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Hello Fairfax County,
Fall is in the air, football games are starting back up, and it’s time to grab your pumpkin spice lattes. At last night’s School Board meeting, we addressed several important issues affecting student privacy, classroom technology, and future academic opportunities. I also want to share some highlights from my recent visits to schools and other parts of our community.
Flock Cameras Prohibited on FCPS Property
Last night, the School Board unanimously approved my motion prohibiting the installation, purchase, or leasing of automated license plate reader systems, including, but not limited to, Flock cameras, on School Board property.
FCPS does not currently have these cameras on its property, so this was a proactive step. Fundamentally, FCPS is an educational institution, not a law enforcement agency. Our mission, focus, and resources should remain centered on providing our students with the best education possible.
Automated license plate readers are also significantly different from conventional security cameras. Their ability to collect, store, analyze, and share vehicle-location data raises serious questions about privacy, civil liberties, and who may ultimately access that information.
The motion does not restrict school-zone speed cameras, school bus stop-arm cameras, or the security cameras FCPS currently uses to protect students, employees, and school buildings. Those technologies serve direct and clearly defined school-safety purposes.
You can read the approved motion here and read more about why I introduced it.
Kindergarten Devices and Family Choice
Earlier this year, the School Board directed FCPS to stop using FCPS-issued laptops and tablets with pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students, except when a device is required by an Individualized Education Program, 504 Plan, or for translation or multilingual education support.
Last night, the Superintendent presented a recommendation to create an additional, limited exception for kindergarten students who require supplemental reading intervention. Under the proposal, those students could use Lexia for no more than 75 minutes per week. Families would have the ability to opt their children out. The proposal is expected to return to the Board for a vote on October 8.
During the discussion, I questioned an estimate indicating that replacing Lexia with additional staff-led tutoring could cost anywhere from $325,000 to $1.6 million. A fivefold range is significant, and the Board needs clearer information about the assumptions behind those figures as we prepare for a difficult budget year.
I also asked staff for a direct answer about whether families may currently opt their children out of Lexia and ST Math. The answer was yes. I asked that this option be clearly communicated in writing to principals, educators, and families so that parents receive consistent information across FCPS.
You can watch my questions and the response from staff here and review the educational technology presentation here.
This should not be framed as a choice between helping children learn to read and ensuring technology is used appropriately. We have a responsibility to do both: provide effective literacy support while keeping early learning developmentally appropriate, intentional, and centered on relationships with teachers.
Watch my questions and the response from staff.
Bringing Quantum Computing to FCPS
The Board also approved a $684,000 contract for a four-qubit quantum computing system and related support services at Skyview High School. I voted in favor of this exciting investment in our students’ future.
Quantum computing is an emerging field with potential applications in cybersecurity, medicine, materials science, communications, and many other industries. Giving students hands-on experience with this technology can connect classroom learning with future college programs, internships, apprenticeships, and careers that are developing right here in Northern Virginia.
The initiative is being developed with support from the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority, Connected DMV, and other academic and industry partners. Skyview is expected to serve as FCPS’s anchor for quantum education, with plans to create opportunities for students and educators from across the division, not only those enrolled at Skyview.
The Board also approved a follow-on motion directing that, when expansion of the program becomes viable, Lewis High School will be the first additional school to receive it. I supported that motion as well. Programs of this caliber should create opportunities for students throughout Fairfax County.
Innovation must always be paired with thoughtful implementation, equitable access, strong curriculum, and responsible financial oversight. I look forward to seeing how this initiative develops and how it can open new doors for our students.
You can review the quantum computing contract and supporting information here.
Kyle in the Community
Some of the most valuable time I spend as a School Board member happens outside the boardroom. Visiting schools allows me to hear directly from students, teachers, administrators, and families while seeing both the successes and challenges within our classrooms. To date, I have visited over 100 schools across FCPS, more than half, and I am excited to continue my visits to schools this year.
Over the past several weeks, my visits have included:
- McLean High School
- Franklin Sherman Elementary School
- Kent Gardens Elementary School
- Longfellow Middle School
- Haycock Elementary School
I also joined the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department for a ride-along. It was a valuable opportunity to see the work of our first responders up close and learn more about the coordination required to keep our schools and communities safe.
     
I am grateful to the students, educators, administrators, first responders, and community members who welcomed me and shared their experiences. These conversations help ensure that the decisions we make at the School Board table are informed by what is actually happening in our schools and neighborhoods.
Thank you for your continued engagement and partnership.
