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Mason District Community,

Congratulations to Ms. Kristen Salonga, teacher for multilingual learners at Justice High School on her selection as a Fulbright Fellow! This is a well-deserved recognition of Ms. Salonga’s impactful work at Justice HS. 

At the School Board Regular meeting last week, I had the honor of presenting a resolution to dedicate the stadium field at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) as the Vaughn Lewis Field , after the first football coach at TJHSST. Coach Lewis inspired countless athletes and mentored numerous assistant coaches during his tenure which spanned from 1988 until 2002. Thank you to Coach Lewis for his many years of service to FCPS students.

Coach Vaughn Lewis with family, friends, and the School Board

Volunteers are needed to serve on various School Board Advisory Committees to represent the Mason District for the 2026-2027 school year. These committees meet once a month and are composed of community members, parents, students, and other stakeholders who provide input, guidance, and recommendations to the School Board on specific issues. 

If you are interested in serving, please see additional information about these volunteer opportunities below.

Graduation ceremonies are rapidly approaching. Please check the list for the graduation schedule and location for Mason District students.

•  Key Center: June 1 - 9:00 a.m., Key Center •  Quander Road School: June 1 - 2:00 p.m., Quander Road •  Bryant High School & AIM: June 1 - 5:00 p.m., Bryant HS •  Cedar Lane School: June 2 - noon, Cedar Lane School •  Mountain View HS & AIM: June 2 - 5:00 p.m., Centreville HS •  Falls Church High School: June 3 - 9:00 a.m., Eagle Bank Arena •  Interagency Alternative School: June 3 - 5:00 p.m., Bryant HS •  Woodson High School: June 4 - 9:00 a.m., Eagle Bank Arena •  Kilmer Center: June 5 - 10:30 a.m., Kilmer Center •  Pulley Center: June 5 - noon, West Potomac HS •  Edison High School: June 5 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena (date correction) •  Thomas Jefferson HSST: June 6 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena •  Justice High School: June 8 - 2:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena •  Annandale High School: June 8 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena •  Fairfax County Adult HS: June 12 - 5:30 p.m., TJHSST  

I value input from the Mason District community and will address questions or concerns via email at [email protected] or by scheduling a phone call with Ms. Coffey, at [email protected] .

In this issue:

Upcoming School Board Action• Wrestling State Champ & Runner Up • Executive Limitation 11 • Peace Awards • Student Rights & Responsibilities (SRR) • Wolf Trap Grant   • AP School Honor Roll Updates• 2026 RAMP Designation • Boundary Review Updates • U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidate • SEL Screener Reports • National Merit Finalists • Academic/Career Plan Verification • Regional Scholastic Writing Awards • Chief of Schools • All-Virginia Music Ensembles • Region 6 Assistant Superintendent • International Baccalaureate Diplomas   • Outstanding Employees In the Community  • Mason District Theatre Opportunities• FCPS Global Action Showcase • Advisory Committee Volunteers • Annandale Pyramid Art Show • Bussey Memorial Equity Award • Capitol Visit with Westlawn ES • Upcoming School Board Meetings Mason Moments  • Fulbright Fellow   • VHSL Journalist of the Year       Upcoming School Board Action Executive Limitation 11: Facilities and Transportation

While the Strategic Plan Goals are the primary factors used by the School Board to evaluate progress and achievement in Fairfax County Public Schools, the Board is also responsible for oversight of the division. The thirteen (13) Executive Limitations reflect the operational guardrails maintained by the Board for how the Superintendent is to operate the Division to achieve those goals. Executive Limitations serve as a measure of accountability for the Superintendent and are reviewed annually through monitoring reports to ensure compliance. 

The monitoring report for Executive Limitation 11 (EL-11): Facilities and Transportation is scheduled for action at the May 7, 2026 meeting.

Please review the Superintendent’s draft monitoring report for EL-11 and provide your feedback HERE .

Student Rights & Responsibilities (SR&R)

The SR&R is scheduled for action at the May 7, 2026 meeting. Please review the SR&R presentation and the proposed SY27 SR&R and provide your feedback HERE .

Important revisions to the proposed SY27 SR&R include:

• Alignment to SB 108: ensures cell phone and smart device use is prohibited, bell-to-bell, at all three school levels (elementary, middle, and high school). This will mean that students in all grades, except in specific instances in which accommodations have been provided, will not be able to use their phones during passing periods or during lunch. As per newly amended law, cell phones will have to be put away for the day after the first bell (page 17).  
• Establish universal grade matrices (page 33).
• Access to accommodations for multilingual learner (MLs) ELP 1-4 when collecting student statements (page 199).
• Extended Requirements for In-School Suspension of Students With Disabilities (page 213). 
• Definitions for developmental disability and slurs (page 221).

• Regulation of the creation and distribution of intimate images (page 195).

• Establishes a dedicated section detailing hate speech and/or slurs related disciplinary procedures (page 190).
• Update training for all FCPS team members in the SR&R from bi-annual to annual to reflect division practice (page 6).

Updates Boundary Review Updates Bren Mar Park ES

The April 24 Community Meeting presentation included a review of the boundary change process and priorities as well as a recap of proposals from the comprehensive boundary review in 2025.

• Currently, Bren Mar Park Elementary School (BMPES) feeds into Holmes MS and Edison HS.
  • The amended Scenario 4proposes reassigning Bren Mar Park students to Key MS and Lewis HS. This proposal also includes the addition of grade 6 at BMPES.

Maps for the Bren Mar Park Boundary Study are also posted for review. I have heard from many parents in the Bren Mar Park ES community expressing concerns with the most current proposal. It appears that the majority of the families from whom I have heard do notfavor a change to Bren Mar Park’s feeder pattern given the capacity at Holmes MS (85%) and proximity to Annandale HS. 

Submit your feedback HERE through May 8, 2026to inform further  revisions to the boundary change proposed scenario. Please share alternate recommendations which staff can review.  An additional community meeting will be scheduled for September to review a refined scenario.

A dedicated webpage for the Bren Mar Park Elementary Feeder Schools Boundary Study will be updated as new information becomes available.

Bren Mar Park ES, Middle and High School Feeders Map with SPAs and Residing Student Population

Glasgow MS

The April 28 Community Meeting presentation included a review of the boundary change process and priorities as well as a recap of proposals from the comprehensive boundary review in 2025. The proposed boundary changes to Glasgow MS related to the Beech Tree ES and Belvedere ES areas. 

• Currently, SPAs 6002 and 6006 attend Beech Tree ES, Glasgow MS & Justice HS.
  • The recommendation is for SPAs 6002 and 6006 to attend Poe MS and Falls Church HS.
• Currently, SPAs 6015, 6103 & 6117 attend Belvedere ES, Glasgow MS & Justice HS.
  
  • The recommendation is for SPAs 6015, 6103, and 6117 to attend Holmes MS and Annandale HS.
• Maps for the Glasgow MS Boundary Study are posted for review.

Submit your feedback HERE through May 12, 2026to inform revisions to the boundary change proposed scenario.  Please share alternate recommendations which staff can review.  An additional community meeting will be scheduled for September to review a refined scenario.

A dedicated webpage for the Glasgow MS Boundary Study will be updated as new information becomes available.

Study 4 Map (includes Glasgow MS, Beech Tree ES, and Belvedere ES) with SPAs and Residing Student Population

SEL Screener Reports

Parent/guardian reports for the Spring SEL Screener for grades 3-12 will be available to families in SIS ParentVUE the week of April 20, 2026. 

Schools will provide copies of the SEL Screener Parent Reports to families without active ParentVUE accounts by May 1, 2026.   

