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Note: This newsletter contains links to translated versions of the content for your convenience. These translations are generated by Google Translate and are not intended to be a substitute for professional translation services.
Marcia's Message
September has been full of engagement with our Franconia schools and community partners! I was proud to celebrate Franconia Elementary second-grade teacher Renee Octaviano’s selection as Educate Fairfax’s FCPS CARES of the Quarter recipient. Another moving moment was participating in the Fairfax County Recovery Court graduation.
I am also excited to see our inaugural Mariachi Band program taking shape across Franconia’s schools. It was inspiring to see the enthusiasm among students at Crestwood Elementary and Lewis High School as they learned about mariachi instruments and music from our new Mariachi Band teacher, Victor Mata Zepeda.
I attended the Board of Supervisors’ public hearing on September 15, where funding for high school crossing guards was discussed. I was pleased that funding was restored for eleven high schools, including Edison and West Springfield High Schools. In addition, a Joint Task Force on Safety (Pedestrian and Traffic) was established to develop a plan for the next school year.
Your voice matters, and I hope to see you next week at two community events designed to gather your input and feedback. On Monday, September 28, at 6:00 p.m., I will join Superintendent Michelle Reid at Riverside Elementary for her next Community Conversations meeting.
On Tuesday, September 29, at 6:00 p.m., I will be at Key Middle School, where the expansion of the AAP middle school center model will be discussed. I strongly believe that every middle school should have an AAP center, and I am heartened to see Key Middle School, Hayfield Secondary School, and Walt Whitman Middle School included in the first round of expansion consideration.
Kind Regards,
  Collage Features:
- Black Agenda Summit sponsored by the Fairfax County NAACP
- Back to School Night at Key Middle School
- Springfield Civic Association’s regular meeting
- Superintendent’s Employee Conversations at Groveton Elementary
- Crestwood Elementary School Mariachi Program Presentation
- Gatehouse Administrative Center Food Cafe Staff Hispanic Heritage Month Recording
- FCPS CARES Presentation at Franconia Elementary School
- Lewis High School Mariachi Program Presentation
Upcoming Events:
FCPS Proposal to Expand AAP Centers to All Middle Schools
Last year, over 200 Franconia students were bussed from their base schools in order to attend AAP Centers. FCPS is currently considering expanding AAP Centers to all of its middle schools, taking an important step toward addressing some of the barriers to AAP program participation that many of our students face. As recently noted in the MSAOC Annual Report, there continues to be persistent underrepresentation of Black, Hispanic, and multilingual learners in FCPS’s AAP programs.
I’m excited about the prospect of increasing equitable access to full-time AAP without students having to leave their neighborhood schools and I encourage you to join one of the upcoming hybrid community participation meetings on AAP expansion, either in-person or online.
- Tuesday, September 29th at 6:00pm at Key Middle School
- Thursday, October 22nd at 6:00pm at Whitman Middle School
For more information, please visit the FCPS AAP Expansion Webpage
Superintendent Community Conversations
Join me at the next Community Conversations meeting, which will be held on Monday, September 28, at 6:30 p.m., at Riverside Elementary School. Come out and share your thoughts with Dr. Reid and ask her questions. Registration is not required, but it helps with planning. Please click on the date to register.
Experience STEM in Action at the Chesapeake Robotics Icebreaker, September 27
Join local robotics teams this Sunday, September 27, from 10 AM to 2 PM at Hayfield SS for a free, hands-on FIRST robotics community showcase. Attendees can test-drive competition-ready robots on a real field, meet the student builders and mentors, and explore interactive team exhibits. It is a great opportunity for families, educators, and community partners to see the future of STEM education in action.
For registration and more details, click here.
Our schools continue to shine! One of the many things that makes me proud to represent the Franconia District is the incredible talent of our students and educators:
Community Support in Action at Island Creek
Congratulations to Ms. Ronica Crevecoeur, one of eight DMV-area educators selected for District MotherHued Society’s 2026–2027 “Class Is on Us” Back-to-School Initiative!
