001Board members, please take your seats. This July 17th, 2025 regular meeting of the Fairfax County School Board will now come to order. Please stand for the pledge of allegiance, followed by a moment of silence and performance of the national anthem by Al by Allison Cororb, a student from Langston Hughes Middle School. I pledge allegiance to the flag. [Music] By the dawn early light, what so proud we held at the twilight last stripes and bright stars through the peril or the parts we watched were so gallently streaming and the rockets red. The bombs bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star spangled wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave. [Applause] Can we have one more round of applause for
002our amazing student? Agenda item 2.02, announcements. If you would like a to review a copy of the meeting agenda, please see the back of the auditorium. To obtain copies of any items or supporting materials being presented tonight, please reference the QR code on the agenda or visit www.fcps.edu/boards. edu back/boardoccks. Tonight's meeting is being broadcast on channel 29 99 and livereamed on YouTube and at our website www.fcps.edu back sl back back slashlivestream. Mr. Dunn has submitted a written request to attend this meeting this evening's meeting virtually due to personal reasons as he is a travel conflict and is attending tonight's meeting from Soul Korea. All those in favor of approving Mr. Dunn's request, Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, um, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson. Those opposed abstaining, Miss
003Marin. Mr. Dunn, please check your audio and visual or in your video. Okay, we'll check in with him as we move forward this evening. Mr. Meline has submitted a written request to attend this evening's meeting virtually due to personal reasons as he has a work travel conflict and is attending tonight's meeting from Jashuan Union Province, China. All those in favor of Mr. Mavine's request that is unanimous for all board members at the table. Can we go ahead and Mr. Have Mr. Meline check your audio and video? There we see you. >> Good evening from Chuan Eunan Province. Thanks. >> Thank you for the adjustment in my pronunciation. I appreciate it. Um, agenda item two point. I want I do want to say um thank you to Miss Carolyn Pitch Pitches for being here this evening
004who is the chair of the Fairfax City School Board. So, thank you so much for joining us tonight. Agenda item 2.03 proclamation honoring schoolboard community advisory committees. I call on Miss St. John Cunning for a proclamation. >> Thank you. Whereas the Fairfax County School Board Community Advisory Committee members voluntarily serve the board to provide recommendations, guidance, and insight on such topics that are critical to student and staff success and wellness. And whereas the minority student achievement oversight committee examined foundational practices to make recommendations to support and prioritize underserved students and families, including the production of a minority student achievement parent advocacy handbook in print and online in five languages. Created and awarded the Dr. Larry Busy Memorial Equity Award to recognize those who work to redress inequitable systems and practices in the division. reviewed the
005implementation of actions on the four pillars of the strategic plan and made recommendations to improve culturally responsive learning environments. Educator recruitment and retention, social emotional learning, increased access to rigor for students in underserved schools, family and community partnership. And whereas the title one parent advisory committee dedicated its efforts to championing literacy primarily by reviewing the implementation and fidelity of the science and reading curriculum in title one schools. This multi-year initiative included deep dives into curriculum materials, instructional strategies, and assessment practices. The advanced academic programs advisory committee fulfilled their charge to learn more about the advanced placement and international balaria options for FCPS high school students, including analyzing access, participation rates, and numbers of student exams in order to make recommendations about effective practices and possible areas for improvement. And whereas the school health advisory committee
006focused on student health related to cognitive, emotional, and social skills advocated that strategic data analysis is crucial for utilizing resources effectively to connect school technology use policies with student health. Examine the impact of neuroscience on improving student outcomes through fostering brain health for all students, families, and staff, enabling preventive support for developing and maintaining brain health and identifying innovations to pilot and evaluate brain health initiatives for students, including technology use, extracurricular activities, sleep, and stress management. The committee further promoted equitable access to extracurricular activities and their role in protecting the mental and physical health of students. And whereas the adult and community education advisory and the career and technical education advisory committees work to provide program alignment between K through2 education and post-secary training opportunities. and the advisory committee for students with disabilities made recommendations
007for increasing disability affirming practices in school communities and encouraging a strength-based approach to educating students with disabilities and learning differences. And the facilities planning advisory committee created five topic specific memos and an annual report that includes 17 recommendation for the school board's consideration consideration. Now therefore, be it resolved that the Fairfax County School Board extends its deepest appreciation to the schoolboard community advisory committees for their outstanding service and dedication to the Fairfax County School Board and our students, staff, families, and community members. Is there a second? >> I second. Thank you, Miss Marin. I will call on a vote. All those in favor, Mr. FR, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismore, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, and Mr. Meline, and myself. That is unanimous for all board members
008here. Congratulations. Agenda item 2.04, proclamation honoring disability pride month. I call on Miss Seismarheiser for a proclamation. Whereas July is disability pride month, a time to celebrate the history, achievements, experiences, and struggles of people with disabilities, a time to go beyond just accepting disability to affirming that disability is a natural and valuable part of human diversity, not a deficit or a condition to be fixed. And whereas about 20% of Fairfax County Public School students have identified disabilities and or learning difference and FCPS is committing to fostering the strengths of students with disabilities while also meeting their diverse needs, ensuring they receive a high expectations education with support and resources to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally as they move toward adulthood that maximizes their independence. And whereas FCPS is committing to ensuring equitable access to a
009quality inclusive education for all students by universally designing instruction and educational environments, recognizing that there are different ways of being and succeeding in our schools and communities. And whereas a key part of inclusion means ensuring people with disabilities are accepted exactly as they are without conditions. And in FCPS, all individuals are treated with dignity, respect, and equality. Where barriers to participation, and inclusion are eliminated, where all are dedicated to affirming the abilities and unique strengths of every student and staff member, presuming competence, promoting positive self-conception and identities. And whereas disability should never limit one's independence or societal participation, but rather be recognized and celebrated as part of an individual's identity in school communities must be inclusive of all students and staff live norms and do not require that students or staff mask their unique individual
010characteristics or assimilate to participate. And whereas we celebrate these students and staff as assets whose inclusion will benefit the full SCPS community whose unique perspectives and talents contribute to our collective progress and who enrich the tapestries of our school communities. And whereas we recognize the many achievements with people with disabilities in all walks of life and in all professions including scientists, artists, writers, entrepreneurs, doctors, musicians, teachers, and more. We recognize on a long enough timeline everyone may join the disability community and that disability pride benefits us all. And where we also celebrate the efforts of our extended community, the disability rights activists, organizations, and advocates who work tirelessly to advance the rights, independence, and well-being of individuals with disabilities and to create a more inclusive and accessible world for all. And we recognize that when
011we make our FCPS schools, county, and world more accessible to those with disabilities, we not only make it easier for those with disabilities to live, we also make it easier for everyone to live. And now, therefore, the Fairfax County School Board does hereby proclaim July 2025 as disability pride month to celebrate the diverse strengths and talents of people with disabilities, promote affirmation and understanding of disabilities throughout the school community, advocate for inclusive practices and support services that empower students with disabilities to thrive. So, we can create a learning environment where all students feel valued, recognized, and celebrated for their unique contributions. Is there a second? >> I'll second. >> Thank you, Mr. Fresh. I'll call for a vote. All those in favor? Mr. FR, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss
012Dixit, Miss Raz Seismore, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Mavine, and myself. That's unanimous for all board members present. [Applause] Agenda item 2.05. 05 honoring Juliana Russell's legacy of service as a beloved Fairfax County Career and Technical Education Teacher Proclamation. I call on Miss St. John Cunning for a proclamation. Thank you. And before I read the proclamation, I just want to stress how Fairfax County Public Schools is really family to so many people, staff members, family members, students. Um, and this person really um signified that. Whereas Fairfax County and the Franconia District celebrates the life and mourns the passing of Juliana Russell, a belove beloved career and technical education teacher at the Edison Academy in Edison High School. She was the daughter of Kevin Russell and Joanne Russell and was a graduate of Forest Park High
013School in Prince William County, Virginia and the University of Phoenix, earning a bachelor of science in business with a certificate in marketing. And whereas she was in her first year at the career and technical education uh teacher at Edison High School where she discovered her calling when she gave a financial literacy presentation in her father's criminal justice class. And whereas she made an extraordinary impact on her students and was a leader among her peers, bringing dedication, innovation, and compassion to everything she did. She connected deeply with her students, many of whom described her as inspiring them with her positivity, her energy, and her belief in their potential. And whereas her leadership extended beyond the classroom, fostering an environment where students felt valued and supported. Through her dedication, she sponsored the Latin Student Union and co-sponsored
014the future business leaders of America. And whereas she seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the school community, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of students and colleagues who were moved by her kindness and compassion. And now, therefore, be it resolve that the Fairfax County School Board and our community mourn the loss of Juliana Russell and extend our deepest sympathies to her family, friends, school community, and beyond. >> Is there a second? >> Second. Miss Seismore Heiser. I will call for the vote. All those in favor, Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismore Heiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, and Mr. Meline, and myself. That is unanimous. Thank you. I would like to welcome all of those here in support of the honoring Juliana Russell's legacy of
015service um as a beloved Fairfax County Career and Technical Education Teacher Proclamation to please join the board for a photo at the front of the DAS. [Applause] I would like to welcome all those here in support of the proclamation honoring disability pride month to please join the board for a photo at the front of the Yes. I would like to welcome all those here in support of the pro uh school board community advisory committee's proclamation to please join the board for a photo at the front of the dis. Agenda item 3.01, community participation. The next order of business is community participation. We welcome all community members who are here and those who signed up to speak this evening. Additional information about signing up to provide comments at schoolboard regular me business meetings and public hearings
016can be found on the schoolboard's website at www.fcps. fcps.edu/schoolboard. During the sign up process, community members acknowledged that they were informed of the school board's expectations for proper decorum when providing comments. These expectations are also available online with the printed agenda and meeting materials in the back of the room. We ask agend audience members to be respectful of one another. Shouting and outbursts will not be tolerated. We please hold your applause until the conclusion of the speaker's remarks. Audience members may not join speakers at the podium and should remain at their seats, including when recording video or taking photos. We are grateful to those who have come to speak with us today and thank you for your cooperation. Schoolboard members will be listening but not responding. Madame clerk, please call the first speaker. >> Michaela
017Danner. >> Hi, I'm Michaela. As you probably know, I'm 12 years old and I'm about to start 7th grade. And you can probably imagine I'm really scared for middle school. Not just because it's a new school, because it starts really early. Right now, I have to wake up before 6:00 a.m. just to catch the bus. That's not healthy for kids my age. And every sleep expert and pediatrician says we need to start school after 8:30 a.m. It's better for our brains, our bodies, and our feelings. We do better in school. We're less stressed and even have fewer problems with depression. It feels like nothing is changing, and we've been told for years that you you're working on it. Please don't let us down again. Middle school is only two or three years, but it is
018also when our bodies and minds are changing a lot. We need sleep to grow and learn, and starting school super early just makes everything harder. Please keep your promise. Please make this a priority. Kids like me are counting on you to do what's right for our health, for our learning, and for our future. Thank you. [Applause] Andrew Salman. >> Good evening everybody. Uh I was I was here with uh 200 other speakers about six weeks ago to speak on behalf of our students during the budget crisis. I'm here tonight to speak on behalf of our staff during the implementation of this policy regarding cancellation of teleawwork options. uh as of July 1st. I'm I'm a high school teacher of nearly 15 years and have no interest in telework myself ever. Co was enough for me.
019But I'm also a husband of FCPS staff, a father of three FCPS students, homeowner and HOA president of an FCPS community, and product of the county. Having spent my whole life here and planning to retire here, I love this county and I want to and I want uh want it to be taken care of. This teleawwork policy is the antithesis of all of that. It's a self-inflicted wound and it would be free to fix. I've emailed each of you over the last two months. I've spoken with Dr. Reid. I've engaged with several chiefs. We're already losing staff to this policy with people having quit proactively now over the past two weeks. And we're getting fewer applicants to fill vacant jobs. Our morale is dropping like a stone and it's getting worse by the day. nearby
020counties see the damage we're doing to our staff and they as they flee to refuge with them and all over a self-inflicted wound that would be free to fix. And as a teacher, I find this especially offensive. It was implemented as a way to bring staff into alignment with teachers. Are staff going to get summers off? Are they going to go get spring and winter breaks off? Are they going to work seven and a half hours? The answer to that is obviously no. So, so this idea of equity is false at best, more likely misleading. They the staff deserve better. They deserve to be taken care of. They deserve kindness. They deserve consideration. They deserve actual equity, actual fair treatment. And that's not what this is. And it would be free to fix. Thank you.