Sincerely,
Kyle McDaniel
Vice Chairman & Member, At-Large
Fairfax County School Board
Other Updates
Superintendent Community Conversations
Join us for a series of Community Conversations that will be held across the school division. Share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Click on the date to register for any of the following events:
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Monday, September 28, at 6:30 p.m., at Riverside Elementary School
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Monday, October 19, at 6:30 p.m., at Spring Hill Elementary School
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Monday, October 26, at 6:30 p.m., at Beech Tree Elementary School
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Thursday, October 29, at 6:30 p.m., at North Springfield Elementary School
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Friday, November 13, at 6:30 p.m., at Powell Elementary School
Registration is not required, but it helps with planning.
Learn About Applied Behavior Analysis and Teaching New Skills at Home
All family members and caregivers are invited to attend monthly Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Family Training to learn how to support and teach students with autism and related disorders. No registration is needed.
Virtual trainings take place at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Join a session. Upcoming topics include:
- Autism and ABA Overview on Wednesday, October 14. (It is highly recommended that you attend this session before any future sessions.)
- Prioritizing Skills to Teach at Home on Wednesday, November 18.
- Toilet Training on Wednesday, December 9.
- Managing Challenging Behaviors at Home on Wednesday, January 13.
- Communication: a Foundation for Independence on Wednesday, February 10.
Visit the ABA webpage for a full list of classes. Need an interpreter? Contact Stephanie Watkins two weeks before the training at 571-423-4110 or sawatkins@fcps.edu.
Fall into Flavor With FCPS’ New Breakfast and Lunch Menu
FCPS’ new September and October menu items are packed with classic favorites and fresh global inspiration. Check our new online menu system to see when you can try new recipes based on student feedback, and developed by FCPS’ executive chef and team of food and nutrition experts.
Menu items include:
- Breakfast items such as honey chicken biscuits, guava pastelitos (whole-grain pastries filled with tropical guava fruit), and roasted apple parfaits, made with vanilla yogurt and homemade granola.
- Lunch items such as crunchy beef or fiesta tacos, ramen bowl with diced chicken or hard-boiled egg, beef or vegan banh mi burger, and southwest fiesta soup with corn chips.
Stay up to date on FCPS menus and nutrition news by subscribing to the Food and Nutrition Services newsletter.
Annual Special Education Family Conference: Registration Open, Call for Volunteers
Join us for the annual Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students on Saturday, November 14, at Hayfield Secondary School.
Families, educators, and community members are invited to this no-cost, in-person event to connect, learn, and explore available special education services, supports, and resources. Lunch will be provided for all participants.
How to Get Involved
Visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu with any questions.
Review and Sign SR&R by September 30
The FCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R) booklet explains expectations for student behavior and adult responses to enhance school safety and to create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment. We encourage families to discuss these expectations with their child(ren).
Families should review the SR&R and sign the acknowledgement form by Wednesday, September 30, either by logging into SIS ParentVUE or by signing and returning the Signature Sheet.
Cellphones and Personal Devices
Students may only use a personal device if it is required as part of a necessary accommodation in the student’s 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 on the FCPS website.
Understanding the Acceptable Use PolicyFCPS provides students with digital tools and devices to support their learning, encourage easy collaboration, and help students learn how to interact with technology safely. The FCPS Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) guides how these technologies are used both inside the classroom and at home. By following the AUP, students learn how to become not just users of technology, but responsible and ethical digital citizens with critical real-world skills such as:
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Responsible Communication and Conduct: Communicating respectfully and using technology appropriately.
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Digital Footprint Awareness: Understanding online actions can have lasting effects on a student’s reputation, future opportunities and relationships, career prospects, and safety.
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Data Privacy and Security: Learning how online safety can protect their digital work and personal information, and guard against cybersecurity risks.
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Self-Regulation: Learning to manage digital distractions to stay focused when needed.
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Accountability: Understanding that they are responsible for how they use FCPS technology and digital resources.
Learn more about digital citizenship at FCPS.
Set Screen Time Limits and Monitor Online Activity With Lightspeed
The free Lightspeed Parent Portal makes it easy for you to see and manage how your child uses their FCPS-issued device outside of school hours. New Lightspeed Parent Portal features for this school year include:
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Schedules: Pause or restrict internet access during specific times, such as during homework time, family dinners, weekends, or bedtime.
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Web Rules: Block specific websites you don’t want your child accessing at home.
