Superintendent's Weekly Reflections

Hello Team FCPS,

Wow, what another great FCPS week!! So many amazing events and so little time ;>)

I’m excited to share that FCPS received two nominations for the 68th Capital Emmy Awards from the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. “ Girls Flag Football: Be a Trailblazer – Get in the Game! ” was nominated in the Content Shorts category, and “ Touching History ” earned a nomination in the Historical/Cultural News category. These honors recognize excellence in television and media production across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. 

The nominated videos highlight the incredible stories unfolding across FCPS every day. “Girls Flag Football: Be a Trailblazer – Get in the Game!” celebrates the launch of girls’ flag football in FCPS, where 775 students participated in the inaugural season through our partnership with the Washington Commanders, and 25 high schools fielded teams. The video captures how athletics build confidence, teamwork, leadership, and connection for students.

“Touching History” featured a ribbon cutting for Louise Archer Elementary School’s renovation project; during the renovation, a wooden wall was discovered hidden behind brick for over 70 years. The wall belonged to the original three-room schoolhouse on the site, the Vienna “Colored” School, that was built during the Great Depression. The video celebrated both the school’s modern improvements and the preservation of its historic identity. Congratulations to everyone involved in these outstanding projects. Go Team FCPS!

On Monday evening, I went to Silverbrook Elementary School where its cafeteria was turned into a magical space for “Sweet Dreams: Celebrating Creativity and Innovation.” Now in its 16th year, the “Sweet Dreams” Art Gala has become an important Silverbrook tradition. Led by art teachers Laura Lajin and Elke Whittle, the event included artwork from every student in grades K-6 for the second year in a row. The show was divided into two nights: students in grades 1, 3, and 5 shared their work on April 13, while students in grades K, 2, 4, and 6 presented their artwork on May 11.

Each student displayed an original piece of art along with a short artist statement and photo. The artwork included painting, ceramics, printmaking, collage, and drawing. The Silverbrook art program also supports Portrait of a Graduate skills. Through art, students learn to think creatively, solve problems, stay organized, and keep trying when challenges arise. These hands-on projects help students turn their ideas into finished works of art. Go Seahawks!!

My first stop on Tuesday morning was Luther Jackson Middle School, which is led by Principal Megan Sherrill. One of the highlights of the visit was observing Sharon Parker’s seventh grade AVID (Advanced Via Individual Determination) classroom. Students were actively engaged in thoughtful discussions about the novels they were reading in their book groups. I was especially impressed by the strong level of analysis students demonstrated and the detailed notes they recorded in their journals using AVID strategies. It was wonderful to see students taking ownership of their learning and building important critical thinking and organizational skills.

Megan and I also discussed the significant increase in the number of students enrolled in Algebra this year compared to last year. In addition, as SOL scores continue to come in, the early pass rate data is very promising and reflects the hard work of both students and staff.

Another important part of our conversation focused on the implementation of Algebra for All for all eighth grade students and many seventh graders next year. I appreciated learning more about the differentiated strategies being used to support all students in accessing this rigorous coursework. Maintaining high expectations while also providing the right resources is essential to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. Go Tigers!!

My next stop was to Franconia Elementary School, where I was met by Principal Andrew Smith, Assistant Principal Brooke Nyland, a group of student ambassadors, and the school’s mascot, Waddles the Penguin. I have to say that Waddles set a very high bar for mascot greetings moving forward. ;>) 

Our first stop at Franconia was the special education classroom of Sarah Goings, Melmariam Azene, and Scott Vickers, where the students were using assistive technology to complete their daily lessons. Next, we went to the kindergarten classroom of Christina Tran, where the students were learning about addition and subtraction by counting the number of turtles on a log. Yay Math! 

And our last stop was to the music classroom of Jennifer Lucius, where third graders were learning how to play “Peter Rabbit” on the recorder. Jennifer informed me that the students had just learned the song ten minutes before we arrived – very impressive! Go Penguins!!

