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Fairfax County Public Schools opened October with decisions and deadlines affecting families across the division, including possible changes to school start times, a new boundary-review map and expanded access to advanced math.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid also acknowledged that the federal government shutdown was affecting many FCPS employees and families. She said the school system would work to provide stability for students and connect families with available support.
Start-time survey extended
FCPS is considering schedules that would begin the middle school day at 8 a.m. or later. Because the division wants to limit the cost of that change, elementary and high school schedules would also need to shift.
A community survey presents two options intended to support student well-being, reflect research, accommodate transportation needs and control expenses. Employees, students, families and other community members can respond through Monday, October 6.
Since 2024, an FCPS consultant has conducted five public forums and two earlier surveys on start times.
New boundary map coming October 13
The next phase of the comprehensive boundary review begins with October community meetings starting Monday, October 13.
A new draft map, Scenario 4, will be presented for public feedback and added to the Boundary Explorer Tool shortly before the meetings begin. Residents will also be able to submit comments through the online tool.
The community reviewed Scenarios 1 through 3 during the spring. Scenario 4 builds on those proposals and reflects priorities developed by the Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee after examining the earlier feedback.
Sixth graders enter Algebra 1 pilot
Highly qualified sixth graders at more than one-third of FCPS elementary schools are taking part in a pilot program designed to broaden access to Algebra 1.
Participation ranges from one student to more than 50 at each school. Completing Algebra 1 by eighth grade is one of the measures included in the division’s academic growth and excellence goal.
At a recent School Board meeting, Reid also delivered an Opening of Schools Report covering the condition of FCPS schools, programs and projects for the 2025-26 academic year.
The meeting included a presentation on preparing students for the future through practical skills, self-advocacy, informed financial and life decisions, and learning experiences that can create career opportunities.
Purple Star goal advances
FCPS is moving closer to its goal of becoming a Purple Star Division by the 2026-27 school year. Virginia grants that status when every school in a division earns or maintains a Purple Star designation for supporting military-connected students.
More than 12,000 military-connected students attend FCPS. The division currently has 96 Purple Star Schools and expects about 90 schools to earn or renew the designation this year, bringing the share of recognized schools close to 70%.
Financial-aid applications open
The 2026-27 Free Application for Federal Student Aid is now available. College-bound seniors seeking consideration for federal, state or institutional aid should complete the FAFSA regardless of family income.
Families are encouraged to apply early and check individual colleges for their deadlines and required forms. The Virginia Alternative State Aid application, intended for students unable to complete the FAFSA, is expected to become available in late January.
College Access Fairfax plans programs on the FAFSA, VASA and scholarships over the coming months. Its staff will also provide virtual, individual assistance to families completing applications.
Custodian recognized for exceptional work
Ahead of National Custodian Appreciation Day on Thursday, October 2, FCPS highlighted Liliana Alfaro, the building supervisor at Robinson Secondary School.
Alfaro was named Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee last school year while serving as building supervisor at Falls Church High School. She was recognized for maintaining a safe and welcoming building while the school underwent renovations.
Solar progress celebrated
FCPS marked several sustainability milestones during a “Sun Day” event at Louise Archer Elementary School on Sunday, September 21.
The grassroots clean-energy event showcased solar installations along with electric homes and vehicles as the division continued its efforts to become a national sustainability leader.
Community conversations continue
Reid is holding a series of public conversations about challenges and opportunities facing FCPS. Each scheduled session runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
The meetings are planned for Friday, October 3, at Annandale Terrace Elementary School; Friday, December 5, at Churchill Road Elementary School; Tuesday, December 9, at Fairhill Elementary School; and Thursday, December 11, at Bull Run Elementary School.
The events are open to everyone, with child care and interpretation available.
School bond heads to November ballot
An FCPS bond referendum will appear on the ballot Tuesday, November 4. Bonds finance school construction and renovations separately from the division’s operating budget.
Like a mortgage, bonds distribute the expense of major projects across multiple years so current and future residents share the cost. Paying for construction from current tax revenue instead could require cuts to other county services or tax increases over a shorter period. FCPS said the county’s bonded debt is unlikely to contribute to an increase in local taxes.
Adult scholarships seek support
The nonprofit ACE Foundation provides scholarships for low-income adults enrolled in FCPS Adult and Community Education courses.
The assistance can cover tuition, books and materials for apprenticeships, business and information technology classes, English-language instruction, health and medical training, and occupational or certificate programs. Donations can be made online in any amount.
October calendar changes
Wednesday, October 1, is an evening-only observance for Yom Kippur. Classes will be held, but important events will not take place after school.
Schools and offices will close Thursday, October 2, for the Yom Kippur holiday.
Monday, October 13, is a student holiday and staff development day for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
Families urged to secure guns and medications
FCPS reminded parents and guardians to discuss gun safety with children and securely store firearms at home and in other homes children may visit. Gun-safety lessons are also included in the school curriculum.
The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board has a limited supply of free locking medication boxes and trigger locks designed to fit a variety of firearms.