Nonpartisan Fairfax County School Board Voter Guide 4.26.23 FINAL

School Board
April 26, 2023

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
About the Sponsors……………………………………………………….…..1

About the Questionnaire………................................................................1
Topics Covered………………………………………….….....………............1
Candidate Responses………………………………………...……...……....2
AT LARGE……………………………………….………………...……………...………...2
Responding Candidates: Kyle McDaniel, Ryan McElveen, Ilryong Moon,
Hamid Munir, Lawrence Webb
BRADDOCK DISTRICT………………………………………………..……………..…...22
Responding Candidate: Rachna Sizemore Heizer
DRANESVILLE DISTRICT…………………………………………………………….….31
Responding Candidate: Robyn Lady
FRANCONIA DISTRICT……………………………………………………………….….37
Responding Candidate: Marcia St. John-Cunning
HUNTER MILL DISTRICT………………………………………………………………...43

Responding Candidates: Melanie Meren, Paul Thomas
MASON DISTRICT………………………………………………………………………...54
Responding Candidates: None
MOUNT VERNON DISTRICT…………………………………………………………….55

Responding Candidate: Mateo Dunne
PROVIDENCE DISTRICT ......................................................................................... 61

Responding Candidate: Karl Frisch
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT ......................................................................................... 68

Responding Candidate: Sandy Anderson
SULLY DISTRICT ..................................................................................................... 74

Responding Candidate: Seema Dixit
About the Sponsors
The three sponsors are nonpartisan groups who do not endorse or oppose candidates. We developed the
questionnaire to educate voters and other community members interested in public education. ACLU
People Power Fairfax published a similar Voter Guide during the last election cycle.
• ACLU People Power Fairfax is a grassroots organization that advocates for equal justice and
equitable treatment of all members of our community, including undocumented immigrants,
regardless of race and ethnicity.
• 4PublicEducation is a grassroots advocacy group championing public schools as the cornerstone
of a healthy democracy; it seeks to protect the right for every child to an exceptional education.
• Stand and Deliver Virginia is a grassroots educators’ group committed to the inclusive and
respectful education of Virginia students.
About the Questionnaire

We submitted a questionnaire to all candidates for the Fairfax County School Board (SB), regardless of
their party affiliation, asking for their positions on policies that have elicited passionate concern at SB
meetings. This Voter Guide includes all candidates who responded to the questionnaire by April 16 known
to be seeking At Large or individual District seats on the SB. Candidates who elected not to respond or
who filed after April 16 will be offered the opportunity for inclusion when the guide is updated prior to the
November election. We were unable to contact two candidates, Geoffrey Akey and Kristin Ball, but will
give them the opportunity for inclusion in our fall update to this Voter Guide.
The responses below are verbatim with the exception that the formatting has been modified for
consistency.
Topics Covered
Question 1 Mental Health Needs Question 8 Special Education Services
Question 2 School Safety Question 9 School Resource Officers
Question 3 Teacher Shortage Question 10 Joint Environmental Task Force
Question 4 Factual and Representative Teaching Question 11 Alternatives to College Prep
Question 5 Book Banning and Parental Rights Question 12 Charter Schools
Question 6 Addressing Disparity Question 13 Restoring Civility
Question 7 LGBTQ+ Students
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2023 NONPARTISAN FAIRFAX COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD VOTER GUIDE
April 26, 2023
Candidate Responses
AT LARGE
Responding Candidates: Kyle McDaniel, Ryan McElveen, Ilryong Moon,

Hamid Munir, Lawrence Webb
Did Not Respond: Cassandra Aucoin, Saundra Davis, Linda Pellegrino
QUESTION 1: MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS: There are several factors that have adversely impacted the
mental health of students, teachers and staff in public schools, including bullying, active shooter drills,
culture wars and the pandemic. What initiatives will you champion to address mental health needs in the
Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) system?
Kyle McDaniel
There are two different ways to address the critical mental health needs within our schools.
