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Hello, Springfield District,
As we kick off our school year together, I am excited to reflect on a summer filled with meaningful conversations, important milestones, and opportunities to connect with members of our Fairfax County Public Schools community.
I started my summer with one of my favorite events of the year. At this year’s Leadership Kickoff at Fairfax High School, leaders from around the Division shared what it takes to sustain the excellence we see every day as 1Team in FCPS! From there, the summer picked up speed with the Accelerate 2026 conference sharing more about artificial intelligence with our staff members, the Summer Equity Symposium, and Great Beginnings for our new staff. Across all these events, it was clear we are continuing to build momentum for FCPS students and staff!
Summer also gave me lots of opportunities to celebrate our students and schools. At the Summer Graduation Ceremony, we honored our last batch of 2026 graduates from around the Division. I was also excited to join a fleet of new Aviators at the ribbon-cutting for Skyview High School, marking a monumental achievement for everyone across Fairfax County who made this happen in less than 12 months after FCPS purchased the property!
Some of the summer’s most rewarding moments came through visits with students, families, and staff across the county. At Rolling Valley Elementary and Fairview Elementary, I joined my colleague from the Braddock District, Tom Dannan, to enjoy popsicles and connect with students and families. Sully District Representative Seema Dixit and I also had a wonderful opportunity to visit several schools we share, including Liberty Middle School, where we welcomed the new principal, and Union Mill, where we joined new students on a scavenger hunt to learn where things are in the school.
My conversations with families and community partners are always central to my work on the School Board, and I was thrilled to return to my parent leader roots and join Tom Dannan’s PTA/PTO Roundtable. As a PTO leader for seven years before I joined the School Board, I certainly know how hard these volunteers work to create an amazing year for our families! Please take a minute to join your school’s parent group and learn how you can get involved.
The first days of school brought their own special energy. Alongside Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, I visited Kings Glen, and Hunt Valley Elementary Schools during the first and second days of school. From proud principals to excited kids, there is palpable energy in our schools this year. I know it is going to be an amazing year!
I want to thank every staff member—from bus drivers and building supervisors to teachers, administrators, cafeteria workers, and custodians. As always, your dedication and hard work made the start of this school year possible, and I am grateful for the care you show our children every day.
I will be in touch soon,
Sandy
This newsletter includes information on the following issues:
Springfield District Community Opportunity
Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee
Are you looking to become more involved with the Fairfax County School Board and help shape the direction of Fairfax County Public Schools programs?
I am seeking applications from Springfield District residents interested in serving a one-year appointment to the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee (ACEAC). ACEAC represents the community and brings resource and programmatic issues associated with adult education to the School Board's attention.
ACE is one of seven volunteer community advisory committees that focus on specific issues affecting FCPS students and make annual recommendations to the School Board. They include one appointee representing each of the county’s nine magisterial districts, as well as at-large appointees, a school board liaison, staff liaisons, and other members. For six of those, including ACEAC, terms are one year, running from August to July, and most committees meet once a month, usually in the evenings.
To learn more about ACEAC, visit the ACEAC webpage. You may also learn about the School Board’s other Community Advisory Committees.
If you are interested, please fill out this brief Google Form by 5 p.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026.
Springfield Scene
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Congratulations to Centreville High School graduate Michael Gambone for being named the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Baseball Team Player of the Year!
Accolades also go to Mr. Montell Brown, former Centreville High School Assistant Principal, for receiving the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. This FCPS honor recognizes Mr. Brown’s commitment to reducing educational disparities, raising awareness of disproportionality, and creating opportunities that improve outcomes for historically underserved students.
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Shout-out to Chantilly High School’s Ishaan Shukla for taking first place in Public Administration and Management at the 2026 Future Business Leaders of America National Leadership Conference! Read more online.
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Congratulations to Fairfax High School’s Kay Walters for being named the 2026 Virginia Association of Marketing Educators Teacher of the Year! This award honors outstanding marketing educators who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their students, schools, and communities. This recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond to support and elevate marketing education in Virginia.
