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Fairfax County Public Schools families are being asked to prepare for mandatory safety drills, reinforce classroom cellphone restrictions and plan for schedule changes during the opening weeks of the 2025-26 school year.
The division is also reminding families about immunization requirements, daily attendance and several academic and community programs.
Lockdown drills begin early in the school year
Every FCPS school maintains an emergency plan for incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Virginia law requires schools to conduct emergency exercises, including lockdown drills, each year.
Parents and caregivers must receive at least 24 hours’ notice before a lockdown drill, although schools are not required to disclose its exact date and time. Preschool and kindergarten students do not participate in the first lockdown drill.
The year’s first drill must occur within the first 20 days of school. Families are encouraged to discuss the experience with children and explain why emergency preparation matters.
FCPS uses several terms to direct students and employees during safety incidents, including “lockdown,” “secure the building” and “stay put, stay tuned.”
Safety concerns can be submitted anonymously online or by texting “TIP FCPS” to 888-777. Reports may also be made by calling 571-423-2020. Emergencies requiring immediate help should be reported to 911.
The tip line accepts reports about threats, weapons, dangerous situations, illegal drugs, theft, gangs, vandalism and student wellness. Questions that do not involve school safety may instead be directed to the FCPS ombuds at 571-423-4014 or [email protected].
Immunization deadline approaches
Virginia students must receive specified immunizations to attend school. Beginning Tuesday, November 18, students who have not submitted proof of required vaccinations may be prevented from attending.
Families should verify each child’s status for the 2025-26 school year with a health care provider. Vaccinations are also available through Fairfax County Health Department clinics and other community resources.
Families asked to limit calls and texts
FCPS is asking parents and caregivers to avoid calling or texting students about non-urgent matters during the school day. In an emergency, families should contact the school’s front office rather than trying to reach a child directly during class.
Cellphone usage rules vary by grade level.
Summer program strengthens algebra skills
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid highlighted the Algebra Power Up program during the academic portion of an August School Board meeting.
The three-week summer program served students in grades 7 and 8, helping them strengthen fundamental math and algebra skills before Algebra 1.
Under Goal 3 of the FCPS 2023-30 Strategic Plan, the division wants every student to complete Algebra 1 successfully by eighth grade. About 75% of eighth graders are currently enrolled in Algebra 1 or a more advanced course.
Goal 3 focuses more broadly on academic growth and ensuring students develop the skills needed for future success. It is one of five central goals in the division’s strategic plan.
Attendance campaign stresses daily routines
September is Attendance Awareness Month, and FCPS is encouraging families to establish routines that help children reach school on time every day.
Suggested steps include maintaining consistent bedtimes and morning schedules, preparing clothes and backpacks the night before, and arranging backup transportation with relatives, neighbors or other parents.
Families whose children feel anxious about school are encouraged to seek help from teachers and counselors. When possible, medical appointments and extended trips should be scheduled outside school hours.
Adult education program seeks instructors
FCPS Adult and Community Education is recruiting instructors with specialized knowledge in apprenticeships, trades, industry, health and medical business, computers, world languages, cooking, crafts, English for speakers of other languages, STEM, test preparation and career exploration.
The paid positions allow instructors to share professional and practical skills with community learners. Prospective applicants may contact [email protected].
Special election closes schools September 9
All FCPS schools will be closed Tuesday, September 9, 2025, for the special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin selected that date for the election. Because more than half of FCPS schools serve as polling places, the Fairfax County Office of Elections asked the school division to consider closing for the day.
Selected school locations will continue providing meals for children during the closure.
Early dismissal scheduled for September 10
Elementary schools in 13 pyramids will dismiss students three hours early Wednesday, September 10.
The affected pyramids are Annandale, Edison, Falls Church, Herndon, Lake Braddock, Langley, Madison, Marshall, McLean, South Lakes, West Springfield and Woodson.
Students encouraged to serve on September 11
FCPS will observe the September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, also known as Patriot Day, by recognizing those killed or injured in the 2001 terrorist attacks, the heroism of first responders and the country’s resilience.
Students are encouraged to take part in service learning. Middle and high school students can find opportunities through x2VOL in their Naviance accounts.