Next, I had the opportunity to visit Edison Academy and meet three extraordinary students whose success at the SkillsUSA State Leadership Conference highlights the power of Career and Technical Education in FCPS. SkillsUSA is a national competition that challenges students to demonstrate real-world, hands-on skills in fields like HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), engineering, and information technology — advancing from classroom competitions all the way to the national stage.

I met Mohammad “Mo” Al-Towaiti from Bryant High School, who earned first place in Program Design and second place in both HVAC and T-Shirt Design. Mo shared how he arrived at Edison Academy with prior experience from Yemen and used photography to document competitions and study techniques after not placing during his first year. His perseverance paid off! This fall, he will begin a five-year apprenticeship with Steamfitters Local 602 as he works toward earning his journeyman license and eventually opening his own company. His advice to others was simple and powerful: “You have to show discipline and work ethic. You have to work hard to earn the success.”

I also met Ceaser Fetzner from Mount Vernon High School, who earned first place in Career Pathways for Industrial and Engineering Technology. Ceaser’s passion for HVAC began when he was just six years old, and his deep technical knowledge is remarkable. He runs a YouTube channel documenting HVAC systems, studies equipment across generations, and already works with industry partners connected to the Edison program. 

Finally, Sam Finnegan earned first place in Internetworking, where students were tasked with building and troubleshooting complex network systems under pressure. Sam will attend Rochester Institute of Technology this fall to study cybersecurity. Together, these students are proof that hands-on learning, innovation, and perseverance open doors to meaningful careers and bright futures. You can learn more about these outstanding students in this Our Voices, Our Future video . Thank you to all the career and technical education educators who support this important work each and every day, it matters.  

On Tuesday afternoon, the Military Youth Advisory Council held its final meeting of the year at Gatehouse Administration Center, bringing together high school representatives to reflect on a successful Month of the Military Child and the creative ways their schools honored military-connected students. The students spoke about the impactful programs launched this year, such as the McLean High School Military Youth Support Club’s mentorship program with Longfellow Middle School. This student-led initiative aligns middle schoolers with high school mentors to help them navigate the transition process, share resources, and build resilience. Through monthly meetings featuring Q&As and team-building games, these mentors are building a stable support system and a true sense of belonging for middle school students before they enter high school.

Looking ahead, the Council shifted its focus to the upcoming school year. FCPS will kick off the year with the Military Family Welcome BBQ, a special event designed to foster early connections for returning families and those new to the community. The energy in the room was high as the students prepared to lead several service projects in support of the local military-connected population. We are incredibly proud of these student leaders for the heart they pour into supporting our entire military-connected community!

On Tuesday evening we held a public hearing on the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget .I appreciated hearing from community members and stakeholders as we continue working together to build a budget that supports our students, staff, and schools while reflecting the priorities of our community. I invite each of you to tune in this Thursday as the School Board votes to approve the final budget. Together all things are possible! 

Wednesday morning, I made my way to Richmond for the launch of the Virginia Business K-12 Partnership. The purpose of the meeting was for business and K-12 education leaders to discuss how the new partnership can support a growing economy and create pathways to opportunity for all Virginians. This is a new effort and was also championed by our governor and senior education officials. Learning happens best in community, and we are grateful for our commonwealth community.  

Later on Wednesday, I attended a meeting of the Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Committee (STAC) at Kilmer Middle School. Each school has a STAC representative. The purpose of the committee is to provide us with input and feedback from instructional staff members on matters of importance to the school system and to provide a venue for them to bring matters of concern to the attention of the Leadership Team. Then, each representative is expected to share the results of the meeting with colleagues at their school. Working together with employee groups to better address the needs of students and staff members is part of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan’s Pillar C: Diverse, Adaptive, and Supported Workforce. 

