Superintendent's Weekly Reflections

Hello Team FCPS!

What another fantastic FCPS week!! There continue to be so many exciting activities going on all across this amazing school division. It reminds me to continue to be grateful for all that we have here in FCPS and not to take for granted the special experience(s) we have each and every day. It also reminds me to be mindful of so many places in the world today where education is not a basic human right. I am so proud to serve alongside each of you as together, we continue our journey into the future. “One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world.” --- Malala Yousafzai

Indeed, as we celebrate Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week this week upcoming, we recognize that our educators are changing the world, --- one classroom, one student, one future at a time. Let’s continue to imagine the possibilities ...

As we celebrate Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week here in FCPS, I want to thank all of you in your unique roles for your commitment to the power and promise of public education for each and every one of our students and families, it matters. I know that our future is safe in your hands as students of all professions will pass through our preK-12 classrooms. 

Please take a moment and Watch our video message , as I think it captures well the spirit of appreciation we all share for our hard working and dedicated teachers and staff and take time to celebrate yourself and each other this week! Quality, well-resourced public education is our best hope for the next generation, and the courage and conviction required by our educators to meet the challenges we face go far beyond the classroom. If you have a moment, take the time to reach out and thank an educator you have had that made a difference in your life or the life of a family member. Thank you for all you do ... Go Team FCPS!!

Congratulations to the Office of Comptroller for receiving the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) as well as the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting Award from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO)! The GFOA award is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting and is given to organizations that demonstrate a constructive “spirit of full disclosure” to clearly communicate their financial stories. This recognition reflects FCPS’ commitment to responsible stewardship of public funds and transparent communication with the community. The ASBO award confirms the school division’s commitment to financial accountability and transparency and recognizes that FCPS has met or exceeded the program’s high standards for financial reporting and accountability. 

Monday afternoon, I had the honor of attending a memorial dedication ceremony at Crestwood Elementary School to celebrate the life and legacy of longtime volunteer Irene Rosenbaum. It was a moving tribute to someone who gave so much of her time and heart to supporting students and staff. Hearing the stories shared by the community made clear just how deeply Irene impacted the school over the decades. I am grateful for the opportunity to recognize her contributions and to see her memory permanently honored at Crestwood in the multipurpose room. Her legacy will also continue through the Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship. Created to honor her life’s work, the scholarship provides $5,000 each year, renewable for up to four years, to a student from Lewis High School pursuing postsecondary education. It recognizes not only academic achievement, but also the qualities Irene valued most: resilience, kindness, and a commitment to serving others. 

Monday evening, I went to Marshall Road Elementary School to see a performance of Alice in Wonderland . The production featured fifth and sixth grade students as cast members, as well as part of the art and stage crews, under the direction of Stacey Claytor. It was a great example of the power of community, with staff and parents working together to create a truly magical experience for everyone. It also provided an important opportunity for students to discover and develop skills and talents beyond the traditional classroom, whether in acting, set design, technical production, or teamwork. Experiences like this highlight how essential the arts are as part of a well-rounded education at all levels. They foster creativity, confidence, collaboration, and self-expression, skills that support students not only academically, but throughout their lives. Go Roadrunners!!

Tuesday morning, I had the opportunity to visit Stone Middle School to see innovation in action in Kelly Mosgrove’s civics classroom, where students are engaging in project-based assessments that bring learning to life. As part of Fairfax County Public Schools’ work as a School Division of Innovation, traditional end-of-year tests in social studies have been replaced with more meaningful, student-centered assessments. I observed students creating museum exhibit projects that connect real-world current events to key civics concepts like the Constitution, citizenship, and the branches of government. 

Through research, writing, and hands-on design, students are not only demonstrating what they’ve learned but also applying critical thinking skills and exploring diverse perspectives. This balanced approach, which combines traditional and project-based assessments, empowers students to show their understanding in multiple ways, fostering deeper engagement and preparing them to be thoughtful, informed participants in their communities at the local, state, and national level. 

I then had the opportunity to visit eighth-grade Algebra 1 and Geometry classes, where students were solving equations and preparing for upcoming Standards of Learning (SOL) assessments. Before leaving, I stopped in Kathy Powell’s Spanish class. Since Kathy previously was an Introduction to Foreign Language teacher, I was excited to share a quick greeting in German before the class resumed with Spanish instruction. Go Panthers!!

During my next stop at London Towne Elementary, I saw how students are embodying the Portrait of a Graduate through strong, student-centered learning. I started in Mayra Olmeda’s Spanish Immersion class, where second graders participated in their morning meeting and read the daily message in both English and Spanish. This showed how much their language skills are improving.

Next, I visited Devon Arbuckle’s first-grade class for a reading lesson using Enhanced Core Reading Instruction (ECRI). London Towne is one of only a few schools in Fairfax using this program in grades K–2. The lesson was fast-paced and engaging, helping students build strong phonics skills through group responses and clear routines. I then met the “Roar n’ Pour” team. With support from multilingual teacher Jackie Kakar and an Educate Fairfax grant, students run a mock business that helps them build teamwork and organization skills they will need in the future.

I ended my visit with the Get2Green Caring for Our Watershed group, led by Advanced Academic Resource Teacher Maddie Sirota and Librarian Megan Carnahan. As the only elementary school in the division named as a finalist for Watershed Warriors, these sixth graders represent the pinnacle of global citizenship. They shared a project they created to teach others about ecosystems through an original game. It was clear these students are ready to lead and make a difference — they’re roaring to go! ;>) Go Lions!!

Speaking of students who lead and make a difference, at my next visit to Willow Springs Elementary, I had the pleasure of meeting two extraordinary fifth graders, Aanya Roy and Keya Pawar. I am thrilled to share that Aanya and Keya have been named national first-place winners in the ExploraVision competition for their project, Bug Botics: Technology Meets Sustainable Farming — an incredible accomplishment and one of the highest honors in K–12 STEM! As I spoke with them, I was struck by their ability to think critically about real-world challenges and develop creative, purposeful solutions. As national first-place winners, Aanya and Keya will each receive a $10,000 U.S. Series EE savings bond (at maturity), an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for the ExploraVision Awards Gala, and national recognition as leaders in the next generation of scientists and engineers. Well done!!

Thank you to Principal Dylan Taylor for the warm welcome and for taking the time to walk me through the school. I could truly feel the positive spirit of the Willow Springs community, and I especially loved seeing the vibrant, colorful student artwork displayed throughout the building — it added so much joy and personality to every space!

That same spirit carried into the classrooms we visited, from third graders in Efrosini Stavros’ class helping fifth graders prepare for their science Standards of Learning (SOLs) through interactive games, to students in Mary Mejasic’s class diving into a lesson on sharks, to sixth graders in Milena Heslep’s art room creating prints of their favorite places. Willow Springs is clearly a place where students are encouraged to explore, create, and lead. Keep up the great work, Foxes!!

Next, I met the administrative team at Bonnie Brae Elementary School and saw a collage of handprints created at their recent Heritage Night celebration. Principal Morgan Birge took me to visit third grade classes who were preparing for the upcoming SOLs. 

One class was practicing “slashing the trash” as they read through multiple choice problems and crossed out answers that were obviously wrong. In another class, students were practicing the mechanics of taking the SOL test on their laptops. These tactics will help our young learners feel more prepared and confident on test day. Great job, third grade teachers! This work matters!! As I toured the school, Principal Birge provided updates on the renovation in progress at the school. Although there is still construction fencing up outside, major progress is evident inside! The school is bright and welcoming, and visitors enter a secure vestibule that leads to the office. 

Through displays in the school and the interactions of teachers and staff, it was evident that there’s a strong, supportive community at Bonnie Brae. That community is putting their mark on the school building in such creative ways! I visited an art class where students were invited to decorate tiles with drawings illustrating what they learn and do at school. The tiles will be incorporated into the hallway of the school. What a great way to center the voices of today’s Scotties! 

I then headed to Mosaic Elementary School, which has recently completed a renovation. There, Principal Mahri Aste highlighted fine arts and STEAM opportunities at the school. Unlike most schools, at Mosaic, students can start taking band in fourth grade and strings in third grade. And these students are thriving and creating beautiful music! In a fourth grade class I learned about the topography and land types in Virginia. In an art class, students were incorporating their social studies lessons on the state while they painted landscapes representing regions of Virginia such as the piedmont, mountain, or valley areas. As demonstrated in these classes, the arts are a critical part of a world class education. Mosaic’s art room had a wonderful atmosphere — what an inviting place to create and learn! 

Speaking of atmosphere, the last stop of my visit to Mosaic was its beautifully renovated library. I’m sure our Mustangs are off to the races ;>) with reading in this light-filled open space! 