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In Dr. Reid’s Shining the Light on Success series, Katherine Johnson Middle School was featured for its Unified Basketball program, which brings together students of all abilities to compete, support one another, and form meaningful friendships both on and off the court!
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Shout-out to Lake Braddock Secondary School graduate Addison Forde for being named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Softball Team and graduates Amelia Cole and Olivia Wallace for being named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Outdoor Track Team in the 100-meter hurdles and 300-meter hurdles, respectively. Additionally, Darien Vita for being named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Soccer Team!
Congratulations to Lake Braddock graduate Gavin Clarke for receiving a 2026 Distinguished Business Scholar scholarship from the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce!
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Oak View Elementary School teacher Amanda Dey was featured on NBC Washington for her work to improve student attendance in a group of children who had recently arrived in America and were still adjusting to their new life in Fairfax County, Virginia. It turns out soccer was the key!
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Congratulations to Oakton High School DECA chapter member Ayush Ranjan and his peers for creating and illustrating The Seed That Grew, a children’s book that introduces saving, investing, patience, and long-term financial growth through an engaging children’s story. They also developed classroom read-alouds, discussion questions, activities, and assessments so educators could use the book as a complete financial literacy lesson.
Through the project, they:
- Distributed 274 books across 17 FCPS schools.
- Conducted eight classroom read-alouds.
- Raised more than $1,000 to support printing and distribution.
- Expanded the initiative to student communities internationally.
- Measured a 74% increase in student understanding through pre- and post-lesson assessments.
The project has now been highlighted by both FOX 5 DC and WTOP, and it earned a first-place award at the 2026 Virginia DECA competition. Their work demonstrates the power of student-led leadership and service – these are key aspects of a Portrait of a Graduate.
Additionally, Oakton recently achieved Collaborative for High Performance Schools (CHPS) Design certifications. From the start, the project incorporated CHPS criteria to ensure the facilities promote healthy, energy-efficient learning environments. Oakton High School began its design phase in 2014, received its permit in 2018, and completed construction in fall 2022. That project achieved 40 points.
This work ensures our students, teachers, and school communities have vibrant spaces where they can thrive, learn, and grow together every single day. For all projects permitted after 2025, FCPS will be transitioning to the Green Globes building certification program, which will ensure these future projects are sustainable and environmentally responsible.
The accolades continue with the Oakton Boys Outdoor Track 4x100 meter relay team, named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Outdoor Track Team!
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Shout-out to Robinson Secondary School Girls Outdoor Track and Field Team for winning the VHSL Class 6 state championship! Additionally, Oliva Jones was named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Outdoor Track Team in the 100-meter dash, 200-meter dash, and 400-meter dash! Petra Gruendel was also named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Outdoor Track Team in the 1600-meter run!
The winning continues with Robinson’s Women’s Crew, Women’s 3-4+, Women’s 2-4+, and Women’s Jr.-8+ winning the Division 2 Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association Trophy Pont Championship! Way to go, ladies!
Kudos to Robinson’s Dylan Carbaugh for being named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Lacrosse Team!
Congrats to Robinson for winning the VHSL Class 6A Army National Guard Cup! This prestigious award recognizes the most successful overall athletic program in Virginia's largest classification. With this championship, the Rams have now captured three Army National Guard Cups in the last four years and five overall Army National Guard Cup titles! Fantastic!
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Shout-out to South County High School’s Men’s Crew and Men’s 2-4+ for winning the Division 2 Virginia Scholastic Rowing Association Trophy Pont Championship!
Additionally, South County High School’s Peyton Tom was named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Softball Team! Fantastic!
Congratulations also go to South County’s Dan Velazquez on being named the Virginia Technology and Engineering Education Association High School Teacher of the Year! This prestigious statewide honor recognizes Dan's outstanding leadership, excellence in instruction, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to preparing students with the knowledge and skills essential for success in design, engineering, and technology.