021[Applause] Toby Leam. Madam Chair, members of the school board, Dr. Reid and members of the leadership team, good evening. My name is Toby Laam and I'm the proud parent of two elementary age students in FCPS. I want to thank you for observing uh disability pride month with a proclamation. It's a small but important step in affirming the value, dignity, and diverse contributions of all people with disabilities. But as a parent who after multiple stalled attempts at obtaining a fix to local recurring issues that negatively impact the quality of instruction delivered to our students who need and use augmentative and alternative communication or AAC. And as a parent who had to go down to Richmond to get a law passed to address one such issue, I came here tonight to say this. Words fade. Action, inaction,
022what we do, what we don't do. This is what reveals whether we as individuals truly believe that people with disabilities deserve the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the services, programs, and activities that people without disabilities have access to year after year, day after day. So, I come here tonight with an opportunity for our decision makers to address a point of inequity in our system. years ago, Lindsay and I started accessing data from our son's own privatelyowned AAC system. And we used that data to get an idea of what his instruction looked like from one day to the next. And we use that data to advocate for more and different services until we got to the point where uh he was able to demonstrate what he's learning in class because he got appropriate instruction.
023But students who use the same AAC app and FCPS issued devices have been denied access to the same data. Our school board member has pushed for resolution on this issue, but the conversation is stalled somewhere in the halls of central office and it's time to get it unstuck. So, I ask that the members of this board along with the chair or reach out to me, learn more about this inequity and after getting up to speed, demonstrate to our community that the word spoken here tonight means something. Thank you, Mark Crupnik. Thank you for the opportunity to speak. I'm here today to speak about limited early release days and specifically the email sent out on May 19th indicating the program would continue into the next academic year. In the email, test score gains were cited as
024a clear indicator that the program was working and used to justify it into the next academic year. I am here to caution against assuming causality from correlational data. You need more evidence than correlational data to support your interpretation of what score gains mean and to rule out other variables besides a half-day planning period once a month that could explain those gains. Absent of the results of those analyses, the statement that limited early release days are working based on observing those score gains is misleading. If those analyses do exist, please share them. Otherwise, I think the statement should be retracted. If those analyses don't exist, I strongly encourage them to be conducted. We should be certain that limited early release days are a net positive value ad for the community. We need to understand their effectiveness.
025We know there are costs to them, one of which is the disruption of the school week to our elementary school students. FCPS's school calendar is not strong when it comes to the number of 5-day weeks. These limited early release days only exacerbate a serious weakness of our school calendar. Thank you, [Applause] >> Lindsay Leam. Good evening, Madame Chair, board members, Dr. Reed, and staff. My name is Lindseay Laam and as you learned moments ago, my husband and I are thankful for the board's recognition of disability pride month. I hope that it sparks conversation and curiosity about the students you all serve and the teachers and support staff who tirelessly work with them. I know you all deeply understand the benefits of providing resources and supports for early learners in multiple languages. So much so that
026in schools across FCPS, DLI students spend half of their day learning math, science, health in French, German, Japanese, Korean, or Spanish. From your website, learning a second language can have a positive effect on intellectual growth, enriches a child's mental development, promotes flexible thinking, gives a child the ability to communicate with people they would otherwise not have the chance to know. We agree on all of these points. So why aren't students who use augmentative alternative communication given the same opportunities and afforded the same level of world-class education in the county? It was disheartening to read in many of your monthly newsletters that there's a consideration for expanding the DL DLI program. Still, there is no program similar to DLI for AAC students. Imagine being trapped in your own mind with a piece of technology that could
027allow you to unlock your wants and needs that would allow you to engage with your teachers and your peers but not being given the tools, supports or services to learn that language and then being labeled as bad or disruptive. This happens every day in the schools across this county. These behaviors are a form of communication. We have been firsthand. We have seen firsthand and know that when true language immersion is implemented for an AAC user, they can thrive if given the proper supports and tools. Before considering another language immersion program, develop the program for those who you are honoring tonight. Thank you, [Applause] Emily Vanderhoff. Cara Danner. >> Good evening. As you know, I'm a Fairfax County parent, start school later chapter leader, and advocate for healthy school hours. You've all agreed that start time
028planning is important and will happen in parallel with the boundary review process. However, there's still no clear plan or answers to important questions about implementation. Some of these questions been asked months ago. It's easy to say we're working on it, but real work means drafting plans, meeting with stakeholders, and engaging the FCPS community on the importance of this concern. Why does this matter? Because early start times are harming our kids. The science is clear. Adolescents need more sleep for their physical, emotional, and academic well-being. When schools start later, attendance improves, performance goes up, depression goes down, and lives are saved. Tonight, I respectfully ask for three outcomes. A date for releasing the superintendent's implementation plan for start times, specifically in conjunction to work on the boundaries, a public strategy for engaging families and staff around
029that plan, and consistent visible leadership affirming this is a top priority. Our students can't afford more delays. The time to act is now. Thank you, [Applause] Terry Bates. Good evening. My name is Terry Botach and I'm a specialist in the Office of Benefit Services. I appreciate being given the opportunity to speak here tonight regarding teleawwork. The change in this policy has impacted staff morale in a way that I've never experienced before. Staff are discouraged. We feel disrespected and there's an overall feeling of not being valued. This change is one that not only harms staff but students and our schools. Hundreds of us recently completed a survey and 85% of the respondents said they would leave FCPS for a comparable job that offers telework. Services that keep schools running will suffer from the loss of staff
030who may choose to leave for comparable positions in neighboring counties that offer teleawwork. When I came to work for FCPS, I never thought that this was a one-sizefits-all organization. But changing the teleawwork policy to only allow five days of telework per year for operational employees seems of the goal to do just that. The restriction of this once very successful policy sends a message that there is a lack of trust and support for your staff and supervisors that work extremely hard and are dedicated to the FCPS mission. Overall, the change in this policy seems like an unforced error that can be quickly changed and I urge you to please make that change. Reinstate the previous telework policy that has served everyone well for many years. Thank you so much, [Applause] >> Caitlyn CoAngelo. Hi everyone. I
031want to highlight why telework is essential not just for convenience but for delivering high quality work. First, mental health is improved through telework. Without a stressful commute and with the more control over our environment, we're better able to manage stress and stay focused. But here's the disconnect. Our system often emphasizes mental health in words while limiting one of the most effective tools we have to protect it. If we truly value mental health, we need to support flexible work. Work life balance also improves with telework. It allows us to meet personal obligations without compromising our responsibilities. It reduces the daily stress of rushing between roles so we can be truly present during our off hours for our families, our health, and ourselves. That balance fosters higher engagement, retainment of high-quality employees, and helps prevent burnout. My
032biggest challenge is focus. One of my roles is performing software testing for a district-wide application. This requires deep uninterrupted concentration that my team has proven can be effectively completed when teleawworking. After being moved from a quiet private suite and gate house to a now crowded open space, constant distractions like hallway traffic and loud conversation regularly break my concentration and directly impact the quality and timeliness of my work. In addition, my team and colleagues are often required to perform system updates at night and weekends to avoid disrupting daytime operations for schools. Remote work has made it possible to complete these tasks during off hours without having to stay late in the office. FCPS promotes equity yet the updated policy imposes uniform restrictions that overlook the nature of various roles like staff and IT whose job is
033largely compatible with teleawwork. It's important to recognize that different roles come with different responsibilities and our approach should reflect that rather than apply a one-sizefits-all model. In fact, many FCPS graduates return as employees bringing with them the same diverse needs they had as students. supporting them as professionals is just as essential as it was in the classroom. Equity is not giving everyone the same tools. It's making sure each person has what they need to be successful. Thank you, Lesie Houston. Good evening. I'm Leslie Houston, president of Fairfax Education Association, proudly representing thousands of your dedicated employees. With just 14 days left in my term, I stand before you filled with immense gratitude and deep pride because serving over 28,000 instructional and operational professionals has been the honor of a lifetime. To the members of FBA,
034thank you. Thank you for trusting me with your voices, your challenges, and your dreams. Thank you for standing with me shoulder-to-shoulder through every obstacle. Together, we didn't just make history. We built a foundation grounded in justice, dignity, and respect. To this board, and to those that came before you, thank you for choosing collaboration over conflict and partnership over politics. The progress we made together is tangible. It lives in our contracts, our policies, and most importantly, in the lives we've touched. And to those who tried to silence me, discredit me, or dismantle what we've built, thank you. You taught me the strength of my own voice. You reminded me that purpose cannot be shaken, and that when you try to dim someone's light, it only burns brighter. Your resistance sharpened my resolve. Every step of this
035journey has mattered because our educators are are the backbone of our future and our students are the soul of our communities. This fight for strong, equitable public education is not just ongoing. It is urgent. It is necessary and we will not back down. I leave this position with my head held high, my heart full, and my legacy strong and intact. This isn't the end. It's just the beginning of what comes next. Thank you and know that all of you made history, y'all. [Applause] >> Sarah Young. Good evening. Working in DIT, I've seen how teleawwork positively impacts our ability to contribute effectively. By engaging in a conversation about teleawwork, FCPS can continue to support our commitment to fairness and our stated values. Numerous studies support the benefits of hybrid work. A 2023 study led by Stanford
036economic economist Nicholas Bloom found employees who worked from home two days a week were as productive and as likely to be promoted as their office-based peers. Resignations fell by 33% among workers who shifted to a hybrid schedule. This reduction saves on turnover costs. A hybrid model can support employee performance and retention. For us, teleawwork allowed for increased productivity and flexibility, enabling an environment for detailed work with fewer distractions in and out of the office. This was instrumental in maintaining the seamless flow of support that underpins our educational environment. This hybrid model enabled staff to complete essential tasks efficiently even outside traditional business hours. We are already seeing experienced employees leaving for other opportunities. By eliminating the hybrid model, FCPS risks falling behind other districts and organizations in attracting and retaining top talent. Telework is a
037modern workplace practice and without this benefit we are placed at a disadvantage in a competitive job market. This model has successfully existed in FCPS for over a decade incentivized new talent and has shown increased response times and decreased interruptions leading to for the development of fairy. [Applause] >> Chair Anderson, that was our last public speaker. >> Agenda item 4.01, student representative matters. I call on Miss McConen. >> Hello everyone. Thank you for the opportunity to speak today. I'd like to raise a concern about the updated phone policy that's scheduled to take effect in the 2025 2026 school year. As part of this policy, high school students will no longer be allowed to use their phones or other personal devices like AirPods or smartwatches. Not only during class time, but also during passing periods. This change
038marks a sign significant shift in how students navigate their school day. And while the goal of limiting distractions and improving focus is one that many of us understand, I want to highlight a key issue that came up repeatedly over the last two years in the superintendent advisory council discussions. Inconsistency in enforcement. Right now, even under the existing phone policy from the 2024 2025 school year, imple implement implementation varied widely across schools and even within the same school. Some teachers enforce the rules strictly while others are more lenient. This creates confusion, frustration, and a sense of unfairness among students. It's hard to follow the rules when the expectations change from one classroom to the next. With a stricter policy on the horizon, that inconsistency could become even more pronounced. If there isn't a unified approach, it
039could lead to breakdowns in communication and student trust. So, I'd like to ask, what measures are being put in place to ensure this policy is applied consistently across all high schools? Will there be clear guidance for staff? And will students be given a clear understanding of what to expect no matter what school they attend or what teacher they have? It's important that implementation feels fair and consistent. Without that, even a well-intentioned policy can have unintended consequences, especially if students feel like they're being held to different standards across the county. I hope this feedback can part be a part of the conversation moving forward. Thank you again for listening. Thank you, Miss McConen. Um, agenda item 5.01, action item, certification of closed meeting compliance. In order to comply with section 2.2-3712D 2-3712D of the code of
040Virginia. It is necessary for the board to certify that since the Fairfax County School Board convened a closed meeting on July 17th, 2025, to the best of each member's knowledge, only public business matters lawfully exempted from open meeting requirements in such public business matters as were identified in the motion convening the closed meeting were heard, discussed, or considered by the board during closed meeting. Do I have a motion? Miss St. John Cunning. Do I have a second? Miss Dixit. All those in favor? Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Miss Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, and myself. All those opposed? Mr. Mavine, are you opposed or are you >> okay? >> I'm in support. Not opposed. >> Okay. Mr. Mavine is in support and abstained. Miss Marin and Miss Lady, Mr.
