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Hello, Springfield District,

As we continue to get settled into the school year, I am so grateful for the many opportunities that allow me to connect with students, families, staff, and community partners across Fairfax County. These conversations, whether in schools, neighborhoods, or committee meetings, help ensure that my work remains grounded in the experiences and priorities of the communities I serve.

As you know, student pedestrian safety has been at the forefront of my mind. While I am grateful that the Board of Supervisors has secured the funding for the remainder of this school year to reinstate the high school crossing guards, we have more to do. I recently joined a member of the White Oaks community on a walk through her neighborhood to better understand the impact for her children as they walk to school, and I am looking forward to scheduling more of these firsthand experiences with families across the Springfield District. 

I have also appreciated the chance to celebrate and support our broader school community. From the Military Families Welcome BBQ to the Centreville High School PTSA meeting, it is always fun to connect with families and hear about the experiences that shape each school community. I also joined the South County community to hear more about the process that will be used on the middle school principal search and the boundary review meetings involving Rolling Valley and Keene Mill Elementary Schools. I am appreciative of all the community members that joined the hotspot boundary meeting in person and online as well as our FCPS staff for providing viable scenarios! We are getting closer to a solution. 

I wanted to remind all Springfield residents that I am looking for a community member to serve as my appointee to the Adult and Community Education Community Advisory Committee. More information is available below, and I encourage anyone interested in helping strengthen adult learning opportunities in Fairfax County to learn more and consider getting involved. 

Thank you, as always, for your partnership, your thoughtful questions, and your continued commitment to our students and schools.

I will be in touch soon, 

Sandy

This newsletter includes information on the following issues:

• Springfield District Community Volunteer Opportunity
• Springfield Scene
• Student Opportunities
• Community News
• Family and Student Resources
• Quick Links

Springfield District Community Volunteer 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.

Springfield Scene

Centreville High School German teacher Jacob Uden leveraged artificial intelligence to build simulated conversational scenarios, giving students a unique platform to sharpen their listening and speaking skills. This interactive tool allowed Wildcats to practice live, real-time conversations and immediately apply their language skills in an authentic setting. Kudos to Mr. Uden and his students for embracing creative technology to take language learning to the next level!

Congratulations to Chantilly High School for being named a Special Olympics 2026 National Banner Unified Champion School! Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools foster inclusive environments built on collaboration, mutual respect, and meaningful engagement for every student and staff member. To earn National Banner Recognition, a school must demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to inclusion by meeting ten national standards of excellence. This honor recognizes campuses that go above and beyond to ensure every student feels valued, included, and empowered both in the classroom and on the field.

It’s barely fall, but one store in Fair Oaks Mall is starting to look like a winter wonderland. FCPS students are setting up holiday decorations for Macy’s, gaining experience and professional connections that will benefit them before they graduate.  Through Chantilly Academy’s Classroom-on-the-Mall program, students leave the traditional classroom and learn business operations and techniques at Fair Oaks. Read about this marketing class.

Fairfax High School teacher Bradley Webster was awarded the Distinguished Geospatial Educator for 2026 by the Geospatial Technology Consortium of Community Colleges (GTC3) at their recent annual conference. Mr. Webster has been teaching Geospatial Analysis for 8 years as part of the JMU Geospatial Semester, which offers students the option of earning college credit while learning in high school. He has supported the FCPS community through writing Geospatial Technology curriculum and connecting standards, mentoring new Geospatial teachers, and providing technical support to various subjects, such as IB Environmental, IB Geography, and 7th grade US History. Mr. Webster has engaged students outside the classroom by starting a Middle School Mappers club and a High School Drone Club with the goal of preparing students for their FAA Part 107 certification. This year, he rejoined the Fairfax High community from Katherine Johnson Middle School and looks forward to engaging students in their Geospatial journey and building their interests through career-connected learning. Congrats and well done, Mr. Webster!

Congratulations to Katherine Johnson Middle School for being recognized as a Virginia Naturally School for the 2025-26 school year! This recognition celebrates schools that demonstrate a commitment to environmental education, stewardship, and sustainability. Kudos to science teachers Faiza Alam and Gabrielle Guthrie!