Academic and Career Plan Verification Letters

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) requires 8th and 10th grade students to complete their Academic and Career Plan and have it signed by the student, the student’s parent/guardian, and a school representative. Schools will be distributing the Academic and Career Plan Verification Letter to current 8th and 10th grade students and families by May 22, 2026.

Chief of Schools

Congratulations to Ms. Megan Vroman, the new chief of schools.  Ms. Vroman currently serves as the assistant superintendent of Region 2.

Region 6 Assistant Superintendent

Welcome to Ms. Rhonda Honoré - the new assistant superintendent for Region 6 (which includes the Annandale pyramid).

Ms. Honoré comes to FCPS from the Houston Independent School District, where she served as executive director of instruction.

In the Community Mason District Theatre

Bravo! To our talented theatre students in the Mason District. I had the opportunity to see two shows this past weekend.

Beetlejuice Jr. by the Glasgow Theatre Group

A Midsummer Night's Dream by the Annandale Theatre Company

FCPS Global Action Showcase

Earlier this week, I attended the Global Action Showcase , a collaborative initiative between the Global Classroom Project in FCPS and the Global Leaders of Fairfax County. The showcase of impressive student work celebrated student learning, leadership, and tangible actions aimed at solving the world’s most pressing challenges.

Global Action Showcase - April 28, 2026

Annandale Pyramid Art Show

I was thrilled to see the talent exhibited at the recent Annandale Pyramid Art Show! I was equally pleased to see the pride the students took in their work.

Fantastic art on display at the Annandale Pyramid Art Show

Capitol Visit with Westlawn

I recently had the opportunity to travel to the Capitol with the AAP students from Westlawn ES. The students had been learning about Barbara Johns and exploring the impact of young leaders. The students advocated for a trip to the Capitol to see the new statue of Barbara Johns. I very much enjoyed  the thoughtful and insightful comments and questions by this fantastic group!

Visiting the Capitol with Westlawn ES to see the new Barbara Johns statue.

Mason Moments Fulbright Fellow

Congratulations to Ms. Kristen Salonga, environmental science for multilingual learners teacher at Justice High School! Ms. Salonga has been selected as a 2026 Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms Fellow by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs.

As part of the fellowship, she will be traveling to Senegal for two weeks this spring, where she will be paired with different local teachers in Dakar and Saint-Louis to learn about the Senegalese education system and present lessons to students. The program equips educators to bring an international perspective to their schools through targeted training, experience abroad, and global collaboration. 

VHSL Journalist of the Year

Congratulations to Zoe Ligairi from Annandale High School. Zoe is a co-editor-in-chief for The A-Blast student newspaper and was recently named the Virginia High School League (VHSL) Journalist of the Year! 

Zoe has published nearly 75 stories over three years - some of them on professional websites - and has covered a wide range of topics.

Thanks to Ligairi's vision and diligence, The A-Blast is ranked among the nation's Top 10 high school newspapers at JEA/NSPA conventions. The A-Blast also earns the Trophy Class Award each year, given to about 8 of 300 schools statewide by the VHSL.

Wrestling State Champion and Runner Up

Congratulations to Jeremiah Nelson from Annandale High School for winning the VHSL 6A High Jump State Championship!

Congratulations to Darling Saravia from Annandale High School.

After winning her second consecutive regional title, she went on to finish as the VHSL Girls Wrestling State Runner-up in her weight class.

Go Atoms! Peace Awards

The Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County  encourages thinking more about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. The recipients generally have a common desire to bring kindness into the world around them, whether within their schools, their community, or on a larger scale.

Their specific goals and methods may or may not reflect the views of the volunteers or sponsors of the Student Peace Awards of Fairfax County, but we celebrate their intention to seek the peaceful resolution of challenging issues.

Congratulations to the Mason District recipients! Learn more about these amazing students and their efforts:

• Lily Rumpf - Annandale High School
• Gabriella Henriquez - Falls Church High School
• The Verdict - Justice High School

Wolf Trap Grant

Congratulations to Andrew Sharrock, band director at Glasgow Middle School! Mr. Sharrock was awarded a grant from the Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. These grants are part of an annual program to support area public school teachers who are working to bring innovative performing arts experiences to their communities.  

Glasgow Middle School will use the grant to commission Texas-based composer Jorge Vargas to create an original band composition for their June concert. Vargas will work directly with students, guiding them through the new piece before conducting the world premiere performance that evening. Students will develop technical and expressive performance skills, broaden their cultural perspectives by engaging thoughtfully with contemporary music by the Mexican American composer, and experience the excitement and responsibility of performing a world premiere. 

Read more about Mr. Sharrock in this FCPS feature story .

Advanced Placement School Honor Roll

The College Board announced that 17 FCPS high schools have been named to the 2025 Advanced Placement (AP) School Honor Roll . Schools can earn bronze, silver, gold, or platinum distinction. 

Congratulations to Falls Church High School for earning Bronze Distinction for 2025. Recognition criteria includes:

• College Culture:40% or more of the graduating cohort participated in at least one AP exam during high school.
• College Credit: 25% or more of the graduating cohort scored a 3 or higher on at least one AP exam during high school.
• College Optimization: 2% or more of the graduating cohort enrolled in five or more AP exams during high school. At least one exam was taken in 9th or 10th grade.

2026 RAMP Designation

Poe Middle School’s counseling program has been honored by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) as a model program and was awarded the Recognized ASCA Model Program (RAMP) designation for 2026 for successfully demonstrating how their comprehensive school counseling program benefits all students.

The RAMP designation identifies school staff committed to delivering a comprehensive, data-driven school counseling program and an exemplary educational environment. School counselors submit evidence of the program’s student achievement, connection to the mission and goals of the school, use of data to drive decisions, and collaboration with stakeholders (parents, students, and administrators).   

Congratulations to Poe Middle School for earning this prestigious designation!

U.S. Presidential Scholar Candidate

Eighty Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) students have been named 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars candidates. They are part of a group of 5,000 students from around the country — and more than 38% of Virginia’s candidates — selected for the honor.

This recognition reflects not only the extraordinary accomplishments of these students, but also the power and promise of public education. 

Congratulations to Mason District resident Clinton Morimoto from TJHSSTfor receiving this recognition.

See the full list of recipients .

National Merit Finalists

Congratulations to the following Mason District student National Merit Finalists:

• Jayden Nguyen: Falls Church High School
• Joey Park, Grace Sprano, and Ruilin Wang: Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Regional Scholastic Writing Awards

Congratulations to the following Mason District students recognized at the 2026 DC Metro Region Scholastic Writing Awards competition:

• Roselyn Lobo Lemus: Justice High School - Silver Key Award
• Clinton Morimoto: TJHSST - Honorable Mention (3)

All-Virginia Music Ensembles

Congratulations to all of the students selected to perform in the 2026 All-Virginia Band, Chorus, Orchestra, and MS Choir events in April. Students throughout Virginia participated in a rigorous audition process to compete for positions in these ensembles. Participants had the opportunity to rehearse with nationally recognized conductors and collaborate with fellow musicians during the events held in Richmond. Special recognition goes to the following talented Mason District students:

All-Virginia Band:  Justice High School: Favian Larrea Vasquez

All-Virginia Orchestra:  Edison High School: Gavin Tilock

All-Virginia Chorus:

• Annandale High School: Lina Abu-el-Hawa, Nathaniel Dosen, Nattha Poolchuay, Elisa Quesada Sayler, Joshua Vaughn
• Justice High School: Kyle Aylward, Jason Gonzalez-Canales, Maxwell Hoffmann, Rahel Kassa, Saron Walelign
• Woodson High School: Catherine Morton

All-Virginia Middle School Choirs:

• Frost Middle School:Corinne Pak, Violet Conklin
• Glasgow Middle School: Isla Cannon, Colette Dale, Leonidas Gregory, Helena Grubbs, Maariya Siddiqi
• Holmes Middle School: Ella McCreery

International Baccalaureate Diplomas

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Program (DP) is a two-year program for juniors and seniors consisting of six subject group courses and DP core components. The IB program aims to develop students who are internationally-minded, knowledgeable, and compassionate lifelong learners prepared for higher education and the world of work.

