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November Newsletter 

Message from Ilryong Moon

Voting early!

As November begins, I want to express my sincere appreciation to the students, families, staff, and community members who make Fairfax County Public Schools such a caring and connected community. Your time, commitment, and support help our schools create meaningful opportunities for students and strengthen the neighborhoods we serve. 

Thanksgiving offers an opportunity to reflect on the partnerships that help FCPS thrive. Our schools are more than places where students learn during the school day; they are gathering places for the wider Fairfax County community. Each year, FCPS facilities host more than 500,000 events and welcome millions of visitors. From school gyms and athletic fields to other shared spaces, our buildings support learning, recreation, and connection for people of all ages.

These community uses reflect the important relationship between our schools and the people they serve. Families, local organizations, and community groups bring energy and purpose to our buildings throughout the year, while those partnerships help make our schools welcoming spaces for everyone. As we enter the holiday season, I’m grateful for all who contribute to this spirit of connection and for the many ways our community comes together in support of students and one another.

With that being said, many of our schools will turn into polling sites very soon, as Election Day is Tuesday, November 3rd. For those who have not already voted early like myself, polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Your assigned voting precinct and location can be found on the Fairfax County Office of Elections website. Your Voice Matters! Voting ensures that decisions reflect the experiences and needs of our diverse communities in Fairfax County, whether it be at the local, state, or federal level.

I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a joyful and restful Thanksgiving, with time to pause, reconnect, and appreciate the people who matter most.

Best,

Ilryong Moon

What's Happened in October

World Languages Discussion 

K-Speech Contest

Educational Technology Discussion

Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington Luncheon

South County Marching Band Competition

South Lakes High School Homecoming Parade and Football Game

Bulletin

Rock for Schools II: Benefit Concert for Educate Fairfax

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

Special Education Family Conference

Fairfax County School Board Student Leadership Development Program

Plan Ahead: Calendar Reminders

What's Happened in October

Visiting Ms. Hyewon Kang’s Korean Language class at Woodson High School!

World Languages Discussion

Since my Board service began nearly thirty years ago, FCPS has expanded its world language programming. This is especially important, given the rich cultural diversity in our county. With that in mind, FCPS policies and offerings are falling short of its goal of offering a “world-class” education in terms of language acquisition. There is a lack of consistency in terms of course offerings across schools within the county, opportunities to earn college credit in all languages, and overall transparency in terms of where the district is headed.

As I mentioned during the October 20 Work Session, I believe that every FCPS student should have the opportunity to graduate speaking more than one language fluently and to use their language skills to acquire college credit and most importantly, be more prepared for the global workforce.

Another underlying problem in this is the role that the College Board plays in terms of offering a minimal amount of AP language exams for students to earn college credit. The College Board does not offer AP exams in Arabic, Korean, Russian, Portuguese, and a variety of other languages that are studied and spoken by thousands of students in FCPS. Given the monopoly that the College Board has on these tests, there is no reason they should not have the resources or capacity to create AP courses and tests for these languages as well. I call on the Superintendent’s office to advocate for the development of these additional AP language exams, so that our multilingual students can gain recognition for their language acquisition skills and achievements.

While on the subject of world language courses in FCPS, I was happy to recently visit two new FCPS Korean world language programs. Ms. Mimi Kang’s course at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology is comprised of Level 2, Level 3, and Korean for Careers Honors students. Ms. Hyewon Kang’s class at Woodson High School is comprised of Level 1 students.   Thank you to both teachers, Woodson principal Kevin Greata, and Thomas Jefferson principal Michael Mukai for allowing myself and members of the Republic of Korea Embassy to visit and observe these classes!

Bottom Left: Posing for a photo with Robinson Secondary student Daniel Fiser

K-Speech Contest

I recently visited the Republic of Korea at my own expense to support an FCPS student participating in a Korean speech competition. The participants represented 27 countries in addition to 100 from Korea. Though the competition is an annual event, this year marked a special occasion—the 100th anniversary of Hangul Day (Hangul: Korean written language).

Robinson High School and Fairfax Academy Korean language student Daniel Fiser participated in the competition as a non-native Korean speaker in his second year of learning the language. Daniel received an Outstanding Speaker Award for his excellent performance. 

I’ve been fortunate to have worked with Daniel for 7 months to prepare for this competition, helping him on pronunciation and enunciation, providing comments on the speech itself, providing guidance on how to deliver a speech in front of a large crowd, and finding venues to rehearse. He has worked extremely hard to improve his craft throughout this process.

Congratulations to Daniel for this outstanding accomplishment!

Educational Technology Discussion

During the October 8 School Board Regular Meeting, I supported two motions that evaluate the cost and instructional efficacy of instructional digital applications used in FCPS.