First, we have the more long-term needs that will require heavy investment and cooperation
across all levels of government and partnering with various private and non-profit entities. This
requires strong leadership, clear planning, measurable goals, and actionable accountability and
follow through. I call this a wraparound, vertical service model: we involve all levels of
government, and provide wrap around services in schools. Implementing this would require
investments to hire more mental health professionals. One way we could accomplish this is
through reinvesting surplus funds.
Secondly, there are various low hanging fruit we can pull from to immediately address this need:
mentor programs among peer groups, mental health resource symposiums in conjunction with
Back to School nights, increasing employee healthcare coverage for mental health treatment,
launching a “Check on Your Buddy” campaign to encourage kids to talk to each other. The list
goes on.
The challenge we face is that mental health is not a school isolated issue; it doesn’t start when
a person walks into a school, and conversely it doesn’t stop when they leave a school. To truly
address this, and not simply pay lip service, it’s going to take investment, cooperation,
collaboration, and leadership to muster the resources of many actors. As a note, addressing the
mental health needs within FCPS must be done through an equitable lens, using the One
Fairfax model. It would be unacceptable for resources and initiatives to be inequitably
distributed across the County.
Ryan McElveen
FCPS has taken important steps to improve the mental health of students, from initiatives that I
helped institute as a Board member — including annual Mental Health and Wellness
Conferences, school-based stress less weeks, a suicide phone and text line, and hiring a
significant number of new psychologists and social workers — to the more recent effort to
provide free mental health teletherapy.
Continued next page
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April 26, 2023
However, the overarching problem in the current system is that resources are only provided to
students who request them. It is critical that every student has at least one annual mental health
screening check and subsequently has continued access to professional staff and resources. I
propose offering mental health services for every student annually. Every student deserves the
opportunity to meet with a qualified professional at least once, and if every student takes part in
these meetings, it will remove the stigma of doing so.
Additionally, the mental health of teachers and staff continues to be neglected. Overburdened
by workload, class sizes, professional development, and low wages, our school-based staff
have few outlets for addressing their mental health, especially given the difficulties with the
health insurance provider transition to Cigna this year. Just like with students, I would propose
that each staff member has access to at least one mental health check-in with a professional in
school buildings annually.
Ilryong Moon
There are many other factors which impact the mental health of our students, teachers and staff
in addition to those listed above. For students, pressure to get good grades, desire to go to
good colleges, unhealthy family and peer relationships, and financial situation might be some
other factors. For teachers and staff, unreasonable workloads, expectations, and working
conditions, in addition to the rising cost of living with low compensation all affect their mental
health.
We need to provide more counselors, school psychologists, and social workers. Under the
current staffing levels, our hardworking counselors, psychologists, and social workers are
unable to adequately provide the preventive counseling, treatments, and services the students
and families need. Teachers and staff also must have time and resources they can access to
take care of their own mental health needs. Obviously, with limited amount of funding, we will
not be able to solve this problem all on our own. We need to make a stronger case to, and work
more closely with, the funding authorities to make these top priorities.
We also need to provide our teachers with fair compensation. Not only should the teachers be
able to live where they teach, but we should give them the respect they deserve. Class sizes
should be reduced, and more planning time should be provided. Of course, that also requires
additional funding; but, even without additional funding, there are things that we can do to help
them have more planning time and reduce workload. We should closely review the
noninstructional tasks the teachers are performing and the noneffective staff training or
meetings they attend. We should determine what tasks, training, and meetings we can do
without.
As a Board member, I would also like to work more closely with the families to provide them
with better information and tools so that the families could help their children better at home. We
need to strengthen our Office of Family and School Partnerships. Even though the needs are
increasing fast, that office has been understaffed for too long. Many of the people working there
are part time hourly workers without benefits, and they are not given enough hours to do their
job. They are unable to proactively reach out to families.
Hamid Munir
The Virginia Assembly needs to support the funding for more school counselors, psychologists
and social workers. We need to support flexible funding and partnering with community-based
mental health providers and telehealth providers to connect students with care. Securing the
funding for more school based counselors, social workers, and psychologists is a priority.
Providing an environment for students to feel comfortable seeking help or sharing their
observations of the negative behavior of other students is also a priority. It’s important that each
student have their needs met where they are – both academically and emotionally. I look
forward to being part of the change.
