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All Fairfax County Public Schools will close Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, when voters head to the polls for a special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin selected the date for the election. Because more than half of FCPS schools serve as polling places, the Fairfax County Office of Elections asked the school system to consider closing them for the day.
Superintendent Michelle Reid said FCPS decided to close every school to protect students and staff and limit disruption from the anticipated volume of voters.
Keeping schools open would restrict access to essential spaces such as cafeterias and gyms. Officials also expected parking shortages for staff and families, along with security concerns because state law requires polling places to remain unlocked and accessible.
The closure will allow voters to enter polling locations freely while avoiding conflicts with normal school operations. Reid also encouraged eligible residents to vote and suggested families use the day to discuss voting and civic responsibility with their children.