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Fairfax County Public Schools students are earning major recognition in science, academics and literary competition, while families of rising seventh- and 12th-graders are being urged to complete required immunizations before fall.
Lake Braddock Secondary School middle schoolers captured first place in the county’s Battle of the Books. Created by school librarians, the program asks students to read a designated group of books before competing in games and answering trivia questions.
Nine FCPS students received 2026 corporate-sponsored scholarships from 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.
Two additional students won Grand Prize awards at the 2026 Virginia State Science and Engineering Fair. Their research projects will advance to international competition.
The school division also recognized nearly 400 students who earned International Baccalaureate diplomas in 2025 and 76 who received IB Career-Related Certificates.
Military-connected students build community
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid attended the Military-Connected Youth Field Day at Annandale High School on Saturday as part of the division’s Month of the Military Child celebration. Military families from across the school system gathered for crafts, games and opportunities to connect.
Robinson Secondary School senior Abby Huisman, a Military Child of the Year finalist, moved seven times during her father’s 28-year Air Force career. She now helps other students navigate similar transitions as vice president of Rambassadors, a 200-member organization that welcomes newcomers to Robinson, including many military-connected students.
Career workshop planned for May
A virtual FCPS Family Cafe workshop introducing student career pathways will begin at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 13. The session will cover academies, certifications and career and technical education opportunities available to middle and high school students.
FCPS offers more than 160 Career and Technical Education courses. Many programs include industry credentials, work-based learning and participation in career and technical student organizations.
Families must register in advance to receive the Zoom link. More information is available by calling 703-204-4300.
Immunizations required before school begins
Students entering seventh grade must receive one dose each of the Tdap, meningococcal MenACWY and HPV vaccines before the start of school.
The Tdap vaccination must be administered at age 7 or older, and the MenACWY dose must be given at age 10 or older. The HPV vaccine is recommended between ages 11 and 12 but may be administered beginning at age 9. Parents and guardians may choose not to have their child receive the HPV vaccine, and the school does not require documentation of that decision.
Students entering 12th grade should receive two MenACWY doses before school begins. At least one of those doses must be administered at age 16 or older.
Families are encouraged to schedule appointments early and avoid the typical summer vaccination rush. Students who meet the age requirements may receive the required immunizations at any time.
FCPS and Inspire Health Alliance will also offer required vaccines and optional flu shots to students at no out-of-pocket cost during voluntary events at designated school locations. Dates will be released throughout the school year.
Environmental work earns recognition
Students from Falls Church and McLean high schools discussed their experiences with environmental science and solar-energy advocacy with Reid during 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 her from hundreds of nominees.
Grove leads “Don’t Be Wasteful Wednesdays,” when students use share tables and cafeteria composting to reduce food waste. She also oversees an in-school Green Team and an after-school Eco Club.
Schools, teachers and staff collect honors
Josh McFarland, a West Potomac High School graduate who now teaches students with multiple disabilities there, was named a finalist for the FCPS 2025 Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher award. After spending time in Alaska, he returned to Alexandria and introduced classroom practices intended to build student competence and confidence.
Ten FCPS teachers earned or renewed National Board Certification, a nationally recognized credential reflecting high standards in teaching.
Garfield Elementary School received books from the Library of Congress and Veterans of Foreign Wars during a celebration attended by students, staff and community members.
West Potomac Academy students worked alongside local public-safety partners in a realistic emergency simulation. They practiced dispatch, medical response and other first-responder responsibilities while strengthening communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
Transportation employees also demonstrated their driving abilities and focus on student safety during the 2026 FCPS Bus Roadeo, an annual competition and team-building event honoring top drivers.
Equity award nominations due May 18
Nominations for the 2026 Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award must be submitted by Monday, May 18. The honor recognizes an employee, student or community member whose work has significantly improved educational experiences and outcomes for marginalized or underserved students.
Staff members, students and community members may nominate someone. 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 provides confidential help
The FCPS Office of the Ombuds offers an independent and confidential resource for students, families and employees seeking answers, raising concerns or addressing school-related complaints.
Ombuds employees do not change decisions, regulations or policies. They also do not take sides or offer legal advice. The office can be reached at 571-423-4014 or through its online inquiry form.
Public meetings and budget decisions approach
The School Board will hold its next regular business meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 23. Community members may review the agenda and obtain information about watching or participating in the meeting.
Residents can also provide feedback on Fairfax County’s proposed fiscal 2027 budget before the Board of Supervisors adopts a final spending plan in May. About 70% of the FCPS budget comes from the county.