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Kudos to West Springfield’s Farrah Rodgers named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Lacrosse Team, graduate Nicholas Bailey named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Outdoor Track Team for the 400-meter dash, and Allie Horner named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Outdoor Track Team for the 3200-meter run! Additionally, the girls 4x800-meter relay team was named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Girls Outdoor Track Team and the boys 4x400-meter relay and 4x800-meter relay teams were named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Outdoor Track Team!
Shout-out to West Springfield graduates Melina Teklu, Christian Sadek, and Aadi Mathur for receiving a 2026 Distinguished Business Scholar scholarship from the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce!
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Congrats to Woodson High School’s Isaac Schools for being named to the 2026 VHSL Class 6 All-State Boys Outdoor Track Team in the 3200-meter run! |
🌳 FCPS Leads Nation in Green Flag Awards
Seventy-seven schools across Fairfax County Public Schools were recently honored with a Green Flag award from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) through the Eco-Schools U.S. program.
At these schools, students and teachers are committed to sustainability measures that have led to enough points to earn the award. Some of these measures included engaging the local community, forming an action team, creating a plan, collecting data, taking solution-based actions, and measuring impact.
Nearly half of the schools across the U.S. that earned the Green Flag honor are part of FCPS, more than any other school division in the country.
Congratulations to the following schools serving Springfield District students!
Green Flag Awards (First Green Flag)
Carson Middle School
Centreville Elementary School
Greenbriar West Elementary School
Halley Elementary School
Hunt Valley Elementary School
Katherine Johnson Middle School
Keene Mill Elementary School
Kings Glen Elementary School
Lake Braddock Secondary School
Lewis High School
Mountain View Alternative High School
Orange Hunt Elementary School
Rolling Valley Elementary School
Sangster Elementary School
Silverbrook Elementary School
Union Mill Elementary School
West Springfield High School
White Oaks Elementary School
Willow Springs Elementary School
Woodson High School
Gold Award
Robinson Secondary School
Silver Award
Oakton High School
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Read more about the awards and see the full list of winners.
Student Opportunities
Disclaimer: Opportunities 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 not assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parents or guardians before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity. Families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
🌐 Global Leaders of Fairfax County Fellowship
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community and around the world? The Fairfax Global Leaders Fellowship is now accepting applications for the Class of 2027!
Students must:
- Be a Fairfax County resident or attend Fairfax County Public Schools.
- Be a rising high school senior (Class of 2027).
- Have a minimum 3.5 GPA.
Before applying, please have your resume (.doc or .pdf) and high school transcript (.doc or .pdf) ready to upload. Students will also answer several short questions as part of the application.
There is no cost to apply. Students admitted to the program pay a one-time $75 administrative fee to support program expenses. The fee will be waived for students who qualify for free or reduced-price meals or who are experiencing financial hardship.
To apply, complete the Global Leaders Fellowship Application Form by Tuesday, September 1, at 11:59 p.m. (You must use a personal Gmail account to apply.)
Questions? Please email apply@fairfaxleaders.com.
❤️🩹 Empower Youth Mental Health: $1,000 Mini-Grants Available!
The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB) is offering mini-grants to empower local youth to lead the charge in mental health awareness. With support from the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Northern Virginia, these grants back student-planned projects designed to reduce stigma, foster open conversations, and encourage help-seeking behaviors among peers.
Suicide remains the third leading cause of death for young people ages 10 to 24, making youth leadership more vital than ever. As Raymond Paden, Manager of CSB Wellness, Health Promotion and Prevention services, notes: "The youth need to be heard because their voices matter — and these grants can support them as they lead the charge."
Funding Details & Deadlines
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Total Funding: $6,000 available (up to $1,000 per project)
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Eligibility: Youth-led projects in Fairfax County, Fairfax City, and Falls Church City
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Proposal Deadline: September 14, 2026
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Award Announcements: October 1, 2026
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Project Completion Date: May 21, 2027
Help bring these crucial projects to life in our community. Review the application details and explore inspiration from past projects today!