My last stop for the afternoon was to visit Rocky Run Middle School’s After-School Program and see firsthand the incredible breadth of opportunities available to our students. With nearly 50 activities offered throughout the year and participation from almost every student, the program clearly provides a safe, welcoming, and well-supervised environment where meaningful relationships are built, and students stay engaged through enrichment, fun, and social connection. 

I was especially impressed by the Aerospace Engineering Club, founded by one of Rocky Run’s students and supported by a dedicated community partner. Watching students demonstrate their walk-along gliders, explain aerodynamic principles, and showcase their rubber powered free-flight models was a powerful example of student initiative, curiosity, and the exciting learning happening beyond the school day. Go Rams!!

On Tuesday evening I participated in a boundary meeting at Falls Church High School to discuss potential boundary changes for Greenway Downs, Jefferson Village, City Park Homes, and Kingsley Commons, plus Glasgow Middle School changes related to Beech Tree and Belvedere elementary schools. As always, it continues to be important to craft our future boundaries thoughtfully. You can get more information about this boundary study on our website . 

Last Wednesday’s 2026 FCPS Retirement Ceremony was a truly special celebration, and I was honored to personally congratulate 160 of our retirees at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. We are incredibly grateful for the lasting impact each of our retirees has made on our students, staff, and community! Their dedication, compassion, and unwavering belief in every child have shaped not only individual futures, but the strength of our entire school system. I hope that each of our retirees will stay connected by returning as substitute teachers, volunteering in our schools, or supporting students and staff through our alumni network and Educate Fairfax. A big and grateful thanks to all those staff who planned and supported this incredible event. Congratulations again and Go Team FCPS!!

Thursday morning, I went to Madison High School for its Special Olympics Feet Meet, where we welcomed over 500 students from 16 elementary, middle, and high schools across Fairfax County. Feet Meet is a field day designed to celebrate and build school communities of acceptance and inclusion through the engagement of young people both with and without disabilities. The Madison Special Olympics Unified Team led the Athlete’s Oath and participated in a Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Virginia. The Madison Women’s choir sang the National Anthem, and the drumline brought energy and excitement to the Opening Ceremony. I was proud to hear that over 100 Madison students volunteered to be station leaders at this incredible event and serve as school ambassadors. Go Warhawks!!

Next, I went to Bush Hill Elementary School for an exciting ceremony where the school unveiled its Special Olympics National Unified Champion School banner, recognizing Bush Hill's second time earning Unified Champion status. Special Olympics International Chairman, Dr. Timothy Shriver, was there to celebrate the achievement, along with ESPN senior writer Heather Dinich. They enjoyed a demonstration from Bush Hill's Unified Basketball Team, which holds a tournament every January. Bush Hill also regularly participates in other Special Olympics programs, including the Little Feet Meet, and has operated a Peer Mentoring Program for the last decade. About 10% of Bush Hill's students receive support through special education programs. With such a caring community of staff and students uplifting everyone, this honor is well deserved. Go Panthers!!

On Thursday afternoon FCPS Chief Information Technology Officer Gautam Sethi and I had the pleasure of meeting with student journalists from each of our high schools for our second annual roundtable discussion at Gatehouse Administration Center. This year, the topic was artificial intelligence in schools, and we received many thoughtful questions over the course of more than an hour about a complex and important issue that will continue to spark debate for many years to come. Technology is certainly a subject that needs careful discussion as we move forward, and receiving input from our students is critically important! Read more and watch a video about the meeting .

Early Thursday evening, I held a meeting of the Military Family Advisory Council, also at Gatehouse. Our military connected families are the backbone of those who patriotically serve in our country. As we have approximately 13,000 military-connected students in FCPS, it is important that we continue to support our students and their families through the transitions of military service. I also appreciate the efforts each of you are making in supporting our Purple Star Designation goals , it matters! 

Later Thursday evening I went to the Greenspring Senior Retirement Community in Springfield for its Scholarship Ceremony. Greenspring awards scholarships to high school students who work there. This year for the Class of 2026, Greenspring awarded scholarships totaling more than $800,000 to students from 17 different high schools, 12 of which are FCPS schools – for trade school, community college, or university higher education – a record year for scholarships! Over the last 25 years, Greenspring has awarded over $3 million dollars to deserving students! Learning happens best in community, and this is a clear example of love in action and community building support for learning in authentic ways. I left the evening inspired by those present and their mission driven commitments, together all things are possible.