041McDaniel. No. Okay, we'll get there. Agenda 5.02, action item, confirmation of action taking in closed meeting. I call on Miss Dixit for a motion. I move to remand the school assign reassignment appeal of a student who threatened fellow students at school to the divisional superintendent for further consideration based on the discussion in the closed meeting. Is there a second? >> Second. >> Miss Seismore. All those in favor Mr. Fresh, Miss Mr. McDaniel, Miss Seismarheiser, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Dixit, Miss Eismerheiser, Mr. Moon, and Mr. Meline and myself opposed. Dr. Anderson abstain. Miss Marin and Miss Lady. Thank you. Can the clerk read the vote, please? 812 with Mr. done not present. >> Okay, Miss I call on Mr. FR for a motion. >> Thank you. I move to deny the school reassignment appeal of
042a student who is charged with a crime in the community and to confirm the disciplinary decision of the division superintendent. >> Is there a second? >> Second, >> Miss Seismore Heiser. All those in fa Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Seismore, Miss St. John Cunning, I'll get it. I promise. Um, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismore, Mr. Moon, Mr. Meline, Dr. Anderson, and myself. Those opposed? And did I say Mr. Meline? Okay, good. And abstensions, Miss Marin and Miss Lady. Thank you. I call on Miss St. John Cunning for a motion. I move that the board give the superintendent authority on behalf of the board to approve contracts that need to be authorized during the recess and after consultation with the chair and vice chair to sign on behalf of the board as discussed in close session. Is
043there a second? >> Second. >> Thank you, Mr. Fresh. All those in favor, Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Moline and myself that is unanimous. Action item 5.03 act um agenda item 5.3 is action item um FY2025 year end review. I call on Miss Seismarheiser for a motion. >> I move that the school board approve the revenue and expenditure adjustments as detailed in the agenda item. >> Is there a second? >> I second. >> Miss Thank you, Miss Dixit. Miss Seismarhiser, would you like to speak to your motion? >> Yes, just briefly. Um, we had a presentation on this at our last uh board meeting. So, there's information that was presented last time as well as on board docs, but
044I just wanted to reiterate that this is a year-end budget um dealing with our surplus as one-time funds. So, there while there's lots of needs and priorities within our school system, this funding can only be spent on one-time expenditures. So, these are used to address some critical needs that are that are onetime needs. Um, I appreciate my colleagues work this year on a very difficult budget and a very difficult budget process with um increasingly uncertain fiscal outlook and competing priorities. So, that led to some tough budget decisions this year and I appreciate everybody who came from the community to um have their voices be heard and um lift up their concerns. Just as a preview for next year, the outlook for next year is equally uncertain, if not um worse. The impact of the federal
045workforce reductions and rising costs in addition to the impact of the changing landscape of the federal government is difficult to p predict. In addition, I would be remiss if I didn't mention that we will be facing still yet unknown impacts of the um shrinking of the federal department of education and the impact that may have in particular on populations with some of the greatest gaps and needs. So we are I believe I can speak for my colleagues and we are committed to support the strengths and needs of each and every student but we also need to be realistic that our budget forecast was tough this year and will continue to be tough. So having said that, we are hoping to really build a strong collaborative relationship here in Virginia, both with our state delegation and
046especially with our board of supervisors as our county has been a strong supporter of public schools and has and funds 70% of our budget. So we need to form a strong wall to continue to protect public education. And I know our state delegation and our county board of supervisors all stand strong in support of public education. and we are going to work very very hard to build a stronger and better and even more collaborative relationship as we move forward into continued uncertain waters. We'll continue to work at the state level to advocate for full funding of the JLock recommendations and we welcome the advocacy of our state and local partners together with our delegation and the board of supervisors to stand strong for public education. So, thank you for your support of our schools and
047thank you for the support of our funding and stay tuned everybody. It's going to be a bit of a rough ride. >> Miss Dixit, would you like to speak to your second? >> I concur 100% to what my colleague just said. It this is very important um for everybody to know and please work with us, the community and FCPS, school board, we all have to work together. Thank you so much. >> Okay, so Dr. Anderson. >> Thank you. Um, I apologize. I may have some inquiries um that most that some of you may have raised last week, but I was not here for that session. So, I did have a couple of questions. I don't know if I see Miss Burden there. Oh, yep. There she is. She's nicely hidden behind Mr. Solomon. Um, I
048always get that. Somebody always gets lost back there. I was hoping to have a little bit more information regarding um a couple of items. the SBO build out. Um I noticed that there was a what the amount is here for um part 3C um 2 million that's for staff assistance and buildout. Can who can speak to the buildout or maybe that's a set low question. >> Well of the 2 million 1.4 4 million is for the schoolboard assistance and6 million600,000 is for the schoolboard buildout um to be able to um revise the offices so that there is enough space for the employees. >> Okay, thank you for that. Um the other question that I had is regarding the graduation piece. Um I I noticed the additional amount. Can somebody speak to how that's different from
049what we incurred this year? >> We need to build that into the base budget because it is a recurring cost, but we have used year end to fund that I think for the last three years. Um so it's it's something that we don't have in the base budget. We need to include it in the base budget, but for now we're going to have to do it with year end one more time. >> And this is the rental for um Eagle Bank Arena. >> Yes, the venues. Thank you. Um, one of the things that I will concur with what uh, Miss um, Siza, now I'm doing it. Oh my god. Seize more um, said is that these are really difficult times. You know, right now we've all read in the news um, about the freezing or
050perhaps not being given at all the title two, title three, title four funds. Um, and so these are going to impact really critical and vulnerable parts of our system. A >> and so I I'd like to think given the state that we're in that at least the board could consider doing something differently with that $2.0 million to maybe offset at least temporarily some of those impacts. Um, so that really is a piece for me that I'm struggling with to to try to figure out why did we prioritize a buildout. And I'm not asking you because that's not your decision. That's just what I'm facing in lie of maybe moving reallocating those funds to supporting some of those areas and I where we know there will be some cuts. So that is a part it's important
051to mention that these funds are not coming out of the surplus funds at year end. They are coming out of the school board's flexibility reserve. >> Right. My my question still stands and again that's not a question for you. It's just a wondering that makes me think about could we be better positioned and more strategic with how we utilize even the funds that are allocated to the school board. Um I had one more question. Um, and now I can't Oh, the the health care fund, the $30 million. Can you speak a little bit to what is occurring there, please? uh all self-insured healthcare funds um require that we have a premium stabilization reserve which is commonly called the PSR and it's basically a fund balance that is to deal with the volatility of health care
052especially when you are self-insured as as you all have heard me say before um the premiums that our employees pay and the share that the uh FCPS pays all go to fund the claims that we experience. The last couple of years, our claims have been um greater than than anticipated and as a result, the premium stabilization reserve has uh eroded and we need to replenish that. Um and so the the we only had 30 million to be able to allocate for that at this year end. Um hopefully, you know, in this current year, our um costs will be more in line with what our premiums are and we won't have to that won't be eroded even further. Um but we do need to to bump that back up and that's why the 30 million is
053recommended. >> Thank you. And I appreciate that. One point of clarification, will employees have any impact with this commitment? um like will they see will it be a benefit to employees with this commitment? >> It will be a benefit for them because there's only one way or two ways to replenish the premium stabilization reserve and that is to increase the premiums of employees or fund it with um FCPS operating funds. So their premiums will not have to go up to replenish this fund um as it would if we weren't able to do this at your end. >> Well, I definitely think that's a very good thing. Thank you. Um and and lastly, I just wanted to give kudos to the um extended day contracts for our um special education teachers. I'm also in very good
054support in very high support of that. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Uh Miss Marin. >> Yes. Well, forgive me. It's been a long day. I shephered my daughter through online PE driver's ed today. So, okay. Okay. So, as I shared at last week's meeting, you know, I think we need to reflect and reinvision how the board provides over oversight of taxpayer resources and that we're accountable for. So, I'm particularly inspired to do this not only in the face of very trying economic times um in our region and the nation, but also because I recently attended a conference um for schoolboard leaders that identified how schoolboard policy can really meaningfully drive financial management. I know everyone's idea of a good time. Um, I'm sharing these policy resources with my colleagues and I'll get them to you
055all soon. But it has examples that I really hope we can consider. Um, and one of the big things I saw was the school division have a significant amount of budget carryover. Something that I haven't seen as a practice here us, you know, intentionally planning for. But, you know, to that end, I'd love to see our board expanding from just budget and even calling it something different. It's really financial oversight or financial management. and we need to be looking at the funds every single month um and reviewing more closely the year-over-year data. So, I think um of course this includes intentional meeting and work with our board of supervisors. We've all um suggested this and while we voted on our calendar last week um with that in hand, we can now approach the board of
056supervisors and say, "Hey, here's our calendar. Where can we align with your calendar to have um better collaboration and a roadmap for collaborative financial planning and management?" So, um, I'd like the board, you know, I'd love early in this school year to have a more specific working plan in conjunction with our funding body, the board of supervisors, um, and especially to work together to get the money from the general assembly, which is going to take a full team effort because we know that that is where the problem lies. It lies in Richmond. Um, for this particular action tonight, I support the majority of what's here. Um, but I would like the board to hear more frequently from the superintendent about the precarious situation with our federal funds, including the reduction of funds outright and the
057reduction of funds contingent on meeting stated requirements whose merits have uh yet to shown to be legal. Um, just ultimately, I love to see the board give itself the time to really deliberate with data and public discussion about the future of the school division. I'm committed to making database decisions relying on the superintendent's expertise and making deliberate decisions having thought through all the angles and hearing from our superintendent about what she recommends. So the operational actions that deal with the day-to-day are what I entrust the superintendent to do. I'm eager for the board to work on the long-term health of the school division and a consistent decision-making approach using thoughtful policies from the board. Thank you, >> Mr. Moon. Uh, thank you, Madam Chair. I have a couple of questions. I'll be supporting the motion
058on the table. With that said, uh, Mr. Spuren or Dr. Reed, I see $24 million we are setting aside for FI27 beginning balance and this time is 24. So that's the entire amount for the beginning balance setting aside for the beginning balance for FI27. Correct. There hasn't been any other amount of set aside. >> No, not for fiscal 27. >> Okay. >> If I'm not mistaken, a year ago when we adopted the year end review a motion, we set aside $28.1 million for FY26 beginning balance. Is that why we're not setting aside the same amount? because that's we we consider that to be I consider that to be structural deficit because we you every year we have to push money forward to uh sort of have that amount of money at the as as a
059beginning balance but just wonder why it's not same 28.1 million. >> Yeah, it is about $5 million less than we um provided for fiscal 26 in the last year end. Um and that's just because of the number of priorities that needed to be funded with year end. And so we pulled that down just a little bit. Um you know it's it's a little bit less but that's what we had to do >> because that that's the only money all the money we have left. That's that is why we only setting aside $24 million. >> That is correct. You know M you know the county for many years county board of supervisors also had that's a structural deficit but at one time where they had a little additional resources they just removed eliminate all the structural
060guidelines why school system was still struggling for many still going on with a structural deficit. >> That that that is absolutely correct. The the county no longer carries a beginning balance to to fund a future year. Um, and you know, we're mindful of that. Um, you should know that the beginning balance that we use in our budget is the smallest percentage of all of the um, school divisions that surround us. >> Okay. Thank you. Uh, one more question that I have. This one goes to Dr. Ree. Uh, that you know my f my colleagues, several colleagues of mine talked about uncertainty and federal funding cuts and etc. I am equally concerned about federal funding cuts and uncertainty as well. But how are you dealing with uncertainty? This is the last meeting if for a for
061our board before we go to recess and by the time we return to another regular meeting school year will have already started for the next year. So uh uh because of uncertainty are we are we eliminating any programs? So, at this time, the money is frozen for Title Three, and that's the current uh concern obviously that we have, and as I've shared before, for Fairfax County Public Schools, that's about $13 million. Uh we do have some carryover dollars that we can spend for the coming year. They will not be sufficient to cover all the expenses. And so, there will be we're going to have to realign programming certainly. Uh we've been looking at that. Staff have had one initial meeting and we'll meet again next week uh to look at how we're going to divide
062up the carryover uh to preserve as much of the programming as we can. But there will be programming that we will not be able to preserve. That's correct. And I'll have a clearer uh delineation next week after the staff have their uh second meeting on this. >> You know, Dr. A budget is the probably most important decision decisions that schoolboard makes on a yearly basis on a quarterly basis. Now this is year end review. Uh I would not just give up abdicate my duties on making a decision on budgetary merits. If there is uncertainty, if the superintendence uh is proposing has a certain plans to deal with uncertainty, that has to be presented to the board so the board can make a decision rather than superintendent unilaterally doing away with a certain programs something you
063know Dr. E I I hope that for you to think about. >> Yes, sir. >> Mr. fresh. >> Yeah. Um, first I look forward to getting the documents from Miss Mayor and I spoke to her I think on the day that she got back and uh she seemed very excited about the conversations they were having. So I'm looking forward to digging in on them. Secondarily, I agree, you know, now that the calendar is set and we left the space for thoughtful planning so that we're not, you know, comparing two different shaped uh calendars against each other to try and make it work. Uh we have a lot of potential there. I think it's worth couching the conversation around federal resources to what it is, right? What they are doing in Washington is limiting opportunities for
064students. They're not underfunding public education. They're limiting opportunities for students. Students who can least afford it, by the way. English language learners, special education students, students with free and reduced meal qualifications, people who can least afford it. And they're not just doing it in K12, right? Certainly, that's where we feel it the most, but they're limiting their opportunities in K12 by by withholding this funding. And by the way, we've been talking about this day coming for quite a long time. And so Dr. Reed telling us just now what's happening is what she said was going to happen. We will not be losing staff, but programming won't be what it was because of how the money's coming in. So they're not just going after K12, they're also going after postsecary. So students who wanted to pursue
065a career in the sciences have limited opportunities. graduate schools all over the country removed admissions to their universities. So these are things we're not going to feel for years. But when we when we get there and we start asking ourselves where's the innovation? Where's you know why are so many people going elsewhere for their education? It's because of the decisions that are happening in Washington right now related to this money. And you want to talk about waste? What a tremendous waste it is of human potential that they are doing this with children. That's the waste. So, it's really unfortunate, but we saw this coming months ago and I'm grateful the superintendent has been planning for it. >> Thank you, Mr. Fresh. We're going to go to a go back for Dr. Anderson. >> Thank you.