And on Wednesday evening, I went to the Udvar-Hazy Center for an event dedicated to investing in America's space initiatives. The evening brought together a group of industry leaders, investors, and public sector partners with a shared focus on advancing space innovation and strengthening our regional economy. One idea that is being discussed, among many ideas, is establishing a quantum computing presence at our new Skyview High School. Further, there are so many innovative ideas that will shape not only our northern Virginia region but also our nation. I especially appreciated the opportunity to tour the facility. 

I began my day Thursday at the All-County Principals Meeting at Willow Oaks. I had the opportunity to reflect alongside our school leaders as we celebrated both retiring and newly appointed principals and administrators. It was a meaningful reminder of the incredible dedication and service so many leaders have given to FCPS over the years; while also recognizing the energy, ideas, and inspiration our newest leaders are bringing into these roles.

Throughout the year, principals worked together in cross-region “hive groups,” building connections, sharing perspectives, and learning from one another across grade levels and school communities. I challenged everyone to think about what their May 2026 selves would say to their August 2025 selves at the start of the school year, a powerful reflection on growth, resilience, and leadership. What would you say to your August 2025 self? ;>) As we look ahead to next year, I am encouraged by the continued focus on innovation, school improvement, and ensuring greater equity of access to rigorous and advanced coursework for all students – while we continue to support the whole child. This work matters!!

On Thursday afternoon I attended the Northern Virginia Technology Council’s (NVTC) Artificial Intelligence Summit in McLean. As a member of the NVTC Board, I have a unique opportunity to be a part of the conversation that impacts our community and by extension our country as northern Virginia continues to lead the way in innovative technology use and development. It was also a reminder that so many of our families are a part of this technology ecosystem and conversation.  

Friday afternoon, I had the pleasure of welcoming back former FCPS student Arman Nikmorad on a very special day — his graduation from George Mason University, where he earned his degree with top honors as a summa cum laude graduate! Arman’s journey from a McLean High School student-producer to FCPS multimedia technician is a powerful example of what happens when passion, opportunity, and mentorship come together. While still a student at McLean High School, Arman’s curiosity about broadcast technology led him to volunteer alongside staff from the FCPS Department of Information Technology as they repaired television equipment. That experience quickly grew into an internship and eventually a fulltime role supporting livestreams, broadcast systems, and student media production across the division. I feel like Arman and I started working at FCPS together! 

Today, Arman helps manage high-profile School Board broadcasts, trains students on professional video equipment, and supports events across Fairfax County — all while remaining deeply connected to the schools and staff who helped shape his journey. 

During our conversation, Arman reflected on how FCPS educators and mentors encouraged him to pursue both academic excellence and professional growth . His story is a wonderful example of FCPS’ “grow your own” culture, where students are empowered to turn classroom experiences into meaningful careers that give back to the very communities that supported them. Congratulations, Arman, on this incredible achievement and bright future ahead! 

Friday evening, I was back at Jackson Middle School for its Heritage Celebration Night. It was great to see all of our students, educators, families and community members share their cultural heritage and traditions in a wide variety of performances. What a great way to celebrate our community. Go Tigers!!

I ended my night on Friday at the Football Coaches Showcase at Robinson Secondary School held by the Northern Virginia Coaches Association. There were over 250 student athletes from all over Fairfax County and more than 40 FCPS coaches putting the student athletes through a football workout to showcase their physical talents and abilities from physical skills to football related drills in front of over 33 College Football Coaches. It is a great way to come together for all of our student athletes.  

College coaches from all of the various collegiate levels were on hand at Robinson Secondary School to evaluate the many different talents showcased at the FCPS Combine. This was a tremendous opportunity for the young men in Fairfax County public high schools’ football programs to demonstrate their skills and talents to college coaches in the hope to continue their dreams of competing at the college level. Special thanks to all of the FCPS football coaches who participated for volunteering their time to make this event a tremendous success, it matters.  