🚔 Junior Police Academy
Looking for an engaging way for your kids to learn about local law enforcement? The Fairfax County Police Department’s Fair Oaks and Sully Community Outreach offices are hosting a monthly Junior Police Academy for Fairfax County residents ages 10–14.
Held on the third Tuesday of every month, these interactive sessions give young community members an inside look at the FCPD through hands-on activities, officer presentations, and facility tours.
Program Details
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Time: 6 - 7:30 p.m. (Third Tuesday of each month)
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Eligibility: Fairfax County residents ages 10–14
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Requirement: A parent or guardian must attend with the participant
Find more information online.
Community News
🏈 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 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. The following items are prohibited:
- Backpacks
- Purses
- Fanny packs
- Tote bags
- Outside food and beverage
- Sporting equipment (balls, bats, sticks, etc.)
- Any item prohibited by FCPS policy, or determined by event staff to present safety concerns.
Approved bags are limited to:
- Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12”
- 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.
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.
🏆 Nominate an Outstanding FCPS Alum for the Alumni Hall of Fame
Educate Fairfax is now accepting nominations for the 5th Annual FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame, recognizing FCPS graduates who have made a lasting impact in their profession or community. The program celebrates alumni achievements and helps strengthen connections between FCPS graduates, current students, and the school community. Nominees must have graduated from an FCPS high school at least five years ago and meet the program’s eligibility criteria. Submit your nomination by August 31, 2026.
👮 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.
⚽ Lewis High School Pyramid Night at D.C. United
Join the Lewis High School Pyramid for a special night at Audi Field!
📅 September 19 ⏰ 7:30 PM ⚽ D.C. United vs. Charlotte FC
Discounted tickets are available, and proceeds will support Lewis Choir members who will be performing at Carnegie Hall in January!
🎟️ Purchase Discounted Tickets: https://www.gofevo.com/event/Johnlewis7
This request is sponsored by the Lewis Lancer Singer Boosters, which operates independently of the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, and John R. Lewis High School.
🎽 Asha-Jyothi 18th Annual Run-Walk
As in previous years, FCPS schools are invited to participate in the nonprofit Asha-Jyothi 5K Run/Walk at 4250 Fairfax Corner Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030 on Sunday, September 20, 2026. To sign up, participating staff, students, and/or their families can register on the Asha-Jyothi webpage. Use the coupon “AJ4Schools” to receive $10 off the 5K.
Asha-Jyothi, a volunteer-based global nonprofit organization based in Chantilly, is dedicated to supporting the community through health care and education initiatives and has given over $350,000 to FCPS through its Educate and Innovate Program Grants. Schools such as Centreville, Chantilly, Fairfax, Oakton, and Woodson High Schools, as well as Franklin, Frost, Katherine Johnson, Liberty, and Rocky Run Middle Schools, and Eagle View, Greenbriar East, and West, and Willow Springs Elementary Schools, have received grants for innovation labs and technology education. This year, Skyview High School will also benefit from Asha-Jyothi’s grants!
🚶➡️ Fairfax Out of the Darkness Walk to Prevent Suicide
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, 2026. 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.
Exhibitors are invited to apply to participate in the Walk’s Resource Fair to share information related to programs and/or resources offered by the exhibitor that serve the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide. Funds raised at the Out of the Darkness Fairfax Walk directly support research, advocacy efforts, and educational programs in schools, workplaces, and communities across Virginia.
🚗 Back to School, Back to Safe Driving: Keep Fairfax County Students Safe
With over one million residents, Fairfax County roads are always bustling—and the return of school adds extra buses, active school zones, and dedicated crossing guards to the mix. With 170,000+ FCPS students heading to over 200 schools, we all need to do our part to keep our kids safe.
No matter how rushed you are, passing a stopped school bus, speeding in a school zone, or ignoring a crossing guard is never an option. Here is what every driver needs to remember:
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Stopped School Buses: Always stop when red lights are flashing and the stop-arm is extended.
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School Zones: Reduce your speed immediately when zone lights are flashing. Note: Speed and bus-arm cameras are active at select locations to automatically ticket violators.
