Article Text
Fairfax County Public Schools students earned national scholarships, claimed top science awards and celebrated major academic milestones as families received an early reminder about required immunizations for the fall.
Middle school students from Lake Braddock Secondary School also took first place in the county’s Battle of the Books competition. Created by school librarians, the program challenges students to read a designated selection of books before competing in trivia games.
Students Collect National and State Honors
Nine FCPS students received 2026 corporate-sponsored scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. They were among more than 700 National Merit finalists selected for awards financed by companies, corporate foundations and other business organizations.
At the 2026 Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair, two FCPS students won Grand Prize awards for their research. Both projects will advance to international competition.
FCPS also recognized nearly 400 students who earned International Baccalaureate diplomas in 2025, along with 76 who completed IB Career-Related Certificates. The programs are intended to prepare internationally minded students for higher education, training and employment.
Ten teachers earned or renewed National Board Certification, a nationally recognized credential based on rigorous standards for teaching practice.
Military-Connected Students Find Support
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid attended the Military-Connected Youth Field Day at Annandale High School on Saturday as part of the school division’s Month of the Military Child celebration. Military families from across FCPS gathered for crafts, games and opportunities to connect.
Robinson Secondary School senior Abby Huisman was named a finalist for Military Child of the Year. Huisman moved seven times during her father’s 28-year Air Force career and now helps other students adjust to new schools.
She serves as vice president of Rambassadors, a 200-member group that welcomes incoming Robinson students, including many from military families.
Career Workshop Highlights More Than 160 Courses
An online FCPS Family Cafe workshop will introduce families to career pathways, academies, certifications and Career and Technical Education opportunities at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 13.
FCPS offers more than 160 CTE course options for middle and high school students. Many programs include industry credentials, work-based learning and participation in career and technical student organizations.
Advance registration is required to receive the Zoom link. Families may seek more information by calling 703-204-4300 or emailing the Family and School Partnerships office.
Vaccine Requirements Approach for Two Grade Levels
Students entering seventh grade must receive Tdap, meningococcal MenACWY and HPV 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. HPV vaccination is generally recommended at ages 11 or 12 but may begin at age 9. Parents and guardians may opt their children out of the HPV vaccination without providing documentation to the school.
Students entering 12th grade should have received two MenACWY doses before the start of school. At least one must have been administered at age 16 or older.
Families are encouraged to schedule appointments early to avoid the summer vaccination rush. Students who meet the age requirements may receive the vaccines at any time.
FCPS and Inspire Health Alliance will also hold voluntary immunization events at designated school locations. Required vaccines and optional flu shots will be available to FCPS students with no out-of-pocket cost, with additional dates to be announced during the school year.
Earth Day Efforts Gain Recognition
Students from Falls Church and McLean high schools discussed environmental science and solar-energy advocacy with Reid in an Earth Day episode of “Our Voices, Our Future.”
Laure Grove, an early childhood inclusion teacher at Terra Centre Elementary School, received a 2026 Best of Green Schools Award. The Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council and the Green Schools National Network selected Grove from hundreds of nominees.
Grove leads “Don’t Be Wasteful Wednesdays,” when students work to reduce cafeteria food waste through share tables and composting. She also directs an in-school Green Team and an after-school Eco Club.
Classrooms Connect With Books and Emergency Training
Josh McFarland, a West Potomac High School graduate who returned to the school as a multiple disabilities teacher, was recognized as a finalist for the 2025 FCPS Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher award. His path took him from Alaska’s wilderness to classrooms in Alexandria, where he has gained attention for his teaching methods.
Garfield Elementary School received a book donation from the Library of Congress and Veterans of Foreign Wars during a celebration attended by students, employees and community members.
At West Potomac Academy, students practiced working as first responders during a realistic emergency simulation. Alongside local public safety partners, they trained in dispatch, medical response and public safety while navigating scenarios designed to strengthen communication, teamwork and problem-solving.
FCPS transportation employees also tested their skills during the 2026 Bus Roadeo. The annual event combined competition and team building while recognizing top drivers and emphasizing student safety.
Equity Award Nominations Open Through May 18
Nominations are open for the 2026 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award, which honors an employee, student or community member whose work has improved educational experiences and outcomes for marginalized or underserved students.
Any employee, student or community member may submit a nomination. Materials are due Monday, May 18.
The Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee sponsors the award in memory of Bussey, a founding committee member and longtime advocate for students and families.
Ombuds Office Offers Confidential Assistance
The FCPS Office of the Ombuds serves as an independent and confidential resource for students, families and employees seeking answers, raising complaints or trying to resolve concerns.
Its staff members do not take sides, offer legal advice or make or revise decisions, regulations and policies. The office can be reached at 571-423-4014, by email or through its online question form.
School Board and County Budget Decisions Ahead
The School Board’s next regular business meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23. The meeting agenda and information about watching or participating are available through the board’s online resources.
Fairfax County residents can also comment on the county’s advertised fiscal 2027 budget. About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, which is considering possible changes before adopting the county spending plan in May.