Congratulations to South County High School art teacher, Justyne Fischer, on being featured in the September/October edition of Artscope Magazine. The article, “How History is Told,” highlights the powerful ways artists use creativity to preserve stories, explore identity, and deepen our understanding of the past.

A fun classroom ritual at Waples Mill Elementary School recently led to an unforgettable moment for third-grade teacher Alyssa Rozines and her students! Last school year, Ms. Rozines introduced a Friday tradition of playing Wordle together as a class. What started as a warm-up game quickly became a weekly highlight, sparking deep student engagement while naturally boosting spelling, vocabulary, problem-solving, and collaboration. The students loved it so much that they began designing their own custom Wordle boards for classmates to solve during dismissal. To celebrate their hard work at the end of the year, Ms. Rozines gifted each student a reusable dry-erase Wordle set to take home. As a huge fan of the game herself, Ms. Rozines reached out to The New York Times to share how much the puzzle had impacted her classroom. The response blew everyone away: "Their response was far more generous than I ever expected. They not only replied to me on Instagram but also sent our class a surprise box filled with merchandise, a handwritten letter from Wordle Editor Tracy Bennett, and a personalized video message from Tracy for us to watch together." — Alyssa Rozines, Waples Mill Elementary School. In appreciation, the class crafted Wordle-themed thank-you cards and sent them back to the NYT Games team. Recently, The New York Times surprised the class once more by sharing a video on its official Instagram account of Tracy Bennett reading the students' handmade cards. Thank you to Ms. Rozines for creating such an inspiring learning environment, and to The New York Times for giving these Waples Mill students a memory they will treasure for years to come!

🏅 Strong Academic Foundations Lead to 167 FCPS Seniors Earning 2027 National Merit Semifinalist Honors

A total of 167 students from 16 Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) high schools are among the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Corporation semifinalists. Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), which also serves as the Governor’s Regional School for Northern Virginia, leads the division with 69 semifinalists.

All semifinalists are eligible to compete for more than 6,700 National Merit Scholarship awards worth nearly $24 million, to be awarded in spring 2027. Semifinalists advance to finalist standing by meeting high academic standards and other requirements, including a recommendation from a high school official. 

Congratulations to the following Springfield District students!

Chantilly High School

Benjamin Kwon

Lake Braddock Secondary School

Colin Heuett

Lanny Huynh

Eli Hyun

Jana Koretsky

Elisa Lee

Okaton High School

Maisie Smith-Zoh

Robinson Secondary School

Andrew Wise

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Mason Beaver

Maya John

Aarit Koundinya

Vir Maniar

Dorothy Yackee

West Springfield High School

Daniel Tio

Charlotte Tschebull-Jones

Woodson High School

Adedeji Adetosoye

View the full list of semifinalists in FCPS News.

🎶 55 FCPS Programs Earn Top Statewide Honors

The Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) is awarding 55 secondary band and orchestra programs in FCPS with the Program of Honor recognition for the 2025-26 school year. VBODA presents this prestigious award to secondary music programs that demonstrate consistent excellence. 

Schools serving Springfield District students receiving Program of Honor recognition for the 2025-26 school year are:

Band

Carson Middle School, Steve Dailey, director

Centreville High School, Melissa Hall, director

Chantilly High School, Doug Maloney and Christopher Riechers, directors

Fairfax High School, Noah Freeman, director

Frost Middle School, Danny Tilman, director

Lake Braddock Secondary School, Michael Luley and Brandon Gilbert, directors

Lewis High School, Kelly May, director

Liberty Middle School, Joe LaBrie, director

Oakton High School, Jamie VanValkenburg, director

Robinson Secondary School, Andrew Loft and Katie Dever, directors

South County High School, Kevin Engdahl, director

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Steve Ballard, director

Woodson High School, Aaron Morgan and Helen Landers, directors

Orchestra

Chantilly High School, Aaron Mynes, director

Katherine Johnson Middle School, Anna Sengstack, director

Lake Braddock Secondary School, Austin Isaac and Diana Chou, directors

Lewis High School, Rachael Altekruse, director

Oakton High School, Max Oppenheimer, director

Robins Secondary School, Anne Rupert and Francesca Fitzgerald, directors

South County High School, Marci Swift, director

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, Allison Bailey, director

Woodson High School, Devyn Wilcox, director

View the full list of honorees in FCPS News.