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April 26, 2023
Lawrence Webb
I know and support the recent offering of virtual mental health services at the high school level.
I would also support the expansion of these services to be offered to students in middle school
as well as having it available to staff also.
Bullying cannot and should not be tolerated at all! It needs to be called out every time that it is
brought to the attention of staff. The first layer to deal with it is through education and
explaining to a student any form of bullying towards students or staff based bigotry, or sexual
orientation is unacceptable and there are consequences for such behavior.
Addressing issues such as bullying will have a direct impact on addressing some of the mental
health issues that our students face. As a school system we must set the tone that this type of
behavior will not be tolerated. As a double minority I take this very personally of making sure
that all students and staff are treated with dignity and respect.
QUESTION 2: SCHOOL SAFETY. The prospect of an active shooter is a serious safety concern. What
steps do you recommend to ensure safety for everyone in our schools?
Kyle McDaniel
I will parse out my response into two sections: direct, and indirect.
Direct: Let me first state what I do not support: militarizing our schools through more police and
extensive physical security measures. Our schools are for teaching, turning them into glorified
fortresses is not conducive to teaching.
I have called for the establishment of a task force by FCPS to leverage the collective intellect
and resources in our communities to produce a practical list of recommendations. My vision is
that these recommendations can then be implemented and shared with school systems across
the country for their consideration. For example: evidence-based intervention, physical security,
gun safety information for families, mental health systems, suicide prevention resources, etc.
Indirect: I firmly believe that as the 10th largest school system in the country, and the wealthiest
jurisdiction, we have a unique ability to lend our voice and activism to lobbying our state
lawmakers for commonsense gun reforms. We need to do a better job in Richmond during the
General Assembly session, and I will be part of that effort.
Ryan McElveen
The most important thing a school system should do is provide a safe environment for its
students and staff. Unfortunately, there is no single fix to prevent disasters, even though
vendors constantly try to sell the school system on new products. Ensuring safety requires a
multi-layered approach to protection – from erecting physical barriers to providing mental health
services. At the same time, the system must strike a careful balance to ensure that schools are
safe, welcoming, and inclusive without becoming jail-like fortresses.
In the aftermath of both the Sandy Hook and Parkland shootings, the School Board
commissioned studies on school safety. The study following Parkland, which was released in
2019, called for important fixes, including, among other things, initiating a countywide electronic
door access system, replacing outdated dual-keyed door locks, securing school vestibules, and
hiring additional school-based mental health support staff.
Continued next page
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April 26, 2023
While the electronic door system, door lock replacement, and mental health support staff hiring
were completed, unfortunately not all school vestibules were secured. This lapse is frustrating,
as the pandemic presented the perfect opportunity to complete facility enhancements while
students were out of the building.
For next steps, the system must complete the vestibule projects. I would also recommend
embarking an effort to ensure that all school exterior window glass is bullet proof. Finally, we
should always work to continue bolstering our mental health supports. I do not recommend
adding metal detectors or increasing SRO presence beyond current levels, as we want to avoid
militarizing our schools.
Ilryong Moon
Taking care of mental health of our students, teachers and other staff will be critical to prevent
or minimize the insider shooting incidents. Having said that, whether the shooter is an insider or
an outsider, we need to make sure that all our students, teachers, and staff members receive
sufficient training and drills to keep everyone safe as much as possible. Outsiders’ access to
our buildings must be tightly secured. All classroom and office doors should be lockable from
inside. We need to provide upgrading to any facility to meet these needs. Any suspected use of
guns should be promptly reported to proper authorities including the police. We may need to
install more security cameras and have them properly monitored.
Hamid Munir
I would support working with local and state law enforcement agencies to include training
programs for School Resource Officers as well as county/state funding for SRO school safety
programs. We need to fund research to learn more about the causes of gun violence in schools
and the resulting effects on our students, their families, and the community.
Lawrence Webb
Gun violence has become the number one issue for many school divisions today and Fairfax
County is no different. First and foremost I would enforce policies already put into place by the
division such as prohibiting guns in all schools and school related facilities. Work to educate
parents on the importance of firearm safety and if there is a gun in the home the importance of
making sure that it is locked away and stored securely away from children in the home.