Be sure to check your email (subject line: “Filter Portal Weekly Report”) each Sunday for the Lightspeed Student Online Activity Report, a weekly summary of the websites your child has visited. Learn more about Lightspeed Parent Reports.
New ParentVUE Mobile App Is Here
The new ParentVUE mobile app is available in the Apple and Google App stores. This new app provides parents and caregivers with a more secure sign-in. Families must download the new app by December 2026 to ensure they have continued mobile access to their ParentVUE account. The previous app will be deactivated at the end of 2026.
In the new app, families can enroll in multi-factor authentication (MFA) for FCPS Single Sign-On. While enrollment is optional, we strongly recommend that everyone enable this security feature. Learn more about installing the new ParentVUE app. Parents needing assistance should submit a Parent Support Request.
Digital Literacy Resources for Families
As part of FCPS’ continued support for digital literacy, families can access lesson materials that introduce the concepts students will explore throughout the school year. These resources include student lessons and supporting materials organized by grade level. Resources will be shared on a quarterly basis through Schoology.
The All Parent/Guardian Course is available in Schoology through a parent or guardian account. Schoology and ParentVUE use the same login credentials. Families who need assistance can review How Do I Log in to and Access Schoology? or watch the brief walkthrough on the Schoology Snippets page.
Families can also learn more about FCPS guidance and practices on the Educational Technology in FCPS webpage.
Tap On and Tap Off, It’s Easy!
Please help all our bus riders remember to tap on and tap off the school bus each day. We currently have about 70% of students on buses following this process correctly, which is a great start! Learn more about student IDs and bus navigation.
Families wishing to see where their child’s bus is should continue to use the Here Comes the Bus app.
Traffic Safety Near Our School
We understand that families may need to drive their children to school from time to time. If you need to, please familiarize yourself with your school’s kiss-and-ride procedures for the safety of all children and staff.
Please drop off or pick up your students in the designated areas. Students should not be dropped off or picked up in other areas around the school or in nearby neighborhoods. Please also avoid parking in neighborhoods or double parking in front of your school if you intend to walk your child to school. This can increase the number of students walking through busy intersections and create traffic hazards for other drivers and families trying to get to school.
Please follow all signs and directions posted at schools, on public roads, or provided by school staff or crossing guards, and avoid making U-turns. Most of all, always — ALWAYS — drive slowly near schools. The safety of all our students is one of our top priorities!!
The Fairfax County Police Department has additional safety tips for families, including ways to keep walkers safe and what to do about scooters, bicycles, and e-scooters.
The 2023-30 Strategic Plan — Goal 5: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation
FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan sets five main goals to create positive change in the division. These goals show where we should focus our attention and will help us align our efforts.
This week, we’re highlighting Goal 5, which focuses on preparing every student for life after graduation with the skills they need to thrive. See how Goal 5 is being put into practice.
 Attendance Video
We all Belong
Each one of us is unique. And every student matters and belongs in school. If a student is having a difficult time attending class, please tell a trusted adult at school. There are solutions.
If you or your family need any kind of support, please reach out to the school’s front office. Visit the FCPS Attendance webpage for tips and strategies.
The Importance of the Flu Vaccine
Staying up to date with your child's flu vaccination helps:
- Reduce School Absences: Keeping students healthy means more time spent learning and engaging with peers.
- Protect the Community: Vaccination helps shield vulnerable family members and neighbors from seasonal illness.
- Support Overall Wellness: Routine flu shots are a key component of a proactive student health plan.
Upcoming Flu Shot Events
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide flu shots for all FCPS students, ages 18 and under, at no out-of-pocket cost. 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.
FCPS News
In case you missed it in FCPS This Week, the school division shared updates on the following topics:
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- Traffic Safety Near Our Schools
- Sign and Return the SR&R
- Check Out New Menu Options
Read FCPS This Week to learn more about these topics. If you are not already receiving this weekly newsletter, please sign up today.
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Calendar Reminder |
Indigenous Peoples’ Day - Monday, October 12, is a student holiday and school planning day for Indigenous Peoples' Day
Walk and Roll to School Day - October 7th
FCPS will participate in International Walk and Roll to School Day on Wednesday, October 7, in an effort to promote physical activity and reduce traffic congestion and pollution near schools.Students and employees are encouraged to bike or walk to school and work where safe to do so. Parents are encouraged to accompany their children to school, and to work with their school and PTA or PTO to assemble bike trains or walking groups for the event. Schools are encouraged to register online with Walk and Bike to School. Get more information about Walk to School Day.
See the complete school year calendar.
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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