🌾Harvest Moon🌕: Message From Ilryong Moon

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October Newsletter

Message from Ilryong Moon

Enjoying the Fall Festival at Westbriar Elementary School (and avoiding the dunk tank!)

I would like to extend my warmest wishes for a Happy Chuseok in Korean, ZhongQiuJie Kuaile in Chinese, Tsukimi in Japanese, and Tết Trung Thu in Vietnamese.

The Harvest Moon Festival is a significant holiday for many in East and Southeast Asia, as well as in the Philippines and Singapore. This holiday is similar to the American Thanksgiving holiday.

I would like to extend my congratulations and best wishes to all of our students and staff members who celebrated the Harvest Moon Festival on September 25th, wish you and your family a happy and prosperous year. I hope that the full moon brought you a bountiful harvest!

These harvest festivals across cultures share a common theme: gratitude, family, and renewal. Whether through songpyeon (half-moon shaped rice cakes with sweet fillings made from roasted sesame seeds and honey), mooncakes, lantern parades, or moon-viewing ceremonies, these celebrations remind us to pause, appreciate what we have, and look ahead with hope.

As we enter the third month of the school year, I wish every student, family, and staff member a season filled with joy, connection, and success. May this harvest moon inspire us to grow together as a community.

Best,

Ilryong Moon

What's Happened in September

Bottom Right: Posing for a photo with my Staff Assistant, Dane Pototsky

2026 Korean National Day and Armed Forces Day Celebration

I had the privilege to attend the 2026 Korean National and Armed Forces Day celebration at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This event commemorates the service of men and women in the Republic of Korea Armed Forces.

The spirit of unity between the American and Korean governments was evident during this event, with multiple dignitaries speaking, including South Korean Ambassador to the United States Kang Kyung-wha and Congressman Joe Wilson.

I was also pleased to be joined at the event by FCPS Korean language teachers and interpreters, in addition to many FCPS parents and students.

From the performances by the Seoul Metropolitan Dance Theatre to the kimchi, bibimbap, and beef bulgogi dishes, it was truly an invigorating event that allowed me to proudly reflect on my heritage as a Korean-American.

Centreville Immigration Forum

I was excited to attend the Centreville Immigration Forum’s (CIF) annual dinner and take part in this year’s theme: ‘Honoring Legacy, Defending Our Future.’

CIF recognizes the resilience and leadership of immigrant families today, and strives to connect their direct services and community systems to immigrant communities, with the goal of creating long-term and sustainable change.

L to R: Me, SBM & Chair Robyn Lady (Dranesville), Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, SBM Ryan McElveen (At-Large), SBM Karl Frisch (Providence)

World Quantum Congress

I was pleased to attend the World Quantum Congress at the University of Maryland, to be a part of a substantial announcement for FCPS students.

At the previous School Board meeting, the Board approved a four-qubit, gate-based quantum computer for Skyview High School, which will make FCPS the first K–12 school division in the world to give students access to a working quantum computer of that capacity. Quantum computing uses principles very different from those behind conventional computers and could eventually help tackle complex challenges, from developing medicines and materials to protecting data.

The system is expected to be installed in December, with hands-on student learning planned for spring 2027. Students will write programs, run them on quantum hardware, and compare how quantum and traditional computers approach the same problems.

The program will begin as a learning pathway, with the potential to develop into a credit-bearing course offering dual-enrollment opportunities and industry credentials. Skyview will serve as FCPS’s K–12 hub for quantum education, welcoming students and educators from across the division as FCPS considers expanding access to other schools.

This represents a significant investment in our students’ future. I look forward to seeing how this program develops and how it will benefit our students in the future.

Fairfax County School Crossing Guard Public Hearing

I was pleased to attend the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors' September 15th meeting and public hearing to fight for the restoration of crossing guards in FCPS High Schools. This was after the Board of Supervisors made the decision to not fund crossing guards for high schools that previously had one for the 2025-2026 school year. From joining fellow School Board Member Melanie Meren (Hunter Mill) for an outdoor rally, to standing beside School Board Member Dr. Ricardy Anderson (Mason District) as she spoke during the public hearing, I am proud of the teamwork and community participation that went into righting this wrong.

