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Marcia’s Message
The past few days have been a lovely reminder of what makes our Franconia community special: the creativity of our students, the dedication of our school teams, and the connections that bring generations together.
On Friday, October 23, I enjoyed celebrating Edison High School’s production of Seussical: The Musical. Congratulations to the cast, crew, and theatre team for bringing this beloved story to life and sharing the joy of live theatre with our community. Bravo, Edison!
That community spirit was everywhere on Saturday, October 24, as Groveton Elementary School celebrated its 150th anniversary. I was especially moved by the student ambassadors who guided guests through the displays, using their note cards and knowledge of Groveton’s history to help us appreciate the school’s legacy. The PTA hosted a number of fun activities, featuring booths run by high school students from West Potomac HS, and including face painting and soccer. Principal James Swoger and his amazing staff worked to make the celebration such a success.
It meant a great deal to see so many people come together for Groveton. We were joined by Virginia State Senator Scott Surovell, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chair Jeffrey McKay, Franconia District Supervisor Rodney Lusk, Mount Vernon District School Board Representative Mateo Dunne, At-Large School Board Member Ilryong Moon, FCPS Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid, Region 3 Assistant Superintendent Ray Lonnett, and Region 3 Executive Principal Dr. Ingrid Bynum. Groveton has been a cornerstone of the Route 1 community for 150 years, and Saturday’s celebration honored the generations of students, families, staff, and alumni who have shaped its story.
Student voice was also at the heart of our Thursday, October 22, School Board meeting. I congratulated staff on school accreditation and shared my concern that the state has shortened the accountability window for multilingual learners from 11 semesters to three. This timeline does not reflect the time students may need to learn English while mastering academic content. I also spoke in support of assessing students’ knowledge in their native languages, including in subjects such as chemistry and history, so we can recognize what they know beyond their English proficiency.
Franconia resident and student representative Newt Shosteck spoke about the Student Leadership Development Program and how it helped set him on his path to student leadership. He shared that a teacher encouraged him to apply, even though he learned about the program late in the application period. Newt encouraged students interested in school governance and making a difference to apply, and asked high school teachers to share the opportunity with their students. If you’re a student who would like to learn more and take part, applications are due November 6. Please click below to watch Newt’s remarks, and find application information under Student & Family Opportunities.
One more reminder: Please share your perspective through the Schools and Buildings in the Renovation Queue Survey. Look for the survey sent to your email on Friday, October 16, and complete it by October 31. More details are listed under FCPS News You Need.
Kind Regards,
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 Student Voice at the Board Meeting
 During Student Representative Matters at the October 22 School Board meeting, Franconia resident and student representative Newt Shosteck encouraged students to apply to the Student Leadership Development Program. He described it as the catalyst for his current role and a valuable way to get involved in school governance. Newt also raised concerns that proposed technology whitelist restrictions could discourage student innovation and limit access to legitimate educational resources. He urged the Board to consider students’ perspectives as it works to create a safe, welcoming, and innovative learning environment.
Watch Newt’s remarks at the October 22 School Board meeting.
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Lewis Celebrates Joan Kelleher, Virginia School Psychologist of the Year
Joan Kelleher, a bilingual school psychologist at Lewis High School, has been named Virginia School Psychologist of the Year! Since joining FCPS in 2014, Joan has championed culturally and linguistically responsive practices and helped students feel safe, heard, and confident.
Please join Lewis in congratulating Joan on this well-deserved honor!
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Congratulations to
Lewis HS Musicians!
Lewis High School musicians auditioned for and placed in the Senior Regional Orchestra this year, including the Marching Lancers Drum Major and clarinet player extraordinaire! This is a highly competitive full orchestra group made up of students from Fairfax and Prince William Counties, and Alexandria and Manassas Park City Schools.
The Senior Regional Orchestra Concert is free and open to the public, and will take place on Saturday November 14th at 3:00 p.m. at Patriot High School, located at 10504 Kettle Run Rd, Nokesville, VA 20181.