066I just kind of wanted to follow a little bit on um the comments that Mr. Moon made because these were also questions that I had and it's to Dr. Reed, but I'll wait until she's ready to hear it. The the pieces that we will have impact with these frozen funds or funds that will be withheld um for however long. Can you speak a little bit more just so that our community is better informed to the areas of impact? What will students see? What will parents see? What will staff see and feel? >> Well, at this point, uh we know that title 3A dollars are primarily for our multilingual learner services. And that's um about a 4.5 million of the uh dollars. So if we're not able to if I guess if the federal government's review
067doesn't finish soon so that they can unfreeze the previously appropriated money, we're going to have to streamline those multilingual service program. Uh so it may look different in terms of delivery model, but we're going to continue to serve our multilingual students. We have done a double check within um that particular bucket. There are about 13 positions and so we're making sure uh that we have other teaching positions which we have teaching openings uh for some of the staff in those roles if the money is not unfrozen. Um we also contacted BDOE again today as well as the Department of Education and there is no new information in preparing for tonight's meeting. We wanted to make sure that we'd made those contacts and again there's no new information being provided. uh can the Congress we do
068know appropriated these funds for FY20 26 and we believe they are the only and sole uh body that can continue um to appropriate those funds. So the legality of this pause in general has been called into question and as I think many of you know there are a number of states that have filed suit. Uh, one of the other areas, um, would be hourly salaries for hourly staff around early literacy, community liaison, and some of our preschool programs and, um, our adult high school program as well. And there are no other places to go within our already approved budget to support these programs. We don't have another $13 million is my point. So, what I mentioned earlier is that the carryover dollars um of which they're I believe um they're not a significant amount of
069money, but I believe around two million perhaps almost three between two different grants. 2.9 I think. Yes, 2.9 million. We're going to take a look at what can we do with those dollars and it's primarily our instructional services department, our community um engagement and experience department as well as our chief of schools departments that are going to be looking at how do we use those dollars most effectively to support these programs um if the money is not unfrozen. So, I think there will be some areas that we're not going to be able to support as well as others. Uh but our goal is to make sure that our students still receive everything we can provide uh even as the federal government appears to be working to defund public education. >> Um thank you very much
070for that. Um the other question that I had is regarding most of these are well you mentioned lots of positions and we're butdding up against time because we want to ensure that people have a job. >> That's correct. >> And so this is a hiring season. So potentially if we're placing these individuals in teaching positions, they won't necessarily be able to return if we're able to find some way to mitigate the impact of the loss of staffing. Is that accurate? So, what I would say and one of the things I'm very proud of and this board I think can be proud of is that our focus is always the classroom and we want to make sure that we have um and I believe we do the strongest educators in the country in our classrooms in
071front of children. We believe that for each staff member within these grants, there's a position somewhere in the division. It may not be the work they're currently doing, but it will be work they're credentialed or certified to do. Having said that, we're not losing hope that the money won't be unfrozen. We believe it will um at some point because it's the right thing to do. We believe that uh if it's the right thing to do, right things happen for our children. So, having said that, we also want to make sure that we have positions for staff. And at this time, we do. And so it's sort of those last decisions around this carryover money because we have to be fiscally prudent as well as a division. >> You're definitely much more optimistic than I am,
072but I hope that you are correct that the funds aren't frozen. Um, and I've heard you speak about the chief of schools office um the um instructional office and the chief experience office. You didn't mention the chief equity office. >> Chief equity office as well. Yes. And early childhood as well. I didn't mention that childhood. because those are the title twos and title four funds coming out of that. My worry is, you know, we have a a strategic plan that is equity centered. Can you speak a little bit to the impact of the equity office and how that would impact the strategic work that we are hoping to accomplish by 2030? >> Well, and I would also add our professional office of professional learning, which I didn't mention either. There are a number of offices
073that fall within these grants. I would say that each office is going to have some uh cuts to them from in staffing if the grant funds aren't released. And the work that each office is doing is critically important. And we're going to have to find different models of supporting that work, but the work is not going to stop. >> Thank you. And the last thing that I want to say, I do want to piggyback on Mr. Moon's um statement that we should, you know, be clear in terms of what's happening and have some input into the process. >> The timing is so unfortunate, right, because we've already adopted our budget and that's when we get the news about the frozen title dollars. So, I will continue to keep the board apprised of where we are
074and how we're able to use our carryover. And because I'm going to choose to stay in the light, I'll also let you know when the money's unfrozen. Thank you. Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Miss St. John Cunning, for an initial, >> can you tell me how the percentage of title three money that goes to fund parent liaison if you know that >> it's community liaons? So, let me Miss Burton, do you have or Mr. Solomon the percentage of title three that funds? They fund some but not all. A lot of our family liaison come from other budget areas as well. Do we have a percentage or could we get back to Miss St. John Cunning in a Friday letter? >> We may need to get back to you, Miss St. John Cunning. >> And how many
075positions is that >> more or less? And you could get back to me on that. I mean, yeah, I'm happy to get back to you. I believe that the in terms of the community liaison and early literacy uh these are hourly salaries. So they're positions that are hourly and it'll be a little more challenging to calculate. I think there are close to 90 different hourly uh combinations, but that could be two hours to I mean three, right? They're very uh different hourly, but I'll get that information for you by Friday. I know there's a chart uh that they've been working off of. Well, I know that our early literacy programs help support a lot of our underserved communities um as a stop gap for some of those kids that can't get into Head Start or
076issues like that. And I know they're vital um and significant to to the community. Um, I want to thank you for having the presence of mind to train a lot of our teachers with uh, English as a second language skills because I think if we do lose some of this funding, we're going to have a lot of teachers that are trained to provide some of those services. And I want to thank you for that forethought. Um not that that was the reason but the fact that that that has been done I think is really important to point out. Um, and my question is, how can we leverage the skills of those teachers when we're going to be if the spending is not provided, how we can leverage the skills of those teachers that are not
077English as a second language teachers, how we can leverage the skills set that those teachers now have to provide those services to our multilingual learners. So, thank you, Miss St. John Cunning. The the positions that support our multilingual learners that are in these title three grants that we're referring to are central office positions. So, we are not adjusting the ratios at the school or classroom level. And I appreciate your point around the GLAD training and SCOP training and other multilingual staff training because as you know we recognize that 89% of our staff are teaching multilingual children every day and I mean they are because we have 40,000 roughly multilingual children in the school division. So we believe that all of us share that responsibility and we share those equity commitments that Dr. Anderson was talking
078about. So, it is true if this money stays frozen, there'll be fewer hands at the central office level to support schools and classrooms, but it won't alter the allocation to schools and classrooms at this time. >> Thank you. That makes me feel really good. >> Mr. Fresh for go back. >> I don't usually take gobacks, but I was angry and I forgot a couple things. Um, so we found out about this uh situation with the federal education dollars before the July 4th holiday. Um, a couple days before the July 4th holiday. And I just want to thank our partners at VDOE for taking the better part of a week to provide guidance to their school divisions. Um, you know, um, you might think that they're just willing to go along with the situation happening in
079Washington with the pace of the, uh, response. You know, the rest of us feel this five alarm fire going on in public education right now and our allies in in Richmond are sitting on their hands. We need help. even if it means that maybe somebody doesn't get a job in Washington, perhaps they should speak up for the kids in our schools. Um the other thing I would say is that as we talk about the money situation, I think lost in the conversation is that we still have legal obligations to provide services. So just because the money is not coming doesn't mean we are not legally required nor should we walk away from our responsibilities to English language learners, multilingual students, uh students who live in poverty, special education students, and all the other kids who
080are helped by this federal money. We have legal obligations. That's why the money exists in the first place is to help us meet those legal obligations. That's not enough, but we still have an obligation. And I'm not worried about us trying to meet the obligation, but I do worry about other school divisions where they might think of this as an opportunity to kind of like turn a blind eye to those kids who are uh more expensive to serve. So, this is a perfect opportunity for Richmond to speak up if they're watching. Um, we'd appreciate their help. >> Miss Seismarhiser for Go. >> Thank you. As I was listening to my colleague, Mr. I thought it was very ironic that on the same day we celebrate disability pride month, we're sitting here worried about losing federal
081funding for some of our students who have the greatest needs and gaps. I thought it was ironic that we talk about family values and cut funding for kids to eat. I thought it was ironic that we love our democracy, but we don't want to educate the citizens so they can take part with knowledge and critical thinking and analysis in that democracy. And I thought it was really ironic that a country built on immigrants of whom my parents were two proud immigrants are cutting the services so the immigrants like me who came here not speaking any English can learn English and succeed and thrive because all the data shows that our immigrants contribute more to the economy than those born here. So I don't care what side of the political spectrum somebody's on. I don't care
082about any of that. What I care about is the kids ability to eat, to learn. I care about the democracy my parents came here for and the country that my dad loved fervently. And I care about our future. So if you care about those things, help us fight for public education. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Seismore. Um I will call for a vote on the motion which is on the screen. All those in favor, Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Mr. Meline, and myself opposed. Dr. Anderson, Madame Clerk, could you read the vote? >> The votes 101. The motion carries. >> Thank you. Agenda item 5.03, 03 action item revision to policy 8130 regarding phasing. I call on Dr. Anderson for a
083motion. I move that the school board adopt the revised policy 8130 as detailed in the item on board docs and all of the red that is there. >> Is there a second? >> I second. >> Miss Marin, Dr. Anderson, would you like to speak to your motion? >> Um, yes I would. um on one point. I'm not sure what else to share that I haven't talked about um in the past year, but I will want to continue to emphasize that Fairfax County Public Schools invest significantly and resources to ensure that our students are connected to their schools and to their communities. um during the most vulnerable times. Um we've spoken about the Fairfax County Youth Survey that showed that the surfac the Fairfax County survey data that shows that students in our secondary schools are
084the most critically in need of positive school connections. Um we've talked about sports and we will actually talk about sports a little bit later on in the academic matters and extracurricular activity participation. um building relationships and we ask for students to have at least three trusted adults in the buildings which for some students take a lot of time to to make happen. Um and we in all of these efforts have been articulated and written. They're part of our strategies for success for our young people. Um and given such commitment, it's clear to me that we have to continue to hold these ideals in mind throughout all of our processes, even the boundary review process. We've encouraged students to tether themselves to their schools. Um, and the proposed revisions that I have here tonight will serve
085to support those connections. Um, will we be able to achieve the goals of the boundary process with the proposed revisions? Yes, albeit a little bit slower, but we will arrive to those targets without negatively impacting our students or reigging on the FCPS approach and commitment to a caring culture. Lastly, I truly believe that this amendment, if this amendment passes, many parents and caregivers will breathe a sign of relief and they will be better positioned to really support the work of the boundary review process, which is really important because we needed to rightsize our schools. We needed to provide greater access and to provide healthier school start times for our middle school students. Um, so while we are not going to be able to um well, oh, I'm sorry, I lost my train of thought here.