If all schools do not have, make sure that funding to build out security vestibule in facilities that
do not have them. That added layer of security and access to buildings is critical.
Support a study to be conducted by the Superintendent and staff to look into noninvasive
weapon detection for our high schools and middle schools as some of our neighboring school
divisions have done.
Support any common sense legislation that expands gun violence prevention.
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April 26, 2023
QUESTION 3: TEACHER SHORTAGE. We have a growing teacher shortage. How will you address this
issue?
Kyle McDaniel
Our teachers face unprecedented challenges, and the School Board needs to carefully manage
this situation. Happy, healthy, respected teachers lead to happy, educated kids. We need to
craft policies that truly show how much we value our teachers.
In the short term, we need to explore retention bonuses and increasing the maximum teacher
pay band, which is the second lowest in the region. This will encourage tenured teachers to stay
longer, and their experience, mentorship, and guidance can help new teachers starting out their
career. Bolstering the Teachers for Tomorrow program would also help. I have repeatedly heard
from teachers about the duplicative nature of reporting and administrative work they are tasked
with. This needs to be addressed and remedied.
It goes without saying that we also need a fair and equitable collective bargaining agreement,
and I would work with the bargaining units to make that happen.
Mental health, as outlined in answer #1, also touches on this issue.
Finally, transparency and communication will both go a long way. If we want to know what
teachers need, we need to engage them in a meaningful manner, through teacher
associations, directly in classrooms, surveys, etc. Part of my leadership style is going to meet
people where they work to see the challenges, they face every day. This engagement must be
authentic and meaningful. I want to talk with teachers and hear from them, in their own words,
what they need.
Ryan McElveen
Our teachers are unquestionably our most important asset. Having a wife who teaches and a
father who taught in FCPS for many years, I understand the myriad struggles our teachers
face and the need to restore the respect of our society for the education profession. To
address our ability to attract and retain a robust, exceptional, and diverse teaching and
administrative force, I will address:
1. Employee compensation, recruitment, and retention – We must compensate teachers at a
level that recognizes their contributions to society. FCPS, like districts nationwide amid the
national teacher shortage, is struggling to attract teachers, particularly in specialized fields,
and it is critical that we retain the teachers in whom we invest.
2. Building improvements – We must address our capital budget and increase the county’s
school bond allocation, which impacts our educational environments. Our backlog of
renovations and preventive maintenance is one of our greatest challenges.
3. Working Conditions – We must provide teachers with useful professional development that
lets them to hone their skills, provides unencumbered planning time, and allows the
autonomy to make their classrooms come alive.
4. Class sizes – Class sizes have reached a tipping point, and it’s time to reevaluate the
class size regulation.
5. Instructional programs – We will need to successfully implement the new strategic plan
without increasing teacher workload. Instruction is where our teachers help Fairfax stand out
from other school districts, and we need to ensure that teachers retain the autonomy to
engage in project-based learning that embraces the four Cs (critical thinking,
communication, collaboration, and creativity) while pushing back against federal and state
pressures to teach to standardized tests.
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April 26, 2023
Ilryong Moon
This is a concern affecting the whole nation. We are not fairly compensating our teachers.
Young people out of college have many other options that are more financially attractive. Even
though we may not be able to pay them the top salaries, we need to bring the compensation to
a more competitive level. Incremental increases in small amounts are not a winning strategy.
We need to reform our mindset about the teaching profession. I would like to see the best
college graduates to come to teach. Collaboration among federal, state, and local governments
and the school districts is needed. The nation must understand that an investment in teachers is
an investment in the foundation of the nation. I would advocate for substantial increases in the
teacher compensation.
We should also explore ways to encourage more of our students to go into studying education
and then eventually to return to us. We should expand our Teach for Tomorrow program. We
should also provide more part-time or summer employment opportunities for those students
who are willing to come to us to teach. We could also enhance our benefits to the new teachers
in settling here in Fairfax County.
New teachers also need more mentorship. Providing the new teachers with the support they
need is critical to retaining them. Many new teachers struggle in dealing with parents or even
administrators. They should be able to access the mentors either within the school building or
outside more readily. They also need more mental health support.