New Executive Principal for Region 6

It is with great pleasure that the Region 6 Office and I share the exciting news of Ms. Amy Miller’s appointment as the Executive Principal for Region 6, effective September 14, 2026. Amy Miller is an accomplished instructional leader with more than 25 years of experience in public education. She is known for building authentic partnerships with school leaders, strengthening instructional practice, and developing the collective capacity needed to improve outcomes for students. Her work reflects a deep commitment to equity, continuous growth, and ensuring that every student has the support and opportunities needed to succeed. For the past four years, Ms. Miller has served in central office Director roles with Fairfax County Public Schools, most recently as Director of Continuous School Improvement. In these roles, she has worked closely with principals, school leadership teams, and central office colleagues to understand school needs, examine data, identify effective practices, and develop responsive approaches to school improvement. Her work has supported early literacy growth across 29 schools through the Walk to Read model and strengthened High-Impact Tutoring across 166 schools serving more than 7,500 students. She also partnered with school leaders to expand AVID to 44 Title I elementary schools and led the first expansion of Title I services to the high school level in FCPS. Through this collaborative work, schools have experienced increased literacy benchmark attainment, improved student performance on SOL assessments, and stronger accountability outcomes. Before moving into central office leadership, Ms. Miller served as principal of Saratoga Elementary School and Kilmer Middle School. At Saratoga, she led a schoolwide effort to advance equitable outcomes for students, resulting in Level 1 ratings across all students. At Kilmer, she advanced achievement in mathematics, reading, and science while expanding equitable access to advanced coursework. At both schools, she cultivated positive and inclusive cultures grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, student voice, and shared ownership. Her leadership was recognized with the FCPS Outstanding New Principal Award and the FCPS Outstanding Principal Award, as well as the Superintendent’s Excellence in Equity Award. Ms. Miller earned a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Reading Education from Boston University and completed the School Administration Licensure Program at the University of Virginia. Her experience as a teacher, school leader, and central office partner informs her belief that meaningful improvement is built through trust, collaboration, and a shared commitment to students. Ms. Miller believes that strong schools are created when students feel known, valued, challenged, and supported. She is passionate about partnering with school leaders to strengthen teaching and learning, build leadership capacity, and create the conditions in which every student and school community can thrive.   🎭 Upcoming School Performances Don’t miss the many upcoming school performances featuring our outstanding Springfield District students! Among them are: Centreville High School Mic Night October 2 Buy tickets at the door ($5) Lake Braddock Secondary School Dessert on Broadway October 8 Buy tickets

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.

✅ Serve as an Election Page this Fall

The Fairfax County Office of Elections is inviting high school students to observe the electoral process firsthand by serving as Election Pages.

What You'll Do and Earn

• The Role: Serve an 8-hour shift at a Fairfax County polling place under the Chief Election Officer's supervision. You must remain non-partisan and complete online training.
• Perks: Receive a Certificate of Appreciation and 10 hours of service-learning credit (remember to log your hours in x2VOL!).

Eligibility

• Must be at least 16 years old.
• Currently enrolled in a high school social studies class.
• Virginia resident.

Key Dates

• September 26: Application deadline
• September 29: Zoom training, 5 to 7 p.m.
• October 4: Deadline to pass the online training quiz
• October 12: Site assignments emailed out
• October 24–25: Early voting satellite shifts available
• November 3 (Election Day): Shifts run 5 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. or 1 to 8:30 p.m.

Learn more and submit your application online.

🩰 West Springfield High School Spartans Dance Camp

Join Head Coach Dani Guarin, a former 6x NBA dancer and professional dancer, for the Spartans Dance Camp for students in grades K-8. She will coach and teach each participant technique and practice with our West Springfield Dance team. The dancers will train on Monday, September 28, and Wednesday, September 30, 2026, and perform with the team on Friday, October 2, 2026,  at the West Springfield High football game. The cost is $85, and the camp will be held at West Springfield High School.  

Find more information and register online by Sunday, September 27, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

For questions, email Dani Guarin at dvguarin@fcps.edu. 

🧩 Get Ready for the 2nd Annual NOVA Loop Trail Puzzle Hunt!

