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Students representing every Fairfax County Public Schools high school gathered at Skyview High School for the district’s first Superintendent Student Summit, bringing their concerns and recommendations directly to Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid.

The April 6 leadership and engagement event was organized to strengthen student participation in decisions affecting schools across the county. Reid opened the summit by emphasizing the significance of students sharing their ideas in a district she described as one of the nation’s premier school systems.

A planning committee made up of two representatives from each high school helped shape the event and led small-group conversations about issues within students’ school communities.

Rebeca, a McLean High School sophomore, said hearing perspectives from other schools helped her understand what students elsewhere were experiencing. Fellow McLean sophomore Alisson said the summit allowed students to contribute ideas while developing communication, critical-thinking and other practical skills.

Students from ninth through 12th grade compared their classroom experiences and discussed the benefits and challenges found at their schools.

Ben, a Madison High School sophomore, said meeting students from other campuses revealed both similarities and differences, particularly in how teachers influence learning environments.

Participants later formed larger groups to identify challenges and propose solutions across seven areas: preparation for life after high school; access to college and career exploration; responsible use of artificial intelligence and technology; equity in resources and opportunities; school culture, belonging and inclusion; teaching and learning environments; and clubs, arts, activities and school spirit.

The summit ended with representatives presenting 90 minutes of findings and recommendations to Reid and the other participants. Their proposals were intended to improve both their own schools and the district as a whole.

Tianxing, a Madison senior, said the gathering demonstrated how FCPS is considering the future of education amid changes in technology and the wider world. He also urged students and educators to examine how technology and their surroundings shape learning—and to ask whether current educational methods can be improved.

Reid listened, took notes, answered questions and discussed how the school district reflects conditions across the country. She emphasized the value of public education, telling students, “I think there’s nothing more important than the education of our young people. Nothing.”

The summit’s focus on communication, critical thinking and leadership aligned with Goal 5 of the FCPS 2023-2030 Strategic Plan, Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation.