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The Braddock Buzz: Impact Award Winners, Purple Star Division Award, Unified Communities & More
Hello Neighbors!
I hope you all are enjoying this amazing fall weather, along with all of the wonderful activities around the district such as homecoming, athletic competitions, and trunk-or-treats. It’s been great being able to get out into the community and see all that is happening around Braddock.
I also want to flag a couple opportunities for input (further details are below):
- The School Board Student Leadership Development Program is accepting applications until November 6th.
- FCPS is seeking input from community members, families, and employees about school facility needs and how we prioritize facility improvements.
Last Tuesday, several Braddock teams kicked off their competition season in the Patriot District Cheerleading competition including Robinson, Lake Braddock, West Springfield, and Woodson. Last night, in a full-circle moment, my staff assistant, Jaclyn (a Robinson cheerleading alumni) got to watch all these teams perform, along with Robinson taking home the Patriot District title! Congratulations to all of the teams from the Braddock District who competed!
 On Wednesday, I attended the Community Boundary discussion at Cardinal Forest Elementary followed by the Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) meeting, where we talked through our work agenda for the coming year.
Last Thursday, Robinson and Lake Braddock held a joint Community Resource Fair, where a number of FCPS and County offices had tables for families to learn about all that is available to them. Some of these resources included Fairfax County Department of Family Services, the Fairfax County Public Library, the Mott Community Center, the FCPS Office of Community Relations, and the FCPS Office of the Ombuds, which serves as an independent, confidential resource for students, families, community members, and employees who are seeking informal help to answer questions, resolve concerns, and voice complaints regarding FCPS matters.
 Finally, I wrapped the week up by participating in the Lake Braddock Homecoming parade, along with my colleague Ryan McElveen (Member At-Large) and Congressman James Walkinshaw. The Bruins team put together a great parade and really showcased their community spirit!
The Board has our next Regular Meeting tomorrow, where we’ll be discussing school accreditation and the availability of Pre-K programs and on Tuesday, we’ll be discussing a number of policies at our Governance meeting, including around Educational Technology. I’ll be hosting an Ed Tech Town Hall on Sunday evening to discuss these draft policies and get your inputs. Please email me for the invitation.
As always, I welcome your inputs and questions. You can email me at Braddock@fcps.edu. You are also welcome to attend School Board meetings (schedule) and register to share your thoughts with us during community participation (sign-up).
Yours in Service,
Tom Dannan
Braddock District Representative
Braddock Bravos
 The FCPS Impact Awards recognizes employees who are committed to collaboration, equity, innovation, and student achievement. The Individual and Team awards from the Braddock District were:
Collaboration and Partnerships Individual Impact Award Winner
Alejandra Peña-Ulloa
Family Liaison, Lake Braddock Secondary School
Alejandra is a champion for equity. As a Spanish-speaking family liaison, she transcends translation to become a vital navigator for families. Alejandra revitalized the Hispanic Parent Group, growing it from 10 to 40+ families, and established strategic partnerships with Edu-Futuro to launch parent and college-readiness programs. By removing digital barriers and proactively creating bilingual resources, she has ensured that parents are empowered advocates. She provides students support and information so that they have a choice in their future. Her tireless, patient leadership makes her a strong community pillar.
Student Achievement and Success Individual Impact Award Winner
Rejane Martins Nangle
Multilingual Learner Teacher, Irving Middle School
In her role as department chair, Rejane oversees programming and supports staff in meeting the diverse needs of the Irving multilingual population. She approaches this responsibility with careful attention to individual strengths and challenges, and she ensures that each student has a clear plan for progress. Her colleagues rely on her to design interventions, to advise on accommodations, and to coordinate assessments and follow-up so that student achievement plans are not just created, but they are actively implemented and monitored.
Collaboration and Partnerships Team Impact Award Winner
Kevin Crenshaw, Aki Goto, Angela Harrison, Colin Reed Jones, Kwabena O. Kwabiah, Maria E. Lopez, Marianne McLaughlin, Nate Morgan, Ashley Neal, Jacob O’Brien, Megan Pitts, Eileen Reap, Rebecca Stroud, and Bill Wilkinson
Woodson Partnership Plus Team
The Partnership Plus team is a powerful collaboration between the Woodson Partnership class, Buddies Club, Adapted Curriculum team, and Unified Sports. By bringing together students from both general and adapted curricula, this team fosters a culture where inclusivity is a fundamental component. Throughout the year, students and staff co-organize impactful social events including seasonal parties, tailgates, a "Day Prom," and a dedicated graduation ceremony. These experiences enrich the lives of every student, extending their influence far beyond the classroom to create a more connected and compassionate school community.