086So, the timetable might be impacted, but ultimately we will get there without compromising their emotional and social networks as well as their path to academic support, which is also another ideal that we foster in our students. Get together early with your counselors, build out your path for the four years. So, um, requiring or compelling a break into that does not really support all of the things that we have talked about as a system. So, I hope this evening that I will have your support so we could provide our students, their families the opportunity to plan for a consistent educational experience that's aligned to our values. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Miss Marin, would you like to speak to your second? I always say if I could do one thing in our public schools, it would
087be to reduce class size. And although that is so hard to do, I think the next best thing we can do is work to keep school communities intact. So, I have heard um only requests to allow for more choice for families to determine if their students will be put into a new boundary if it's um if it's uh determined, especially when they're in high school. And I just can't imagine asking a student to move in 10th or 11th grade or ordering them to move during especially that critical time when such cohesion is needed. So um I'm very pleased to um be working on the policy work. This is you know what we do and I'm pleased that there's support for this. So for elementary schools you know having that uh choice to remain in fifth
088and sixth for our um middle school six through eight and then seven and eight of reverse that fifth and sixth for our um middle schools seven and eight and then four through five for our mostly Mason district schools um and also for our secondary schools. I've heard the uh advocacy to again allow those students even though they're there much longer than our high schools or middles that consistency. So I'm so pleased that we're making policy action and this is what the board is designed to do. So I hope my colleagues can all support this. Thank you. >> Thank you. Uh Mr. Fr. Thank you. Um, first I want to thank our sponsors, Miss uh, Dr. Anderson and Miss Marin for bringing this and for collaborating with other colleagues on various aspects of this. Uh, Miss
089Anderson on the elementary school language, Miss Eismerheiser on the secondary language, and then the forthcoming uh, follow-on motion regarding IEPs. I think that's important work. Um, and so I'll be supportive uh, you know, in the spirit of that collaboration, uh, and the followon. um and because it does preserve uh the flexibility of the board for other phasing um in extenduating circumstances. So, uh I appreciate the work that's been done to bring the board together on this. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Meline. >> Uh thank you so much and and thanks in particular to Dr. Anderson and Miss Mirren for bringing forward this proposal and uh frankly for their advocacy for grandfathering over the past year even when it hasn't um been flavor of the month. U having been out in the community at at
090boundary meetings and in people's homes um I've heard pretty loudly and clearly that this is something that the community wants. Um, and it's uh really uh coming at at the right time um just to assuage people that uh they they will be grandfathered and they won't have to worry about um their children's future uh with the boundary uh committee findings that will be released uh next spring and the vote of the board. I believe this is the empathetic thing to do and the caring thing to do. Uh and um I again I can't be more grateful to Dr. Anderson, Miss Marin for bringing forward this proposal. Thanks. >> Thank you, Mr. Mcraine. Miss Lady, >> thank you. And again, thank you, Dr. Anderson and Miss Marin for bringing this forward. Um, memory serves me well.
091A year ago, I was I was virtual for this the meeting about the boundary and I also supported this motion at that time. Um, as someone who was very active in high school as a kid, I think it's essential once you build that community, you should have the opportunity to continue in that space if you've already completed nth grade. Having said that, um I think people will be surprised at the number of kids who actually will choose to go to a new school. Um and I just want to bring that up. I think that one of the things that I have delighted in in this boundary work thus far is that just about every single one of our high schools, there are kids that are in a scenario who might be moved to a different
092one. Everyone who might be moved is fighting to stay. people who might be moved from X to Y. Why doesn't want to go from Y to Z. And I bring this up because people need to understand we are a a school system that has amazing schools and there's a lot of consistency from school to school. And it's something that we're working on. Yeah, there's a little bit of personality differences sometimes in terms of, you know, how big the marching band might be or whether you have two full-time theater teachers or two full-time band teachers or you win debate every year. But most of what we do in our schools, we do consistently across our schools. And I want to continue to just make that mention because I think it's a beautiful thing when every time
093I get an email, I'm like, "Oh my gosh, I just read three before and those people are don't want to go to your school and you don't want to be moved from your school." Um, so I just want to bring that up. I think it's great, but I also do understand connections and community. Um, and I just again I think that we want to give parents and families um some ability for choice. Uh, and I think that does that. I also agree with the follow-on motion that will be coming um or the amendment that will be coming to this. But um but again, thanks to my colleagues. Um I'm glad we're here and I think we have the support we need uh for this today. So thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Lady, Miss Seismarhouser.
094>> Thank you. Um also, I wanted to thank the makers of the motion for this, but I also wanted to sort of give some context as well. I will also be supportive of this motion. Um, I know there was some conversation last year when the boundary policy was passed around the phasing and at that time being very early in the process. We wanted many of us to have as broad as phasing as possible and the original amendment did not include elementary school or secondary schools. So, I'm really appreciative of the collaborative efforts of the makers of the motion and the work of Miss Anderson and others to lift up the issues of elementary schools. Um, I was happy to that that the makers of the motion were very collaborative in accepting my thoughts around secondary
095schools and making sure the unique nature of secondary schools were 7th through 12th are in the same building was taken into account as well. So I think now that we're further in the process, have a better understanding of what we can and can't do and are inclusive of the various needs of different levels, I think we've landed in a good spot. So I'm happy to support this and I I will speak to the follow on and I hope to have my my colleague support for that follow on as well. So thank you very much. Thank you, Miss Eismerheiser. Mr. McDaniel. >> So, I want to echo what uh has been said previously. The the key reason that I'm going to support this is now that we're a year into it, we actually have some drafts,
096albeit some drafty drafts. We have data. We have drafts and data. We have something concrete upon which we can make a decision u of this magnitude. And having reviewed that data, um I don't have an issue and I appreciate the collaboration around the elementary school language and secondary school language as well um because it was important to uh to catch those two um those two uh school levels. So I will be supporting the motion. >> Thank you, Mr. Moon. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I want to thank Dr. Anderson for bringing back uh this this policy amendment and also Miss Marin just like last year I think was July of 2024 that went almost the same amendments came in and unfortunately at the time the majority board didn't want to go that direction but I'm
097glad that we are doing this time because in the fall our consultants and community and school would have a lot of hard work left to be done and this is very crucial component of the dead work. Thank you Dr. Anderson. >> Thank you Mr. Moon. Miss Dixit. >> So uh last year when it was brought in I think uh it was not complete. It was did not involve elementary schools. It was not did not was secondary schools and that was the reason majority of the board did not support it. It this made changes with my colleagues um miss Anderson with seism is more wholesome. It is something uh we can stand by uh and support and we understand changing school is and boundaries is a lot of adjustment for families. Um so this is going
098to help ease the transition for uh because grandfathering will allow students to stay in their current school if they choose to and and it maintains the continuity of the academic program their spe social connection and daily routines um during critical academic and social years. Um this is a change boundary uh chains are necessary to manage enrollments and facility use. uh we have overcrowding on many schools and my my district Sully district has lot of overcrowding as well. So the boundary um adjustment is necessary and but this allowance is also very uh good and I I did want to address that um last year is different than this year. this year we have more information, more facts, a better motion and u I'll support this motion because it's it's definitely much better than last year. Thank
099you. >> Thank you, Miss Dixit. I'm going to go ahead and take a turn and then we have a few people on go backs. If you do not want to go back, please turn your light off. Um, I don't think any of us don't. I mean, repeatedly when I talk to communities about what's going on with the boundaries, none of us want to move kids from schools. That's not the goal here. The goal here is to make sure that our our schools are utilizing their space appropriately so that we don't have overcrowding, we have appropriate busing, we have all the things. This was this is a big lift. Um, I appreciate the makers of the motion bringing this back to us. I think that it's um we have a lot more information and I know
100this is where we were headed. So I I appreciate and I will be supporting this tonight. I do want to say something though and it was the same thing I actually said last year that I was concerned about and it's what I've been talking to families about to explain my decision last year um pretty repeatedly. The biggest aspect of this is we don't know whether or not this is potentially going to cause higher capacity at some schools. We don't know what that's going to look like yet. So, I would hate for us to get through the entire boundary process and not have anybody at least call attention to. The phasing matters with how the capacity works. We have certain schools out in the county that everybody either wants to go or everybody wants to stay.