Looking for a fun, free outdoor adventure this fall? The Fairfax County Department of Transportation and Solving Fun are bringing back the NOVA Loop Trail Puzzle Hunt! Whether you walk, run, bike, scoot, or roll, this self-guided challenge is a perfect excuse to explore Northern Virginia's trails at your own pace.

How It Works

• The Route: Puzzles are scattered across nine color-coded segments of the ~70-mile NOVA Loop Trail (which connects eight local trails).
• The Challenge: Solve 30 individual puzzles across the segments to collect clues for the final challenge. Explore as much or as little of the loop as you like!
• The Timeline: The hunt runs from Oct. 1 through the end of November.

Perks & Prizes

Registration is completely free and unlocks multiple chances to win prizes, including weekly drawings and a grand prize entry for anyone who completes every puzzle.

Ready to Play?

• Step 1: Register by September 30, 2026, to be automatically entered into a special early-bird prize drawing!
• Step 2: Scope out the map segments beforehand to plan your starting point.
• Step 3: Download your puzzles starting October 1, 2026, and hit the trail!

Find more information online.

🎭 Fairfax High School Theatre Fall Drama Camp: Neverland – Believe in Dreams

Looking for a fun, creative activity for your child on the upcoming teacher workday? Fairfax High School Theatre is hosting its Fall Drama Camp for students in 1st through 8th grade! Led by Camp Director and Theatre Director Mr. Chris Whitney, Fairfax Theatre students, and parent chaperones, campers will be grouped by grade level to rotate through exciting workshops in acting, improv, musical theatre, props, costumes, and dance.

Event Details

• Date: Monday, October 12, 2026 (Teacher Workday)
• Time: 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Check-in begins at 8:30 a.m.)
• Location: Fairfax High School, 3501 Lion Run, Fairfax, VA 22030
• Who: Open to students in grades 1–8
• Cost: $65 per child ($45 for FCPS employees)

Important Information

• Lunch: Campers must bring their own packed lunch and drink to eat with their counselors in the cafeteria.
• Parent Showcase: Parents and caregivers are invited to the auditorium at 3:00 p.m. to watch the campers' final performance!
• Sign-In/Out: A parent or caregiver must walk into the school to sign campers in and out.

Register online by October 11, 2026.. You will receive a confirmation email once your registration and payment are received.

Email questions to fhsdramacamp@gmail.com.

🏛️ 2027 Virginia House of Delegates Page Program: Applications Now Open!

Applications are officially open for the 2027 Virginia House of Delegates Page Program! This nonpartisan program gives young Virginians a front-row seat to state government, serving full-time at the State Capitol in Richmond during the seven-week legislative session. It’s an unbeatable opportunity for students to experience the General Assembly in action, build leadership skills, and gain a hands-on education in public service and civics.

Key Details & Eligibility

• Age Requirement: Open to Virginia residents who will be 13 or 14 years old by January 13, 2027.
• Application Deadline: Friday, October 16, 2026, at 3 p.m.

Important Step: To complete your application, you must schedule an interview with your House Delegate. Unsure who represents you? Use the My Neighborhood tool to confirm your Delegate before applying.

Get Started

• Review full details, eligibility, and program expectations on the Program Information and Application page.
• Check out the House Page Program FAQ for answers to common questions.
• Have additional questions? Email the team directly at housepageinfo@house.virginia.gov. 

👻 Clifton Haunted Trail Acting Opportunity for High School Students

The Clifton Haunted Trail is a long-standing, beloved community event held in historic Clifton, Virginia. Set deep in the woods of Buckley Park (8-Acre Park), the event transforms eight acres of dark forest into a thrilling outdoor scare experience. The trail features terrifying skits, spooky mazes, creative sets, and themed stations scattered along the winding path. It draws hundreds of visitors each October and is widely known as one of Northern Virginia's favorite Halloween traditions.

For more details, visit www.hauntedtrailclifton.com.

Why Is This Great for Theatre Students?

Scare acting is a wonderful way for students to sharpen their performance skills in a unique, interactive environment. Participating students will get to:

• Practice Improv & Character Building: React in real time to crowds using physical movement, vocal characterization, and comedic/dramatic timing.