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Crossing Guards: Follow their instructions promptly—and don't forget to wave to them for keeping our kids safe!
Read more on the Fairfax County website.
🚸 Crossing Guard Changes for High Schools
As part of last year’s County budgeting process, we would like to remind you that all high school crossing guards were eliminated, which impacts the following schools serving Springfield District students:
- Centreville High School
- Chantilly High School
- Oakton High School
- South County High School
- West Springfield High School
Crossing guards will remain at our secondary schools, including:
- Lake Braddock Secondary School
- Robinson Secondary School
We encourage students, families, and drivers to use extra caution when traveling to and from school, follow all traffic laws, and remain alert to pedestrians and other vehicles. Because traffic patterns may be different, please allow a few extra minutes when arriving at or departing from school. We appreciate your patience and attention to this matter.
Family and Student Resources
💊 Know the Signs of Opioid Overdose
Monday, August 31, is International Overdose Awareness Day. Help prevent overdose fatalities by learning the signs of an overdose and how to respond.
Visit the FCPS opioid awareness page to learn more about what families can do to help their children understand the risks of opioids and other drugs.
🛴 Know Before You Ride: Multimodal Safety in Fairfax County
As more neighbors choose e-bikes, scooters, and motorized skateboards to get around, safety is everyone’s responsibility. The Fairfax County Police Department’s Traffic Safety Section has released a helpful Bike, E-Bike, and Recreation Safety guide to keep all road users informed and protected.
Highlighted important safety requirements:
- Helmet laws: Helmets are required for riders aged 15 and under
- Strongly encouraged for everyone!
- Youth supervision rules: Certain devices require adult supervision for riders under 14.
- Shared responsibility: Bicyclists and motorists have the same rights and duties under traffic laws.
- Hands-free driving: Virginia is a hands-free state.
- Crosswalk & school zone safety: Stop for pedestrians and obey school bus signals.
- Trail etiquette: Give an audible signal before passing and always yield to pedestrians.
Whether you're purchasing a new device, commuting by e-bike, or riding for fun, the message is simple: Know before you ride. Understanding the rules and following safe riding practices help prevent injuries and keep our community moving together safely.
✔️ Beginning of the Year Checklist
With the 2026-27 school year underway, be sure you’ve checked off the following.
☑️ Sign Up for SIS ParentVUE
Access your child’s attendance records, grades, and assignments anytime with SIS ParentVUE. You should have received an activation code when registering your child. Find out more about SIS ParentVUE.
Update Your Contact Information
Be sure you receive important information from your schools and FCPS. Update your phone number(s) and/or email address(es) by clicking “My Account” and reviewing the “Online Verification/Update.”On that form, you can also update immunization records, health information, and emergency contacts.
☑️ Update Immunizations
Immunizations are required for all students to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of protecting them from certain diseases and keeping them healthy. Please check with your healthcare provider as soon as possible to make sure your child is up to date on immunizations or to schedule an appointment to receive them.
Keep reading for a list of immunization events below.
☑️ Learn About School Meals
Families need to provide their children with money to purchase meals at school or send them with a packed lunch. Or, families may apply to receive free and reduced-price meal benefits, pending approval.
☑️ 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.
Save the Date: Back-to-School Nights
The back-to-school night schedule is available by region: Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, Region 4, Region 5, and Region 6. If you don’t know your school’s region, visit the school website, click on “About,” then click on “School Profile.”
🚌 Stay Up to Date on Transportation
Thank you for your patience as we all get used to new routines this school year! We appreciate our families following kiss-and-ride procedures and being understanding while waiting for your children’s buses to arrive.
If a bus is delayed, parents and caregivers may access the Bus Delay Notification System or use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to receive the delayed bus report (FCPS My Ride will be ready soon – we’ll let you know when). Email messages will be sent to announce bus delays of 30 minutes or more. Visit the Transportation Services webpage to find out who to contact with specific questions.
Be sure to update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE to receive emails about bus delays.
📲 Download the FCPS App Today!