On Friday morning, I visited Annandale High School for a School Lunch Hero Day celebration. I continue to appreciate all the hard work and dedication of our food service professionals. In this case, the team at Annandale HS are outstanding in their commitment to serving students and setting them up for academic success.  Go Atoms!!

Later Friday morning, I attended the Public School Leaders Network Summit at George Mason University. This is a group that continues to advocate for supporting public education in Virginia as the leaders present represent the Northern Virgina region and collaborate to message issues of importance to our students, staff, and families.  

Also on Friday morning, we were treated to a performance of the West Springfield High School Chamber Orchestra, led by Director Alexandra Blaine. She shared that “Members of the West Springfield High School Chamber Orchestra will be showcasing a curated selection of works from their 2025-26 performance season. This program not only highlights the ensemble’s versatility through a range of classical, lyrical, and contemporary pieces, but also reflects the vital role music education plays in our schools. Through their study and performance, these students develop discipline, collaboration, creativity, and confidence — skills that extend far beyond the classroom. This performance is a celebration of both their musical growth and the meaningful impact that access to strong arts programs has on student success and school communities.” Thanks for sharing your musical talents with us! Go Spartans!!

Friday evening, I stopped by Fox Mill Elementary School for its Matsuri-Japanese Festival. The school’s first and fourth graders have been working together all year, reading Japanese books, singing Japanese songs, and engaging in cultural learning experiences, all leading up to a performance at the festival. Go Foxes!!

My last stop on Friday evening was to Herndon High School for its performance of Cinderella . It was a great show, and I loved that I could follow the storyline ;>). One of the special aspects of the show was the community approach. HHS Theatre Director Scott Pafumi shared, “One of the greatest joys for me in producing and directing this musical comes in the collaboration and cooperation of the entire Herndon HS Performing Arts team! I am joined in the making of this production with Choral teacher Jane Waldrop as our vocal director, Band teacher Brian Fisher conducting our student and adult pit orchestra, which features Orchestra teacher Allison Devereux on cello and Guitar teacher Chris Cunningham on trumpet! I believe this is the first time in my 30-year storied career as an FCPS Theatre Director that I have been able to conjure my entire hallway of colleagues into one production, and I could not be prouder of us for doing so!” Me either, I love our community spirit, it matters ;>) Go Hornets!!

I began my Saturday morning at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology for a middle school track meet. I continue to be so inspired by all that our middle school support staff, coaches, administrators, and volunteers are doing each and every day to support the healthy development of our middle school students, it matters. I also enjoyed the opportunities to visit with our student athletes, many of whom competed with a personal best this weekend.  The practices of goal setting and the discipline required to meet these goals continue to be consistent with our strategic plan goals, together all things are possible.  

I then had the opportunity to go to the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., for a reception and presentation which was hosted by Ambassador Xie Feng. The event particularly focused on sharing the topic of discovering Shaanxi: Where the Silk Road Starts, Wonders Await. It was a nice opportunity to connect with our Chinese American community, meet with embassy educational leaders, and also to learn more about our international partnerships. 

Later, I went to see a performance of 9 to 5: the Musical at South Lakes High School. I could not believe this show is almost three decades old ;>)  I especially enjoyed the still timely message that the musical leads (Doralee, Judy, Violet and Roz) shared during the performance – the transformational power of women in leadership ;>)  According to SLHS Theatre Director, Michael Viola, “There's so much to love about this show! While it's certainly a hilarious story, the themes in 9 to 5 are important messages for the students and the audience: maintaining resiliency, working together, finding your voice, and celebrating women. I'm thankful our company was able to capture all that in their performances and make the audience laugh out loud.” Go Seahawks!!

My last stop on Saturday was the Fairfax Church of Christ for the Special Education PTA (SEPTA) Excellence Awards . This was the 9th annual event, and the full house present celebrated the many achievements of our staff and students in partnership with our families and community. I left the event feeling inspired by the power of partnerships and purpose, together all things are possible.  

At its core, spring is a season of renewal, a reminder that after the darker, colder months of winter, something new and light emerges as a part of a predictable season and cycle of nature – one that we can count on year after year. I love that we can count on the seasons of our lives continuing to challenge us to rise above our circumstances and to continue to serve and see in others what they often do not see in themselves – that is the spirit of education … As one of my favorite leaders often shared, “ The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fall.” – Nelson Mandela. I am looking forward to connecting as I am out in the schools and community this coming week, we have so much to be grateful for ….

Take good care,

Michelle Reid, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Fairfax County Public Schools