The collaboration between fellow School Board Members on this issue led to a decision that restored crossing guards to ten FCPS high schools. The Board of Supervisors approved $707,908 in its FY 2026 Carryover Budget Package to accommodate this for the rest of the school year.

We still have a long way to go in terms of improving safety for our students and pedestrians. As noted by Dr. Anderson, many schools, such as Justice High School, still do not have crossing guard services and have not for several school years. Many of these issues were highlighted recently in FCPS’ annual School Traffic and Pedestrian Safety Assessment, which was presented to the School Board during the September 8th Work Session.

2Twenty Club Walkathon

In the first School Board meeting of the new year, I sponsored a proclamation honoring the 2Twenty Club, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting low-income children and families through its mission, “Sharing Love with Our Neighbors.” Through initiatives such as its Weekend Backpack Food Program, they ensure that students in need have access to nutritious food over weekends and school breaks. Each month, 50 dedicated volunteers personally purchase, pack, and deliver nutritious, shelf-stable food packages to support approximately 50 students at each of 13 elementary schools and one middle school.

I attended 2Twenty Club’s 6th annual Walkathon at Burke Lake Park to generate financial support and volunteer interest for the program, which was highly successful. There were hundreds of participants, including many from the 13 FCPS schools that 2Twenty Club currently serves.

I was honored to speak to the crowd and truly thank them for the difference they are making in the community. Thank you again to 2Twenty Club founder Sook Moon for the invitation!

Lewis High School Pyramid DC United Choir Fundraiser

When I was attending Lewis High School’s home football opener, I was approached by Choir Booster President Kathy Harris about an upcoming fundraiser to benefit Lewis HS Choir and support their upcoming trip to Carnegie Hall in January 2027. When I heard the fundraiser would be attending a DC United soccer match, it was very hard to say no!

I had a blast on my first visit to Audi Field, and was amazed at the turnout and dedication of the Lewis High School Choir program and their supporters.

I wish the best of luck to the Lewis Choir program and their director, Cara Ainge, as they continue to raise funds for their Carnegie Hall Trip, and progress in the school year.

First Baptist Church of Vienna Back to School Bash

I appreciated the opportunity to share a simple message to Fairfax County students, families, and teachers not just as a School Board Member, but also as a Sunday School teacher myself.

The “3Ts in God” of Talent, Treasure and Time all play a unique role and serve as meaningful reminders that our children and those who dedicate their lives to serving them need encouragement and support throughout the school year.

Thank you to Rev. Dr. Vernon C. Walton and the First Baptist Church of Vienna for inviting me to be a part of this event, as I always enjoy visiting your church!

School Visits

Left: At “attention” with the Langley Marching Saxons! Top right: Watching with Herndon Principal Dr. Cheronda Farrish. Middle: Congratulating McLean Drum Major S. Lee on an outstanding performance!

Herndon High School Showcase of Bands

FCPS marching bands are taking the field for competition season! Students have been practicing hard and are ready to showcase their music, precision, and school spirit.

At the Herndon High School Showcase of Bands, this was on full display! Even with the competition moved indoors in the late afternoon due to rain, The Pride of Herndon Marching Band hosted over 30 bands, including 12 from FCPS.

From the wide array of show themes, uniforms, props, and instrumentation, I was blown away by the overall performance.

Thank you to the Pride of Herndon Marching Band and Herndon High School Principal Dr. Cheronda Farrish for accommodating me at this event!

Top Left: Me with Oakton Principal Shannon Matheny. I forgot to wear my camouflage!

Oakton Varsity Football

The Oakton Cougars continued their strong start to the season, in a battle of undefeated teams with Stafford County powerhouse Colonial Forge. The Cougars were able to hold on 32-23, to move to 4-0 on the season.

The Cougar Den student section and Oakton cheerleaders proved to be difference-makers throughout the game, with their intense energy and school spirit on display all night.

Thank you to Principal Shannon Matheny and the Oakton community for welcoming me to this event!

South County vs. West Springfield Varsity Football

My next football game of the season took me to South County Secondary School for an in-district matchup between the Stallions and the visiting West Springfield Spartans. It was a packed house on both sides, with a massive turnout for the Patriot District rivalry matchup.

