both directions must stop.
- The only exception is if you’re traveling the opposite direction and there’s a positive median barrier physically separating your lane from the bus.
- Think concrete barrier or guardrail, not just paint.
- Many county school buses are now equipped with cameras to capture drivers who fail to stop when the bus’s stop arm is extended.
- Drivers who illegally pass school buses that are loading and unloading children will be recorded and issued a $250 citation by mail.
- Slow is smart. Reduce speed in school zones and watch for kids crossing mid-block or late to the stop.
- If you see dangerous driving behavior around buses or schools, call it in. Together, we can make sure every student gets where they’re going safely.
- For an emergency, dial 911, or call the FCPD non-emergency line 703-691-2131.
Pedestrian Safety
- Use sidewalks and designated crosswalks whenever possible.
- Look left, right, and left again before crossing and stay alert.
- Children should walk with a responsible adult whenever possible.
- Wear bright or reflective clothing especially during early morning or low-light conditions
- Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing when possible.
Driving Around Schools
- Slow down and obey posted school-zone speed limits.
- Stay alert for children at crosswalks, sidewalks, and bus stops.
- Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks and keep crosswalks and intersections clear.
- Put your phone away and keep your attention on the road.
School Zone Cameras
Pay attention to school zones, especially where they start and end. Follow the speed limit when the lights are flashing. It’s important to add more time into your commuting schedule so you’re not in a rush.
Speed cameras are active in specific school zones at specific times. The cameras are only active when the school zone is in effect. Drivers who exceed the speed limit by 10 mph or more will be fined based on an escalating fine structure that maxes out at $100.
Dranesville Student Schools with School Zone Cameras
- Active:
- Chesterbrook ES- Kirby Road
- Marshall HS- Leesburg Pike
- McLean HS- Westmoreland Street
- In progress:
- Coates ES- River Birch Road
- Armstrong ES- Lake Newport Road
- Westgate ES- Magarity Road
- Coming next:
- Langley HS- Georgetown Pike
- Westfield HS- Stonecroft Blvd.
New Student ID Cards for Bus Riders
FCPS will implement a new student ID system for students who ride our school buses ensuring they are on the right bus and that they get on and off at the correct bus stop, and 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.
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Understanding Student Rights and Responsibilities Updates
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.
Customize Your Lightspeed Settings
All parents should be receiving weekly Lightspeed Online Student Activity Report emails. Visit the FCPS Lightspeed Parent Portal Guide for more information. If you have additional questions, submit a Parent Technology Support Ticket.
Families are encouraged to discuss internet boundaries so children can understand the reasoning behind any limits and the differences between access at home and at school. Get tips on talking to your children about technology safety.
Apply Today for Free and Reduced-Price Meals
Families who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals can receive breakfast and lunch at no cost for their children. 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 children continue to receive meals at no cost.
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) to replace the current 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.
Community members are encouraged to visit the FCPS SRO MOU webpage to review the current MOU and the Virginia Model MOU, and submit public comments through Monday, September 7.
Get Ready for the New School Year With the FCPS App
Simplify your back-to-school prep! Download the FCPS mobile app to check school calendars, menus, and contacts all in one place with no login required.
Plus, get quick access to ParentVUE, Schoology, and the bus app. Download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
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Follow FCPS on WhatsApp
Is WhatsApp one of the ways you stay connected with family, friends, and your community? Now you can use it to stay connected with FCPS, too. Follow the new FCPS WhatsApp Channel for helpful information and reminders throughout the school year, including important announcements, upcoming dates, tips for families, and more.
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 last school year. A standardized bag policy will also be in place to help ensure a safe, efficient entry process for everyone attending our games. Learn what items are prohibited.
Approved bags are limited to:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or pvc bags no larger than 12”x6”x12”
- Small clutch bag no larger than 4.5” x 6.5”
- Medical and diaper bags permitted but subject to inspection
As a reminder, middle school students and younger, must be accompanied by a responsible adult who remains with the student(s) at the event.
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Superintendent Community Conversations
Save the Date: Community Conversations with Superintendent Reid
Your voice matters, and Superintendent Reid wants to hear from you! At FCPS, parents are partners, working with us to set our students up for long-term success at school and in life.
A series of Community Conversations will be held across the school division. You are invited to share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Events are planned for the following dates at 6:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted):
- Wednesday, September 16, 6:45 p.m., at McNair Elementary School
- Monday, September 28, at Riverside Elementary School
- Monday, October 19, at Spring Hill Elementary School
- Monday, October 26, at Beech Tree Elementary School
- Thursday, October 29, at North Springfield Elementary School
- Friday, November 13, at Colin Powell Elementary School
Registration links will be shared soon. Childcare and interpretation services will be provided. Events are one-hour long and open to all. Find out about other opportunities to connect with Dr. Reid.