• Gain Ensemble Experience: Work collaboratively with other local performers to bring scary scenes, skits, and haunts to life.

• Earn Community Service Hours: We are happy to verify volunteer or service hours for students participating in the event.

• Have Fun! It’s an energetic, memorable evening celebrating horror, drama, and community theater.

How to Get Involved

If you have students who might be interested—or if you would like to share this opportunity with your drama club or theatre classes, or participate as a group—please reach out to Town Administrator Laura Jane Cohen at administrator@cliftonva.gov.

🌟 Emerging Leaders Program (ELP I) – Fall After-School Opportunity

Edu-Futuro and AmeriCorps are offering the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP I), a free after-school leadership initiative for students in grades 9–12 starting October 24, 2026.

Program Highlights

• Format: In-person sessions twice a week for 5 weeks, held directly at participating schools.
• College Readiness: Interactive workshops covering college prep, scholarship search strategies, and resume-building tips.
• Perks & Rewards: Opportunities to win scholarships worth up to $1,000 and participate in gift card raffles.

How to Register & Contact

• Application: Apply online.
• Website: Visit edu-futuro.org for details.
• More Info: Contact via WhatsApp/Phone at 571-309-5455.

📃 Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest

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. The submission deadline is November 16, 2026.

The themes for each grade level are as follows.

• 2026 Elementary School (K- 5) Prompt: Symbols of Virginia
• The full list of Virginia’s Symbols is available and may be used for inspiration. 
• 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.

📜 Bill of Rights Institute Community Impact Contest 

Formerly known as the MyImpact Challenge, the Community Impact Contest is a national civic engagement competition, hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute, for students ages 13–19 who are leading service, volunteer, or entrepreneurial projects that address local challenges.

Students can earn up to $10,000 for their work while sharing their ideas, inspiring others, and showing what meaningful civic participation can look like in communities across the country.

Go to the Bill of Rights Institute website to learn more. Apply by April 19, 2027! 

Community News

💵 Town of Clifton Grant Opportunity

We are excited to announce Clifton’s partnership with Fairfax VA250 as part of the year-long celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Fairfax VA250 will be sponsoring fall Clifton events as we support their nonpartisan mission to strengthen our love of country and renew our commitment to the ideals of democracy through programs that educate, engage, and unite us as a nation.

The Clifton Haunted Trail planning team is accepting requests for grants up to a total of $5000 to fund skit development that aligns with both the Haunted Trail mission and the America250 goals to spark imagination, showcase the rich tapestry of our American stories, inspire service in our communities, honor the enduring strength, and celebrate the resilience of the United States of America.  If you are interested, please complete the America 250 Haunted Trail Skit Grant Request Form by September 25, 2026.

💰 Empower FCPS Classrooms: Innovation Grants Now Open!

Educate Fairfax champions FCPS educators' passion and creativity by funding the resources they need to inspire students. Through their annual Innovation Grants, school-based staff can apply for up to $2,000 to bring transformative, equitable learning experiences to life in line with the FCPS 2023–30 Strategic Plan.

Thanks to our community, the impact during the 2025–26 school year was massive:

• $210,000+ awarded across 129 grants
• 117 schools reached
• Nearly 47,000 students impacted

Their goal is to fund an Innovation Grant in every single FCPS school and center—and you can help make that happen.

Get Involved Today

• Learn More: Check out the Innovation Grants details Innovation Grants details to see grant guidelines.
• Support a Teacher: Put resources directly into the hands of educators by donating here.
• Spread the Word: Share our grant announcements on Facebook and Instagram.

Applications are open now—help bring the next great classroom idea to life! Applications close on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

🦺 Help Keep Our Students Safe: Become a Fairfax County School Crossing Guard!

Fairfax County is currently hiring part-time School Crossing Guards to help ensure the safe and orderly movement of student pedestrians as they travel to and from school.

Key Responsibilities

• Control traffic to assist students safely across school intersections.
• Monitor school zone flashing lights and report any equipment malfunctions.
• Identify and report hazardous traffic conditions near designated crossing sites.