IB Diploma students complete internal and external assessments, exams, a Theory of Knowledge course, a creativity activity service project, and a 4,000-word extended essay. Mason District students who earned the IB Diploma in 2025 include 39 students from Annandale High School, 38 from Edison High School, and 39 from Justice High School. Congratulations to this impressive group of students ! 

Outstanding Employees

The FCPS Outstanding Employee Awards program celebrates the efforts and accomplishments of exceptional employees from throughout the division. Nominations are accepted from colleagues, supervisors, students, and parents.

Congratulations to the following Region level winners representing the Mason District. They will advance as finalists to the FCPS Honors event in June. 

Region 2

• Outstanding Principal - Lisa Barrow, Glasgow MS
• Outstanding Leader - Tricia Wayland, Bailey’s Upper ES
• Outstanding Professional Employee - Wilson Harvey, Justice HS
• Outstanding Elementary Teacher - Kimberley Matthews, Mason Crest ES
• Outstanding New Secondary Teacher - Emily Grimes, Glasgow MS
• Outstanding Operational Employee - Souhair Darwich, Timber Lane ES

Region 6

• Outstanding Principal - Mike Astudillo, Columbia ES
• Outstanding Leader - Erin Crowley, Annandale HS
• Outstanding Elementary Teacher - Rosemary Nevin, Columbia ES
• Outstanding Secondary Teacher - Lynn Eckerman, Annandale HS
• Outstanding New Secondary Teacher - Rachel Pryately, Holmes MS
• Outstanding Operational Employee - Sherryanne Sooknanan, Braddock ES

Opportunities Advisory Committee Volunteers Needed

Interested in serving on a School Board Citizen Advisory Committee for the 2026-2027 school year? Mason District residents are encouraged to complete this short interest form by May 30, 2026 for consideration.

*Adult and Community Education Advisory Committee (ACEAC)

This committee brings to the School Board’s attention the resource and programmatic issues associated with adult education. The committee meets one evening each month at the Plum Center for Lifelong Learning in Springfield. See the ACEAC webpage for more details about the work of this committee.

*Advanced Academic Programs Advisory Committee (AAPAC)

This committee on gifted education annually reviews the local plan for the education of gifted students, including revisions, and determines the extent to which the plan for the previous year was implemented. The committee meets one evening each month at the Willow Oaks Corporate Center in Fairfax. See the AAPAC webpage for more details about the work of this committee. 

*Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD)

This committee is a state mandated special education advisory committee that participates in the development of priorities and strategies for meeting the needs of children with disabilities and advises the Board of the educational needs of these children. The committee meets one evening each month at the Willow Oaks Corporate Center in Fairfax. See the ACSD webpage for more details about the work of this committee.

Bussey Memorial Equity Award

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award. This award recognizes an employee, student, or community member who has demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved.

Any staff, student, or community member can nominate an individual for the award. All nomination materials must be submitted by Monday, May 18.  

The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) sponsors this award to honor the legacy of Dr. Bussey, a founding member of the MSAOC and a longtime advocate for students and families. 

Full details and the nomination information form can be found on the Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award website . 

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Regular School Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)

• May 7, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.: School Board will vote to approve the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R).
• May 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.: School Board will vote to approve the FY2027 Budget

Work Sessions (Gatehouse Administration Center)

• May 5, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.: The School Board will discuss the Skyview HS Boundary and the School Year Calendar.
• May 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.: The School Board will discuss the FY2027 Budget.

Public Hearing (Luther Jackson Middle School)

• May 12, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.: FY2027 Budget

All meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on  the FCPS website . The meetings are recorded for future viewing and posted to the  FCPS School Board YouTube channel .

Would you like to share your ideas and concerns with the School Board and staff?   Register  to speak  at a regular meeting or public hearing.

Registration for individuals interested in speaking at a Regular School Board Meeting opens at 8 a.m. four business day before the meeting (usually a Friday) and closes 48 hours before the meeting (usually 7 p.m. on a Tuesday). A total of 16 speaker slots are available for each meeting – a random lottery process is used if this number is exceeded. Please see the Community Participation webpage for additional details.

@masonfcps

@masondistrictsb

@MasonDistrictSB

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

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Mason District Community,

Our students have entered the final quarter of the school year and to that end, this newsletter is to share important information, dates of upcoming Board action and events. 

In a short few months, our seniors will be making their way across the stage as graduates and should be very proud of this incredible accomplishment. Whether their path winds through military service, full time employment, college/university enrollment, or another venture, I wish them much success in their future endeavors. I look forward to celebrating with our students and their families and friends during the commencement ceremonies this June.

Mason District Graduation Schedule:

• Annandale High School, June 8 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena
• Bryant High School & AIM, June 1 - 5:00 p.m., Bryant HS
• Cedar Lane School, June 2 - noon, Cedar Lane School
• Edison High School, June 6 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena
• Fairfax County Adult HS, June 12 - 5:30 p.m., TJHSST
• Falls Church High School, June 3 - 9:00 a.m., Eagle Bank Arena
• Interagency Alternative School, June 3 - 5:00 p.m., Bryant HS
• Thomas Jefferson HSST, June 6 - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena
• Justice High School, June 8 - 2:00 p.m., Eagle Bank Arena
• Key Center, June 1 - 9:00 a.m., Key Center
• Kilmer Center, June 5 - 10:30 a.m., Kilmer Center
• Mountain View HS & AIM, June 2 - 5:00 p.m., Centreville HS
• Pulley Center, June 5 - noon, West Potomac HS 
• Quander Road School, June 1 - 2:00 p.m., Quander Road
• Woodson High School, June 4 - 9:00 a.m., Eagle Bank Arena

I value input from the Mason District community and will address questions or concerns via email at [email protected] or by scheduling a phone call with Ms. Coffey, at [email protected] .

Please share your feedback on the upcoming Board action item below. 

Upcoming Board Action Strategic Plan Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunity

The Superintendent presented the SY 2025-26 Goal 4: Equitable Access and Opportunityreport to the Board at the April 7 Work Session . The School Board is scheduled to vote on Strategic Plan Goal 4 at the April 23, 2026 School Board meeting. 

The 2025-26 Goal 4 annual report examines progress in five areas: 

1. Availability of, accessibility to, and student enrollment in coursework in the arts, STEAM, career and technical education, trades, technology, and world languages (4A); 
2. Availability of and enrollment in advanced, rigorous coursework and programs (K-12) (4B);
3. Student access to and participation in formalized systems of early intervention, academic and other supports, including special education services and services for Multilingual learners (4C);
4. Disproportionality in course-taking patterns and participation in inclusive settings (4D); and
5. Consistent availability of and accessibility to electives, extracurricular, co-curricular, and enrichment activities (4E).

Key Findings show that:

• Advanced and career preparatory courses can help students find success after graduation;
• While 82% of graduating seniors in 2025 successfully completed college-level coursework or earned CTE Completer status, rates have declined from baseline;
• Most seniors graduate with college-level coursework (73%) and academic intensity in core subjects (74%); and
• In SY 2025-26, FCPS is focused on preparing students for advanced courses before they enter high school, revising scheduling and academic advising practices, and encouraging courses/credentials that help students signal their postsecondary readiness.