Lexia and Reading Interventions

The first motion focuses on Lexia, a computer-based program used by FCPS for reading interventions. Under Virginia’s Early Intervention Reading Initiative (EIRI), established through the Virginia Literacy Act (VLA), students in kindergarten through third grade who score in the high-risk range on the Virginia Language and Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) assessment to receive 150 minutes of reading intervention each week. FCPS  currently meets this requirement through 75 minutes of teacher-led intervention and 75 minutes of Lexia, which is a Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for these interventions. As a result, a substantial  portion of our reading interventions is delivered through a computer program rather than by trained instructors or educators.

This first motion directs the Superintendent Dr. Reid to conduct an expedited review of the Lexia’s cost and instructional efficacy. The review must include (i) independent research, not funded by the vendor, of their instructional efficacy and (ii) a comparison with the instructional efficacy of alternative methods of instruction to meet EIRI requirements. Dr. Reid shall identify alternate reading resources approved by the VDOE or otherwise available for use by the school division that are supported by independent research. 

Through Dr. Reid’s recommendation to the Board, families will also have the option to “opt-out” of Lexia in favor of in-person intervention. As I raised with Dr. Reid and Chief Academic Officer Sloan Presidio during the meeting, however, several questions remain unanswered: How will in-person interventions be provided for students who opt out of Lexia? What will the budget impact be? How will the change affect students and staff operationally? 

I am calling for a more detailed and comprehensive response, now that the VALSS screening assessments for kindergarten students have been completed by the end of October.

EdTech Instructional Applications

The second motion directs Dr. Reid to evaluate the cost and instructional efficacy of centrally provided, core instructional applications and software for elementary schools (excluding Microsoft Office, Google Suite (Google Workspace), and similar apps and software that are widely employed in the classroom, to include, to the maximum extent practicable, (i) independent research, not funded by the vendor, of their instructional efficacy and (ii) alternative instructional methods. 

FCPS currently lists 416 approved Instructional Digital Resources for elementary school students in its Digital Ecosystem. 

I look forward to the findings from these reviews. Data-driven research and transparency will help us make informed decisions that benefit all stakeholders and support FCPS’ goal of providing a world-class education.

L to R: Consul General of Korean Embassy Inseok Moon, Silvia Patton, Virginia Congressman James Walkinshaw (11th District), Chair of Family Counseling Elaine Kang, Me, Keynote Speaker Rev. Dr. John Huh

Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington Luncheon

I attended the 52nd Anniversary Fundraising Luncheon for the Family Counseling Center of Greater Washington (FCCGW) to support a great organization. Created in 1972, FCCGW provides counseling and mental health services to Asian immigrants and first-generation Americans in Fairfax county, including those in FCPS.

Keynote Speaker Rev. Dr. John Huh made many important points in his speech that resonated with me. He noted the "last to go in, first to come out" (LIFO) concept in which many in immigrant communities and households are reluctant to seek mental health and counseling support, and are quick to give up due to high costs or the time and resources it takes to utilize such support. He also mentioned an emphasis on enhanced cultural competency when it comes to providing counseling and mental health services.

In many cases, health support providers are increasingly using AI to help address these needs, in combination with traditional methods. These AI health platforms are not culturally competent enough to adequately understand the unique aspects of mental health care support. I potentially see similar problems with AI in the school setting as well, in that there are aspects that cannot be replicated or replaced without the appropriate cultural competencies in place.

Top Right: Me with Madison HS Drum Major Daniel Lee, as he holds the 1st place trophy!

South County Marching Band Competition

In an event featuring thirteen FCPS high school marching bands and 26 overall bands from around the area, the South County Invitational had no shortage of excitement. The bands showcased the musicianship, precision, and teamwork they have built through months of practice. From the opening notes to the final formation, students brought energy and school spirit to every moment. 

The James Madison High School Marching Ensemble received the highest score of the day (94.1), winning the Class 6 group and receiving the caption awards for Music, General Effect, and Color Guard. The Centreville High School Marching Wildcats finished first place in the the Class 5 group.

I always enjoy attending marching band competitions, as they showcase the superior performing arts programs we have in FCPS, across the district. 

A special thank you to South County Marching Band percussion instructor Grant Butters for the invitation and to South County Director of Bands Kevin Engdahl for his hospitality and allowing me to participate in presenting students with awards at the end of the competition.

Left: With fellow SBM Melanie Meren (Hunter Mill) Top: L to R- Delegate Karen Keys-Gamarra, Hunter Mill Supervisor Walter Alcorn, Principal Carlos Seward, State Senator Jennifer Boysko (front row)

South Lakes High School Homecoming Parade and Football Game 

My next visit took me to Reston for South Lakes High School’s homecoming weekend. After marching as part of the parade, I entered a packed stadium for a heavyweight matchup between the 6-1 Seahawks and the visiting 6-1 Madison Warhawks. 