Schedule & Benefits

• Flexible Shifts: Shifts last up to one hour during morning arrival (7 to 9:30 a.m. window) and/or afternoon dismissal (2 to 4:45 p.m. window).
• FCPS Calendar: Work aligns directly with the FCPS student school calendar (excluding required training days).
• Local Impact: Positions are open across multiple locations throughout the school year. Specific site openings will be reviewed with candidates during the interview process.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to serve your local community while earning income on a student-aligned schedule, visit the Fairfax County jobs page to find more information and submit your application!

Family and Student Resources

💉 Immunization Events for FCPS Students

FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will be providing school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students, 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. Additional immunization resources are also available.

🤒 Not Feeling Well? When Your Child Can Come to School

School is better when your child is there! But we do understand that some days, they may feel unwell. Learn more about which symptoms are okay at school (like sneezing or sniffles), and when your child should stay home (if they have a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, for example). 

Call the school as soon as you know your child will be absent and, if possible, let them know how long you think they will be out.

If your child has a chronic illness, make sure to notify their school so that assistance can be provided if needed. Keep an open line of communication with your school public health nurse. 

If you or your family need any kind of support, please reach out to the front office of your school. We are here for you! Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.

🎓 Paying for Postsecondary Education Workshops

College Access Fairfax offers virtual workshops for seniors and their families to prepare them for postsecondary education. September and October workshops include:

• Paying for Postsecondary Education for Seniors - September 23, 7-9 p.m. and September 26, 10 a.m. to noon
• Paying for Postsecondary Education for Military Families - September 29, 7 to 9 p.m.

• FAFSA Line by Line (Seniors Only) - October 17, 10 a.m. to noon

• Scholarships 101 - October 21, 7 to 9 p.m.

• FAFSA Line by Line (Seniors Only) - October 29, 10 a.m. to noon

Find more information online.

🏫 College Ready: Access and Success for Students with Disabilities

College Steps is hosting an informative presentation and panel discussion designed to help students with disabilities and their families navigate the transition to higher education. Join us to build confidence, discover key resources, and map out your next steps for college success!

Event Details

• Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2026
• Time: 5:30 to 7 p.m.
• Location: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) – Annandale Campus

What to Expect

• Connect: Network with state and local support organizations.
• Learn: Gain practical insights through targeted mini-presentations and expert panel sessions.
• Prepare: Build essential skills, confidence, and a clear action plan for college.
• Explore: Discover institutional resources dedicated to supporting student achievement.

Ready to take the next step? Register online.

🎓 College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Night

Prepare for your child’s future at College Fair and Postsecondary Night. The annual FCPS College Fair will be held Sunday, October 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., at George Mason University’s Eagle Bank Arena. Approximately 200 colleges and universities will be represented, including two- and four-year schools and U.S. Service Academies. 

The virtual postsecondary night event will be held on Monday, October 19, from 5 to 8 p.m. Both events will help students prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey. Learn more about the College Fair and postsecondary virtual event.

🌐 World Language Credit Exam

Registration is now open for the Fall 2026 World Language Credit by Exam (WLCBE). The WLCBE assesses language proficiency in languages other than English and recognizes the strengths that our students bring as effective communicators in multiple languages.

This assessment may be used to award world language credits toward graduation, determine course placement for language courses offered in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), and fulfill the world languages requirements for the Virginia Seal of Biliteracy. Please review the FCPS WLCBE webpage for important testing information, including the registration process and languages offered.

The registration deadline is Friday, October 16, 2026, at 4 p.m.

Questions about the WLCBE may be directed to your students' school counselor.

William & Mary Saturday Enrichment Program

The William & Mary Center for Gifted Education will hold Fall 2026 Saturday Enrichment Program (SEP) opportunities. 

Upcoming program dates are:

• October 17, 2026 – One-Day Enrichment Program
• November 7, 14, and 21, 2026 – Three-Saturday Enrichment Series

SEP offers engaging, academically challenging courses designed to encourage students to explore their interests, think creatively, and learn alongside other students who share their enthusiasm for learning.

Find more information and register online.

🗣️ Introducing 2026–27 Multilingual Learner Family Literacy Sites 

The Family Literacy Program supports multilingual learner families by building English language skills, strengthening family literacy, and connecting families with their children’s schools and communities. The program is free for eligible FCPS families.

