The Superintendent of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS), Michelle Reid, Ed.D., shared her reflections on recent events and activities in the school division. She highlighted the importance of public education and expressed gratitude towards teaching professionals and support staff for their dedication beyond the classroom. “Quality, well-resourced public education is our best hope for the next generation,” she stated.
Reid attended several school events, including a spring concert at Parklawn Elementary School where fourth and fifth graders performed various songs. “Mission accomplished, young rockstars!” she exclaimed about the students’ performance. She also participated in commemorating the 50th anniversary of Vietnamese Boat People, with Tori Huynh from Mason Crest Elementary School sharing her family’s resettlement experience.
In addition to attending these events, Reid engaged with FCPS employees through Employee Conversations sessions at Providence Elementary School and Burke School. Topics discussed included telework, school year calendars, Algebra I by eighth grade, and boundary changes.
FCPS’s Food and Nutrition Services teams were recognized during National School Lunch Hero Day. Glasgow Middle School’s FNS team was one of ten selected for their excellence in providing nutritious meals to students. “Cheers to all our School Lunch Heroes,” Reid remarked.
The FCPS Retirement Ceremony honored 180 retirees at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Reid thanked them for their service: “Whether you were in the classroom, on a school bus, in an office or behind the scenes, you have been a steady force for good.”
Reid attended several theatre performances across schools including Westfield High School’s “The Sound of Music,” South Lakes High School’s “Once Upon a Mattress,” and Herndon High School’s “Footloose.” These performances showcased student talent with contributions from student conductors and costume designers.
Additionally, she visited Herndon United Methodist Church for the Herndon Pyramid Art Show featuring student artwork from multiple schools. “Arts education enriches student learning by fostering creativity,” she noted.
Reid also addressed budget concerns facing FCPS due to funding challenges. The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors is finalizing a budget that currently underfunds FCPS by $150 million. She encouraged community members to learn more about these issues via FCPS.edu/crossroads.
Lastly, Reid reflected on Advancing Literacy efforts within FCPS as they near completion of implementing Benchmark Advance curriculum aimed at improving literacy among students.
Throughout her reflections, Reid emphasized appreciation for teachers and staff during Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week: “Together all things are possible; let’s continue to reimagine the possibilities.”