It is well known that the General Assembly should lift the 2009 outdated Support Position Cap in
Hamid Munir
order to provide a balance of staff to support teacher workloads so that it better reflects actual
school division staffing practices and to better support teacher retention rates. We need to give
teachers planning time actually a planning time and reduce redundant training.
Lawrence Webb
The teacher shortage is real and we must do all that we can to not only recruit new teachers but
we must work to find ways to encourage those that are here to stay. First I am very excited to
see that the School Board has passed a collective bargaining agreement. This is a way to
ensure that staff has a seat at the table when decisions are being made.
The Teacher for Tomorrow program is a great way to give FCPS students an inside look at the
teaching profession. It also helps to establish a pipeline of possible new teachers coming back
to the division after graduation from college. I work at a Historically Black College and
University (HBCU) of which there are four in Virginia. During my time on the School Board in
Falls Church I directed the Superintendent and staff to look into partnerships with HBCU where
we would attend not only their job fairs, but also take time to come and speak with classes and
then possibly create student teaching opportunities. Partnerships such as that would give FCPS
the greatest opportunity to recruit some of the best and most diverse teachers.
I currently serve on the School Board's Human Resources Advisory Committee (HRAC). Being
a member of this committee has been eye opening. Some of the recommendations that this
group has discussed are pretty common sense and would immediately have an impact to
improve the climate with our teachers. I would support creative ways to come up with benefits
that would help not only current teachers but also recruit new ones such as student loan
forgiveness programs as well as look at the current stipend programs for our teachers and
administrators who do extra work.
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April 26, 2023
QUESTION 4: FACTUAL AND REPRESENTATIVE TEACHING. Will you explicitly commit FCPS to teach
history that is factually accurate, inclusive and age appropriate? How will you work to ensure that literature
taught and available in libraries is representative and respects our diverse community of students, staff and
families?
Kyle McDaniel
Whitewashing history is unacceptable to me. We need to teach kids factual and wholistic
history, regardless of how inconvenient it may be. This is accomplished by informed curriculum
developed by experts, and literature chosen by librarians and other qualified personnel.
I would encourage librarians to curate literature collections that fit the diversity of their schools,
in conjunction with teachers. Librarians are the experts, and we should follow their guidance in
matters pertaining to books.
Ryan McElveen
I explicitly commit to ensuring that FCPS teaches history that is factually accurate, inclusive,
and age appropriate. School curricula – and K-12 education, more broadly – have come under
attack by the Youngkin administration. Earlier this year as part of VDOE’s listening tour on the
newly proposed history standards, I joined several former FCPS School Board members in
sending a letter expressing concerns that the new standards are rife with historical errors, fail to
tell history in an inclusive way, and de-emphasize conceptual understanding and critical thinking
skills in favor of rote memorization and low-level thinking. We also expressed our deep
concerns about the lack of racial, gender and religious diversity, as well as an
underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples. The complete removal from the standards of the
term “fascism” was also deeply concerning.
As elaborated below, I will also work to ensure that literature in schools is representative and
respects our diverse community by ensuring that the choices of librarians are respected, books
are not banned, and parents have the option to opt-out students from specific literary works.
I will continue to engage in this kind of advocacy as a School Board member through our
Board’s legislative program. I oversaw the Board’s legislative program as state legislative liaison
for eight years and worked to develop strong advocacy language on curricular issues – I will
continue that work if elected again.
Ilryong Moon
Yes. We must commit to it as a School Board of policy with clear directives for the
Superintendent and other staff. We need to resist attempts from the state government or
outside pressures to do otherwise. We need to incorporate in our history curriculum what our
community believes to be taught. Input from community members, staff, and students should be
regularly sought.
Hamid Munir
It is important that we teach history that is accurate and inclusive. I would work with the state
education department to ensure that history will be more than just memorization of dates.
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April 26, 2023
Lawrence Webb
Yes I will commit to you that FCPS will teach history that is factually accurate, inclusive, and
age appropriate. I will do all I can to prevent Governor Youngkin from sanitizing the history
taught to our students. This country has a rich history that is good and some not so good but it
is history and we must make sure that we accurately reflect it and make sure that it is not
repeated.