This year’s sites include Glen Forest Elementary School, Graham Road Community Building, Mission Center, Falls Church, Herndon, Lewis, and West Potomac HS, and Centre Ridge Elementary School, which offers a virtual option.

Classes are offered during the fall and spring, both in person and virtually. Families attend classes during the day or evening, depending on the site, and must live in Fairfax County and have a child who attends—or will attend—FCPS.

To learn more or register, contact the Family Literacy Program at 571-423-4647 or visit the Family Literacy Program website.

🤝 Fairfax County Special Education Parent Teacher Association

The Fairfax County Special Education PTA (SEPTA) serves all special education students, families, and educators across FCPS.

Membership is $20, and SEPTA is open to all parents, teachers, staff, and community members. It directly funds free educational workshops, community-building events, teacher mini-grants, and the annual Awards Ceremony.  

Find more information on their website.

🧠 Twice Exceptional Students

Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to challenging all students through talent development and differentiated instruction. Twice-Exceptional (2e) learners are students who are gifted and have learning challenges or disabilities. 

Families can learn more about 2e learners, how to support them, and how to partner with schools on the 2e webpage, which also includes a link to the Special Education Handbook.

🦺 Prepare Your Child for Safety Drills

Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. They must notify parents and caregivers at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools do not have to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. Preschool and kindergarten students do not participate in the first lockdown drill. 

By law, the first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with them about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your student before and after school lockdown drills.

⚠️ Know Our Security Terms

FCPS uses specific terminology to describe the actions school staff and students should take to ensure safety in a variety of situations. It is important for students, families, and staff to understand what the different terms mean and how they impact school operations.

Watch this video to learn about safety terms including lockdown, secure the building, and stay put, stay tuned.

💬 Anonymous Safety Tip Line

If you or your child have concerns or information related to feeling unsafe in any way at school, please report them to the FCPS Office of Safety and Security safety tip line. You can access it anonymously online, by text (888-777; Keyword TIP FCPS), or by phone (571-423-2020).

If your tip is an emergency and you need immediate assistance, please dial 911. 

Students, staff, parents and caregivers, and community members should report school safety issues such as threats, unsafe or dangerous situations, illegal drug activity, theft, gang activity, the existence of weapons, vandalism, and concerns about student wellness. Tip line users may identify themselves or remain anonymous.

If you have concerns about programs, regulations, policies, or other topics that do not impact the safety of our schools, please contact the FCPS ombuds online, at 571-423-4014, or ombuds@fcps.edu.

🚌 Stay in the Know With Here Comes the Bus

Even though FCPS has launched a new bus navigation system, some aspects, like the new FCPS My Ride mobile app, are still in development. Families should continue to use the Here Comes the Bus mobile app to track the location of their child’s bus. This app is still compatible with the new system.

FCPS will notify families and schools when the new app is ready to download and use. In the meantime, everyone should reinforce with students that they need to tap on and off the bus with their student ID cards.

Did you already download the new app? That’s okay! The new app is in the final stage of testing, so some features are not yet fully functional. At this time, you should refer to Here Comes the Bus for the most accurate information.

🎫 Student Bus Passes Offer Free Transportation

All Fairfax County middle and high school students can get a Student Bus Pass SmarTrip card to ride the Fairfax Connector and Fairfax CUE buses for free! With the pass, fares are free from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week, all year. Learn more about the Student Pass and access the application, which can be returned to your school’s front office.

Children 12 and younger ride for free on the Fairfax Connector with a paying adult. Please note that students need to be residents of Fairfax County to receive a pass.

🗣️ Reporting Discrimination or Harassment

FCPS is committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for people of all races, national origins, and ethnicities. Individuals experiencing harassment or discrimination should report the incident as soon as possible.

🏫 Importance of Strong Attendance Habits

September is Attendance Awareness Month. Some of the ways families can help their children create healthy routines and a habit of getting to school on time every day include: 

• Set a regular bedtime and morning routine. (Need help? Download this checklist in English or Spanish.)
• Lay out clothes and pack backpacks the night before.
• Talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make your child feel comfortable and excited about learning, if they seem anxious about going to school.
• Develop back-up plans for getting to school if something comes up. Call on a family member, a neighbor, or another parent.
• Avoid medical appointments or extended trips when school is in session.