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Lewis Marching Lancers Take Second at Invitational
Congratulations to the Lewis Marching Lancers on their performance at the Woodbridge Viking Invitational on October 3, 2026! The band earned second place in music and second place overall in Class A.
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Edison Academy Annual Haunted House:
The Forsaken Facility-Abandoned Hospital Awaits
When: Wednesday, October 28, 4–9 p.m.
Where: Edison High School, 5801 Franconia Road, Alexandria, VA
Enter through: Door 13
Admission: $1
Theme: Abandoned hospital
Hosted by: Edison’s Electrical Construction & Engineering program
Please note: Elementary and middle school students must be accompanied by an adult.
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Hayfield Secondary School Music Honor Society
Trunk or Treat
The annual Trunk or Treat will be held on October 29th from 5:30-7:30 PM in the Hayfield Senior Lot.
There will be trunks decorated and filled with candy, games for your students and families to enjoy, and musical performances by the members of the Hayfield Music Honor Society.
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🚸Explore SafeWalkr!
FCPS Safe Routes to School is excited to invite some of our Franconia families to try SafeWalkr, a new interactive walking map tool developed by Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology students in collaboration with our team!
If you live within the following piloted schools’ designated walking boundary, explore information about sidewalks, road crossings, and crossing guard locations to help plan your walk to school:
- Bush Hill Elementary School
- Hayfield Secondary School
- Mount Eagle Elementary School
- Twain Middle School
Go to the SafeWalkr tool, select [school name], and explore a route with your child. Review current conditions and consider your child’s abilities and supervision needs before walking. The tool does not change walking boundaries or transportation eligibility. Help us improve SafeWalkr by sharing your feedback during the pilot. Thank you for supporting safe, active trips to school!
FCPS Named a Purple Star Division
Every FCPS school has earned Virginia’s Purple Star Designation, making FCPS the largest Purple Star School Division in Virginia. The designation recognizes schools that support military-connected students and families. More than 12,600 military-connected students attend FCPS.
This achievement reflects the work of staff and student ambassadors who help students feel welcome and connected when they join our schools. I am extremely proud and thankful to everyone at FCPS who helped make this goal a reality.
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Lights On After-School: Celebrating
Out-of-School Time
Wednesday, October 28
5:45–8:30 p.m.
South County Middle School
- Learn about after-school program offerings from 10 different middle schools, including Hayfield SS, Key MS and Twain MS.
- Get information about teen programs through Fairfax County Neighborhood and Community Services.
- Join us for trivia night.
- Enjoy a spotlight on the VIP Camp 2026 reunion.
Register today
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🗣️REMINDER: 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.
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.
Apply by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026.
🗺️World Affairs Club Student Essay Contest
Fairfax County Public Schools students in grades 7–12 are invited to enter “Alliances That Sustain America,” a countywide essay contest organized by Langley’s World Affairs Club in partnership with the Delegation of the European Union to the United States. Students can explore how the relationship between Europe and the United States has shaped the American story.
Essays must be 650 words or fewer and are due December 1, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
Every entrant will receive a certificate signed by the EU Ambassador, and the top three students in each division will be honored at the EU Delegation in Washington, D.C. Find contest rules and entry details at langleyworldaffairs.org/2026-essay-contest.
🪖Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8241
2026–2027
Patriotic Contests and Educator Awards
The U.S. Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 8241 invites local middle and high school students and educators to participate in this year’s patriotic essay contests and teacher recognition program!
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Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12): High schoolers can express their views on democratic principles by submitting a written essay and a 3-to-5-minute audio recording based on this year’s theme, "What a Veteran Taught Me About America".
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Patriot’s Pen (Grades 6–8): Middle schoolers can share their perspectives in a 300-to-400-word essay centered on the theme, "What a Veteran Taught Me About America".
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Smart/Maher VFW National Citizenship Education Teacher Award (K–12 Educators): Nominate an outstanding teacher who promotes citizenship, civic responsibility, and patriotism in the classroom.