I would work with staff to make sure that any materials in the library or used to teach are age
appropriate and are both inclusive of the culture and accurately depicts history. The county has
areas of rich and diverse history that our students should learn about such as the Gum Springs,
the oldest African American community in the county.
QUESTION 5: BOOK BANNING AND PARENTAL RIGHTS. The issue of banning books and calls for
expanded parental rights have become hot topics in school districts. How would you handle these issues?
How does FCPS encourage parents’ involvement in their children’s education and what, if anything, needs
to change?
Kyle McDaniel
I do not support giving anyone unilateral authority to ban a book, regardless of their relationship
to the school system. We have a process in place to review books, and it involves experts in the
respective field. This process needs to be respected and followed.
“Parental rights” entered the lexicon in 2021 as a political campaign slogan, designed for political
purposes. That said, parents have always been welcome in their schools, and encouraged to get
involved. Feedback and communication have always been encouraged. We do need to do a
better job talking about this, and encouraging parents to be involved to whatever extent they
choose. I would encourage more consistent, school-based engagement in conjunction with the
various parent/teacher organizations.
Ryan McElveen
In Fairfax County, parents have the option to opt out their students from materials they find to be
offensive. Thus, there is no need for books to be banned from classrooms or libraries. In 2012,
our School Board faced a challenged material complaint about Beloved by Toni Morrison, and I
served on the School Board committee that voted against banning that book. FCPS has a very
clear process to address challenged materials – with items reviewed first by staff and then by
Board committees – and that process does not need to be changed.
As the parent of a kindergartener and a class parent, I have found FCPS to be welcoming of my
views. I feel intimately involved in the education of my daughter, with weekly updates on what is
being taught in the classroom and frequent invitations to visit and read to her class. Our PTA is
actively involved in the school, and we are constantly working closely with school leadership to
host events and fundraisers and advocate on issues important to the community. I will work to
ensure that this kind of active parental involvement is taking place in all schools.
Ilryong Moon
I do not believe in book banning. However, we should always welcome and invite parental input
in our students’ education. They are our partners and should be treated as such by everyone. We
must work with them on their children’s education and consider their opinions in policy
development and budget deliberation. On the other hand, they are not all professional educators,
and they should respect the teachers and the school system’s policies. They should also respect
the schools doing their jobs per established curricula, policies, and regulations. Healthy
discussion and debates should always be encouraged, but everyone must also respect the
decisions made. There needs to be better communication on the roles each party plays in our
students’ education.
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April 26, 2023
Hamid Munir
Reading lists will be made available to parents and substitutions can be made for books parents
do not approve of.
Lawrence Webb
Parents deserve a voice in their children's education. That is indisputable. However, in recent
years state politicians and right-wing activists have done much harm to our school system under
the guise of “Parental rights”. Banning books in our schools injures our kids' ability to receive a
quality education in Fairfax County.
I intend to not let the voices of a few out-of-control activists limit the knowledge and development
of critical thinking of our many students. Our students and parents each deserve a voice on the
Fairfax County School Board that respects everyone in our community. I intend to be their voice.
QUESTION 6: ADDRESSING DISPARITY. Do you endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies?
How will you lead the School Board in confronting racial and social inequities in all FCPS policies and
practices? How will you address the disparity in academic achievement measures and discipline, and
improve language access?
I endorse One Fairfax and School Trust policies. This starts by viewing decisions through a One
Kyle McDaniel
Fairfax lens, and understanding how decisions will impact kids and schools. Another step is to
analyze programs and resources across schools, in an effort to correct the inequities that exist
across Fairfax County. I believe the best way to confront the various inequities is to recognize
they exist, and work with stakeholders to craft concrete policies to correct them.
During this current School Board term, the word “equity” became controversial, mostly because
of a lack of communication. Equity and excellence can and do co-exist. Equity is nothing more
than recognizing that marginalized groups need more resources to enable them to achieve the
highest possible outcome. In the case of schools, this is helping every child reach their highest
potential.