My continuing concerns regarding Goal 4 center on the persistent achievement gaps that exists in the Senior Cohort who Earned a C- or Higher in at Least one AP/IB/DE or Other 1.0 Weighted Course Before Graduating as indicated by Figure 6 on page 11 (and below).  

I am also concerned about the Percent of Students Meeting Academic Intensity as indicated by Figure 11 on page 16 (and below). There is much work to be done to ensure that all students are able to access the opportunities provided by FCPS in support of post-secondary success.

I invite you to review the presentation and report and provide your feedback .

Events and Opportunities Boundary Study Meetings

When the School Board approved boundary changes in January 2026, the Superintendent identified several “hot spots” for additional review and community engagement. The process to gather input from these communities begins this month with Community Boundary Study Meetings. Two of these areas involve the Mason District. Please mark your calendars to ensure that your input is received on this important matter. You may participate in person or virtually.

Bren Mar Park ES

Date/Time: April 24, 2026 at 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

Location: Edison High

Registration:Register to attend in person or virtually .

Learn more about the Bren Mar Park Boundary Study .

Glasgow MS, Beech Tree ES, Belvedere ES

Date/Time: April 28, 2026 at 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Location; Falls Church HS

Registration:Register to attend in person or virtually . 

Learn more about the Glasgow MS Boundary Study .

Community Conversations with Dr. Reid

The Community Conversations with Dr. Reid are opportunities for you to share your thoughts and ask questions about all matters that impact the experience of Fairfax County Public Schools students. Two spring meetings remain and will be held from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on: 

• Monday, April 20 , at Westgate Elementary School
• Wednesday, April 22 , at Crestwood Elementary School

Click on a date to register to attend that event. Registration is not required, but it helps with planning, especially for child care and interpretation services. Events are open to all. Visit the superintendent’s engagement page for the most up-to-date information.

Middle School VIP Camp

FCPS and Fairfax County Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (DNCS) offer a 5-week camp for risingmiddle school students! Campers will have participate in sports, games, fitness, art, and STEM activities in a safe environment. The program is led by FCPS After-School and DNCS Teen/Community Center Staff.

• Location:Glasgow Middle School
• Dates/Time:: July 1 - 30 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (early drop-off available at 8 a.m.)
• Transportation: Bus transportation from feeder middle schools (Holmes, Jackson, Kilmer, Poe, and Thoreau) and other selected stops is available
• Cost:$100 plus field trip fees (after-school specialist can assist with free/reduced fees)

Space is limited and registration is now open !

Mason District Theatre

Glasgow Middle School Theatre Group presents
Beetlejuice Jr. April 24-25
Tickets

Luther Jackson Middle School Drama presents
Wizard of Oz April 30-May 2
Tickets

Annandale Theatre Company presents
A Midsummer Night’s Dream April 23-25
Tickets

Edison Theatre Company presents
You Can’t Take It With You April 15-18
Tickets

FCHS Spotlight Theatre Company presents
Rosencrantz & Guildenstern are DEAD April 24-26
Tickets

Thomas Jefferson Theater Arts presents
Anastasia April 16-18 & 23-25
Tickets

Woodson Drama presents
Sweeney Todd May 1-2 & 8-9
Tickets

Summer Learning

Registration is open or will be available soon for summer camps and learning opportunities offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students.

Career and Technical Education and Fine and Performing Arts Camps

Career and Technical Education camps and Fine and Performing Arts camps will be held in July at Robinson Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS schools. Tuition assistance is available to FCPS families eligible for free or reduced meals. New this year: Aftercare registration is available for these camps from 2 - 5 p.m. 

• Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) (Grades K-5)
• Elementary Institute for the Arts (E-IFTA) (Grades K-5)
• CTE Summer Academy (CSA) (Grades 6-11) 
• Institute for the Arts (IFTA) (Grades 6-11) 
• Production Camp (Grades 6-11)

Economics and Personal Finance

Summer is a great time for high school students to fulfill the Economics and Personal Finance course requirement. Students are able to work independently to complete the requirements of this course. Completing this course during the summer, especially for rising freshmen or sophomores can serve to free their schedule for other electives or courses during the school year. 

Taking this class during the summer carries a fee of $130, but reduced rates are available for eligible students. Registration is currently open and will close on June 5th. 

Summer Online Campus

Take advantage of the opportunity to earn a high school course credit via this summer’s online campus program . Students must register by Friday, June 5. Mathematics, health and physical education, career and technical education, English, science, social studies, and world language courses are available to eligible middle and high school students.

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Registration for individuals interested in speaking at a Regular School Board Meeting opens at 8 a.m. four business day before the meeting (usually a Friday) and closes 48 hours before the meeting (usually 7 p.m. on a Tuesday). A total of 16 speaker slots are available for each meeting – a random lottery process is used if this number is exceeded. Please see the Community Participation webpage for additional details.

Regular School Board Meetings(Luther Jackson Middle School)

• April 23, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
• May 7, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.: School Board will vote to approve the Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R).

Work Sessions(Gatehouse Administration Center)

• May 5, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.: The School Board will discuss the Skyview HS Boundary and the School Year Calendar.
• May 14, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.: The School Board will discuss the FY2027 Budget.

Public Hearing(Luther Jackson Middle School)

• May 12, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.: FY2027 Budget

All meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website . The meetings are recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel .

Would you like to share your ideas and concerns with the School Board and staff?  Register to speak at a regular meeting or public hearing.

@masonfcps

@masondistrictsb

@MasonDistrictSB

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

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Mason District Community,

Join me tomorrow evening for a discussion about the school calendar. 

Several motions to amend the school calendar are on the agenda for a vote by the School Board this Thursday, April 9th:

• Schedule Monday, October 12, 2026 as a student instructional day;
• Schedule Veterans Day annually as a student instructional day; and
• Schedule no more than four early release days per school year.

Take this opportunity to share your feedback prior to the Board's discussion and vote.

What:School Calendar Virtual Town Hall

Hosts:Ricardy Anderson, Mateo Dunne, and Ilryong Moon

When:Tuesday, April 7 at 7:00 PM

Register:Scan the QR code or register at

https://bit.ly/CalendarTownHall

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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Mason District Community,

Staff is continuing to plan for the upcoming school year (2026-27) and will be making decisions regarding early release days for elementary school students.

Your feedback is being solicited about the Elementary School Early Release initiative introduced in June 2024 and currently in its second year of implementation.

The 2024-25 Elementary Early Release proposal was created to meet the increased demands for required professional development and implementation of curriculum across two core subject areas (literacy and math).

The 2025-26 Elementary Early Release plan includes eight3-hour early release Wednesdays for elementary schools. Student supervision and transportation are provided.

Complete this Elementary Early Release Feedback Form to share your experience and comments related to this initiative.

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

English | Español | አማርኛ | 中文 | 한국어 | Tiếng Việt | العربية | فارسی | اردو

Mason District Community,

This issue of the Mason District School Board newsletter is to primarily provide information on the proposed elementary AAP Center at North Springfield ES and present the results of the Boundary Transportation vote that occurred last week. However, while I typically do not directly address statements made by other School Board members in their newsletters, I feel compelled to provide corrections to comments in the recent newsletter issued by a colleague who also serves as a representative to the Mason District.

Since my start on the Fairfax County School Board in January 2020, I have worked diligently to conduct my activities with transparency and integrity and I have approached my advocacy with candor. To that end I cannot allow for those efforts to be sullied by misinformation. To be clear, the Transportation motion ( shared in my February 24, 2026 newsletter ) which I presented to the School Board last Thursday did not occur at the 11th hour. It was within the guidelines and timeline of the School Board’s processes, and I will not accept commentary claiming otherwise. 