Submission Details
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Deadline: October 31, 2026
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How to Submit: Digital entries (essays, audio files, and official forms) should be emailed directly to vfw8241@gmail.com (alternate: qm@vfw8241.org). No thumb drive required!
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Forms & Eligibility: Access official entry forms and guidelines at vfw.org/community/youth-and-education.
Contact VFW Post 8241 with questions at vfw8241@gmail.com.
REMINDER:
Applications Open for Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Eighth graders who have an aptitude and passion for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) are encouraged to apply for admission to the Class of 2031 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST).
The application is now available. Applications must be started by 4 p.m. Wednesday, October 28, with a submission deadline of 4 p.m. Friday, October 30. Visit the TJHSST registration page for more information, including a schedule of upcoming information sessions at middle schools.
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🚗Get Driver Education from a Trusted Source
When it’s time for your teen to learn safe driving, you can trust FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE) for comprehensive and low-cost driver education programs taught by certified instructors.
From Learner’s Permit Test Prep through Behind-the-Wheel training, FCPS ACE covers all the required classes for teen licensure. Classes are offered at convenient locations, usually at your child’s base high school.
With expert instruction and a strong focus on safety, students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to become responsible drivers. Spaces are limited and fill quickly, so don’t wait! Get more information and register through FCPS ACE.
🏠Upcoming Family Resource Center Events
The FCPS Family Resource Center is offering webinars and peer programs to help families support students and connect with community resources.
Sibshops and SibTeens
Tuesday, November 3 | 9 a.m.–12 p.m.
Katherine Johnson Middle School
3801 Jermantown Road, Fairfax, VA
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Sibshops is for children in grades 2–5 who have a sibling with a disability. Children can enjoy games and art activities and connect with peers who share similar family experiences. Register for Sibshops
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SibTeens is for FCPS students in grades 6–8 who have a sibling with support needs. Recreational and art-based activities and discussion offer students a chance to share their experiences and support one another. Register for SibTeens
Upcoming Webinars
Each webinar is online from 10–11:30 a.m.
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Transition Planning: Decision-Making Alternatives for Families of Individuals with Disabilities
Friday, October 30
Learn about guardianship, conservatorship, powers of attorney, and advance medical directives, including how these options may affect a young adult’s rights and independence. This session is educational and does not provide legal advice.
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Expanding Your Knowledge of Available Community Resources
Friday, November 6
Representatives from FCPS and community organizations will share resources for education, advocacy, disability services, and family support.
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A Better School Year Starts Now: Preventing Missing Work, Poor Grades, and Homework Stress
Tuesday, November 10
Explore study strategies, productive ways to talk about school, and how to respond when a student is struggling with grades.
For more information, contact the Family Resource Center at frc@fcps.edu or 703-204-3941.
Community Opportunities & Information
Fairfax County Department Of Family Services
Join us this fall for virtual and in-person FREE classes for parents of kids 0-18 years old:
Parenting 12–18-year-olds
Ongoing through Dec. 17, 2026
Parents of 12–18-year-olds, it's not too late to register for our Monday-night in-person class in Spanish or our Thursday-night virtual class in English. Topics include adolescent development, healthy self-concept, self-control and self-esteem.
Fairfax County staff can click here to submit a family enrollment form. Others should email us or call 703-324-7720 to register.
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🩷Know a “Sweet Teacher”?
Do you know a teacher who makes an exceptional impact on students, families, and our school community? Give them a Sweet Teacher Shoutout! Thirty Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs) will be selected to receive $1,250 from National PTA to celebrate an exceptional teacher in their community!
🔥Fuel Assistance Opens October 13
Cooler weather increases heating costs, which can be difficult for anyone on a limited income. The Fuel Assistance program helps pay heating costs for eligible households. Some people will be pre-approved and others will need to apply. Applications will be accepted from October 13 until November 13.