Both schools filled the stadium to capacity by the opening kickoff. After jumping out to a 26-14 lead by half-time, the Warhawks came back to make it 28-26 towards the end of the 3rd quarter. The Seahawks ultimately pulled away to win 40-28, and move ahead in the Concorde District standings. It was truly an exhilarating game with high energy throughout, enhanced by both the competitive atmosphere, and the Spirit of Reston South Lakes Marching Seahawks.

Thank you to South Lakes Principal Carlos Seward for the invitation and good luck to both teams as they continue their aspirations for district, region, and state success!

Bulletin

Rock for Schools II: Benefit Concert for Educate Fairfax

Join Educate Fairfax on Sunday, November 8, at Jammin’ Java in Vienna for the second annual Rock for Schools benefit concert! Three bands with FCPS ties will come together for an evening of live music, with a portion of ticket sales benefiting Educate Fairfax, the official nonprofit foundation supporting Fairfax County Public Schools. Through grants, scholarships, and community partnerships, Educate Fairfax helps remove barriers to learning and expand opportunities for FCPS students and educators.

Meet the Bands:

The Pool Boys – A high-energy rock cover band featuring Dan Blanchet, social studies department chair at Madison High School.

The Aftermath – A party pop-rock band performing favorites from the '80s through today, featuring Molly Jepsen, a math teacher at Madison High School.

The Randos – Bringing back the glory days of MTV, featuring Beau Dure, an FCPS substitute teacher.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
• Location: Jammin’ Java, Vienna, VA
• Doors Open: 4:00 p.m.
• Live Music Begins: 5:00 p.m.

Bring your friends, family, and fellow FCPS supporters for a fun evening of music while supporting our students and educators!

Purchase Tickets Here

Tickets will also be available at the door on the night of the concert.

Great music. Great cause. Stronger schools!

Contact

Liz Brocato

Program Specialist, Educate Fairfax

liz@educatefairfax.org

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims

Please join Northern Virginia Families for Safe Streets (NoVA FSS) and its Fairfax FSS chapter on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Woodson High School in Fairfax for Fairfax County’s observance of the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims. This annual event is free and open to the public.

Since last year’s observance, 30 people have been killed on Northern Virginia streets while walking, biking, or rolling. Behind every number is a person whose life mattered, a family grieving a profound loss, and a community changed forever.

Our call to action: smarter street design, safer speed limits, speed safety cameras, and stop sign cameras in school zones are among the proven solutions that can help save lives.

The program will include elected leaders, law enforcement officials, and school board members reflecting on how we can do better.

Your presence matters. By attending, you’ll join others in honoring those we’ve lost and showing our elected decisionmakers that our community supports meaningful investments in road safety.

EVENT DETAILS

Sunday, November 15, 2026 | 10:30 a.m.
Woodson High School, Cavalier Hall
9525 Main St., Fairfax, VA 22031
Get directions

Event details: World Day of Remembrance

Learn more about Fairfax Families for Safe Streets

Special Education Family Conference

Register now to attend the annual Special Education Family Conference: Connected Communities, Thriving Students.

• Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
• Time: 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Location: Hayfield Secondary School

This no-cost, in-person event brings together families, staff, and community partners to explore special education services, supports, and resources and to build meaningful connections. The conference will feature an inspiring opening session, engaging breakout sessions, and an exhibitor hall. Lunch will be provided. Visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information.

Fairfax County School Board Student Leadership Development Program

The Fairfax County School Board Student Leadership Development Program (SBSLDP) strives to increase the students’ knowledge of the workings of the School Board while offering training in leadership and communication skills. Students will learn to work collaboratively and eventually hold their own mock forum and work session.

Applications are due by 11:59 PM on Friday, November 6, 2026. No Late applications will be accepted.

Plan Ahead

Calendar Reminders

Election Day and Student Holiday

Friday, October 30, was the last day of the first quarter. Schools are closed for students on Monday, November 2 for a school planning day, and Tuesday, November 3 for Election Day.

Thanksgiving

Schools are closed from Wednesday, November 25- Friday, November 27 in observance of Thanksgiving.

See the complete school year calendar.

Upcoming School Board Business & Meeting

Broadcast & open to the public:

• Wednesday, November 4, 4:30 p.m. Administration Committee Meeting
• Tuesday, November 10, 11:30 a.m. All-Day Work Session
• Tuesday, November 10, 6:00 p.m. Middle School AAP Center Phase Two Public Hearing
• Thursday, November 12, 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting
• Monday, November 16, 4:30 p.m. Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee
• Tuesday, November 17, 4:30 p.m. Public Engagement 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.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

Contact: Ilryong Moon | 571-423-1089

Director: Sarah Park | 571-423-1074

Staff Assistant: Dane Pototsky | 571-423-1074