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The Fairfax County School Board unanimously adopted its advertised fiscal 2026 budget during its Feb. 20, 2025, regular meeting, advancing a spending plan focused on higher academic standards, competitive employee compensation and responsible use of taxpayer funds.

Superintendent Michelle Reid also presented an update on Strategic Plan Goal 3, which covers academic growth and excellence. The board approved the Goal 3 report for the 2024-25 school year.

The district’s goal reports are part of the board’s ongoing oversight of the five areas in the strategic plan. Each report reviews progress and results, provides updates on the other goals and identifies activities planned for areas needing improvement. The process includes a written draft, a board work session and a public presentation of the final report.

Reid also delivered an Academic Matters presentation on career and technical education.

The meeting began at 7 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence. The Daniels Run Elementary School Singers, directed by Michelle McCarten, performed the national anthem. The Justice High School Chamber Choir, directed by Miranda Lansberry, performed “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

Board members approved proclamations recognizing Custodians and Food & Nutrition Services Employees Appreciation Month, as well as School Bus Driver, Bus Attendant and Crossing Guard Appreciation Month.

Seven people addressed the board during the community participation period, and student representative Megan Sawant presented Student Representative Matters.

As part of its consent agenda, the board approved minutes from its Jan. 9 meeting, additional advisory committee appointments, a Mathematics Basal Instructional Resource Review Committee, the January 2025 monthly employee separation report and several contracts.

Later, Mr. Dunne reported for the Comprehensive Planning and Development Committee, Ms. Lady delivered a Governance Committee report, and Ms. St. John-Cunning presented a Public Engagement Committee report. Reid also gave her superintendent’s report before the meeting concluded with Board Matters.

The board adjourned at 10:26 p.m. Upcoming meetings were listed as a work session at 10:30 a.m. March 11 and a regular meeting at 7 p.m. March 13.