The FCPS mobile app offers a customized platform to help keep you connected and informed, directly from your smartphone. Download the FCPS mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
With the app, you can:
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View school calendars. See events, activities, holidays, and early dismissals.
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Check school menus. See what’s for lunch and breakfast each school day.
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Tap to contact. Quickly call attendance lines or email school staff.
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Stay up to date. Get the latest news from FCPS.
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Access key links. Jump to ParentVUE, Schoology, and the FCPS website in one tap.
No need to log in, just download and go! Learn more about the FCPS mobile app.
💬 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.
🍎 Explore School Meals in the New Menu Platform
Experience an easier way to view your child’s school menus using MealViewer:
- View what is being served each day.
- View the nutritional information for each meal.
- See if any specific allergens are being served.
- Get notified when your child’s favorite meal is being served.
Printable menus are always available on the Food and Nutrition Services webpage.
Help Your Child Navigate the Lunch Line
Check out some tips to help your child get through the lunch line quickly and have more time to eat:
- Teach your child their student ID number so they can receive meals at school.
- Sign up for and add money to MySchoolBucks to purchase meals at school.
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Apply for free and reduced-price meals. Students who were approved for free and reduced-price meals last year are eligible for the first 30 days of school this year (or until a new application is processed). Families should submit a new application as soon as possible, so eligible students continue to receive meals at no cost.
If your child has any food allergies, learn how to submit accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergens.
📚 Study Help and Support Available to Students in Schoology
A new Schoology Study and Support Hub is available for students in Schoology. This space was developed by the FCPS Educational Technology Team with input from students. It is designed to provide essential study tools and academic support resources directly to our learners.
Students can log in to Schoology and read their Schoology announcements or watch this video on the support hub for more information.
Catch up on your Child’s Work in Schoology
Teachers use Schoology to post their classroom materials online, provide a secure forum for students to discuss their ideas and collaborate on projects, and assign and collect homework electronically. It helps students stay organized, and it keeps the class connected.
A Schoology parent account gives you access to:
- Your child’s classes.
- Your child’s upcoming assignments.
- School, class, and group announcements.
Want to see how Schoology can help you support your child’s learning? Visit Support Your Child With Schoology to access the Schoology Families Resource Module and family tour.
To access Schoology, parents will need to have an active SIS ParentVUE account. Find more information on how to log in and use Schoology.
🌐 Manage Student Web Access at Home
At FCPS, we acknowledge that parents and guardians are our students' first and most important teachers. Families now have greater control over their child’s FCPS-issued device outside of school hours through the Lightspeed Parent Portal.
Through the portal, families can monitor weekly internet activity and customize web access at home on FCPS devices by using the Schedules and Web Rules features.
With Schedules, you can set tailored times to automatically pause or restrict internet access. This makes it easier to enforce rules around homework time, family dinners, weekends, or bedtime.
In Web Rules, you can create Custom Block Lists to block specific, individual websites you do not want your child accessing at home. This allows parents greater control over what is happening online outside of school.
These new custom controls take effect at home, outside of school hours, and when the device is off the FCPS network. They will not override standard district filtering policies during the instructional day.
Customize Your Lightspeed Settings
All parents should be receiving weekly Lightspeed Online Student Activity Report emails. To set up these new features, click the “Log in or Register” button at the bottom of your weekly Lightspeed Online Student Activity Report email.
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.
❤️🩹 Virtual Mental Health Services Now Available to Middle 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 Adult and Community Education Classes for Students and Adults
📚 Start the Year With Study Skills and Test Prep Classes
Students can be prepared and confident when they learn the skills to study smarter, not harder, with FCPS ACE classes. From Study Skills for Academic Success to SAT Test Prep courses, FCPS ACE has low-cost and convenient classes to help your student succeed. Visit the FCPS ACE Test Prep page to view course offerings and fees.
