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Hundreds of students, staff members and community leaders gathered Oct. 29 for the 2025 State of Our Schools event, where student performances and firsthand accounts highlighted new opportunities across Fairfax County Public Schools.
The morning began with music from the Chantilly High School Chamber Orchestra and a performance by the Falls Church High School Guitar Ensemble.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid provided updates on the school system’s budget, Capital Improvement Program and upcoming bond election. She also discussed progress on a new western high school intended to serve families in a growing area of Fairfax County.
Reid highlighted girls flag football, a new and rapidly expanding FCPS sport, and reviewed accomplishments by students and staff during the 2024-25 school year. She also discussed the Future-Ready Index, a new tool designed to show how effectively the school system supports students from early learning through graduation and beyond.
Students played a prominent role throughout the program. Sixth graders explained why they joined an Algebra 1 pilot, while middle school students described the benefits of new track and field and cross-country programs.
A high school student also shared details about an essay contest he created with the Embassy of Spain and the leadership skills he gained from the experience.
Other speakers included FCPS Chief of Staff Marty Smith, Educate Fairfax Executive Director Lynette Henry and Fairfax County School Board Chair Sandy Anderson. Henry and Anderson emphasized the community partnerships supporting students across the school system.
The event also featured videos about the first day of school, middle school track and field, girls flag football and school bonds.