Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) will close all schools on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, due to a special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. The decision comes after a request from the Fairfax County Office of Elections, as more than half of FCPS schools are used as polling locations.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle C. Reid explained the reasoning behind the closure in a message to staff and families: “Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has set Tuesday, September 9, 2025, as the date for a special election in Virginia’s 11th Congressional District. Because more than half of our schools serve as polling locations, the Fairfax County Office of Elections asked us to consider closing for the day. After careful review, we have decided that it is best to close all schools to ensure the safety of our students and staff.”
Dr. Reid noted several challenges associated with keeping schools open during an election with high voter turnout. These include restricted access to essential spaces such as cafeterias and gyms, limited parking for staff and families at many sites, and building access requirements that mandate polling places remain unlocked and accessible throughout voting hours.
She added: “We made this decision because the expected volume of voters would cause significant disruption to the school day. Key challenges would include, but are not limited to:
The closure of essential spaces like cafeterias and gyms.
A lack of adequate parking for staff and families at many locations.
Building access challenges, as the law requires polling places to remain unlocked and openly accessible.
I believe closing schools is the best way for us to keep our community safe, minimize disruptions, and ensure our buildings are ready and accessible for voters.”
Dr. Reid encouraged families to use this day as an opportunity for discussions about civic responsibility: “This day serves as a meaningful opportunity to talk with your child about the importance of voting and civic responsibility. If you are eligible, I encourage you to vote in the special election.”
The first day back for students remains unchanged despite this calendar update.
