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Spring break began April 14 for most Fairfax County Public Schools students, but small groups at more than 30 schools returned to class for extra academic support.

The district’s Spring Sprouts, Spring Forward and Blooming Readers programs are helping students recover missed learning, strengthen key skills and prepare for state Standards of Learning exams.

At Forestdale Elementary School, teacher Veronica Rivera opened a Spring Sprouts session with 10 students gathered on the classroom carpet. The program, offered at Forestdale and other Title I elementary schools, serves children affected by chronic absenteeism while strengthening connections among families, students and schools.

Students follow a familiar schedule that includes morning meetings, math lessons, reading workshops, lunch and playground time. A field trip to the U.S. Botanic Garden was also planned, with parents helping as chaperones.

First grader Tamawrah Timmons practiced subtraction through a word problem about balloons, while kindergarten students shared books and worked in small groups.

Forestdale Assistant Principal Mary-Elizabeth Hagaman said this was the school’s first year participating in Spring Sprouts. The goal, she said, was to make the program useful and enjoyable while giving children an opportunity to recover learning time lost because of illness or other circumstances often beyond their control.

Rivera said she hoped the experience would renew students’ enthusiasm for learning and help them remain focused after the break.

Middle school students received similar support through Spring Forward, which serves children at risk of chronic absenteeism and those seeking additional preparation for SOL exams. Blooming Readers provided literacy assistance to students in third grade and above.

At Key Middle School, seventh grader Ben Boateng initially felt disappointed about waking up early for classes during spring break. He later recognized the value of the additional instruction, particularly as he prepared for the math SOL.

Boateng reviewed functions and geometry, joined a science group studying the chemical formula and molecular structure of sugar, and read about growth and fixed mindsets during a language arts station.

Key Middle School Director of Student Services Jane Flegal said the Title I school looks for opportunities to expand access to learning and support local families. Students participating in the spring program also received breakfast and lunch.

The three initiatives support the district’s 2023-2030 Strategic Plan goal of helping every student build foundational academic skills, curiosity and enjoyment of learning.