The organization raised $6,620 to support educators with classroom supplies and hands-on assistance. Members recently visited Island Creek to deliver new materials and help prepare Ms. Crevecoeur’s Enhanced Autism Classroom for the upcoming school year.
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FCPS CARES
The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition. Submit an FCPS CARES today!
Earlier this month, we celebrated Renee Octaviano, a second grade teacher at Franconia Elementary School, as an FCPS CARES of the Quarter recipient. Renee was recognized for her extraordinary commitment to supporting students and families experiencing food insecurity.
She expanded the school’s food share program into a weekend meal initiative by providing students with ingredients, recipes, a refrigerator, and portable coolers to help families prepare and share meals together. When funding became limited, Renee engaged the school community through weekly donations to sustain the program.
Renee was surprised with a special celebration attended by FCPS leadership, school leaders, School Board members, Educate Fairfax, and community sponsor SaNDAI Global. Congratulations, Renee, and thank you for the meaningful difference you continue to make in the Franconia Elementary community! Go Team FCPS!
Franconia District FCPS CARES of the Month recipients include:
- Cara Shirley, Whitman MS (July/August 2026)
- Barbara Cortez, Nicholas Jacky & Samantha Vivian-Beck, Key MS (July/August 2026)
- Aziz Loza, Mount Eagle ES (June 2026)
- Stephanie Steigerwalt, Gunston ES (June 2026)
- Grace Vivirito, Whitman Middle School (May 2026)
- Rachael Altekruse, Lewis High School (May 2026)
Read about all the recipients.
🎶Building Excellence in Music: 55 FCPS Programs Earn Top Statewide Honors
Fifty-five FCPS secondary band and orchestra programs received the Program of Honor recognition from the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) for the 2025-26 school year.
VBODA presents this prestigious award to secondary music programs that demonstrate consistent excellence. To qualify, every ensemble in the school program must achieve superior ratings in state marching band and district performance assessments. This achievement reflects the daily dedication, rigorous instruction, and collaborative effort of our student musicians and directors across the division.
The following Franconia-serving schools will receive the Program of Honor recognition for the 2025-26 school year:
Band
- Hayfield Secondary School, Rob Specketer, director
- Lewis High School, Kelly May, director
- Mount Vernon High School, Richard Bacz, director
- West Potomac High School, Joe Antonucci, director
- Whitman Middle School, Aaron Meitz, director
Orchestra
- Edison High School, Nathi Jeerakul, director
- Hayfield Secondary School, Kerri Shelfo, director
- Lewis High School, Rachael Altekruse, director
- Sandburg Middle School, Rob Meltzer, director
Strong foundations in fine arts and music help open doors for advanced student opportunities and lifelong success. Learn more about FCPS Fine Arts programs and music curriculum by visiting the FCPS Fine Arts webpage.
New Executive Principal for Region 6
The Region 6 Office is pleased to announce the appointment of Amy Miller as Executive Principal, effective September 14, 2026. Ms. Miller brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, including four years in FCPS central office leadership and service as principal of Saratoga Elementary and Kilmer Middle schools. Known for building strong partnerships and advancing equity, instruction, and student achievement, she has led initiatives supporting literacy, high-impact tutoring, AVID expansion, and expanded access to advanced coursework. Her leadership has been recognized with multiple FCPS awards, including the Superintendent’s Excellence in Equity Award
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Franconia Community Upcoming Events–Highlights
 Edison High School's Feeder Night takes place on Friday, October 2nd.
Event Details
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Teams: Edison Eagles vs. Mount Vernon
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Arrival Time: 6:15 PM
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Meeting Point: At the far goal post
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Activity: Future Eagles get to run the field before the game starts.
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Admission: Free for feeder school students accompanied by a paying adult.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
🧑💻Educate Fairfax Innovation Grant Applications Are Now Open- Deadline October 4
Educate Fairfax Innovation Grants provide up to $2,000 to help turn creative ideas into meaningful learning experiences for FCPS students. From robotics clubs and student-run cafés to culinary programs, community service projects, and more, these grants help educators take learning beyond the expected. Educators and staff may apply for a grant now through October 4.
If you would like to support Educate Fairfax Grants, please consider making a donation.
