January 2026 School News Highlights

January 2026 brings exciting developments in education and community initiatives across the FCPS system. Various programs and highlights demonstrate the ongoing commitment to enhancing safety, educational opportunities, and community engagement.

Security Enhancements in FCPS Schools

FCPS has introduced a new emergency management system called Raptor. This system aims to facilitate quicker and more effective responses during emergencies.

• Raptor enhances communication between schools, security personnel, local emergency responders, and law enforcement.
• The system features sensors and wearable emergency buttons for staff to request assistance discreetly.
• The emergency button alerts the Security Operations Center and local emergency services when activated.

This tool serves as an additional safety measure and does not replace the traditional method of calling 911.

Healthcare Education Grant

The Claude Moore Charitable Foundation has awarded a significant grant of $200,000 to Educate Fairfax. This funding is aimed at enhancing health and medical sciences education in the Career and Technical Education program.

The grant was presented in December at the Falls Church Academy, where students expressed how modern labs and clinical experiences are preparing them for careers in healthcare fields.

Student Achievements in Music and Athletics

Music Recognition for Justin Lee

Justin Lee, an eighth-grader from Luther Jackson Middle School, has made waves as a National Finalist in the Junior Strings Competition by the Music Teachers National Association.

The finals will take place in March in Chicago. Justin has also triumphed in competitions such as the Virginia and Southern Division MTNA competitions and the Richmond Symphony League’s 55th Concerto Competition.

Barrett Pullen’s Shot Put Success

Woodson High School’s Barrett Pullen is emerging as a top athlete in shot put, currently ranked among the top 10 in the nation. He achieved a personal best mark of 61 feet, 1.25 inches.

Barrett credits his coaches for their guidance and discipline, which have contributed to his success both in athletics and academics.

College Preparatory Programs for Students

Seventh-graders have the opportunity to apply for a five-year college preparatory program. This initiative, called the Early Identification Program, targets students who will be the first in their families to attend a four-year college.

Participants will receive after-school tutoring, Saturday enrichment sessions, and college application assistance in their junior and senior years. A three-week summer academy at George Mason University is mandatory, along with workshops for parents.

Nutrition and Engagement Initiatives

Bren Mar Park Elementary School will pilot a new initiative to provide meals for children and caregivers during school events. This program, supported by Educate Fairfax, aims to enhance family engagement and well-being.

Bilingual Learning Opportunities

FCPS is promoting its Dual Language Immersion (DLI) program. The application deadlines are set for February 12 for first graders and March 2 for kindergarten students.

This program enables students to learn in both English and another language, including options like French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Spanish. Schools in the Annandale/Mason District are participating by offering Spanish immersion programs.

Innovation Through Virtual Reality Training

The FCPS Adult and Community Education program is introducing virtual reality (VR) training for high-demand careers in manufacturing and trades. This innovative approach combines online coursework with hands-on VR simulations.

• Courses include topics like mechatronics, robotics, welding, and engineering.
• Students can engage in real-world scenarios from the comfort of their home, guided by instructors.

January 2026 promises to be a transformative month for students and educational initiatives in the FCPS system, underlining the commitment to safety, education, and student engagement.