Community Updates
Lock It or Lose It:
From the FC Police Department,
Vehicle theft is often a crime of opportunity. By following these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk.
10 Tips to Help Prevent Vehicle Break-Ins and Theft:
- Lock It Every Time
- Park in Safe, Well-Lit Areas
- Invest in a Car Alarm or Immobilizer
- Use a Steering Wheel Lock
- Hide Your Valuables
- Don’t Leave Keys in the Vehicle
- Consider a GPS Tracker
- Stay Alert
- Keep Detailed Records
- Stay Informed
Wastewater Wants You to Know: Tissues Also Cause Issues
As kids wind down summer vacation and begin buying supplies, tissues may be on school lists. But did you know? Tissues are not designed to fall apart in water like toilet paper is, so they can clog your pipes and tangle in wastewater machinery! DPWES’ Solid Waste Management team is reminding residents to put used tissues in the trash and not in the toilet.
Supervisor Bierman
Please sign up for Supervisor Bierman's informative newsletter here to keep up-to-date on Dranesville and Fairfax County news and events.
Skyview High School Takes Flight With Grand Opening Celebration
 Excitement filled the air at Skyview High School on August 20, as students, families, staff, elected officials, and community members gathered to celebrate the grand opening of FCPS’ newest high school.
The celebration followed the school’s inaugural Aviator All-Call, where students received their schedules, explored classrooms, and met their teachers ahead of the first day of school. Fittingly for the home of the Aviators, the grand opening ceremony also included a special arrival from the skies: helicopters from the D.C. Army National Guard and Fairfax County Police Department touched down before the ceremony and took flight as the program got underway.
Latin students attended the National Junior Classical League Convention
At this event, the best and brightest classical scholars compete in academic tests, graphic arts, creative arts (oratory and dramatic performance), Olympika (sporting events), and Certamen. Certamen is very much like a Latin version of Quiz Bowl. The Virginia Advanced Competitive Certamen Team took home the 1st place trophy, beating out all other participating states. We are so proud to have brought home the Maureen O’Donnell Memorial Trophy, a rotating trophy honoring former FCPS Latin teacher Maureen O’Donnell, who passed away in 1989 after a long career at Woodson High School.
- Team members:
- Sarah Trainer ’26 (Captain) – TJHSST
- Ethan O’Hara ’26 – TJHSST
- Vir Maniar ’27 – TJHSST
- Jackson Sipple-Asher ’27 – (Non-FCPS)
- Coach: Nadia Ghosheh, Latin Teacher at Hayfield Secondary School
Additionally, Sarah Trainer, a Dranesville District resident, earned the MVP award for the Advanced level.
Coates ES
Robyn at the Coates ES Back to School Block Party.
Haycock ES
 Three new murals painted by former Haycock students were completed over the summer. One in the cafeteria and two in the Three Sisters Garden in the Chess Courtyard.
 The reception at Haycock ES to honor Clark Levine, recognized with the 2026 Outstanding Elementary School New Teacher at the FCPS Honors Ceremony. Read more on the Haycock Elementary School staff members who were also recognized at this year's ceremony.
Spring Hill ES
 The reception at Spring Hill ES to honor Kimberly Roman, recognized with the 2026 Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee at the FCPS Honors Ceremony. Read more on the Spring Hill Elementary School staff members who were also recognized at this year's ceremony.
Cooper MS
Robyn Lady and other members of the Board attended the Cooper Middle School Ribbon Cutting.
The Cooper Middle School Ribbon Cutting celebrated the completion of the Copper Middle Capital Project. Cooper’s renovation broke ground in October 2019, and the project spanned the pandemic and the construction changes it brought. The renovation represents an investment of more than $53.5 million and transformed Cooper into a 179,000-square-foot modern learning environment with new classrooms including the science and consumer science areas, the updated library and administrative offices, expanded cafeteria and gymnasium spaces, a new courtyard, and more.
Cooper is one of three FCPS capital projects to earn Collaborative for High Performance Schools, or CHPS, Designed certification. With 45 points, well above the 30-point threshold, this renovation demonstrates that healthy, energy-efficient learning environments can be thoughtfully designed for today’s students and for generations to come.
Herndon HS
Robyn attended the 2026 Herndon High School Hornet's Fest.
Herndon High School hosted the Pan African Cultural Arts Foundation (PACA). PACA’s choir of high school and college students and its middle and high school dance group shared stories, song, dance, and cultural traditions with Herndon’s students and staff. PACA’s global mission is to educate communities about Africa and its rich cultural heritage while promoting the arts. This cultural exchange gave our students the opportunity to learn from our guests, and to share their own experiences and traditions in return.