101And then we have some that, you know, maybe not not in the same boat right now. Although I do definitely agree with my colleague that I have been hearing advocacy across the board related to how amazing certain schools are and that they nobody wants to leave. I'm not getting any emails saying I can't wait for you to get me out of here. Um and so I guess the point is here is that when we get through the process and we see that the phasing causes certain capacities to increase or certain you know certain populations to increase because we've had kids go and stay. I don't want us to think that we've failed in the boundary work. The boundary work needs to happen because it is going to slowly over time rightsize the school populations that
102we have. And so I am in support of this. I know we were headed there anyways. I do appreciate the makers of the motion working with the rest of us to get everything in here that was appropriate and important. Um and I think this is something that we can live with long term. So I appreciate the work here. Dr. Anderson for a go back. Um yes. Thank you. Just a couple of things that I want to make sure that I share. First of all, I appreciate um the support today for the motion very much. But I I I would be remiss if I sat here and and absorbed that last year the motion was not complete. That is not accurate. I I don't believe that to be accurate at all. Um it was not as
103expansive when it came to the secondary. That was not something that came to mind at all. And I do want to give credit to Miss Eismahheiser calling me to talk about that. I also know we had another parent who sent an email to the entire board which I missed because I had been ill about exactly that and that is not um something I would have wanted to miss. It was just just not top of mind because I don't serve a lot of sec I don't serve any secondary schools. So it was not top of mind. And and so I I do want to make sure that I I recognize that that part was um not clearly identified and it should be because I wouldn't want for um any of this to not be consistent across
104the across the system. But it it was not an incomplete motion last year. We were at a different place. Certainly yes. Do we have more information this year? Absolutely we do. And I think our parents being more engaged, being more involved because they now have the scenarios and have it's a little bit more real and I think that's been the the difference. It's a little bit more real for all of us. So, we're seeing what is possible and I think that's been the primary difference. But I do appreciate all of the support and I do want to say thank you to Miss Marin because she was right there the whole time and you know a year to the date literally it was July 18th when we first brought this of last year and it's July
10517th this year. So I I'm I'm appreciating your support to getting this over the hump. Um but I I felt the really a real need to say this. >> Mr. Moon. >> Uh thank you Madam Chair. I just want to quickly note that hey phasing had always been part of boundary adjustments. Phasing is not an indication of failure of any part of our work. So this is just doing the right way to do the boundary adjustments. Thank you Mr. Moon. Seeing no further I'm going to go ahead and call for the a vote on the motion which is on the screen. All those in favor, Mr. FR, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Mavine, and myself. Will the clerk please read the
106vote? >> The votes 110. It carries. >> Excellent. Thank you. I will call on Miss Seismarheiser for a follow-on motion. I move to direct the superintendent to ensure that administrators communicate that special educ education student placement decision shall continue to be ter sorry be determined by the IEP teams as allowed by federal provisions. >> Dr. Anderson, I'm sorry. Is there a second? >> I was waiting. Second. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Miss Seismar, would you like to speak to your motion? >> Yes, briefly. This is um just to reiterate and making sure it's understood by administrators that um despite the phasing language that we have here that we still have special education students whose placement decisions are made by IEP teams. Most of the time the IEP teams determine that they stay at their base
107school, but we want to make sure that that's clear. I had um this is something I thought about a couple weeks ago, but knowing that that's guaranteed under federal law. I hadn't brought it before, but I've heard since several concerns from the community uh to making sure that this is clear and that we are directing the superintendent in the public so they have something to point to. And a lot of that is coming out of when we passed the cell phone policy in 2022 where we uh restricted cell phones bell-to-bell bans for elementary and middle school and we in 22 allowed cell phones only in lunch and um in the hallways for high school. At that time there were carveouts for medical needs for and for special education students but yet the implementation that was
108inconsistent and continues to to this day be inconsistent around that. So we wanted to make sure that there was clear understanding um that these placement decisions that this policy does not usurp the IEP team's ability to make the placement decisions for the best interest in the child as per the federal law and the IEP team. So, it's just a simple flagging of something that's already a right. >> Dr. Anderson, would you like to speak to your second? >> Yes. Really briefly, I I'm glad to support this follow-on motion because if there's a place for us to clarify for parents, we should definitely do that. If there's a place for us to reduce anxiety about things that are um seemingly vague, then we should certainly do that. While it might come across as prescriptive, but we
109are actually being responsive to our community's needs. These are the things that worry them. Is my child going to have to leave their school in the middle of high school? That's a worry which we just took care of. Is my special education student going to have to leave his or her school even though they now have a new a new a new um space according to the boundary? We're saying that is not the case. The IEP decision still makes those decisions. the IEP team still makes those decisions. So, I'm glad to be able to offer that clarification because it reduces anxiety and angst and so that is also part of our work to ensure that our community is clear in terms of what the boundaries are. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Miss Dixit, >> I
110agree with this and happy to support my colleague Miss Seismiser. uh the placement decision for IP students are must be made by the IP team and not by the administrator. So uh this is a very important uh information. Um I also didn't know before and uh thank you for bringing this to our awareness and and bringing this motion. So I'll be supporting that. Thank you. >> Thank you. I will call for a vote on the motion which is on the screen. All those in favor, Mr. FR, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Mavine, and myself. I believe that is unanimous. Thank you. Action item 5.05, monthly separation report, June 2025. I call on Mr. Moon for a motion. >> Thank you, Madam
111Chair. I move that the school board approve the June 20 25 monthly separation report. >> Is there a second? Thank you, Miss St. John Cunning. Mr. Moon, would you like to speak to your motion? >> Yes. Uh uh first of all, thank you uh Madame Chair for, you know, moving this out of consent agenda so that I could ask a couple of questions to Dr. Reed that uh we get this monthly separation report. So I guess in the second meeting every month we get something similar like this. Could you tell us first of all why we get these reports on a monthly basis? >> I'm sorry. Did you ask the why we get them? >> Yeah, why we get the reports is that required or >> I believe the board requested them. >> Okay. And
112what I want you to know is I on page six and page seven of the report. The data we get about ethnic composition by subgroups not just composition but also separation data monthly and also yeartodate data. So for this particular month's report has one entire year's data right there. I wanted to know whether we could have same data or similar data just for a instructional staff and also whether we have similar data for the last several years. I want to see the trend whether there's any uh sort of gap between or discrepancy between a composition by subgroups versus a separation by subgroups. >> So I know Mr. Solomon has that data and I thought had provided it. Mr. Solomon, do you want to comment on that please because I know you had a um conversation
113about that. >> Yes and Mr. Moon, thank you for the question. We provided the board an updated uh version of the separations that FCPS has received for teachers, for assistant principles, and for principles in a June Friday letter. And in it, it shows just that for the past 3 to four years, exactly how many separations we're seeing across demographic subgroup year-over-year. >> I know that you sent me an email with that earlier, but I didn't see what I was looking for. What I'm looking for is not only just the composition composition ethnic composition of our our employee groups but also separation data by subgroups and whether we have those data over the last three four year period. >> Yes sir. In the first column it shows composition of all of the employees. The second column
114is the volume of new hires. The third is separations which is the one I believe you're looking for. And then the fourth is our student composition. >> I don't know what you're referring. Are you referring to a separation report that's on the bulldog or are you are you referring to what you sent me earlier today? Because you also indicated in your email that you're going to include what I was going to be asking in the Friday letter tomorrow. >> Yes, we can recirculate it in the Friday letter and it was provided in a previous Friday letter. >> I mean, you sent me the, you know, last week's Friday letters. uh but I mean you might want to go back and what you wrote to me because as as of that time you didn't have all
115those data to to share with me so you going to include that the information the Friday letter I just wanted to be able to see whether a particular group of employees is leaving the school system at a much higher rate than its composition rate >> yes and what we can do is it's provide I'm looking at it right now It's provided in the format of a graph year-over-year uh by demographic subgroup. What we can do is provide a table with the raw numbers so that you have it at your fingertips. >> I would be mostly interested for the instructional staff. Thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Moon. Uh Miss St. John Cunning, would you like to speak to your second >> only to say that I really appreciate the data and how it's been separated
116out in this particular report. I think it's really helpful. Thank you. Thank you, Miss St. John Cunning. We are gonna go to Miss Marin. Thank you. I definitely see a new uh take on this, which I really appreciate uh the the new data. You know, I'd like to see the showing of the years of experience. I'm really more interested in that, especially as we know that more experienced staff will produce those larger gains for students. Um I also you know again this makes me think about the big picture you know what format is most useful to the board and aligns with the strategic plan and in going through our strategic plan we have pillar C about diverse adapted and supported workforce and pillar D the culture of equity excellence and accountability but you know we
117get our strategic plan goal reports on the goals. So, you know, just wondering how, you know, especially in the year ahead, planning for the new reporting out of meetings, how can we perhaps see more of the picture happening over time. Um, but certainly at least um figuring out, you know, what what data the board wants to see, I guess. And this also relates to what uh working on in updating some of the executive limitations policy language um to include the policies with the presentation so we can see how our policies about human resources and staff and such are are up to date. So otherwise I will support it. >> Thank you Miss Marin Dr. Anderson. Thank you. I do want to say thank you to um it it wasn't quite you Miss Solomon, but I'm
118sure you would have done it, but when your predecessor was there, she did change this formatting um along with Mr. Smith because the what we had previously didn't really tell the story. It was just information that didn't really capture what I think we're trying to go after, which is what is happening in the division and where are some of the places where we need to take some action. The data was just like one big, you know, lump. it wasn't teased out because we talk about how representation matters. We want to ensure that our students see people who look like them and that because that matters. So this brings me to my question to you in your analysis now that we've had the full year of data in this plat in this um format. What are
119the spots where we are seeing concerns? Do we have you know Asian principles leaving at a rate that we would not like? Do we have black teachers leaving at a higher rate? Are there hot spots? >> Thank you for the question. What I will say is this. I think the board, the superintendent, and the school division have much to be proud of as it relates to everything that has happened around recruitment um and everything that's really happened to the around the retention of our staff. Right? So that's everything from making sure that pathways into the profession are accessible via expanding alternative routes to lensure leveraging I teach more expanding into our new programs like Avonza teach forward FCPS leveraging the one-year local eligibility license all of those things when I look at our separations yearover-year
120they're actually pretty flat across demographic subgroups and at the same time we're recruiting significantly more bipok uh instructional staff members. So what you see year-over-year is an increase in the employee composition uh among our BIPO staff. What we are noticing as a pattern and it is a spot that we as a division have work to do on. Again, lots of great work happening. We see that population increasing specifically for our Hispanic and Asian populations. There's more that we can do to make sure that they better represent our student demographics. >> Okay. So, thank you for that and I look forward to seeing some of those strategies. I believe that's goal four or five. Um, when we're talking about the workforce, again, very much appreciative of this data. I'm glad we're able to have this discussion
121because this is typically on consent and so we don't typically have the opportunity to engage with this with this information. I will call for a vote on the motion which is on the screen. All those in favor, Mr. Fresh, Mr. McDaniel, Miss Marin, Miss St. John Cunning, Miss Lady, Miss Dixit, Miss Seismarheiser, Mr. Moon, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Mavine, and myself. That is unanimous. Agenda item 6.01, academic matters. I call on Dr. Reid for academic matters. Right. Good evening, Madame Chair and the board and community who are listening. It's uh my pleasure this evening to talk about middle school after school programming and uh a little bit of data based on our prior year. So um I'm not sure who's doing slides. Thank you Janet. Uh reminder that um our middle school after school programs here
122actually are specifically connected to supporting goal four. Uh but they're also supports and goals two and three uh because we know that these uh transitional supports are developmentally really important uh for our adolescence. And these structured activities are important to allow our middle schoolers to explore their interests and gain a deeper sense of belonging at their school. We know that research supports that afterchool programs for students in middle school are linked with improved academic skills, improved attendance, lower absenteeism, um development of essential life skills, including time management, goal setting, responsibility, etc. the offerings. We want to make sure um that our community knows that we do have uh after-school activities five days a week at no cost for our students and they're designed to provide opportunities for student growth and development in a number of
123areas that are shown on the screen. On average, our data shows that each middle school provides about 12 to 15 hours of programming and provides transportation through late buses to support students getting home safely. And that's really important actually because many students are not able to um stay after school without that transportation because families aren't able to provide it. Across all of our middle schools, we have over 940 different program activities. these structured activities. Um, in FY2025, we had 24,749 middle school students attend the afterchool program, and the typical weekly attendance averaged over 15,000 students. The programs included a variety of topic areas: homework assistance, tutoring, STEM, fine and performing arts, board games, service learning, fitness, and youth development. The past two years, we've also had um FCPS offered cross country and track and field
124to all our middle school students who were in good standing at their school. And we know that uh these activities have also promoted just a very positive culture and climate at school and want to report that we had over 2,300 athletes participate in middle school cross country and close to 2,300 participating in track. The video that we'll show uh talks a little bit about what middle school sports have meant to our students. Madame clerk, if you would please roll the video. [Music] >> Running is one of the greatest things you can do to push yourself. What you put into the sport is what you get out of it. And really, the harder you work, the better you get at it. So, it teaches students perseverance, dedication, good sportsmanship, go. We do have a couple field
125events we're doing with the long jump and the shot put. Um, but other than that, all they need is a singlet, a pair of shoes. And the great thing about track is anyone can do it. And it's also great conditioning for other sports. Um, so it's been really great just to see how many schools have really embraced that. It's so awesome that we're the pioneers of this new program. And it's really amazing that they're bringing it to middle schools and I'm sure it'll make a ton of people happy. >> It's really nice that FPS has considered track as like a sport that you can now compete in with other people. Amazing. >> Yeah, it's a blessing. >> Sports is all about connections and you're next to a bunch of different people from a bunch of
126different middle schools. Everybody comes from different backgrounds, different places. It's honestly like an amazing experience. You can get out, compete, meet new people, have input from your coaches, be able to compete with your friends and other classmates as well. >> You get to meet other people from other schools and hang around other people and like be athletic with other people. >> I think it's a great way to kind of bring the schools together as like a team community thing. And it's fun competing against the other schools. I run the 1600, the 800, and sometimes the 4x4 relay. I run the 100, 200, and the 4x4. I like the 200 more because it's competitive and meet other people that'll like you and want to race and be fast. >> I really like the 1600. I think
127it's a good way to kind of pace yourself more than like sprinting. And I honestly personally think I'm better at the 800. That's more my thing. It's It's fun to like get to run around laps and really race people. >> When you're racing, you're mostly racing yourself. >> Your body is telling you, "I can't do this." But your brain is telling your body, "I can do this. run through it. You got this. >> So, my distance was 14 ft. It felt like Christmas morning. Every waking moment after it. Like, I was so stoked. The second I landed and they measured it, I just was pumping my arms. I was so excited. I am so glad I'm competing for my school. I love my school and I'm glad that I'm going out there and getting recognition.