Saturday morning, I made the trip to Great Meadow in The Plains, Virginia, for the 2026 American Rocketry Challenge National Finals. The American Rocketry Challenge is the nation’s largest student rocket competition and provides students with an extraordinary opportunity to apply physics, engineering, mathematics, and problem-solving skills in a real-world setting. A team from Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST) earned a place among the top 100 teams nationwide out of approximately 1,100 participating teams. This accomplishment reflects months of dedication, teamwork, engineering design, data analysis, and perseverance by the five student team members.

Because rocket launches are restricted near the Capital Beltway, the students have spent countless weekends traveling to launch sites in central Virginia, Maryland, and southern Pennsylvania to test, redesign, and improve their rockets. They practiced in all types of weather while balancing the rigorous academic demands of TJHSST. Their commitment represents the very best of FCPS’ mission to inspire innovation, collaboration, and excellence. 

According to Shella Condino, AP Physics Teacher and TJ Rocketry Club Sponsor, “This year, 1,107 teams from across the nation participated in the competition. I am excited to report that our team earned an impressive 16th-place national finish, placing them among the top teams in the country. Our students also achieved the highest placement of any team from the Commonwealth of Virginia. The team received the special “Out of This World Outfit” Award for their creativity and presentation. Their competition theme was “God of Storms,” and their rockets were appropriately named “Lightning” and “Thunder.” Because of their placement in the top 25 teams nationally, our students are now eligible to submit a research proposal to the NASA Student Launch Initiative. If selected, the team will participate in a rigorous nine-month engineering project involving the design, construction, testing, and launch of an advanced high-power rocket carrying a scientific or engineering payload. The program will culminate with a final launch event in Huntsville, Alabama, in spring 2027.”

The TJHSST rocketry team also conducted an exhibit launch on Saturday afternoon. This team competed in the “Battle of the Rockets” competition and earned an outstanding 2nd-place finish. The students demonstrated exceptional teamwork, innovation, perseverance, and school spirit throughout the event. Their achievement reflects countless hours of preparation, testing, and collaboration, and they represented our school community with pride and professionalism. Go Colonials!!

Next, I went to Rachel Carson Middle School for its fifth annual Charity Chess Event, which was organized by Ameya Haldankar, a junior at Langley High School. This year the proceeds will go to Anna Sudha Community Kitchens, a charity that feeds individuals and families in need. In previous years, the proceeds of this student-run event supported people with disabilities, and children who were recovering in the hospital. I appreciated the opportunity to play a game with Ameya, though I only lasted about seven minutes … ;>)  I continue to be so inspired by our students who work to improve our communities, it matters. Go Saxons!!

Early on Sunday morning I attended the Girls on the Run Spring 5K Celebration at Pentagon City Mall. The celebratory 5K marks the end of the Girls on the Run season, and 23 Fairfax teams and other area schools came together to showcase their confidence, strength, and personal growth. I so appreciate all the support and guidance each and every educator continues to provide our students and the thousands of our students who believe in themselves as a result; together all things are possible. 

Later on Sunday afternoon, I was honored to join School Board Member At-Large Ryan McElveen for the Global Leaders of Fairfax County end-of-year celebration at Falls Church High School to recognize the incredible accomplishments of its Class of 2026. It was inspiring to see how these students have embraced opportunities to think beyond borders, engage with global issues, and connect local action to worldwide impact through projects tied to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. 

Their curiosity, compassion, and commitment to making a difference reminded all of us that leadership is defined not by age, but by action. I am grateful to the families, mentors, educators, and community partners who have supported these students throughout their journey, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these young leaders will continue to make in Fairfax County and beyond. Our students will continue to lead us!!

As we approach this season of celebrations and the marking of traditions long held, with proms, end-of-year parties and graduations; it is incumbent on us to remember the importance of inclusiveness and at times extending grace. This season of celebrations can also be a stressful time for those who are struggling to make ends meet or meet assessment and graduation requirements, and who at times feel isolated with their struggles and challenges. Thank you for taking that extra moment to check in on our students and one another... “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word ... all of which have the potential to turn a life around." — Leo Buscaglia    

All the best and take good care,

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