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Falls Church City Public Schools is one of only six districts nationwide to receive Youth Service America’s 2025 Gold Ribbon School District in Service-Learning award.

The honor recognizes the district’s integration of student-led community service into its PreK-12 International Baccalaureate curriculum. Students identify local needs, develop plans and put their proposed solutions into action.

“This recognition reflects what happens when we empower young people as civic leaders and problem-solvers,” said Marybeth Connelly, the district’s director of strategic planning and community engagement. “Our students aren’t just preparing to make a difference someday — they’re making that difference right now in Falls Church.”

District programs include GIVE Day, an annual initiative in which students of different ages collaborate on community projects, and the HipStangs Reading Club, which pairs high school mentors with elementary students for weekly reading sessions at the public library.

Students also complete progressively more advanced IB service-learning projects in grades 5, 8, 10, 11 and 12. The projects are designed to strengthen their research, planning and community-engagement skills.

Scott Ganske, Youth Service America’s vice president of education, described the district as a model for youth leadership and civic involvement, with students serving as community change-makers rather than simply participating in volunteer activities.

FCCPS works with Falls Church’s municipal government, libraries and nonprofit organizations to give students practical leadership opportunities. Other efforts include the Anna Hennessey Scholarship and public art installations designed by students.

The award was announced in conjunction with Youth Service Month, held from April 11 through May 11.

Falls Church City Public Schools serves approximately 2,700 students across five schools in Falls Church. The entire division is an International Baccalaureate World School district.