The Superintendent’s recommendation regarding transportation for students impacted by the boundary adjustment was posted for the Board’s review on BoardDocs on the evening of Friday, February 20. Ms. Meren and I circulated our motion to the School Board on Monday, February 23. As stated in the Board’s Governance Manual , motions are due to the Board Clerk 48 hours in advance of the meeting, which would have created a deadline of Tuesday, February 24 at 7 p.m.

While I am able to accept – although deeply disappointed – that the motion was not agreed to by a majority of the School Board, I do not accept nor understand the false and unnecessary commentary about its timeliness. 

Lastly, I must point out that had the Superintendent’s proposal been provided earlier or the Board’s vote postponed to the next School Board meeting, allowing the customary two-week public notice period, this matter would be moot.

I deeply value the relationship I have built in the Mason District and hold dear the reputation I have garnered with its families over the past six years as their representative and look forward to continuing advocacy on their behalf.

In other news, as the sole Black member of the Fairfax County School Board, I was so pleased that two wonderful school ensembles were able to perform Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing at the two February Board meetings in honor of Black History Month, with one of those schools being Mason District’s very own Justice HS Chamber Choir, under the direction of Miranda Lansberry. Hear their beautiful rendition of Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing as performed at the February 26, 2026 School Board meeting.

Mason Moments School Communicator Awards

Nine schools received awards at the Office of Communications’ third annual School Communicators Conference held on January 30. The awards celebrate the creation of excellent websites, newsletters, and social media content that inform and engage readers.

Congratulations to the two Mason District schools recognized as outstanding communicators:

Falls Church High School- Social Media Award

Westlawn Elementary School (Alanna Dushok)- Best in Show, recognized for excelling in web, newsletter, and social media communications! 

Read more about the winners and their extraordinary communications efforts .

Justice High School Wind Ensemble

The School Board recognized the Justice High School Wind Ensemble at the February 12, 2026 School Board meeting. The ensemble was chosen to perform at the Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Conference in Norfolk, VA. Congratulations to the ensemble and their band director, Mr. Thomas.

Updates All Ages Read Together

This morning, I had the wonderful opportunity to participate as a guest reader at the All Ages Read Together preschool class at the Lincolnia Community Center featuring the book, What to do with a Box .

All Ages Read Together (AART) is a nonprofit free preschool/kindergarten readiness program that provides quality instruction twice a week to four- and five-year-old children who do not qualify for publicly funded early education programs and are unable to afford private preschool. Each class is taught by a qualified lead teacher supported by a bilingual assistant teacher.

This program includes 13 Fairfax County-funded classrooms serving students in Franconia, Mason, Mount Vernon, Providence, Springfield, and Sully districts and over the past three program years, AART has served more than 400 preschool-aged children, strengthening kindergarten readiness across Fairfax County communities.

Interested families should contact the location nearest them or complete the  online interest form .

Elementary AAP Center Proposal

On December 18, 2025, the Board directed the Superintendent to explore opening a full-time elementary AAP center in the Annandale Pyramid in an effort to retain students within the Annandale pyramid and provide more consistent transitions as peer cohorts progress toward middle school. 

The Superintendent’s proposal to establish a new Full-Time Advanced Academic Program (AAP) Center at North Springfield Elementary for the 2026-2027 school year had been posted on February 26, 2026 to allow time for public review and feedback. The recommendation identifies the following schools from which eligible AAP students will be routed to North Springfield Elementary. 

• Annandale Terrace, Braddock, and North Springfieldelementary schools. This will eliminate routing eligible students to Canterbury Woods which is situated outside of the Annandale pyramid and does not align with the grade 6-8 configuration at their assigned middle school (Poe). 
• Columbia, Mason Crest, and Weyanokeelementary schools. This would foster more intact student cohorts. General education and AAP center-based students from these schools are assigned to Poe or Holmes middle schools. 

Next Steps

Community feedback is vital to this process and families and guardians are encouraged to share their comments with the Board at the upcoming public hearing scheduled for March 19, 2026 at 6:45 p.m. Registration for speakers will be available from 8:00 a.m. on March 9 until 4:30 p.m. on March 17. The link for registration will be available on the Community Participation webpage .

The School Board is scheduled to vote on the proposal at the March 26, 2026 School Board Meeting and upon approval, at the new North Springfield AAP Center will serve grade 3 in the 2026-27 school year, grades 3-4 in the 2027-28 school year and finally grades 3-5 in the 2028-29 school year.  

Boundary Phasing Transportation

It is the responsibility of the School Board and FCPS to eliminate gaps and barriers to access and opportunity. This position is affirmed by the FCPS Equity Policy and various FCPS equity commitments. However, in lieu of allocating some of the School Board’s $8M Reserve Funding or reallocating $600,000 (set aside in FY 2026) and $412,000 (set aside in FY 2023) earmarked for School Board office expansions at Gatehouse and improvements to the School Board’s meeting space at Luther Jackson MS to cover the $3.1M transportation cost for all students, the Board voted on February 26, 2026 to provide transportation only for high school studentselecting to take advantage of the phasing option provided in Policy 8130.  

While transportation for high school students is a valuable accommodation, it fails to address the transportation needs of middle school students and students in their last two years of elementary school hoping to access the provision of the boundary policy. Lastly, this is a concerning precedent to set for the system as the work of the Boundary review process continues and will likely impact more schools in the coming years.

While I concur that the current budget climate is challenging, and hard choices are required. I believe the Board missed the opportunity to prioritize students. Every budget is a reflection of values and priorities and I value equitable transportation for students over plans that will primarily benefit the School Board office. 

In addition, the division should also realize efficiencies and savings from the boundary adjustments and the middle school AAP Centers that could be applied to offset transportation costs. My bottom line is that the funds could be found if this measure had been considered a priority - which clearly it is not for a majority of the Board.

Needless to say, I am disappointed in the outcome of the School Board’s vote last week. With a final vote of 7:4, the Board approved the Superintendent’s amended recommendation to provide transportation only for current high school students affected by the recent boundary adjustments who choose to remain at their current school.

The Superintendent's recommendation and Board comments can be viewed on YouTube - see the recording of the February 26, 2026 School Board meeting .

@masonfcps

@masondistrictsb

@MasonDistrictSB

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

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Mason District Community,

In July 2025, the School Board voted unanimously to provide phasing options to students impacted by pending boundary adjustments in Policy 8130 . The adjustment to the policy allowed the following:

On December 18, 2025, the Superintendent presented a proposal that estimated costs for transportation at $10M which also outlined a need for 57 additional drivers and electric buses. 

The School Board did not approve this plan and requested the Superintendent to present more specific details. 

At the School Board’ s Regular Meeting this Thursday, February 26, 2026, Superintendent Reid will present the most recent transportation proposal for students eligible for phasing or grandfathering provisions. The most current presentation has determined the following:

• Transportation to non-boundary (current) school cost for all tiers (elementary, middle and high schools) is $3.10M
• Transportation to non-boundary (current) school cost for high school is $1.35M
• Transportation to non-boundary (current) school cost for high school (absorbing buses, 10 each) is $804,620
• Transportation to non-boundary (current) school cost for high school juniors & seniors is $402,310
• Transportation to non-boundary (current) school cost for high school seniors only is $241,386

As per the presentation, the Superintendent’s recommendation is to provide transportation based on new boundary adjustments for high school seniors only.

I will oppose this recommendation because transportation should be provided to all eligible students to prevent the creation of opportunity gaps. Additionally, if the School Board approves this recommendation, it will mark the first time in several decades that FCPS would not provide transportation to students impacted by a boundary adjustment.