Congratulations to all of the winners from the Braddock District! The impact you have through the work you do for our students is so important!
 In Rachel Pryately’s health and physical education (PE) classes at Holmes Middle School, students are encouraged to move, try something new, and grow at their own pace. Rachel teaches both general education PE and adapted PE, creating engaging lessons that accommodate students’ different abilities, interests, and needs. Her goal is for every student to take part in activities, feel safe, and succeed.
“Her caring and inclusive approach is especially evident in her self-contained adapted PE course,” said former Holmes Principal Serena Giron. “She thoughtfully plans instruction that meets the diverse needs of her students while promoting confidence, belonging, and growth.”
Rachel brings the same creativity to her general education classes. She builds interactive units in health and PE, offers students choices, and connects lessons to real-life situations. In a supportive classroom and gym, students can explore new interests and build on the skills they already have.
Colleague Mary Keane, a multilingual learner teacher, has seen students connecting with Rachel — even those she does not teach.
“Rachel demonstrates calm, care, and support in each and every interaction she has with students, Keane said. “Her genuine good nature shines through, and her ability to connect with kids is unique and truly special.”
Beyond her classroom, Rachel is deeply involved in school and extracurricular activities that reflect her commitment to inclusion, leadership, and civic engagement. She helped organize a schoolwide activity day with games designed to include all students. She also planned and facilitated a field trip to the Annandale High School Feet Meet, a Special Olympics event offering students meaningful opportunities to participate in and celebrate inclusive athletics. Inclusive athletics brings together individuals with and without disabilities to play, train, and compete together.
 Robinson Secondary’s Golf team was the Runner Up at the VHSL Golf Championship.
Robinson’s Armaan Osterman also took home 1st place winning the individual State title with a score of -5. Robinson Golf has had a great season winning both their District title and Region title, and finishing the season as State Runner Ups. Congratulations on a great season!
Shining a Light on Success: Canterbury Woods Elementary School
 Dr. Reid’s Shining a Light on Success featured Canterbury Woods Elementary School. Canterbury Woods shows us how care, connection, and high expectations create a community where every student can thrive. Through inclusive daily practices and strong partnerships between staff, students, and families, Canterbury Woods nurtures courageous learners. They embrace a culture of excellence that in turn helps students to build Portrait of a Graduates skills that will serve them well long after they graduate from Canterbury Woods.
Woodson High School Student Earns an Internship after FCPS AI Challenge
 Last year’s FCPS AI Challenge invited students to create solutions and apps using artificial intelligence. Woodson High School student Joelle Rice earned an Honorable Mention for her programming work. After seeing Joelle’s talent, PlayLab offered her an internship. During the spring and summer, she created learning modules that will help prepare students for PlayLab competitions across the country.
At Woodson, through structured opportunities, students used those modules to explore how AI can help them build apps and create media, and how to choose the right AI model for different tasks. No coding or computer science experience was needed. Allowing students to explore newer technologies, such as AI, in a safe environment, supports Goal 5 of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan: Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation.
Annandale High School: A Unified Community
Last week, Annandale High School hosted a Special Olympics Unified Sports Workshop in partnership with Special Olympics Virginia. (A team photo of their Annandale team is shared above.) Staff from 27 FCPS schools came together to learn about starting or expanding Unified Sports programming at their schools. The strong participation and enthusiasm from schools reflect the continued momentum toward our goal of bringing Unified Sports programming to every FCPS school.
One of the highlights of the workshop was hearing directly from Annandale students who shared their experiences and the impact Unified Sports has had on their lives. Students spoke about the meaningful relationships they have built, the opportunities they have led, and the sense of belonging that comes from being part of an inclusive school community. Annandale senior Anna Salamon said, “Special Olympics and Annandale gave me the chance to interact and build relationships with students I normally wouldn't interact with. Unified Sports erased that barrier."
