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Meeting Recap: Meeting Recap: New Board Member, Safety and Security, and More (March 19th, 2026)
Dear Neighbor,
Last week, at the Fairfax County School Board held its regular meeting on Thursday, March 19 (agenda | video), the Board welcomed Braddock District Representative Tom Dannan following his official swearing-in, received the annual safety and security monitoring report, reviewed the FY 2026 Third Quarter Budget, and heard updates on the strategic plan and early literacy through the Walk to Read initiative. The Board also recognized Women’s History Month, School Social Work Appreciation Week, and Social and Emotional Learning Awareness Week.
As always, I invite you to learn more about the various topics discussed during these meetings by reviewing the updates below. You are also welcome to attend School Board meetings (schedule) and register to share your thoughts with us during community participation (sign-up).
In service,
Karl Frisch
Providence District Representative
Fairfax County School Board
Table of Contents:
Swearing in of Braddock District School Board Member
Video | Meeting Materials
Judge Stephen C. Shannon of the Fairfax County Circuit Court administered the oath of office to the School Board’s newly elected Braddock District Representative, Tom Dannan.
Superintendent Performance Review
The School Board evaluates the Superintendent’s overall success based on the school division’s reasonable progress toward achieving the 2023-2030 Strategic Plan goals and adherence to the 13 Executive Limitations outlined on pages 14-31 of the Board’s Strategic Governance Manual. The Superintendent provides annual monitoring reports to the Board for each Executive Limitation. The Board then votes on whether the provided reports comply with the Executive Limitation. If the report is found to be noncompliant, the Superintendent provides a corrective action memo addressing the Board’s concerns.
Executive Limitation 13: Safety and Security
Video | Meeting Materials
The Superintendent presented the annual monitoring report for Executive Limitation 13 (EL-13): Safety and Security, which ensures that Fairfax County Public Schools maintains safe and secure learning and working environments for all students and staff. The report outlined the division’s comprehensive approach to safety, including emergency preparedness, coordination with local law enforcement and emergency responders, staff training, and clear communication with students, families, and employees about safety protocols and procedures .
The update highlighted several enhancements to FCPS’ layered safety approach, including the divisionwide implementation of weapons detection systems in all middle, high, and secondary schools, upgraded communication systems such as encrypted radios and new equipment, and the rollout of wearable emergency response buttons that allow staff to quickly and discreetly request assistance. Additional efforts include the launch of a canine detection program, expanded school bus technology, and Safe Routes to School initiatives focused on traffic and pedestrian safety. Following the presentation and Board discussion, the School Board reviewed the evidence provided and found the monitoring report to be in compliance with Executive Limitation 13.
Here are my comments about Executive Limitation 13 Safety and Security:
Motion: Lady, Second: R Anderson / Vote: Yes 10, No 1, Absent 1
Third Quarter Budget Review
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board received the FY 2026 Third Quarter Budget Review from FCPS Chief Financial Officer Leigh Burden, which provides an update on the division’s financial position as we move through the fiscal year. The review confirmed that there have been no changes to the School Operating Fund or other major funds since the midyear adjustment, reflecting stable financial management and alignment with previously adopted budget priorities.
Ms. Burden also shared updates across all funds, including School Construction, Food and Nutrition Services, Adult and Community Education, and employee benefit programs, with each remaining on track and requiring no adjustments at this time. This steady outlook underscores the division’s strong fiscal stewardship and careful planning, ensuring that resources remain focused on supporting classrooms, maintaining facilities, and delivering essential services to students and staff across Fairfax County Public Schools.
Strategic Plan Update: Middle School Theater
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board received a Strategic Plan update focused on Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered, highlighting efforts to strengthen student belonging, well-being, and engagement across Fairfax County Public Schools. This work reflects the division’s commitment to ensuring every student experiences a supportive and inclusive school environment that promotes both academic success and personal growth.
The Superintendent’s presentation emphasized how programs such as middle school theatre and performing arts are expanding opportunities for student connection and engagement, helping build stronger school communities. These initiatives support collaboration, confidence, and student voice, reinforcing the division’s focus on creating positive school cultures where all students feel valued and supported.
As part of her presentation, the Superintendent shared the following video with the Board:
Academic Matters: Walk to Read
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board received an Academic Matters presentation on the “Walk to Read” initiative, a targeted literacy strategy designed to improve reading outcomes for third-grade students in schools participating in the Early Literacy Project Momentum. The model creates a dedicated daily intervention block in which students are grouped by specific reading needs, enabling more precise, data-driven instruction.
The Superintendent highlighted that this approach uses a collective responsibility model, leveraging all available instructional staff to provide small-group, teacher-led instruction tailored to student needs. Early results show measurable improvement, including a decrease in students performing below grade level and increases in students meeting or exceeding expectations, demonstrating the effectiveness of intensified, targeted literacy support.
As part of her presentation, the Superintendent shared the following video with the Board:
Proclamation: Women’s History Month
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board recognized March 2026 as Women’s History Month. This year’s theme, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” highlights the many ways women are driving progress across society — from advancing economic opportunity and strengthening communities to leading innovation and building a more equitable and sustainable future.
Motion: McElveen, Second: Lady / Vote: Yes 11, No 0, Absent 1
Proclamation: School Social Week Appreciation
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board recognized March 1–7, 2026, as School Social Work Appreciation Week and March as National Social Work Month. This observance highlights the critical role school social workers play in supporting students’ mental health, well-being, and ability to succeed academically.
Motion: McDaniel, Second: McElveen / Vote: Yes 11, No 0, Absent 1
Proclamation: Social and Emotional Learning Awareness Week
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board recognized March 23–27, 2026, as Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Awareness Week. This observance highlights the importance of supporting the whole child by helping students develop the skills needed to manage emotions, build relationships, and make responsible decisions—key components of both academic success and overall well-being.
Motion: Dixit, Second: Moon / Vote: Yes 11, No 0, Absent 1
Proclamation: Recognizing the 2025 Bond Citizens Committee & Affirming the Importance of a Triple-A Bond Rating
Video | Meeting Materials
The School Board recognized the work of the 2025 Bond Citizens Committee and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining Fairfax County’s Triple-A bond rating, which reflects strong financial stewardship, long-term planning, and responsible management of public resources. This top-tier rating allows Fairfax County to secure the lowest possible borrowing costs, maximizing investments in school construction, renovations, and modern learning environments while protecting taxpayers.
Motion: McElveen, Second: Lady / Vote: Yes 11, No 0, Absent 1
Student Performance of the National Anthem
The Board meeting began with a beautiful performance of the national anthem by the Lake Braddock MS Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Diana Chou.
Board Matters: Providence District Update
At the end of most meetings, School Board Members provide updates from their communities about school visits, activities, upcoming events, and other relevant information. Here is a video of my short update from the meeting:
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Regular Board Meetings (Luther Jackson Middle School)
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