To that end, at the February 26, 2026 Regular Meeting, Ms. Meren and I will bring forth a motion for the School Board’s consideration and approval to use funds from the School Board’s Flexibility Reserve to fully fund the $3.1M needed to provide transportation to students. The language of the motion is below:

I move that the School Board authorize $3.10M in funding from the School Board Flexibility Reserve to provide transportation to non-boundary (current) students for all tiers which includes elementary, middle and high schools. 

In a survey administered to eligible FCPS parents and guardians earlier this month, it was reported that 81% of those who responded would require FCPS bus transportation and 44% would remain at their current school if FCPS bus transportation is not provided.

I have also heard from many families across Fairfax County who are concerned about the lack of transportation for their children. Those students will have to sever ties to their current schools despite a Board policy allowing them to finish their final years.

FCPS should not contribute to the creation of opportunity gaps and most importantly should remain aligned to the system’s equity commitments. Furthermore, students and families entrusted the School Board’s vote to provide a choice if desired, for select grades. Not providing transportation undermines the intention and letter of phasing in Policy 8130.

In the past, the School Board has elected to use its Flexibility Reserve to purchase computers, conduct facilities assessment and support School Board office improvements. An investment in transportation for our students will allow access to the provisions in Policy 8130 and offer parents and guardians with the assurance that their students will be able to complete their time in their current schools.

@masonfcps

@masondistrictsb

@MasonDistrictSB

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page .

The Fairfax County School Board welcomes public comment on the FY 2027 Proposed Budget at a Public Hearing. This public hearing is scheduled to take place at the Luther Jackson Middle School Auditorium at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The Speaker's List opened at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026 and is now open through 6:30 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026. The Fairfax County School Board Office will notify speakers (via email) the morning of February 9, 2026.

• Register to Speak at the Budget Public Hearing (in-person or live via Zoom)
• FY 2027 Proposed Budget
• Information on  Speaking at School Board Meetings
• Watch School Board meetings and public hearings .

Any questions, written statements, and copies of testimony may be submitted to [email protected] .

• Division Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid presented the FY 2027 Proposed Budget to the School Board at the January 22, 2026 regular meeting.
• The School Board will hold work sessions on the proposed budget on February 10, 2026 and February 19, 2026.
• The School Board will hold a public hearing on February 10, 2025.
• The School Board is scheduled to take action to approve the Advertised Budget at the February 26, 2026 regular meeting.

Upcoming Regular School Board Meeting

The next regular board meeting will be held Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Luther Jackson Middle School , at 7:00 p.m.

The Fairfax County School Board

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Mason District Community,

As we wrap up the first half of the school year, I would like to thank the Mason District community for their engagement in the nearly two-year boundary review process. Your input will continue to be vital as several considerations for our community have been delayed until January of 2027. 

The past week has been challenging for many families due to the school closures resulting from the weather. We encourage residents to clear their sidewalks to facilitate safe walk routes for our students and look forward to the reopening of schools for students tomorrow.

During the January 22, 2026 School Board Meeting, the Superintendent presented the FY 2027 Proposed Budget which will be discussed in greater detail by the Board at the February 10th Work Session. Please review the proposed budget and share any feedback and comments using this feedback form .

The process to establishing a new elementary AAP Center at North Springfield Elementary School begins with two community meetings this week. Several Mason District schools may be affected – see below for more information .

I value input from the Mason District community and will address questions or concerns via email at [email protected]  or by scheduling a phone call with Ms. Coffey, at [email protected] .

In this issue:

Mason Moments Opportunities• National Merit Commended Scholars • Glass Recycling Can Art Contest • Justice Scholastic Bowl Team • Dual Language Immersion Lottery • Sing for Smiles • School Board Student Representative   • Seeking Committee Volunteers School Board Work Updates• Chinese New Year Festival • FCPS Boundary Updates and Impacts • Gap Year Fair • FY 2027 Proposed Budget • Upcoming School Board Meetings • North Springfield Proposed AAP Center   • Winter Weather Resources   • Football Investigation   Mason Moments National Merit Commended Scholars

Eight hundred six FCPS students have been named National Merit Commended Scholars by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). Congratulations to the following Mason District students recognized as National Merit Commended Scholars:

• Annandale High School:Tyler Miller, Jasmin Dinh, Khyber Zaheer
• Falls Church High School: Eloise Gibson, Sagar Kapadia, Alexander Neff, Darren Nong
• Justice High School: Chloe Bernasconi and Bluebell Linden
• Marshall High School: Caden Mitchell
• TJHSST: Mayeda Alom, Clinton Morimoto, Isabella Pikner, Diana Prudius, Nayel Rehman, Brian Sanchez Saavedra, Yihao Wang

Justice Scholastic Bowl Team

Shout out to the Justice High School Scholastic Bowl Team and Coach Tim Kao!

•Caroline Allison •Mia Derrick •Louisa Allison •Aileen Evans-Reinke •Campbell Bray •Jocelyn Nunez •Siena Bray •Abigail Pascal-Ekperi •Angeline Camacho      

The team was one question away from qualifying for regionals, ultimately finishing 4th place in the National District. Watch the team compete on TV on the April 4th edition of It's Academic !

Sing for Smiles

Mason District resident and Woodson High School student Rekha Thirumlai founded the nonprofit Sing for Smiles . Rekha and COO Abraham Coulibaly organize visits to senior citizens, bringing joy through the power of song. Their incredible work was recently featured on ABC7 News . Well done, Rehka and Abraham!

School Board Work Updates FCPS Boundary Updates: Mason District Impacts and Transportation

After nearly two years of study, the FCPS School Board approved several boundary adjustments at the January 22, 2026 meeting. While I supported the overall plan, I continue to have several concerns:

• Transportation:Students choosing to remain at their current schools under the grandfathering provision of the Boundary Policy 8130 currently have no guaranteed FCPS transportation. This would mean that only families/students with private transportation will be able to access this option, limiting opportunity.
• Overcrowding Relief:The Superintendent’s plan does not sufficiently address capacity issues at Glasgow MS, Parklawn ESand failed to include any relief for Weyanoke ESwhich is currently at 105% capacity with nine trailers. Additional solutions are needed to provide meaningful relief to those sites.  
• Process Failures:While the boundary review included many community meetings, options for Glasgow MS and Bren Mar Park were not introduced in a manner consistent with the presentation of scenarios 1-4.  Moreover, changes were not reflected in the Explorer Tool in a timely manner which caused much confusion.

Impacts to Mason District Schools:

• Parklawn ES: Three Student Planning Areas (SPAs) will be reassigned from Parklawn ES which will decrease the capacity from 138% to 124% (99% to 89% when including modulars/trailers).
• SPA 6127 will attend Belvedere ES
• SPAs 7214 and 7216 will attend Columbia ES

• Glasgow MS: One Student Planning Area (SPA) will be reassigned from Glasgow MS. When combined with the students shifting to the Poe MS AAP Center, the capacity utilization will is expected to decrease from 117% to 107% (102% to 94% when including modulars).
• SPA 6014 will attend Poe MS and Falls Church HS and will eliminate the Mason Crest split feeder. Note that the capacity utilization data listed for Falls Church HS do not include the increased square footage created by the current renovation.

One-Year Review

Several Mason District schools have been flagged for additional review and recommendations are expected by January 2027. Schools included are Beech Tree ES, Belvedere ES, Bren Mar Park ES, and Glasgow MS.

VHSL Eligibility

Students who transfer under the grandfathering policy may face specific rules affecting athletic eligibility for the Virginia High School League (VHSL). Families should review FCPS and VHSL guidelines to understand potential impacts on sports participation before making transfer decisions.

"Grandfathering" and Policy 8130

School Board Policy 8130 allows for phasing (aka grandfathering) for elementary students in their last two years and all current middle and high school students. These students will have the option to remain at their current schools. See the exact language below.