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In addition to Special Olympics: Unified Sports, the Annandale High School Unified Orchestra put on a fantastic performance at Gatehouse Administration Center last Friday. Orchestra Director Annie Ray shares the following about the two groups that make up the Unified Orchestra, “Crescendo Orchestra is an inclusive orchestra designed for students with significant disabilities, where students learn to play orchestral instruments through adapted instruction while developing musical skills such as rhythm, pitch, technique, ensemble awareness, and performance independence.”
ATOMS Buskers is a 100% student-led and student-rehearsed gig group made up of Annandale Orchestra students. Students choose their music, organize rehearsals, and prepare performances independently, building leadership, confidence, and giving back to the community.” During this wonderful performance, the students showcased each ensemble individually and then came together to perform as a unified ensemble.
FCPS News
 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.
The SBSLDP includes students selected by each School Board Member through an application process in collaboration with the high schools and secondary schools. Once selected, the students participate in an orientation, a mock forum, and a mock work session, and they watch or attend a Board Regular Meeting and Work Session. The program culminates in a completion ceremony celebrating the hard work of the student leaders. Below are dates to which students must commit to attend in order to participate:
- January 12, 2027: Program Orientation
- April 6, 2027: Mock Forum
- May 6, 2027: Mock Work Session
- May 25, 2027 Program Graduation
Apply here by Friday, November 6, 2026. If you have any questions, please reach out to SBStudentLeadership@fcps.edu or call the School Board Office at 571-423-1075.
Share Your Thoughts on Schools and Buildings in the Renovation Queue Survey
The Office of the Chief of Facilities Services and Capital Programs is seeking input from community members, families, and employees about school facility needs and how FCPS prioritizes facility improvements.
Whether you work in an FCPS school, have a child enrolled, or live near an FCPS school, please share your perspective. The survey asks about building conditions, how facilities affect teaching and learning, renovation priorities, and what information would help you better understand this process.
You can find the survey here or in your email from Friday, October 16. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. Participation is voluntary, and all responses will be kept confidential. The survey will remain open until Saturday, October 31.
Did You Know? Bond Referendums Fund Facility Renovations
FCPS does not pay for facility renovations out of its general operating budget. Instead, Fairfax County voters decide on how much money FCPS can spend on capital improvement projects through bond referendums. Bonds are issued by the county to the school division and allow FCPS to renovate buildings without increasing taxes.
Learn more about bond referendums and how they support our schools on the Bond Referendum webpage.
Lexia Family Information Sessions
Want to learn more about Lexia® Core5 and Lexia® PowerUp? This virtual session shares how FCPS is using both programs in classrooms across the division this school year to support students’ literacy growth and give you a chance to ask questions.
- Wednesday, November 4, at 6:30 p.m.
Join the Lexia Family Information Night.
Annual Special Education Family Conference: We Need You!
Register now to attend the annual Special Education Family Conference, Connected Communities, Thriving Students, on Saturday, November 14, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Hayfield Secondary School.
Educators, families, and community members are invited to this in-person event at no cost. Participants can connect, learn, and explore available special education services, supports, and resources. Lunch will be provided for all participants. Register to attend the conference.
Volunteers Are Needed to Make This Event a Success!
Find out how to volunteer:
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Adult Volunteers: Sign up through Volunteer FCPS.
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Student Volunteers: Sign up through the Student Volunteer Interest Form. Students will receive service hours for their time.
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Student Showcase Opportunities: Students can complete the Student Participation Form to lead a performance or share information about a club or research project. Service hours will be awarded to students serving in these roles.
Visit the Special Education Family Conference webpage for more information. Email questions to SpecialEdFamilyConf@fcps.edu.
 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:
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Date: Sunday, November 8, 2026
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Location: Jammin’ Java, Vienna, VA
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Doors Open: 4:00 p.m.
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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
George Mason University Expands Direct Admissions Program to All FCPS High Schools
FCPS is partnering with George Mason University (GMU) to make the path to college more accessible for students. Through the Direct Admissions program, eligible FCPS seniors can apply to GMU without an application fee, essay, or letters of recommendation for the general application.
This school year, the program has expanded to include all FCPS high schools. Learn more about eligibility requirements and how students can take advantage of this opportunity on the FCPS Direct Admissions to GMU webpage.
Please contact the College and Career Specialist at your school with questions about the GMU Direct Admissions Program.
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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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