128But when I'm on the starting line, I don't really care who's from what school. I'm going to root for everybody because it's just phenomenal to see other people do well, even if it's not yourself. >> At the finish line, you're like >> patting each other on the back, saying good race and stuff like that. [Applause] [Music] >> One thing I I love about our team is they're so genuinely kind to each other. The care that I see in these 12 and 13 year olds on the field is amazing. So that's something that we've tried to build as coaches, but they had to come with it as well. And so I love that they are building that maturity and resilience in themselves through this sport. And I'm excited to see where middle school sports goes. Having
129this experience is so great for athletes to transition them into being a successful high school athlete. It also gives them exposure and I think the numbers will really increase in high school because kids now have the confidence to try out where before they might have been unsure. [Music] [Applause] So, um, yes, our own Janet Brown, the, uh, Luther Jackson Middle School Panther track coach. Um, I will tell you bored, having been out at some of these activities, the excitement and just our kids are modeling what um, incredible connections can be made and what's possible when you work together. So, also want to thank our board of supervisors for funding our middle school after school programming. I think uh our board of supervisors and our community recognize what a genuine gift this is for our young
130people and honestly how necessary it is for a healthy development of the adolescent um age group. So uh we've seen some uh very high uh feedback from parents and staff and while it is extra work it's proven to be something that we're really excited about and want to make sure we continue. Uh last slide please. Uh finally uh want a reminder that middle school after school programming is tied with connections that our students are able to make. And again all of the different activities and events are transformational in terms of the work young people have in getting connected to their schools and one another. And you know what? We didn't see one student racing jumping um with their phones. So, uh, I would just say it's a natural it's a natural way to sort of,
131uh, create positive mental health energy and a not distracted, uh, racing environment. So, anyhow, Madam Chair, that is academic matters for July 18th. >> Thank you, Dr. Reid. At this time, I now invite my colleagues to ask any questions or h or provide comments. We're going to start with Miss Dixit. Dr. Reed, you I really appreciate all your presentation especially the videos with the students uh and uh and the sentence there was what they were saying. It was very very interesting to hear uh pioneers. Okay. Yeah. Good good good stuff. So I had a question about the first I think slide or second I should say. Uh it said 12 to 15 hours of programming. Is it um average and how many is it a per week? >> That's correct. Yes ma'am. Per week. Okay.
132>> Which is generally since there are five days a week that would be um several hours from anywhere from several to three hours two to three hours a day. Yeah, that's about you know after school they stay and um how many students uh middle school students stay for more period of time like initial month as do we have a data because some I think the concern from board of supervisor was that students don't continue for a longer period of time it's just maybe for a little bit and only few students continue yes ma'am we the data I have this evening is summitative which is to say that over the course of FY25 24,749 middle school students did attend the program and the weekly attendance averaged over 15,000 students across the middle schools in the county.
133>> So, it's fair to say it was very well attended and uh it's going to continue to do so. >> Yes, ma'am. Um as as I see all these students doing high jumps and like long jumps and other uh relay racing and other races. I wanted to ask if there is a plan to do an inter school meets with other schools and uh I guess when I was growing up we were we used to do that in our schools and we would have other schools and do like compete with them. It's pretty similar like high school sports here. So this year for the first time in cross country uh because we just do these Saturday meets that involve uh groups of schools this year at the end of the cross country season we had a
134divisionwide championship where uh students qualified based on their finishes throughout the season and that was very well attended. We had several thousand people attending that, but I don't know that we have the bandwidth or the field space um to do regular sort of dual meets, but um every Saturday during the fall there are crosscountry meets and then spring the track meets. Um >> thank you so much. And I know a lot of uh you know people appreciate this program and our communities especially the middle schoolers. uh they absolutely are thrilled as we can see and uh this is where we really need to focus in as get the st students be active play outside and that's take take the you know like you said nobody's playing with the phone when they're jumping and running so
135this is how we can take little bit of the break from the phones with kids are tied to so thank you again it was amazing to see that yes ma'am >> thank you Miss Dixit we go to Dr. Anderson. >> Yes. I would be remiss to not also add to the chorus of this is great. I I love the fact that we have articulated this especially in the climate that we're in because that very activity well those activities were under um were under threat um this year and so I hope that um it is viewed how much of an asset it is to our um our school community. What I do want to share is while we had a reprieve this year in order to be able to maintain these programs that are inexplicably linked
136to the funding of the afterchool coordinators. Um it is my wondering of what's happening next year. What have you heard that we can share with the community about what could be on the docket next year regarding funding of the afterchool program coordinators that help make this happen? I have not heard anything concrete about next year or the planning for FY 27 with regard to um after school middle school after school specialists. I do know that there was a request or is a request um to look at from the board of supervisors I believe to look at a possible fee structure for middle school afterchool programming. And I I believe there's a group that's looking at that and that will be something obviously that would come to this board as well. >> Um thank you for
137sharing that and to me that is such a a difficult position to be in with understanding where the board of supervisors are financially speaking but we have if I recall the data correctly 70% of our students who participate are free and reduced lunch. So I I'm struggling to see how we can charge those who can not afford it anyway. Um, so I I hope that there's another solution to be had at that point. Um, but I do want to make sure that that our community is clear that the sports are an addedon um activity that FCPS funds because we have the structure that the board of supervisors already funds. So I I just want to say kudos. This is great stuff. And I know that my personal children who were middle schoolers and I still
138have one more participate nearly every day in the program. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson, Mr. Mave. >> Well, thank you, Dr. Reid, and you know, this uh presentation was fabulous, and I think that um it's pretty clear that this has been one of your signature achievements as superintendent. Um, so I know all of us are so uh happy about this program. Um, you know, had had I had this program in middle school, I probably wouldn't have been so slow when I ran cross country and track and and high school. Um, but uh that that being said, I know it sets up a lot of our students not only for athletic but also um academic success. So in, you know, in Fairfax County, we can't stop with just one thing, right? So, what do you envision
139for the future of uh the middle school sports program? >> Well, thank you, Mr. Meline. Um, I do think that we've got right now we have a fall and spring option. So, I know the group is uh contemplating what is possible in the winter. Uh, and I think the middle school principles, Mr. Horn and the office will probably uh be contemplating that. And I'm not sure where we'll land, whether that's a, you know, wrestling or basketball or volleyball or where that's going to land or soccer. We have a the students have a high interest in all of the above. And many of our students across the county are in areas uh where it's not easily accessible to be on um teams because of transportation and sometimes cost. So, it'll be a difficult decision, but uh
140I think they're looking at those options at this time. Well, all of the above sounds good to me. Um, and I know a as your outgoing um representative on the athletic council um I know our our friends over there will be eager to to stay a breast of plans and and be consulted um because they they have opinions uh as always. Um and special shout out to Janet. It was great to see you um sporting the sunglasses. We recognized you. You weren't you weren't in disguise. So, uh, thank you. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Mavine. Mr. McDaniel, >> well, I will say had we had these programs when I was in middle school, I may have actually run around a track once in my life. Um, but I was at a town hall meeting
141with Miss Dixs at back in I don't remember was February maybe something like that, a budget town hall and I think I made these comments u a few months ago watching the kids that were on this that were participants of this program coming up to the microphone talking about the impact of these of this program to them was um it was a very surreal moment for me and similar to what Dr. Anderson kind of stole the question I was going to ask but that's okay. I I'll reiterate it. Uh and I would suggest for our budget committee, we need to get out ahead of this. Um because if this is going to be back on the chopping block, um or even a suggestion of a chopping block or a fee, user fee type of a
142structure, um we need to get ahead of this quickly because I think the program itself speaks uh I mean the program speaks for itself. Obviously, we can't afford to lose it. So, thank you for all your work on this. >> Yes, sir. >> Thank you, Mr. Mr. McDaniel, Miss Seismarhouser, >> thank you. And I um echo the comments of my colleagues and I can say how much this would have helped me both physically and mentally. And as someone who used to teach fitness classes and someone who's run four full marathons, I can tell you fully the benefits of running for both physical activity, for strength, and for mental health. So, I'm really thrilled to see this program. I just wanted to lift up since I do represent two of the secondary schools in my district
143that as if you are looking to expand the sports. I know there's been some concerns at the secondary schools because as I've mentioned before the secondary schools are two schools and one set of facilities, right? So they have one gym at a secondary school. And so we just need to make sure we're not leaving those schools behind and planning thoughtfully around what facilities they have as well. um because the high school and middle school share the track, for example, >> and I know they've worked really hard to make it work, but as we're moving forward, let's I want to make sure that we're not leaving it to them to figure it out, but we're being thoughtful to include their challenges as we move forward because this is a great program and and I agree with
144my colleagues, our students benefit greatly from it. So, thank you for all your work and thank you for bringing this to us. >> Yes, ma'am. It's been a great team effort. Our principles really have carried a lot of water, too. Thank you, Miss Heismore. Miss Lady. >> Yeah. Um I echo a lot of the comments of my colleagues. Um anytime our kids are out and moving, um it's the physical activity is fantastic and and the and the one student and and they all feel it is they're racing themselves, right? Like even those kids who, you know, might finish last, their last is better than their last finish. Um and I think that says a lot too because that carries over to other parts of our life. And so I think it's brilliant of you to
145start it with track where there are no cuts. Um and as we move into other things that that'll those gym space there we have other high schools that have one gym um and middle schools that have uh small gym spaces and and and playing field areas. Uh but the last thing I want to talk about is my strong belief that anything we provide after school um we can't it cannot be fee based. I can't emphasize this enough to our community. Um, and I, you know, um, want to commend my colleague, Mr. McDaniel, for bringing this, and other people have mentioned this, but, you know, when you think about a public school, you don't pay for public school. Um, and the getting kids out and active, especially kids who don't have the money to do um,
146club teams, sometimes even do just house league activities because of transportation issues. We are here to eliminate barriers to access. Um that is one fair fact and we will work with the other our partners to make sure that our kids don't have to pay. Uh but uh that's just important and I wanted to make that point this evening. Thank you. >> Y >> thank you Miss Lady. Thank you Dr. Reid. >> Thank you. Agenda item seven consent agenda. Our adopted rules of parliamentary procedure. Robert's rules provide for a consent agenda listing several items for approval of the board by a single motion. Many items have gone through board review and documentation has been provided to all board members and the public in advance. Items may be removed from the consent agenda at the request of
147any board member prior to the meeting. The consent agenda items are on the screen. Is there any objective objection to approving the consent agenda? >> Hold on one second. We actually need to get them up. Okay. Apologies. Now we're good. >> Thank you so much. Is there any objection to approving the consent agenda? Hearing and seeing no objection, the consent agenda is approved. Agenda item eight, new business. The following are new business agenda items. There will not be a vote on the these items this this evening, but action is scheduled at a future meeting. Agenda item number nine, superintendent matters. I call on Dr. Reid for Superintendent Matters. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. It's been an amazing week here in Fairfax County. Uh we had our leadership kickoff this week and want to thank um
148those board members who were able to make it um and in particular our chair Sandy Anderson who helped kick us off uh with a big welcome and I know our our team is very grateful for your message. Also want to thank Marcy Neil, Jenny Canine, um an Annie Dippert, all of the folks, Arman, Tracy Su, their team, Kevin, everybody behind the scenes, and also um those who helped make the leadership kickoff uh just a really a big success. Um also want to say that a big thank you to our food and nutrition staff. Currently, we have 112 sites where we're providing meals to children. Uh this summer, 32 of these sites have operating hours open to the community for children to receive meals. And to date, we have served um almost 31,000 breakfasts this summer
149and over 51,000 lunches. Um that's huge. So big shout out. If you see any of our food and nutrition staff, give them a big thank you. Uh based on the current trend for the course of the summer, we're projected to serve 65,000 breakfasts and 110,000 lunches this summer. Um it's uh it's amazing. So Mr. Muick, thank the team and uh just we're so proud of them. Uh in terms of some school visits, I've had a chance to stop and see summer school at Graham Road Elementary and there is so much excitement at Graham Road Elementary. Uh had a chance to be in a number of different classes. Um and just really excited to see our young people working so hard. also stopped by Anendale High School. A lot of credit recovery occurring there and just
150so um pleased with the the work of our high school students as well. And I'm looking forward to visiting Liberty Middle School next week um to talk about algebra and the AVID PowerUp work. Um summer theater is also thriving and uh lots of excitement uh for summer theater events which I'll have an opportunity to be attending. Um, and then last but not least, we have an instructional job fair uh coming up on Wednesday, July 23rd, which is next week. So, if you're out there or if you've just moved to the community and you're excited about uh being uh joining team FCPS, uh we do have a job fair at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology on Wednesday from 9 to noon. So I wish you all a great summer recess board and uh
