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Fairfax County Public Schools could face significant cuts as the Board of Supervisors prepares to finalize the county budget beginning Tuesday, May 6. The advertised budget leaves the school division underfunded by $150 million.
School officials say additional revenue, including a proposed meals tax that would add about $2 to $3 to an average restaurant bill for a family of four, could help close the gap.
The budget warning leads a series of school updates covering immunizations, student health services, mental health resources, summer activities and end-of-year schedules.
Immunization requirements for seventh and 12th grades
Students entering seventh grade must receive Tdap and meningococcal, or MenACWY, vaccines before school begins. The Tdap dose must be administered at age 7 or older, while the MenACWY dose must be given at age 10 or older.
The HPV vaccine is also included among the seventh-grade immunizations, but parents and guardians may opt their children out without submitting documentation to the school.
Students entering 12th grade must receive a MenACWY dose administered at age 16 or older.
Families are encouraged to complete required vaccinations early because health care providers can become busy during the summer. Eligible students may receive the vaccines at any time. Additional help is available through school immunization resources and the Fairfax County Health Department.
The Health Department and School Health Services are also seeking feedback from parents and caregivers about school health room services. The five-minute survey remains open through Monday, May 5.
Mental health and family support
High school students can receive virtual therapy at no cost for concerns including anxiety, grief, changes in mood or behavior, academic stress, bullying and family or peer relationships.
A guardian or designated school staff member can make a referral. Families may call 571-749-2940 or contact a school counselor, psychologist, social worker or director of Student Services.
The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board also provides youth services including individual and family counseling, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, parenting groups, peer support, crisis response and intensive recovery programs. Families can reach Entry and Referral at 703-383-8500 or [email protected].
The independent Office of the Ombuds offers confidential guidance to families, students and employees who have questions or complaints involving school matters. The office can explain options and help identify resources, but it does not change decisions, establish policies, take sides or provide legal advice. Assistance is available by calling 571-423-4014, texting 571-496-8284 or emailing [email protected].
General school information is also available through telephone lines serving families who speak Amharic, Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Korean, Spanish, Urdu or Vietnamese.
Student milestones and school programs
The All-County Sixth Grade Choral Festival marked its 50th anniversary after first bringing students together in 1975. This year, 804 students from 97 schools performed before an audience of 2,400, with additional viewers watching online.
At Chantilly Academy, Cosmetology 2 students worked for a second year with students in the Category B program for people with intellectual disabilities, helping them prepare for Day Prom.
Irving Middle School created a challenge coin to recognize military-connected students. The school presents the coins to those leaving Irving for another school, borrowing from a tradition associated with military units and achievements.
Bucknell Elementary School teacher Neika Smith also shared how life in a military family has shaped her approach to teaching. Smith met her husband, Qadree, while he was serving in the Army, and the couple has two children enrolled in Fairfax County public schools.
Superintendent Michelle Reid’s recent school visits included a stop at Oak Hill Elementary School to celebrate completion of the building’s renovation.
Graduation, driver education and future readiness
During a School Board meeting, Reid presented an update on the division’s fifth strategic-plan goal, which calls for every student to graduate prepared to adapt, innovate and succeed after high school.
During the 2023-24 school year, 94.58% of students graduated on time and 3.81% dropped out. Both figures represented improvements.
Reid also discussed Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID, and its work to close opportunity gaps by preparing students for college and careers.
The school division’s adult and community education program now offers an online driving-permit preparation course authorized by Virginia. Its driver education program has served nearly 35,000 students over the past decade.
Distracted driving accounts for 17% of crashes in Virginia, representing more than 21,000 crashes. State motor vehicle officials say driver education can improve safety among young motorists, with some studies finding accident reductions of as much as 20%.
Summer events and final-day schedules
A free Summer Extravaganza is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Woodson High School. Families can explore summer programs and community resources while participating in educational activities, student performances, face painting and a fire-truck tour.
Historic Schoolhouse Day will take place Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Six former one- and two-room schoolhouses will open for tours and activities highlighting Northern Virginia’s educational history.
School Lunch Hero Day is Friday, May 2, recognizing employees who serve students during lunchtime.
Families whose children are struggling with attendance near the end of the academic year are encouraged to contact a teacher, counselor or administrator.
The final day of school is Wednesday, June 11. Secondary and high schools will operate for two hours and dismiss students at either 10 or 10:10 a.m. All other schools will close two hours earlier than usual.