The Stallions ultimately came out on top, but I would not be surprised if these teams see each other again in the postseason, with both schools having Occoquan Region and VHSL state title aspirations!

Bull Run Elementary Back to School Night

Thank you to Principal James Marotta for inviting me to Bull Run Elementary's Back to School night, and for the opportunity to speak to parents about being active partners in their child's education, and the importance of reading each and every day.

I especially appreciated the Bull Run Elementary School Mission Statement: Bull Run Elementary School inspires and empowers students to meet high academic standards while being responsible, innovative global citizens by encouraging creative collaboration in an inclusive environment.

South Lakes High School Back to School Night

I enjoyed joining the South Lakes High School community for Back to School Night. It was a pleasure to meet with families and staff, visit classrooms, and see the commitment to student learning throughout the school. Thank you to the South Lakes team for welcoming families and helping make the evening a meaningful start to the school year.

I look forward to seeing all that students accomplish this year, and can't wait to attend their Homecoming game in the near future! Thank you again to Principal Carlos Seward for the invitation and

Westbriar Elementary Back to School Night & Fall Festival

I had such a fantastic time at Westbriar Elementary's Back to School Night that I decided to return for their fall festival the following day.

The Westbriar community turned out in full force, and there were plenty of activities, food, and fundraising opportunities.

As previously mentioned, I was somehow able to avoid the dunk tank, despite multiple attempts to get me to participate! Maybe next year!

Thank you to Westbriar Principal Dr. Sallie Burch for inviting me to both events!

Top: Me with Bolivian dancers after their performance, Left: Me with Mason District Supervisor Andres Jimenez, Right: Watching the Peruvian dancers mid-performance!

Woodburn Elementary Hispanic Heritage Festival

The 2nd Annual Woodburn Hispanic Heritage Festival was a marvelous event filled with delicious food, beautiful traditions, and many proud students and community members that represented their countries and heritage throughout the festivities and parade.

The festival was started last year by the late Principal Kanchana Iyer. Mrs. Iyer was a deeply inspirational leader whose warmth, humor, dedication, and passion touched the lives of students, staff, and families. Her passing has left a tremendous void in a community she served with such care and commitment. She led with compassion and purpose, and she understood that growth is reflected not only in final accomplishments, but also in the progress students and staff make each day. This was evident in the success of this event and the lasting impact it will have on the Woodburn community.

It is events like this that remind me how Fairfax County Public Schools is strengthened by the many cultures, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives represented across our community. We are committed to ensuring every student feels welcomed, respected, and supported, and has meaningful opportunities to learn and thrive.

Thank you to PTA President Aileen Elsaesser for the invitation and for organizing such an outstanding event!

Top right: Me with friend and fellow SBM Marcia St. John-Cunning (Franconia)

Hayfield Secondary School Community Robotics Showcase

I greatly enjoyed attending the third annual Chesapeake Robotics Icebreaker at Hayfield Secondary School, which featured FRC Team 614, the Night Hawks, who are comprised of Hayfield Secondary School students and staff members.

I especially enjoyed the converted popcorn machine robot, and watching its amazing capabilities during the competition!

Woodson High School Compass Club

My final school visit of the month took me to Woodson High School to present to the Compass Club and their founder, Isaac Lee. The Compass Club is a new club that was formed this year for the purpose of networking opportunities with professionals.

I enjoyed sharing my personal journey with the Compass club members; from growing up in Korea all the way to the present day. The questions from the students included: what my biggest accomplishments and challenges have been, whether I have faced any discrimination, how I have been able to overcome adversity/failures, and why I do what I do.

Bulletin

School Board Meeting National Anthem Sign Ups

What: Perform the National Anthem at a School Board Regular Meeting

Who: FCPS student performers - it can be a school based ensemble like a 5th grade choral group or HS orchestra; small student groups; or soloists.

When: At the beginning of a School Board Regular Meeting, which are typically on Thursday evenings and begin at 7:00 p.m. More information on dates can be found in the Google sign up form.