🏅Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards- Deadline October 1
Nominations are open for the 2026 Stephen A. McLaughlin Champions of Character Awards. This program honors youth, coaches, and parents for extraordinary service in pursuing victory with honor on and off the field of competition. Complete the nomination form today
Awards are presented to a female athlete, male athlete, coach, and parent in each Supervisory District. Those who participated in youth athletics from Fall 2025 through Summer 2026 are eligible. Nominations are due October 1.
✍️Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest- Deadline November 16
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia announces the launch of the Inaugural Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest. The competition invites elementary, middle, and high school students from across the Commonwealth to showcase their creativity, celebrate Virginia’s rich identity, and share their unique voices through poetry. The Lieutenant Governor of Virginia Student Poetry Contest underscores the power of language to bring communities together while honoring the Commonwealth’s natural beauty, diverse people, and enduring heritage. Submission deadline is November 16, 2026.
Themes for each grade level
- 2026 Elementary School (K- 5) Prompt: Symbols of Virginia
- 2026 Middle School (6-8) Prompt: Places of Virginia
- Write a poem that captures the essence of a place in Virginia that inspires you and share why it is special to you or to Virginia’s identity.
- 2026 High School Prompt: Virginia’s Rich History
- Write a poem reflecting on an historical moment, figure, or legacy of Virginia’s past that continues to shape who we are today.
👩💻Teen Advocates Program
Applications for the Teen Advocates Program are now open until October 9th! Teen Advocates meet twice a month during the school year to learn how to promote healthy relationships and consent, build leadership skills, and plan real events that make an impact toward ending teen dating violence.
Learn more about the program and application at the Kickoff Meeting on September 30 (RSVP here).
🎓College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Night
Prepare for your child’s future at the College Fair and Postsecondary Virtual Night. The annual FCPS College Fair will be held Sunday, October 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the George Mason University Eagle Bank Arena. Approximately 200 colleges and universities will be represented, including two- and four-year schools and U.S. Service Academies.
The Postsecondary Virtual 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.
🪞Reflections National Art Competition
Reflections is a 50-year old national program encouraging student creativity. This year’s theme, “What My Culture Means to Me,” invites students to reflect on the traditions, experiences, stories, values, people, places, and communities that shape who they are. Through their creativity, students can share their unique perspectives and help others see the beauty and richness of different cultures. Read more about Reflections, see the categories and get your entries ready.
🏛️ 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.
🌟 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
🎓 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:
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
What to Expect
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Connect: Network with state and local support organizations.
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Learn: Gain practical insights through targeted mini-presentations and expert panel sessions.
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Prepare: Build essential skills, confidence, and a clear action plan for college.
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Explore: Discover institutional resources dedicated to supporting student achievement.
Ready to take the next step? Register online.
🏫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:
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October 17, 2026 – One-Day Enrichment Program
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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.
🌐 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.
Disclaimer: Opportunities and events offered by organizations other than Fairfax County Public Schools are neither sponsored nor endorsed by the Fairfax County School Board, the Superintendent, or a specific school. These opportunities may utilize technology tools that have not been assessed by the Fairfax County Public Schools Department of Information Technology. Students should gain permission from their parent or guardian before engaging in any non-FCPS enrichment opportunity and families should review the Terms of Service, User Agreements, and Privacy Policy for any technology platform that the enrichment opportunity may use before participating.
Please confirm dates, times, and locations as they may change.
👨👩👧👦Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students
Register now for the annual Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students. The free conference will take place on Saturday, November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayfield Secondary School.
Hosted by FCPS in collaboration with community partners, the conference highlights the power of partnerships in supporting student success. Families, educators, and community members are invited to connect, learn, and explore available special education services, supports, and resources.
The conference will feature an inspiring opening session, engaging breakout sessions, an exhibitor hall with local resources, and lunch for all participants.
Register for the conference and visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu with any questions.
Many in our community have lost their jobs serving us in the federal government, where they played critical roles in scientific advancements, national security, law enforcement, and other vital areas. FCPS welcomes their expertise to help shape our students’ future. Visit our careers website for more information about current job openings, job fairs, and recruitment events.