Elementary Schools: When a boundary adjustment occurs at the elementary school level, attendance in the new school boundary shall be mandatory for rising K-3 students in schools with a K-5 grade configuration; and for rising K-4 students in schools with a K-6 grade level configuration. Currently enrolled students in grades 4-5 in schools with a K-5 configuration, and in grades 5-6 in schools with a K-6 configuration shall be given the option to remain at the school or attend the school in the new boundary. 

Middle Schools: When a boundary adjustment occurs at the middle school level, attendance in the new school boundary shall be mandatory for incoming 6th grade students in schools with a 6-8 grade configuration and for incoming 7th grade students in schools with a 7-8 grade level configuration. Currently enrolled students Policy 8130.8 Page 5 shall be given the option to remain at the school or attend the school in the new boundary. 

High Schools: When a boundary adjustment occurs at the high school level, attendance in the new school boundary shall be mandatory for incoming 9th grade students. Rising 10-12 graders shall be given the option to remain at their current school or attend the school in the new boundary.

Transportation

There remain many questions about whether transportation will be provided for eligible students opting to remain at their current school as per the policy 8130.  As I shared in the December newsletter, it is my belief that Superintendent Reid’s recommendation that transportation only be provided based on new boundaries does not meet the equity commitment which FCPS has made to our community.

Furthermore, such a recommendation would be inconsistent with existing policies and practices - We cannot create more opportunity gaps for students. During the January 22nd meeting, Superintendent Reid confirmed that staff is working on updating data to present a new transportation recommendation to the Board in the near future.

I remain committed to seeking a transportation solution that balances fiduciary responsibility with our core mission of providing equitable access to education and will continue to present the difficult questions necessary to protect the interests of all families affected by these changes. 

Student Transfer Process

Families interested in exploring this option should visit the Student Transfer Information webpage to learn about timelines, types of requests, and how school capacity affects the available options.

FY 2027 Proposed Budget

The FY 2027 Proposed Budget was presented to the Board at the January 22, 2026 School Board Meeting. The FY 2027 Proposed Budget totals $4.1 billion, a net increase of $197.0 million or 5.0% over the FY26 Approved Budget. The superintendent is requesting an additional $138.4 million, or 5.1% over, the FY 2026 transfer from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. 

The Superintendent's budget proposal includes the following:  

• Fairfax Education Unions (FEU) Compensation Adjustments: $163.0M
• Fairfax County Federation of Principals, Supervisors, & Administrators (FCFPSA) Compensation Adjustments: $17.7M
• Partial Class Size Restoration (in the FY 26 Budget, this was referred to as the Staffing Formula Adjustment for $33M): $17.5M
• Elementary Special Education Department Chair: $9.5M
• Contractual and Recurring Baseline Adjustments: $8.9M
• Advanced Academic Resource Teachers: $6.0M
• Transfers to Other Funds: $4.9M
• Family Liaison Position Conversions: $3.4M
• Student Athletics and Activities Program: $1.9M
• Fine and Performing Arts Stipends: $1.1M
• Certified Athletic Trainers: $0.7M
• K-12 Robotics: $0.3M
• Educator Math Credentialing: $0.1M

Next Steps

Budget Work Sessions:February 10 and 19, 2026.

Budget Public Hearing:February 10, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.

Registration for the public hearing is open until February 6 at 4:30 p.m.

North Springfield Proposed AAP Center

In December, the Board directed the Superintendent to begin the process of proposing a new full-time elementary AAP Center at North Springfield Elementary, beginning in grade 3 for the 2026-2027 school year. Staff has announced two community meetings for families to learn about the proposal, understand its potential impacts, and provide feedback.

• Monday, February 2 at 6:30 p.m.

• Thursday, February 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Families from the following schools have been invited to attend:

Annandale Terrace ES Mason Crest ES Braddock ES North Springfield ES Bren Mar Park ES Parklawn ES Canterbury Woods ES Poe MS Columbia ES Weyanoke ES

Both meetings will be held at North Springfield Elementary Schooland will have a virtual optionavailable. Interpretation services are available.

Please register HEREif you plan to attend .

Winter Weather Resources

FCPS’ website is generally the first place to find out about emergency weather closings. Other communication channels will be used as quickly as possible, including email, text, social media, the new FCPS mobile app , and news stations. Learn more about how schedule changes are communicated .

Be sure to plan for the winter season. Update your contact information in SIS ParentVUE , bookmark the FCPS website, and arrange emergency child care if needed.

Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

FCPS staff monitors the weather for low temperatures, wind chill advisories and warnings, and weather advisories that may prevent students from being outside. Please ensure students are dressed appropriately with a warm coat and other cold-weather clothing to comfortably enjoy their time outdoors. View the National Weather Service’s tips on staying safe during cold weather .

If you need assistance getting cold-weather clothing for your family, please call Fairfax County Coordinated Services Planning (CSP) at 703-222-0880. The staff will assist with challenges including food, shelter, employment, financial assistance, and health.

Winter Resources for Families

A list of resources has been compiled for students and families in need of assistance while schools are closed for winter weather. Please visit FCPS’ winter resources page for information on academic support, mental health support, and county resources related to food, clothing, housing, and other needs.

Football Investigation

In February 2025, the School Board retained the law firm of Baker McKenzie LLP to conduct a comprehensive, independent investigation of allegations surrounding student athlete transfers and eligibility practices within FCPS. Baker McKenzie recently completed its review and reported its findings and recommendations to the School Board and Superintendent.

Upon consideration of those findings, the School Board and Superintendent have concluded that the football programs at Hayfield Secondary School and Fairfax High School violated VHSL rules in 2024, and efforts to detect and correct those violations were impeded by gaps in FCPS’s systems and processes and actions taken by some members of FCPS staff. We have determined that FCPS can improve its processes for examining and verifying new student registrations and conducting eligibility assessments. FCPS will also benefit from enhancing its training for coaching staff, including volunteers. 

Some of these improvements are already underway. 

• In early 2025, we collaborated with the Virginia High School League to revamp statewide policies and regulations surrounding athletic transfers and eligibility. VHSL’s updated 2025 Rules are available here.  May 7, 2025 - Executive Committee Meeting-05-07-2025
• To promote uniform and consistent application of the VHSL transfer rules, FCPS implemented:
  • A platform for centralized collection, review, and processing of athletic transfers (Guardian);
  • First-level review of all athletic transfers and compliance oversight by the Office of Student Activities and Athletics;
  • Publication of guidance documents by the Office of Student Activities and Athletics to assist schools and enrolling families.
• We vested the Office of Student Activities and Athletics with authority to review and independently investigate eligibility questions and concerns.
• We enhanced our training for staff and coaches to include:
  • Mandatory annual training on VHSL and FCPS eligibility requirements for all Directors of Student Activities (DSAs)
  • Mandatory participation in VHSL/VIAAA New Athletic Director Workshop for all new DSAs
  • Expanded training for Student Services teams specific to their role in VHSL athletics
  • New training for all school principals specific to responsibilities/duties related to VHSL athletics

In the coming weeks, we will be making further improvements, including:

• Establishing common standards to ensure that registrations of new students are scrutinized with the same rigor as intra-FCPS transfers;
• Augmenting our investigative resources, protocols, tools, and training;
• Expanding our mandatory training requirements to include all levels of coaches, including unpaid volunteers.

These changes do not include personnel actions which are confidential by law and which the Superintendent has taken and will take as appropriate. 