How to Sign Up: Step-by-Step Registration Process

Secure Preapproval: You must obtain approval from your principal or school administrator before submitting a performance request.
Prepare Your Details: Gather the following information for the registration form:

School name, ensemble or soloist details, and preferred performance dates.Stage setup requirements: Any specific equipment, microphone, chair, or stand needs. Please note that risers cannot be used for singing performances.

Submit the Request: Complete the official 2026-2027 School Board Performance Registration Form
Check for Confirmation: You will receive an automated email confirming that your form was received.

Important Guidelines:

Selection Policy: Completing the form does not guarantee your selected date. To ensure opportunities are distributed fairly across the district, priority may be given to new registrants or schools that have not performed recently.
Final Date Confirmation: The School Board team will contact you directly to officially confirm your scheduled performance date.

Questions? Contact SBPerformances@fcps.edu or call 571-423-1075

Senator Pekarsky’s 2027 High School Youth Leadership Program

FCPS students once again have the opportunity to participate in Senator Pekarsky’s High School Leadership Program this upcoming legislative session! This program gives high school juniors and seniors the opportunity to visit Richmond during the General Assembly's legislative session and learn about political leadership on the state level. Students will be able to observe committee hearings and floor debate, take a tour of the state capitol, participate in panels with lobbyists, advocates, and political leaders, as well meet lawmakers and their staff. This is a great opportunity for students considering a future career in government, politics, or law - but all are encouraged to apply.

Please note that this is a free program and students will be provided with transportation, lodging, and meals at no cost to them or their families.

The application is open to junior and senior students until Sunday, November 25th at 6:00 p.m. Spots are limited, so students should expect to be notified about their status following the closing of the application. Please note that priority will be given to students who reside within the 36th Senate District of Virginia.

Here is the link to the application, including more details and program dates.

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Admissions Applications

Applications will open soon for the class of 2031 at FCPS’ premier science, technology, engineering and math high school!

Open Date: Monday, October 5, at 4 p.m.

Final Start Date: Wednesday, October 28, at 4 p.m.

Submission Deadline: Friday, October 30 at 4 p.m.

Please visit the TJHSST registration page for more information and a schedule of upcoming events and information schedules at FCPS middle schools.

Plan Ahead

Calendar Reminders

PSAT/NMSQT & SAT School Day

Wednesday, October 7, is FCPS’ annual PSAT/NMSQT & SAT school day. FCPS high schools annually host the Preliminary SAT (PSAT)/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) exam. The exam is offered each fall at no charge to FCPS tenth and eleventh graders.

FCPS high schools are also hosting SAT School Day on the same date, which is offered at no charge to FCPS twelfth graders.

Please note that all ninth graders do not have school on October 7th. Twelfth graders who do not sign up for the SAT will also not have school!

Indigenous Peoples’ Day

Monday, October 12, is a holiday, and schools and offices will be closed.

End of First Quarter

Friday, October 30, is the end of the first grading period. All schools will operate on a 2 hour student early release schedule

Upcoming School Board Business & Meeting

Broadcast & open to the public:

Tuesday, October 6, 11:30 a.m. All-Day Work Session
Thursday, October 8, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
Monday, October 12, 4:30 p.m. Audit Committee
Wednesday, October 14, Admin Committee, HOLD-CANCELLED
Tuesday, October 20, 11:30 a.m. All-Day Work Session
Thursday, October 22, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
Tuesday, October 27, 4:30 p.m. Governance Committee

Individuals should check BoardDocs for the agenda for School Board meetings since there are closed meetings that often occur before the public portion of the meeting begins.

School Board Regular Meetings and Work Sessions are broadcast live and available to the public on several platforms:

FCPS Cable TV Channel 99 (Verizon Channel 11),
FCPS YouTube Channel, and
FCPS website

If you miss the live broadcast of any School Board Meeting or Work Session, you can also watch archived broadcasts:

FCPS YouTube channel (English), and
FCPS en Español YouTube channel (dubbed in Spanish)

** Dates & times are subject to change. Please check the FCPS School Board Meetings website for the latest information.

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.

Contact: Ilryong Moon | 571-423-1089

Director: Sarah Park | 571-423-1074

Staff Assistant: Dane Pototsky | 571-423-1074

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