🚘 Receive Driver Education from a Trusted Source
When it’s time for your teen to learn safe driving, you can trust FCPS ACE for comprehensive and low-cost Driver Ed programs taught by certified instructors. From Learner’s Permit Test Prep through Behind-the-Wheel training, FCPS ACE covers all the required classes for teen licensure. Classes are offered at convenient locations, usually at your base high school. With expert instruction and a strong focus on safety, students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to become responsible drivers. Spaces are limited and fill quickly, so don’t wait! Get more information and register today through FCPS ACE.
🗣️ Adult English Classes
Learn or strengthen your English language skills through a trusted source: FCPS Adult and Community Education.Learning English can open doors to new opportunities, stronger connections, and greater confidence in your everyday life. With adult English classes through FCPS ACE, you can build practical English language skills to help you communicate at work, support your children’s education, engage with your new community, and achieve your personal goals. Classes are designed for learners at all levels and provide a supportive environment where you can practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing with experienced instructors.FCPS ACE offers affordable, in-person classes for adult learners from beginners to advanced, and specialty courses for career advancement. Classes are held at convenient FCPS locations throughout Fairfax County, with day and evening classes available. Testing is required for all new students to ensure you are placed in the correct learning level.The Adult English for Speakers of Other Languages Fall Term is now enrolling. Scholarships are available. If you're interested in strengthening your English Language skills, please visit the FCPS ACE website for more information and scheduling.
💻 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 the College Board operates these exams, 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 student with disabilities in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade this school year, please review the accommodations request process and return forms to the high school by Monday, August 3.
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.
🤝 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.
Visit the SR&R webpage for more information and to review additional updates to the SR&R for the 2026-27 school year.
📞 Family Information Phone Lines
Did you know that 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 any questions about your child’s education or FCPS, and someone will help connect you to resources or arrange for you to speak with the appropriate school employee. Learn more about family information phone lines.
🧑🍼Strengthen Your Family with Free Parenting Classes
Parenting doesn't come with a manual, but the Fairfax County Department of Family Services is offering the next best thing. Their free skill-building classes empower families to nurture healthy, positive relationships with their kids at every stage of growth, from infancy through age 18.
These practical sessions help parents:
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Understand Development: Learn which behaviors to expect from your child as they grow from toddler to teenager.
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Build Strong Connections: Cultivate mutual respect and deeper, positive bonds across the entire household.
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Master Communication: Manage your own feelings and communicate clearly without raising your voice.
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Manage Stress & Anger: Discover healthy alternatives to yelling or spanking when challenges arise.
Invest in your family's future today. Find more information online!
👨🍼 The Power of Involved Dads: Join the 24/7 Dad™ Program
Fathers play an irreplaceable role in shaping their children’s psychological, emotional, and social development. Research consistently shows that when dads are actively involved, children thrive—facing significantly lower rates of mental health struggles, substance use, academic challenges, and economic hardship.
The Fairfax County Father Engagement Unit believes every child deserves the safety, stability, and joy that comes from a strong relationship with their father. To support you on your parenting journey, they offer 24/7 Dad™, a free 12-session program designed to help you build confidence, connections, and practical parenting skills.
What You'll Gain:
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Core Skill-Building: Group discussions focused on self-awareness, self-care, relationship management, and effective fathering.
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Full Support: Every session includes free dinner, all course materials, and on-site childcare.
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Community Connections: Direct access to Fairfax County family resources and fun, father-child community activities.
Program Details:
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Format: 1 Orientation Meeting + 12 Weekly Sessions
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Cost: 100% Free for all Fairfax County fathers and male caregivers
Ready to sharpen your fathering skills and join a community of supportive dads? Find more information online.
📅 Free Workshops and Events from the Family Resource Center and Family Academy
Parents and caregivers can access free webinars, confidential consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Learn more about the Family Resource Center (FRC). Sign up for the FRC newsletter to receive their latest offerings, or visit their webinar webpage.
The Family Academy is a one-stop shop for resources, tools, and learning opportunities for families. The Family Academy offers in-person and virtual classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families in our learning catalog. Sign up for the Family and School Partnerships newsletter or visit the Family Academy catalog for classes, workshops, webinars, and programs for families.
September offerings include:
Quick Links
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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