FCPS This Week - April 22, 2026
Middle schoolers from Lake Braddock Secondary School (above) react after learning they won first place in the county’s Battle of the Books competition. The program, created by school librarians, incorporates book trivia for students where they read a set number of books and then play games and answer questions.
FCPS Students Named Winners of National Merit Corporate-Sponsored Scholarships
Nine FCPS students have been awarded 2026 corporate-sponsored scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. The students are part of a group of more than 700 National Merit finalists chosen to receive scholarships financed by corporations, company foundations, and other business organizations. See the list of National Merit scholarship winners .
Two FCPS Students Receive Grand Prize Award at 2026 Virginia State Science Fair
Two FCPS students earned top honors at the 2026 Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair, with their innovative research projects receiving Grand Prize awards. Their work highlights the depth of talent and scientific inquiry across FCPS, and both projects will advance to the international level of competition. Read more about the science fair winners .
400 Students Earn International Baccalaureate Diplomas and Career-Related Certificates
Nearly 400 FCPS students earned the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma and 76 students earned the IB Career-Related Certificate in 2025. The IB Diploma and Career-Related Programs aim to develop students who are internationally-minded, knowledgeable, and compassionate lifelong learners prepared for higher education and the world of work. View the list of students recognized by the IB program .
Reid Reflects: Military-Connected Youth Field Day
On Saturday, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid attended the Military-Connected Youth Field Day at Annandale High School, which is part of the division’s Month of the Military Child celebration. Military families from across the division connected with one another and enjoyed crafts and games. Learn more in Dr. Reid’s Weekly Reflections .
Robinson Senior Abby Huisman Named Military Child of the Year Finalist
Robinson Secondary School senior Abby Huisman knows how hard it is to start at a new school. Growing up, she moved seven times with her family as they followed her father’s 28-year career in the Air Force.
Abby makes it her mission at Robinson to help students going through the same experience. She serves as vice president of Rambassadors, a 200-member organization that plays a key role in welcoming new students. Many of them are military-connected. Abby is one of numerous FCPS students who help provide a space where military-connected students feel safe and welcome.
During this Month of the Military Child, read more about Abby’s far-reaching impact .
FCPS Family Cafe: Introduction to Career Pathways for Students
Join Family and School Partnerships to explore career pathways, academies, and the wide range of courses and certifications available to students in FCPS.
This virtual workshop will be held on Wednesday, May 13, at 6:30 p.m., and will highlight the various career and technical education courses available to middle and high school students in FCPS. Currently, there are more than 160 Career and Technical Education (CTE) course options . Many CTE programs include industry credentials, work-based learning, and participation in career and technical student organizations, allowing students to develop the skills needed to be successful in future education, training, and careers.
Register in advance for Career Pathways to receive the Zoom link. Email [email protected] for more information or call 703-204-4300.
Required Immunizations for Rising 7th and 12th Graders
The following immunizations are required for students entering 7th and 12th grade each school year.
All students entering seventh grade are required to receive one dose of each of the following immunizations prior to the beginning of school: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis booster (Tdap), Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY), and Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine .
- To meet the Tdap requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older.
- To meet the MenACWY requirement, the vaccination must be administered at age 10 or older.
- To meet the HPV requirement, the vaccination should be given between the ages of 11 to 12, or as early as 9 years old.
- As a parent/guardian, you may decide that your child will not receive the HPV vaccination. The school does not require documentation if a parent/guardian elects for their student to not receive the HPV vaccination.
All students entering 12th grade should have received two doses of the Meningococcal vaccine (MenACWY) prior to the beginning of school. To meet the MenACWY 12th-grade requirement, one of those doses must be administered at age 16 or older.
Please consider getting your child’s immunizations early so that they can attend school in the fall. Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan ahead by scheduling an appointment with your child’s health care provider now to avoid the typical summer vaccination rush. Summer is a busy time for families and health care providers. As long as your child meets the age requirements listed above, they can be immunized at any time.
Immunization Events for FCPS Students
FCPS, in partnership with Inspire Health Alliance, will provide school-required immunizations and optional flu shots for all FCPS students at no out-of-pocket cost. Multiple events will take place at designated FCPS locations.
Dates will be made available throughout the school year. Parents or guardians may view upcoming events and schedule an appointment for their student . Participation is voluntary. Additional immunization resources are also available.
Students Advocate for Solar Energy
In this Earth Day episode of Our Voices, Our Future, student advocates from Falls Church and McLean high schools discuss their journeys into environmental science and solar advocacy with Dr. Reid. Learn more about solar and other renewable energy in FCPS .
FCPS Teacher Awarded National Best of Green Schools Award
Laure Grove, an early childhood inclusion teacher at Terra Centre Elementary School, was chosen from among hundreds of nominations to receive a 2026 Best of Green Schools Award from the Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and Green Schools National Network.
Under Grove’s leadership, the school boasts “Don’t Be Wasteful Wednesdays,” during which students lead efforts to discourage food waste through “share” tables and compost work in the cafeteria. She also leads an in-school Green Team and an after-school Eco Club to help support the local environment.
Read more about Grove’s work at Terra Centre .
Cultivating Student Competence and Confidence
Josh McFarland, a West Potomac High School alumnus who is now a multiple disabilities teacher at the school, traveled from the frozen wilderness of Alaska back to the classrooms of Alexandria to transform how students learn. His dedication and innovative classroom practices earned him recognition as a finalist for the FCPS 2025 Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher. Read about McFarland and watch a video about his experiences .
School Receives Book Donation From Library of Congress
Garfield Elementary School was the heart of a special celebration as students, staff, and community members gathered to mark a meaningful book donation from the Library of Congress and Veterans of Foreign Wars that will enrich learning for years to come. Read about the book donation .
West Potomac Academy Students Train for Real Emergencies
Students at West Potomac Academy stepped into the roles of first responders during a realistic emergency simulation, gaining hands-on experience in dispatch, medical response, and public safety.
Working alongside local public safety partners, students navigated high-pressure scenarios, building critical skills in teamwork, communication, and real-world problem-solving. Read about the life-saving exercise .
10 Teachers Earn or Renew National Board Certification
FCPS is proud to recognize 10 teachers who earned or renewed National Board Certification, a nationally respected credential that reflects high standards for teaching practice. See the list of new and renewed certified teachers .
Building Camaraderie Through Safety and Competition at the Annual FCPS Roadeo
FCPS transportation staff recently showcased their skill, professionalism, and commitment to student safety at the 2026 Bus Roadeo. The annual event featured friendly competition, team building, and recognition of this year’s top drivers. Read more in this Employee Blog .
Nominations Open for the 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 .
Our Office of the Ombuds Is at Your Service!
Ombuds staff engage with FCPS students, families, and staff to offer resources and improve the experience of each member of the FCPS community. They work as an independent, confidential resource to help get answers to questions, resolve concerns, and hear complaints regarding FCPS matters. Ombuds staff do not make or change decisions, policies, or regulations. They do not take sides, and they do not provide legal advice.
Anyone with concerns, questions, or complaints to share with the Office of the Ombuds may call 571-423-4014, email [email protected] , or visit their webpage where you may submit a question .
School Board Meeting Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m.
The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting on Thursday, April 23, at 7 p.m.
View the complete agenda . Find out how to watch and participate in School Board meetings .
Provide Fairfax County With Feedback on Its Budget
About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. The Board of Supervisors is reviewing the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Advertised Budget and considering possible adjustments before adoption in May. Visit the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors website to learn how community members can share their feedback and provide input on the county’s FY 2027 Budget.