Upcoming School Bus Driver, Transportation Attendant, and Transportation Van Driver Job Fairs
🚶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. 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 AFSP’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.
👨🍼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.
🌳Fairfax County Seeks Members for New Environmental Commission
Are you a Fairfax County resident who wants to play an active role in advising the county on environmental priorities? Fairfax County is forming an Environmental Commission, a 15 member commission that will make recommendations on policies that protect and enhance our natural environment. If you’re passionate about sustainability, stewardship or community planning — or if you have expertise in forestry or natural resources — we encourage you to consider serving.To learn more or express interest, please contact your District Supervisor by October 9. Your insight and dedication can help support a sustainable future for Fairfax County.
Find Your Supervisor
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💰 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:
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$210,000+ awarded across 129 grants
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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
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
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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).
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FCPS Calendar: Work aligns directly with the FCPS student school calendar (excluding required training days).
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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!
Steamology STEM FEST, October 17
 STEMFEST is a fun-filled, educational event that focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) for elementary and middle school students. This event provides students with a chance to engage in hands-on activities that are related to STEM fields, featuring high school clubs and vendors, who will set up informational booths or displays related to STEM.
High school students are invited to serve as STEMFEST Volunteers. This is a valuable opportunity for high school students to develop leadership skills, gain community service hours, and potentially inspire younger students to pursue their STEM interests.
Participants can register here. Volunteers can register here.
Family Resource Center
Join FCPS for these free family webinars this October. Each session is held from 10–11:30 a.m.
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October 2: Navigating Section 504: Learn about eligibility, evaluations, accommodations, and the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP. Register here
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October 9: How to Get Kids to Open Up: Learn practical strategies to help children communicate about their experiences, successes, and struggles. Register here
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October 16: The Nuts and Bolts of the Special Education Process: Review screening, eligibility, and the essential components of an IEP. Register here
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October 23: Introduction to Dyslexia: Learn how dyslexia may affect learning and explore helpful strategies and supports for home and school. Register here
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October 30: Transition Planning: Decision-Making Alternatives for Families of Individuals with Disabilities. Explore guardianship, powers of attorney, and advance medical directives. This session is for educational purposes and is not legal advice. Register here
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.
Every year, approximately 600,000 military-connected families relocate, and schools are a primary way they get integrated into their new location. Most of these families move to new duty stations, while some transition out of the military and others transition in. Most of these moves take place over the summer, and Fairfax County Public Schools is committed to ensuring our military families feel welcomed and a sense of belonging to their local community.
Blue Star Welcome Week is an opportunity for our community to welcome our military-connected families and show them our appreciation for their service and sacrifices. Throughout the week, FCPS will help ease their transition through events, messages, actions of welcome, and opportunities to make meaningful connections. Please help us welcome our military families during Blue Star Welcome Week, September 26 through October 4, 2026, and throughout the year!
Keep You In the Know
September 10 School Board Meeting Highlights
- Adopted several policies.
- Approved HVAC repair contracts for nine schools.
- Amended housing projection updates.
- Approved a motion directing the Superintendent to recommend programmatic options to increase enrollment at certain high schools.
- Approved an amendment to the College Board contract.
- Postponed a decision on synthetic turf replacement at South County Middle School until September 24.
View the meeting agenda and actions on BoardDocs or watch the full meeting
🚧September 24 School Board Meeting Highlights
Coming Soon
Upcoming School Board Meetings
Photo of all 12 FCPS school board members.
Meeting information and materials will be posted to BoardDocs. Please note that times are subject to change.
Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)
- Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
- Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.
Watch and Participate:
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Live Broadcasts: Tune in on Channel 99 (Verizon 11) or the FCPS website.
Stay Informed:
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Agendas & Docs: Find meeting handouts and logistics via BoardDocs.
Support & Accessibility:
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Interpretation: Contact the Board Clerk if you require language or ASL support.
- Reuniones de la Junta Escolar de FCPS en Español
- Para ver las reuniones de la Junta Escolar grabadas o para ver en vivo durante las reuniones regulares en YouTube, por favor vaya al canal de YouTube de FCPS en Español
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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