Upcoming Events

January 24: Saturday School, 9am-12pm, Library.

January 24: Science Fair; students report at 8am; open to the public at 11am; awards at Noon

January 27: Grades 11/12 Only: Required Substance Abuse & Use Lessons

January 28: End of 2nd Quarter

January 29-30: No School, Teacher Workdays

January 30: Fairfax Academy Presents: How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, 7pm

February 6: Principal's Coffee, 7:30-8:30am, Career Center

January 23, 2026

Dear Fairfax Families,

As we approach the finish line of the second quarter, the halls of Fairfax High are roaring with a unique kind of energy. This week, I had the pleasure of visiting classrooms to witness our students in action. It is always one thing to read a curriculum guide; it is quite another to see a semester of hard work manifest in such creative and critical ways.

Learning in Action

From the arts to the sciences, our students are proving that they aren't just absorbing information—they are mastering it. Some of the highlights from my visits this week included:

• Critical Thinking: I sat in on analytical presentations where students connected historical turning points to the complex social implications we face today.

• Spirited Discourse: Our students engaged in a high-energy Socratic seminar, debating the merits and requirements of second-language literacy in a global society.

• Technical Artistry: In our Academy class, I watched fashion design students perfect a variety of industry-standard stitches, while photography students were out in the field (and the halls!) capturing the nuances of spatial awareness.

• Culinary Creativity: Our FACS (Family and Consumer Sciences) students turned up the heat in their very own "Chopped" competition—the talent , the tastes, and the aromas were truly impressive!

The Science Fair

One of my personal highlights each morning this week has been greeting our young scientists at the front doors. Seeing them haul in their boards and models—the culmination of weeks of research and experimentation—is a testament to their dedication.

You won't want to miss our Science Fair tomorrow. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support these scholars and see their hard work judged by community experts.

Winter Storm

As we look toward the weekend, the forecast is calling for a significant winter storm. Please prioritize safety and stay warm. We will keep you updated through our standard communication channels regarding any impact on school scheduling, but for now, let’s enjoy the flurry of academic success happening inside our building!

In partnership,

Included in this issue:

Staff Spotlight

Outstanding Leader, Ashley Anderson
Fairfax Pyramid Outstanding Teacher, Thresa O'Neill

Student Spotlight

VHSL Speech Regionals
Scholastic Bowl Districts
Chopped - FHS Edition!

Calendar Reminders

End of Second Quarter, Early Release and Student Holidays
Saturday School - New January Dates
Black History Month
Career & Technical Education Month
Love the Bus Month
School Board Appreciation Month

Fairfax Lions Need to Know:

Weather Closings
FCPS Mobile App Info
Winter Resources for Families
FCPS Meal Accommodations

Fairfax Lions Nice to Know:

Fairfax Chorus Fundraiser
Fairfax Academy Presents: How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying - Opening Night next week!
26-27 Course Selection Information
Gap Year Fair
FHS Athletics Hall of Fame
District News / In Case You Missed It
Quick Links

Staff Spotlight

Fairfax High School Outstanding Leader

Congratulations to our Director of Student Services, Ashley Anderson, for being named the Outstanding Leader for Fairfax High School!! Thank you for all you do for our staff and students!