We are grateful to the many staff, parents, and community members who cooperated in this thorough, independent review, and for our community’s patience during this process. We are firmly committed to fairness and integrity in our athletic programs and ensuring continual compliance with all VHSL rules. We believe the remediation already underway, and the additional steps soon to be implemented, will strengthen our processes and help ensure our practices stay on the right path moving forward.

Opportunities Mason District Glass Recycling Can Art Contest

Student artwork to be featured on the glass recycling can at the Mason District Government Center!

• Theme: “The benefits and importance of glass recycling for our community”
• Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8 and 9-12 attending a Justice HS, Annandale HS, or Falls Church HS pyramid school
• Prizes: Two winning designs (one from each grade group) will be painted and prominently displayed on the sides of the glass recycling container located in the Mason District.
• Deadline: February 27, 2026

For more information about the contest, including how to submit your artwork, submission guidelines and entry requirements, visit the Fairfax County Glass Recycling webpage .

Dual Language Immersion Program Lottery

FCPS offers elementary Dual Language Immersion (DLI) programs in five languages. Registration for the 2026-2027 Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program lottery is now open. A virtual information session is scheduled for February 4th at 6 p.m. Please see the Dual Language Immersion Program website for more information.

Applications Open! School Board Student Representative

Each year, FCPS students have the opportunity to apply for the position of the student representative to the School Board. The student representative is not a member of the School Board but serves in a nonvoting, advisory capacity, representing the interests of the students of Fairfax County Public Schools. An eligible student is currently in grade 9, 10, or 11; is a resident of Fairfax County or Fairfax City; and is a student in FCPS. 

The written component of the application is due February 23, 2026. Learn more about the application process .

Seeking Volunteers - Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee

The  Fairfax County School Board invites applications from community members interested in serving on the Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee.  Applicants must reside within the boundaries of Fairfax County.  The Board will be appointing five committee members to staggered terms.

 Applicants cannot be a current FCPS employee and must have expertise in architecture, construction, engineering, facilities management, capital financing, permitting and procurement, land use planning, or development. Applicants should be knowledgeable about FCPS (or school district) facilities policies and procedures. The deadline to submit an application is February 8, 2026.

Get more information and submit an application.

Chinese New Year Festival

The family-friendly annual Chinese New Year Festival is scheduled for February 14, 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. at Luther Jackson Middle School. The event will include festive decorations, live on-stage performances by Asian artists, a children's corner, Dragon Parade, and Asian food.

Virtual Gap Year Fair

FCPS School Counseling Services and Go Overseas will co-host the annual FCPS Gap Year Fair on February 24, from 6 to 7 p.m. virtually. This event is for high school students and their families who are interested in learning about opportunities for the year following high school graduation. Students should register at USA Gap Year Fairs .

Upcoming School Board Meetings

Regular School Board Meetings(Luther Jackson Middle School)

• February 12, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
• February 26, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

Work Sessions(Gatehouse Administration Center)

• February 10, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
• February 19, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

Public Hearings(Luther Jackson Middle School)

• February 10, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. (FY 2027 Proposed Budget)

All meetings will be broadcast live on Channel 99 (Verizon channel 11) and on the FCPS website . The meetings are recorded for future viewing and posted to the FCPS School Board YouTube channel .

Would you like to share your ideas and concerns with the School Board and staff?  Register HERE to speak at a regular meeting or public hearing.

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 o escanee el código QR.

@masonfcps

@masondistrictsb

@MasonDistrictSB

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.

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

E-mail: Ricardy Anderson  |  Phone: 571-423-1083  | Twitter

Cristy Coffey, Executive Admin Assistant, 571-423-1064,  [email protected]

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School Board Seeking Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee Community Members

Fairfax County Public Schools invites applications from Fairfax County community members interested in serving on the School Board Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee (CPDC). The Committee consists of five School Board Members and five Community Members. The committee's primary role is to support FCPS' capital planning and facility maintenance efforts.

Applicants must reside within the boundaries of Fairfax County.  The deadline to submit an application has been extended to 11:59 p.m., on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Get more information and submit an application.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Cannot be a current FCPS employee
• Be independent of day-to-day management of FCPS
• Be knowledgeable about FCPS facilities policies and procedures
• Be an expert in architecture, construction, engineering, facilities management and capital financing, permitting and procurement, land use planning and development, or related subjects

APPLICATION

• Introductory cover letter
• Submit a School Board CPDC Community Member Application. For an application, click here .
• In the application, written responses are required for the Statement of Interest questions, including:
  • Describe any professional or community experience that you believe qualifies you to serve on the Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee. You may attach a current resume.
  • Describe any previous experience/involvement with FCPS and/or other public schools.
  • State why you are interested in serving as a member of the Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee.
  • Describe your understanding of the role of the Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee

The School Board will be appointing five community members to staggered terms all commencing on April 1, 2026, and ending in either June 2027, June 2028, and June 2029.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

Applications will be accepted until Sun, Feb 8 at 11:59 pm. Click here  to get more information, and to submit an application.

© Fairfax County Public Schools, Fairfax County, Virginia

FCPS School Board Office | FCPS School Board Members

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The Fairfax County School Board will hold a final public hearing on the Superintendent's recommended adjustments to School Boundaries.

Recommended Changes to FCPS School Boundaries

The Fairfax County School Board welcomes public comment on the Superintendent's recommended changes to School Boundaries at a Public Hearing. This public hearing is scheduled to take place at the Luther Jackson Middle School Auditorium at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026.

The Speaker's List opened at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 and is now open through 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The Fairfax County School Board Office will notify speakers (via email) the morning of January 21, 2026.

• Register to Speak at the School Boundaries Public Hearing (only live testimony via in-person or Zoom permitted)
• View the Superintendent's Recommended Boundary Adjustments. The Superintendent’s revised recommendations to the proposed School Boundary adjustments will be posted to BoardDocs by this evening.
• Information on Speaking at School Board Meetings
• Watch School Board meetings and public hearings
• Fairfax County School Board webpage

Any questions, written statements, and copies of testimony may be submitted to  [email protected] .

FCPS School Boundaries Changes Timeline

​School Board Policy 8130 requires that a comprehensive, division-wide review of school boundaries be conducted at least every five years by the Division Superintendent, and that any recommended adjustments be submitted to the School Board for approval.

Through the process FCPS has conducted extensive community engagement as required by Policy 8130. The process also included feedback from the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee, as directed by the School Board.

Community meetings were held in Fall 2024/Winter 2025 as part of Phase 1 to inform data analysis and draft scenarios. Community meetings were also held in Spring and Fall 2025 for Phase 2 to collect feedback on the draft scenarios and to inform the development of a final recommendation.

The Superintendent’s recommendation was informed by feedback received throughout the comprehensive boundary review process from the community, the consultant, staff and the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee.

During this process, the School Board was provided updates at four Work Sessions (10/8/24, 6/17/25, 8/26/25, and 11/12/25). The School Board also modified Section VII, “Phasing of Adjustments” of Policy 8130, on 7/17/25.

• At the January 8, 2026 Regular Meeting, Division Superintendent Dr. Reid presented the Comprehensive School Boundary Review and detailed her proposed boundary changes.
• On Saturday, January 10, 2026 and Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the School Board heard comments on the Superintendent's recommended boundary adjustments at public hearings.
• At the School Board meetings on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Dr. Reid detailed her amended recommendation for the proposed School Boundary changes.
• On Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:15 p.m., the School Board will hear final comments on the Superintendent's recommended boundary adjustments at a public hearing.
• At the January 22, 2026 Regular Meeting, the School Board is scheduled to take final action on the proposed school boundary adjustments.

Upcoming School Board Meeting

The next regular board meeting will be held Thursday, January 22, 2026, at Luther Jackson Middle School , at 7:00 p.m.

The Fairfax County School Board

School Board Office | School Board Members