151look forward to reconnecting as we begin the 2526 school year. So thank you madam chair. >> Thank you so much. Agenda item 10 board matters. I next on the agenda is board matters and I will call on the school board members that wish to speak. I have checked with in the order that's that we have set up. Um Mr. Fr. All right, I'm going to use every single I'm just kidding. I'm not going to use very little time here. Um, I did want to say how much I enjoyed uh earlier in the month attending the Kingsley Commons computer technology program graduation with Supervisor Powchek. They do really great work there in Falls Church um providing technology to students and helping them uh learn the technology better. And um it's great seeing these students that received
152computers when they were kids essentially before we had universal uh laptop program at FCPS. Um and they were receiving scholarships and going to Colombia and GMU and UVA. I mean just really great stuff happening there. Um and then I want to invite everybody u my colleagues and everybody out in the community. Um Providence Presents is back for the summer. Um, we have great outdoor concerts happening at Mosaic where we have Mosaic Live and Nawway Park where we have Nawway Nights. Um, this Saturday, July 19th, 7:30 p uh, Munit Mesin and the First Take Band will perform the Robera Flack tribute concert. That's right, I said that right. The Robera Flack tribute concert. You don't want to miss it. At Mosaic. Um, and on Thursday the 24th, the Krueger Brothers will take the stage at Nawway
153Park. Um, there's more concerts after those. You should check out Supervisor Pelchick's website for more information. Um, and with that, I hope everybody has a nice recess. >> Thank Thank you, Mr. Fish. Miss Marin. >> Yes. First, I want to again thank Allison Cororb, our soloist, who sang really so incredibly this evening. She is a rising eighth grade student at Langston Hughes Middle School and I've had the joy of knowing her and her family for several years. So, it was so special for me to hear her. Um, and of course that u chorus program is really wonderful. It's really become so robust over the last few years. I feel like the the summer's supposed to be quiet. People keep saying, "Oh, it's quiet this time of year." And I said, "It's not quiet." The our
154leadership already had their kickoff for the next school year. So, you know, our principles are already working and their staff is already, you know, working to get stuff done. You know, I mentioned I went to this conference on schoolboard leadership and one of the really cool things I learned was really how to start um playing with artificial intelligence AI in a way that I think is very exciting and pulling lots of information together about, you know, work on the board. And so I'm I'm seeing for myself, but I also am eager for our school division to do more with this work. Um and I hope that we can explore that further and use it for our own purposes as well, such as our our staff does. And again, online PE and driver's ed, boy, it's
155a lift. Um, it's no joke when they say it's like six to eight hours a day. It kind of is. But, um, I really appreciate the teacher who's been there every day with my student. And, you know, sitting in this session today, the required safety session with my kid, like, wow. You know, the kids do things like drive cars and it's um, it's just a really amazing experience. and to know that like our school division even provides that. I mean, it is an additional fee, but just the the swath of things that our public schools are doing um and requiring parents to sit there through the session and I kind of thought about I wonder if we could do that for cell phones, right? Um a lot of times I could find them interchangeable, but
156just um the learning doesn't stop and I'm glad my my son's having a great time at the South Lakes High School basketball camp this week. So, um yeah, our schools are open in the summer, seven days a week, all summer long, our public facilities. So, um, I wish everyone a restful board recess, but I know that many of us will continue the work. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Marin. Miss St. John Cunning. >> Thank you. Um, I hope everyone out there is enjoying their summer break and I know I'm looking forward to our school board recess. I too want to commend our food services team um, working in schools as long as I have. I cannot emphasize how critical that summer food program is for a lot of our families. They really depend on
157it. Um, I want to remind families also to make sure that you get your students vaccinated. Uh, make sure that they're up to date on their vaccinations as soon as possible. Speaking from experience, do not wait till the last minute to make those doctor's appointments because you will not get in and your child will not be able to begin the first day of school. And we really want to have them there the first day of school. Uh, finally, since John Lewis High School sits in my district, I would be remiss if I if I did not mention that today is John Lewis Day of Action. It commemorates the fifth anniversary of the passing of Congressman John Lewis, a prominent civil rights leader. Uh, this national day of action is known as good trouble lives on,
158and it is dedicated to continuing Lewis's legacy of fighting for civil rights and defending democracy. So it's not just today but every day that we need to be vigilant. And I will leave you with his very famous words. Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful. Be optimistic. Our struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year. It is the struggle of a lifetime. Never ever be afraid to make some noise and get into good trouble. necessary trouble. And with that, I say buas. >> Thank you, Miss St. John. Miss Dixit. First, I would like to extend a warm welcome to Faith Mcconen, our new student representative. I'm looking forward to working with you and excited to see that you all what you bring to the
159to this role. Faith was here the whole time. She just moved. I also want to thank all our volunteers who have generously given their time and energy serving on various advisory committees. Your contributions are greatly appreciated. I am thrilled to welcome FCPS inaugural cohort of summer interns, a group of current students and recent graduates chosen from nearly 950 applicants. Over the next six weeks, these interns will contribute to projects, grow their professional network, and gain real world experience aligned with the FCPS strategic goals. Five, every student will graduate ready to thrive in life after high school and with the skill to navigate, adapt, and innovate for sustainable future. This is exactly my vision for our students is they get prepared to face or be ready for the real world when they graduate from FCPS because
160not everybody's going to college. Some may be working and going to trade school. Congratulations to all FCPS students who gradu who participate in the 2025 spring sports season. We are especially proud to recognize TJ girls tennis team for winning the championship and the Oak Hton High School girls tennis team for finishing as a runnerup. Well done to both teams. We also want to give a special shout out to outstanding athlete from the Sully district who earned individual class 6 state titles in their events. Jacqueline Bulock from Shentley High School in outdoor tracks, girls pole vault and Priya Smith from Shentley High School in outdoor track, girls triple jump. Before I say goodbye, I want to thank all my colleagues uh who are serving on the board. Most of us have full-time jobs and businesses and
161um we all are ready for this one month recess. I wait for this all year. Thank you. So everyone, good night. >> Thank you, Miss Dixit. Miss Seismheiser, >> thank you. And I I would be remiss if I didn't say a few remarks before we go into our recess. First, I just wanted to share some of the amazing things that are happening across the Bradic District in the summertime. We have schools with open houses and barbecues and popsicles on the playground. So, please check your school's newsletter. They still have events going on on Fourth of July. I hope I saw some of you at the King's Park uh Fourth of July parade or the um the chapel Fourth of July parade or the Little Run Fourth of July parade. But I have to admit, and
162I'm sorry to say this, but the best part of all of the Fourth of July events was the Danbury Forest barbecue belly flop contest. And if anyone wants to see the best ballet flop, I have a video of it. But it was amazing. And that is what I say I love about this district. It is just people who love to have fun and take care of each other and celebrate. So I will hopefully see you at some events. Um there's also some great summer concert series in Bradock as well as children's arts in the park. So on Friday night, if you are happen to be near Lake Royal, I will be watching Yellow Dubarine. Yes, you heard correct. Yellow Dubarine, a Beatles tribute band. And there's also an Arts in the Park Saturday morning for
163a children's series with Groovy Nate. So, come check out this fun stuff. Lots going around. A couple things, couple shoutouts I want to give. The TJ Latin program continues to impress me under the leadership of Miss Listister, who helped her students achieve over a thousand dollars of awards at the National Junior Classical League online. Special shout out to Ethan O'Hara from the Bradock District, whose knowledge of Latin grammar, translation, etmology, and classical mythology and Roman and Greek history. classical art and architecture, which is very impressive, won him an award. So, congratulations to Ethan. And a couple cool things going on in the district in the summer. Shout out to Kings Glenn Elementary School and the great principal there for hosting a code up program, which has been a great success so far with students around
164science and technology, including learning to code, discovering science, and exploring the outdoors. So, would love to see more of those things in the summer. And with that, I will say I hope you we all my colleagues, thank you for your hard work. Dr. Reid, thank you to you and your staff for all of their hard work. I think we have accomplished a lot this year and I look forward to the recess. Thank you. >> Thank you, Miss Eismerheiser. Mr. Moon, >> thank you, Madam Chair. Miss Seismheiser, my kids were Latin students at that particular school. >> Nice. >> And they really have a good program there. Uh Dr. read. I was able to visit Annandelle Terrace Elementary School and Anander High School and so what more than 300 students in summer learning programs at Anander
165Terrace and they all get the grab and go and breakfast. I was able to pick up one package to see what's in there. I opened it. I have not finished them all because I also needed to go to Anander High School to see what the launch they are having and I was able to sample it and at Anander High School there are uh there were more than 800 students in credit recovery program. It's a summer and these students are all studying hard. With that said, Mr. Dix said we may be going into summer recess, but that doesn't mean we are not working. We are working every day. >> Have a good recess. >> Thank you, Mr. Moon. Dr. Anderson. Oh, thank you very much. I do want to say thank you to the advisory committee
166members from the Mason District. your work is not unnoticed. Um, thank you for all of those nights that you spend um, giving us your talents for the betterment of our students. I do want to give some shout out to some students. Um, we have 13 Just as High School students who were selected to participate at the recent community health project competition. Um, this competition was judged by medical professionals from Georgetown University. We have Brenda Feru Ferufino and Connor Morgan who earned first place in the group presentation category for their project on stroke awareness and prevention. Congratulations. As part of their award, they will be paired with a Georgetown me mentor to help them with their project to turn their project into a reality. I also failed to highlight last time that the Best Buddies chapter
167of Glasgow Middle School was named the outstanding chapter of the year for middle schools in all of Virginia and Washington DC. So, congratulations to Glasgow. Um, I do want to say that VIP camp has been very robust and I was looking for um someone who ran from the VIP camp to come here to work at uh Luther Jackson because they do security in both spots. The students are cooking. They are playing basketball. They're playing volleyball. It is a wonderful program. I know every time my daughter who comes home, I asked her about what she's done. It's all of the above. And today she was excited because she was spiking a lot in volleyball and baked cookies. Um I have some bad news for all. Well, it all depends on how you see it. Um if
168you're a student, maybe it's bad news to you, but maybe it's good news to your parents. But as of tomorrow, school starts in a month. So, it's coming. You might want to create a plan in terms of figure out how to get to sleep earlier so you could get up because I know people are relaxed and it's harder to get back into school mode. Um, and I do want to say thank you to the many parents who shared questions and comments about the boundary review work. And um, we will continue to engage with you when we come back in the fall. And also a big thank you to the members of the BA committee from the three high schools um that I represent. Um have a good recess. Looking forward to some needed rest. Good
169night. >> Thank you, Dr. Anderson. Miss Lady. >> Yeah, I uh want to echo Dr. Reid's remarks earlier. What an amazing leadership kickoff we had earlier this week at Hayfield. Uh the keynote speaker, Shelley Moore, was amazing, inspiring, uh uplifting, um passionate. There was it was impossible to be in the space and not feel so optimistic and encouraged about the work we can do with inclusion with our students. Um it's hard to believe our teachers are about to start in two weeks. As my colleague just mentioned, schools around the corner. I will say families, if you're watching, if you know people who have moved into your neighborhood, please ask them if they registered their children for school because we do work all summer long. We would rather you come register now because I remember in
170my days, I won't say where I used to work, but often it was a two-week uh backup because people just didn't think to call until the first day of school. So, please, please, please get your vaccinations and and call. I'm also thrilled to welcome to the region one family, principal Acasta at Hearnen Elementary School. Most recently, founder and executive director at Paradiso College Preparatory School System in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He comes with 15 years of experience as an educator. He found his true love of education when he began his teaching career as an elementary bilingual language arts teacher. We are so excited to welcome him to Hearnen Elementary. Also very excited, uh, we just named yesterday Principal Butser. Chris Butzer, who was an AP here at Luther Jackson, will be the new principal at
171Longfellow Middle School. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for creating vibrant learning environments where all students can thrive, especially middle schoolers. She she did some amazing work in moving uh her numbers in terms of enrollment in math honors and also Azra 1 uh in the past few years. And then um we are very excited uh that we've started the process uh hopefully it's underway to to select the new MLAN high school principal. Just a reminder the boundary tool survey is closing on July 18. So if you want to share any additional feedback please do so. People have mentioned that there are summer players. The theater is alive and well this summer. The MLAN community players are doing Shrek uh July 8 the weekends of July 18 and 27. The Hearnen summer grands are
172doing Anastasia uh July 25 and 26 and there's more information on those in my newsletter. And in honor of John Lewis, I encourage you to be like the outgoing FE president, our Leslie Houston, and go and get into some good trouble. Thank you, Miss Houston, for all of your work. You will be missed. Everyone, have a great recess rest. I will be spending my time learning Robert's rules and learning that I have a jillion meetings on my calendar to look forward to. But anyways, again, thank you to my colleagues and have a great recess. >> I am going to happily adjourn our public meeting at 9:48 p.m.