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Dear Community Members,

First, I want to say a huge “Thank You” to the custodial staff at our 200+ facilities, who have been working through sub-freezing temperatures to prepare our public school facility assets to receive our children and residents safely. If ever proof was needed of how hard our employees work for the public, and how they deserve competitive compensation, this is it. Our schools are ready even in this unusual winter weather; however, we are just one part of the public services and community support we all rely on in Fairfax County. 

From the end of 2025 and into these first weeks of the year, I’ve reflected on what transpired in our community and public school system, and what remains undone and possible. I’ve recognized the challenge of trying to be both visionary and realistic. I see how things could be - the vibrant programs and experiences we can offer our students, their families, and staff when investments align across agencies working together. But, I also need to be realistic. There’s bureaucracy, politics, and real funding problems to address. How can one be a “realistic visionary”?

Whether we are FCPS parents or faculty, students or county residents (and often a combination of all), sometimes the seeming demands of now can make us feel stuck. So much seeks our attention, and we are just each one person. And then there are these cold, dark days of winter. It’s tough to turn outward and connect. 

This is why it’s the best time to show up and speak up. 

It’s not time to go it alone. It can be easy to forget the power we each have to shape what happens right here. This is why I’ve created intentional space in my schedule to convene together, listen to you, and hear from one another. Also, I’m choosing to make the work joyful, and I’d like you to join me. 

I don’t have all the solutions to address challenges we face, but I know this: we have a phenomenal public school system, and people all around who want one another to thrive. 

Please join me during an array of opportunities beginning in February, for virtual town halls, for my in-person Community Engagement Summit on March 10, and to support our students as they achieve their best - in musicals, dance performances, science fairs, and more! Details are below.

I hope to see you soon and often in the new year! 

Virtual Town Hall February 8 with Updates and AI discussion

Join me for a virtual Town Hall on Sunday, February 8 from 5-6pm. I will provide an update on hot topics in the School Board’s work, including the annual budget development, legislative work happening now, and facilities. There will then be a focused time to discuss the growth of AI in FCPS. I plan to share a brief update about the developing Board policy, and then welcome questions and input. 

Please register with this Google Form. You will be sent a Zoom link by Friday, February 6.

Join my Community Engagement Summit, Tuesday, March 10, Focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in FCPS