If you or your family needs any kind of support, please reach out to the front office of your school. Visit FCPS’ Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.

🌨️ Weather Happens, FCPS Is Ready

Virginia is no stranger to inclement weather. From severe thunderstorms to high winds to flooding, many different types of weather events can (and sometimes do) impact our schools. FCPS has a plan for each of these scenarios that prioritizes the safety of all our students and staff.  

Learn how FCPS prepares for and responds to weather events, and find resources to help your family prepare, on the FCPS Weather Safety webpage.

💫 The Game of Life College and Career Prep

The Kiwanis Club of Capital – Next Generation e-Club invites students (ages 14–22) and their families to The Game of Life, a free virtual event focused on navigating college admissions, financial aid, and career preparation.

Event Details

• Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
• Time: 12 to 2:30 p.m.
• Cost: Free
• Location: Virtual

Featured Session: Get Your Head in the Game: Applying to College. Presented by Olivia Kitt, Assistant Director of Admission and Partnerships at the University of Richmond, this session offers an insider’s look at the admissions process. Key topics include:

• What admissions officers look for in student essays
• How to stand out through academics and extracurriculars
• Timeline strategies for when to begin preparing and applying
• Actionable tips to strengthen college applications
• Finding scholarships and financial aid opportunities

Help your student demystify the application process and gain expert advice. Register for the event here.

🛟 Community Resource Support from Edu-Futuro

Edu-Futuro’s Case Management Specialists are available to assist families in Fairfax, Arlington, and Prince William Counties by connecting them to vital local resources tailored to their specific needs.

Available Support & Services

• Free Application Assistance: SNAP, TANF, Health Insurance, Refugee & Immigrant Resources, Childcare, and Family Preparedness Plans.
• Direct Resource Assistance: Food and clothing support (availability varies by county).

How to Connect

• WhatsApp: Message 571-309-5455 to request support.
• Website: Visit www.edu-futuro.org for more details.
• Apply: Complete this Google Form.

🧑‍🍼 Edu-Futuro Free Parent Programs

Since 1998, Edu-Futuro—a recognized non-profit in Northern Virginia—has been empowering students, engaging parents, and transforming communities. Their free parent programs focus on breaking the cycle of poverty and strengthening family functioning and financial stability through targeted education and skill-building.

Featured Workshops & Classes

• Tech for Parents: Build essential digital skills for everyday life and career advancement. Topics include computer fundamentals, internet navigation and security, composing emails in Gmail, Google Docs basics, and navigating the ParentVUE school app.
• Resume & Cover Letter: Boost your career opportunities with practical training on crafting compelling resumes and cover letters, navigating online job applications, and practicing mock interviews.
• Financial Workshops: Take control of your finances by learning money management (including digital tools), understanding credit scores, managing debt, and protecting yourself against identity theft.

How to Register & Get Involved

• More Info: Visit www.edu-futuro.org or call/text via WhatsApp at 571-309-5455.
• Sign Up: Complete this form or text their WhatsApp number to register.
• Spread the Word: Please feel free to share these resources with family and friends!

📅 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.

October offerings include:

• October 2, 10-11:30 a.m. - Navigating Section 504 - Essential Knowledge for Families

• October 9, 10-11:30 a.m. - How to Get Kids to Open Up to You, Now and for Years to Come

• October 16, 10-11:30 a.m. - The Nuts and Bolts of the Special Education Process

• October 10, 10-11:30 a.m. - Understanding Reading Assessments and Your Child

• October 23, 10-11:30 a.m. - “Introduction to Dyslexia - What is it and What Does it Mean for my Student?”

• October 30, 10-11:30 a.m. - Transition Planning: Decision-Making Alternatives for Families of Individuals with Disabilities

Quick Links

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• FCPS CARES
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• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information
• Office of the Ombuds

• Report Discrimination and Harassment
• Report Fraud, Waste, and Abuse
• Report Hate Symbols and Graffiti Sightings

• Safety Tip Line
• School Year Calendars
• 2026-27 | 2027-28 | 2028-29

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

Contact: Sandy Anderson | 571-423-1080 | Facebook | Instagram 

Springfield District Staff | 571-423-1065