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Dear Fairfax County Community,
I hope you and your loved ones enjoy a nice Valentine’s Day and President’s Day holiday. I also extend my best wishes for a Happy Lunar New Year and a Ramadan Mubarak to those celebrating next week.
Below are some updates on the School Board’s work:
Western High School Update
At the School Board meeting, the board decided to approve the superintendent’s updated naming recommendation that the new school be named "Skyview High School". This was the second most popular name in public input after "Western High School", and we felt that this name would be more unique and less confusing with other nearby schools. As we move forward into the spring, we will be restarting the boundary process for Skyview, and we will have more information on that process soon. Hiring faculty and staff and other preparations for opening are well underway, and we are excited to open up our brand-new Skyview High this fall. You can learn more about Skyview HS at its new FCPS webpage here.
Budget
The Superintendent recently presented the FY 2027 Proposed Budget to the School Board. The $4.1 billion plan reflects a 5% increase and focuses on sustaining current programs, supporting students and staff, and addressing rising costs and state funding challenges. No new program expansions are included.
The budget process now moves into School Board work sessions and public hearings, where we will review the proposal in detail, hear community feedback, and consider adjustments before adoption later this spring. The Board will also coordinate with the Board of Supervisors as part of the county’s overall budget process. You can view the full budget development calendar here.
Magisterial District Budget Town Halls begin in March and provide additional opportunities for residents to learn more and share input. The first one is:
• Providence District, March 9th – Register here.
Please stay tuned for additional dates and opportunities to engage.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Last night, the School Board approved the FY 2027–31 Capital Improvement Program (CIP), advancing new construction at Dunn Loring Elementary School and Silver Line Elementary School, modifications to Western High School, and renovations at Bonnie Brae, Bren Mar Park, Brookfield, Lees Corner, Armstrong, Willow Springs, Herndon, Dranesville, Cub Run, and Union Mill elementary schools; Falls Church and Centreville high schools; and planning/design for Centre Ridge, Poplar Tree, Waples Mill, Sangster, Saratoga, Virginia Run, Franklin Middle, and Twain Middle.
Read the full approved CIP here.
Student Rights & Responsibilities Survey
FCPS is seeking input on updates related to Student Rights & Responsibilities. A survey link has been sent directly to families and staff via email, and we encourage you to take a few minutes to share your feedback. Your voice plays an important role in shaping policies that support a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment for all students.
You can learn more about the survey and proposed changes to SR&R here.
Thank you for helping us strengthen our school community!
Committee Corner
Thank you to all who have expressed interest in serving in some of the many advisory committee positions for the School Board. I still have an open application process for vacancies on two committees (click on a committee name to learn more):
If you are interested in serving on any of these committees, meet the requirements, and have not yet applied, please reach out to my office with a resume and what committee you are interested in, and we will be in touch with more information.
School Spotlight: Bonnie Brae ES
I am excited to introduce a new segment in the newsletter: School Spotlight! In each edition, we’ll highlight one FCPS school, sharing a few fun facts, their mascot, and what’s new and exciting in their community. It’s a great way to celebrate the incredible schools that make FCPS such a special place for students and families.
Our inaugural spotlight shines on Bonnie Brae Elementary School, home of the Scotties, proudly serving students in preschool through grade 6 in the Central Fairfax area off Sideburn Road. This school has enriching events like Math & Literacy Night and cultural celebrations that bring families and staff together. Bonnie Brae is also recognized as a Purple Star School for being especially supportive of military-connected students and has earned a Green Shield School designation for a positive, character-driven culture.
What’s new? Bonnie Brae is slated for a major renovation as part of the FY 2027–31 Capital Improvement Program, which will modernize classrooms, expand learning spaces (including a larger cafeteria and secure entry), and ensure this school continues to be a place where every Scottie can thrive. With a strong community vibe and exciting improvements ahead, there’s a lot to bark about!
In the Community
Earlier this week, I got to attend the new Art Walk at the main terminal at Dulles with Dranesille District member Robyn Lady. Every year, new works of art from FCPS students at all grade levels are displayed and viewed by millions of passengers at Dulles. The next time you are catching a flight, make sure you take a look at some of the incredible works by our students on the back side of the departures counters by the Emirates check-in.
 
Thank you for your continued engagement and partnership.
Sincerely,
Kyle McDaniel
Fairfax County School Board
Member, At-Large
Other Updates
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