Langley HS
Kilmer Center held its first Walk and Roll, a beautiful celebration of inclusion, awareness, and the strengths and contributions of students with disabilities. Two Langley HSstudents, Sheel Patel and Neel Arora, created this event and shared their why for this project. The Sibling of the Exceptional organization was started with Reema and Sheel Patel inspired by Reema's brother Veer. They created the organization to support inclusion for kids with special needs. Throughout the past couple of years, they've been doing many small events to promote special needs awareness especially for the Kilmer Center School. The organization had a new idea for a walk to help promote the Kilmer Center School and other special needs organizations such as Bright Beats and SEPTA.
Attendance Awareness Month
Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow! The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success. Visit the FCPS Attendance web page for tips and strategies.
National Preparedness Month
Every September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency marks National Preparedness Month. The campaign, which started in 2004, gives families, businesses and communities a reason to stop and think about what they would do if disaster struck close to home.
For Fairfax County residents, that means thinking through the hazards most likely to affect Northern Virginia. Severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, winter storms, extreme heat and the tail end of hurricane season can all disrupt daily life with little warning. National Preparedness Month is a good time to make sure your household has a plan.
Suicide Prevention Month
Our theme this year is Stronger together: Connect. Support. Prevent sets the course for September as we begin by cultivating connection nationwide.
Join the Fairfax community in supporting the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Fairfax Walk at Mosaic District, on Saturday, October 3. The walk is a journey of remembrance, hope, and support. Check-in begins at 11 a.m., followed by the opening ceremony at 12:30 p.m. Learn more about registration, fundraising opportunities, and event details as well as sponsorship opportunities.
Labor Day Break - September 4 and 7
Friday, September 4, and Monday, September 7, are Labor Day holidays for all FCPS employees and students. Virginia legislation requires that schools opening prior to Labor Day must be closed the Friday immediately preceding Labor Day. We hope everyone takes the long weekend to celebrate a strong start to the school year and enjoy time with family and friends. See the complete school year calendar.
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National Day of Service and Patriot Day- September 11
With the upcoming 25th anniversary of September 11, FCPS acknowledges the loss of life, the heroism of our first responders, and the resilience of our country.
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The September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also called Patriot Day, is a chance to reflect and act in service to others to honor those who were injured or killed in the terrorist attacks.
Rosh Hashanah - September 11
Rosh Hashanah begins at sundown on Friday, September 11. That day is an evening-only observance day. Important events will not be held after school.
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Constitution Day and Citizenship Day- September 17
On September 17 of each year, schools hold an educational program in honor of Constitution Day and Citizenship Day.
National Hispanic Heritage Month
From September 15 to October 15, FCPS recognizes and celebrates the histories and cultures of the members of our community who trace their heritage to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
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Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
From September 15 through October 15 on Beanstack, discover books written by Hispanic authors and honoring Hispanic culture and history as you earn badges. Get Bingo and be entered to win a $25 gift card. Beginning on September 8, visit Beanstack to sign up for our Hispanic Heritage Month Bingo Adventure.
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.
OFC After School Program- Registration Now Open
Registration for The Old Firehouse Center's 2026–2027 After School Program for students in grades 5-8. Members enjoy daily snacks, themed clubs, homework space, pet therapy, transportation from local schools and more.
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Aug. 24, 2026 – June 17, 2027
Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards due October 1
Nominations are open for the 2026 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards. This program honors youth, coaches, and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Complete the nomination form today
Awards are presented to a 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. Nominations are due October 1.
MCC Youth Ambassador Program- Due Oct. 9
Want to make your voice heard while gaining real leadership experience? As an MCC Youth Ambassador, you'll help shape programs and events for teens, collaborate with student leaders, and represent your school while making a difference in the McLean community. All applications must be received by Friday, Oct. 9, 2026, to be eligible. Youth ambassadors must live within the MCC tax district and must be in high school (grades 9-12).
Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition- Apply Through Oct. 19
The McLean Community Center (MCC) recognizes the hard work and talent of young actors, dancers and musicians through the James C. Macdonald Performing Arts Scholarship Competition. Participants can compete in one or more categories – Theatre, Dance, Vocal and Instrumental Music by performing two contrasting pieces that demonstrate their artistry and range. Applications are due Monday, Oct. 19.
High school students who reside in or go to school in the MCC tax district are eligible to apply. Students may enter more than one category but must submit an application form for each. All qualified entrants in a category perform their pieces in the preliminary round for a panel of esteemed professionals in that art form.
Knitting For Charity through October 30
Give back to community members in need during our annual Knitting for Charity drive. From September 21 through October 30, interested crafters are encouraged to knit (or crochet) adult winter hats and donate them at any of our branches.While supplies last, you can pick up yarn supplies at Herndon Fortnightly Library (768 Center St, Herndon) starting Sept. 21.
Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest- Deadline November 16
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia announces the launch of the Inaugural Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest. The competition invites elementary, middle, and high school students from across the Commonwealth to showcase their creativity, celebrate Virginia’s rich identity, and share their unique voices through poetry. The Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest underscores the power of language to bring communities together while honoring the Commonwealth’s natural beauty, diverse people, and enduring heritage. Submission deadline is November 16, 2026
Themes for each grade level
- 2026 Elementary School (K- 5) Prompt: Symbols of Virginia
- 2026 Middle School (6-8) Prompt: Places of Virginia
- Write a poem that captures the essence of a place in Virginia that inspires you and share why it is special to you or to Virginia’s identity.
- 2026 High School Prompt: Virginia’s Rich History
- Write a poem reflecting on an historical moment, figure, or legacy of Virginia’s past that continues to shape who we are today.
Volunteer at MCC!- Upcoming Opportunities
Be part of the excitement and give back to your community by volunteering with the McLean Community Center through these upcoming opportunities.
- Fall Parking Lot Sale
- Harvest Happenings
- McLean Artfest
- Youth Ambassador Program
Volunteers are needed throughout the year to support a variety of events and activities. Advance registration through the Fairfax County Volunteer Management System (VMS) is required to participate. Once registered, you can browse and sign up for available opportunities. Community service hours are available upon request. Must be 16 years old or older.
FCPS Adult and Community Education Updates
FCPS is dedicated to lifelong learning, providing education and skills for real-life success. When you choose from the thousands of continuing education classes offered through FCPS Adult & Community Education, you position yourself for career advancement and personal fulfillment.
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Financial aid opportunities available for eligible in all career programs.
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Fall Apprenticeship Classes
- Enrolling for Electrical, HVAC and Plumbing begin tsoon.
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Adult English Language (ESOL) classes begin in early Sept. with
- More than 3,000 in-person or online courses
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30 new career training classes taught in Spanish.
- Develop valuable workplace skills while removing language and transportation barriers
- In high-demand fields such as the skilled trades, healthcare, business, and computer technology,
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Study Skills for Academic Success to SAT Test Prep courses,
- low-cost and convenient classes to help your student succeed.
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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.
Navigating Anxiety, Routines, and School Avoidance - September 10
7 p.m.- Shifting from summer freedom to the school-year routine can be challenging for the whole family. Join McLean Safe Community Coalition and the MCC (1234 Ingleside Ave, McLean) for a supportive community discussion on managing back-to-school anxiety, creating routines that work and maintaining peace of mind as a parent. Gain practical tools to help your family transition into the new school year with confidence. Facilitators: Carey Hitchcock, LC SW and Becky Kohm, M.A.T., Ed. S.
Food for Neighbors Red Bag Day- September 12
Food For Neighbors is helping students thrive by turning community kindness into nourishing meals. More than 12,000 students at 60 local middle and high schools in Northern Virginia rely on Food For Neighbors for food support. Their Red Bag Program unites communities to collect and deliver food directly to schools, ensuring students in need don’t go hungry. What started in Herndon, VA, is now growing across Northern Virginia.
Virginia Native American Festival- September 12
10 am to 2:30 pm- Celebrate Virginia Native culture, history and living traditionss at Riverbend Park (8700 Potomac Hills St, Great Falls). Meet members of the Pamunkey, Mattaponi, Upper Mattaponi and Chickahominy tribes and spend the day experiencing dancing and drumming, Native food and craft vendors, storytelling, demonstrations, hands-on activities and more.
Paws in the Pool at The Water Mine’s Dog Daze Event- September 12
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.- Is your best furry friend ready to make a splash this September? Come out to The Water Mine for a dogs-only swimming extravaganza. The Water Mine’s (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston) pools, sprays, showers and water playgrounds are the ultimate way for you and your dog to end the summer season.
Disability Inclusion Fair- Sept. 14
7 to 8:30 p.m.- Families of teens and young adults with disabilities are invited to learn about services, programs, employment opportunities, education, recreation, and other resources available after high school. This event will feature a live performance by Elvis tribute artist and disability advocate Alex Presley, along with guest speakers from a variety of backgrounds who will share their experiences and offer encouragement to families and individuals. Registration encouraged, not required. Great Falls Library (9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls).
Volunteer at the Oak Grove in Great Falls- September 19
9 to 11 a.m.- Do you enjoy being outside planting, mulching and weeding in a lovely mature oak grove in Great Falls and earning community service hours too? Then the Great Falls Oak Grove Workday is for you. Come and join fellow students and young folks and help preserve this stately old oak grove and our all important pollinators too. Sign up using the Fairfax County Volunteer Website and add “Great Falls Grange Park Habitat.”
Once you have signed up, the Grange IMA coordinator will send more details ahead of the event.
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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