To apply for Fuel Assistance, or other food and medical benefits, visit CommonHelp or call 855-635-4370.
🎗️World Day of Remembrance for
Road Traffic Victims
Fairfax County will observe the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, sponsored by Northern Virginia Families for Safe Streets and its Fairfax chapter. The event will honor those who have lost their lives to traffic violence and bring the community together to support safer streets. Chairman McKay, Superintendent Reid, and other county leaders are expected to attend. Learn more on the Fairfax County calendar.
🎸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.
FCPS News You Need
🏗️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.
Look for the survey sent to your email on 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, 2026.
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.
📚Virtual Lexia Family Nights and
Webinar Series
Join the Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) English Language Arts Team for a virtual information session on how Lexia Core5 and Lexia PowerUp are being used in classrooms this school year to support student literacy growth. Hosted by FCPS ELA Specialist Theresa Lieteau, this session will give families a closer look at these programs and an opportunity to ask questions.
What will be covered?
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Program Basics: How Core5 and PowerUp adapt to meet your student's individual learning needs.
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In the Classroom: How teachers use Lexia to support planning and daily instruction.
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Data & Goals: How educators monitor progress and set learning goals using Lexia data.
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Device Usage & AI: Addressing family questions around screen time, program interaction, and AI concerns.
Upcoming Virtual Session
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Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
All sessions are virtual via Zoom. Join directly at bit.ly/2627FamilyZoom from any device.
Join a Lexia Family Information Night Session Literacy Webinar Series
Join us for a series of family-friendly webinars designed to help you understand reading assessments, reading plans, and ways to support your child at home. Learn what assessment results mean, how reading plans guide instruction, and practical strategies to strengthen decoding, language, comprehension, and literacy skills, including support for multilingual learners.
- December 15, 2026: What Is a Reading Plan?
- February 19, 2027: How Do I Support My Child With a Reading Plan at Home?
- May 14, 2027: Continuing Reading Success Through the Summer
Register for the Literacy Webinar Series.
🚸FCPS Is Participating in Virginia Quality Birth to Five (VQB5)
Virginia Quality Birth to Five is Virginia’s system for measuring and supporting quality in early childhood programs so children enter kindergarten ready to learn. VQB5 builds on health and safety standards by measuring the quality of teacher-child interactions and the use of the curriculum. Visit the Virginia Quality Birth to Five website for more information.
Free National Parks Pass for Fourth Graders🏞️
All fourth graders are eligible for a free National Parks pass that allows the fourth grader, all children under age 16, and up to 3 adults to have access to hundreds of National Parks sites for free during the eligible child’s fourth grade year. To get your free pass, sign up at the Every Kid Outdoors webpage.
Please note that you will need a printer to print the paper certificate, and then exchange the paper certificate for the laminated pass at one of the designated locations. We hear that they do want the paper certificate and generally do not accept a screenshot.
📝REMINDER: Please Return Your
Federal Impact Aid Survey
FCPS is asking all families to fill out a Federal Impact Aid Survey. The form is available in SIS ParentVUE under Online Packets, which is in the upper right corner of the screen after logging in. Please complete it as soon as possible. Schools will provide paper forms to families who have not completed the survey in ParentVUE starting Wednesday, October 28.
Completing this form for each school-aged child in every household is how we ensure we receive all the resources available to us from the federal government. For more information, please visit the Federal Impact Aid Survey page.
SACC Program Closed on Veterans Day🎖️
The School Aged Child Care (SACC) program will be closed on Veterans Day. Veterans Day is a regular school day for FCPS and a holiday for County employees. SACC will be closed for before/after school care.
 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, November 10, 2026, at 11:30 a.m.
Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
- Thursday, November 12, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
School Board Committee Meetings (Gatehouse Administration Center)
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Governance Committee: Tuesday, October 27, 2026 at 4:30 p.m.
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Administration Committee: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at 4:30 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.
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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
👩💻 Don't Forget to Follow On Social Media 👨💻
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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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