For example, an ESL student will struggle more to learn a topic, say chemistry, that is taught in
English as opposed to a native English speaker. This is an equity issue that should be
addressed. To address this, I want to pilot a digital textbook program that would instantly
translate texts to a student’s native language to help them comprehend what is being taught in
English.
With respect to disciplinary inequities, I have two concerns: treatment of BIPOC students, and
students with disabilities. We need to ensure that our students are supported, respected, and
not targeted for disciplinary issues to mitigate the school to prison pipeline. Additionally, we
have to recognize that students with disabilities may communicate through behavior. And we
cannot mistake that behavior for a disciplinary issue.
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April 26, 2023
I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies, although I haven’t been impressed with
Ryan McElveen
their implementation. Having served on the School Board that adopted the One Fairfax Policy,
I’ve been disappointed that it’s become more of a talking point than a reality. I will work to
ensure that the School Trust policy is implemented as its authors and the community
envisioned.
To begin to confront systemic racism in FCPS, we need to recognize both the history of and
linkages between education, affordable housing, healthcare, transportation, and climate
change, and use these linkages to fuel the co-location of services in our community and build
upon the community schools movement.
During my eight years on the School Board, I watched as development decisions were made
that frustrated me, leading to the stark divides between the “haves” and “have nots” in Fairfax
County. These kinds of development patterns have led to socio-economic “tipping points” in
some of our schools and communities, which have in turn increased the strain on public
services and community service organizations, which work harder and harder to overcome
them.
This disparate development has led to subpar facilities, school overcrowding, and disparities in
academic achievement measures, discipline, and language access, among other things, in the
neediest parts of our county.
We must explicitly work to overcome past systemic bias, reduce institutional disparities, and
make sure that students in all regions of the county have access to the same quality curriculum
and opportunities.
Yes, and of course, I have always done that. I supported One Fairfax Policy and non-
Ilryong Moon
discrimination policy. All our stakeholders must be fairly and equitably treated. As to the
academic achievement gap, it starts from early years and at home. We need to expand our
preschool programs so that all children can have opportunities for wholesome preschool
experiences. There are many families that are financially, culturally, or linguistically challenged
to provide the best home learning environment for their children. This is one of the areas where
we must do a better job. We must reach out to them proactively, not just waiting for them to
come to us, and find out their needs. Once their needs are determined, we should find ways to
meet them. The disparity in academic achievement measures and discipline and improve
language access should be closely monitored, and if our goals to reduce it are not met, we must
provide solutions to reduce it.
I would recommend increased funding for FCPS translators and resources to increase
Hamid Munir
communication with parents and caregivers. Ensure that we meet every student by name and
need. Resources will be allocated to help every student achieve their greatest potential.
Yes, I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust Policy. It is absolutely critical that every
Lawrence Webb
student regardless of their race, financial situation at home has access to achieve success in
our school system. It is important to take a look at all of the preexisting policies of FCPS to
ensure that the indented policy of equity is consistently reflected throughout instructional, hiring
and all other policies. Our schools should have the resources needed to implement equity in all
of its practices.
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April 26, 2023
QUESTION 7: LGBTQ+ STUDENTS. What steps, if any, do you believe should be taken to protect and
affirm LGBTQ+ students? Current FCPS Regulation 2603 gives students agency on sharing and expressing
their gender identity and sexual orientation and does not authorize
schools to share this information without their permission. Do you believe this should remain standard
practice in FCPS?
I am very focused on protecting our LGBTQ+ community members, and I am proud to be

Kyle McDaniel
endorsed by Robert Rigby, Co-President of FCPS Pride. I support the model policies crafted
under the Northam Administration and oppose the Youngkin Administration’s attempts to modify
them. I would support the current 2603 regulation, and I would encourage teachers and staff to
support members of the LGBTQ+ community. Meaningful action to protect, celebrate, and
support members of the community is necessary, not simply talking about it.
We also need to recognize that many members of the community, including our students, do not
feel comfortable speaking up and advocating for themselves, and that is why we need
leadership on the School Board to take on that role; creating a safe and welcoming space
where they feel able to speak up. Additionally, it needs to be made clear that anti-LGBTQ+
sentiments, bullying, etc. will not be tolerated and will be identified for what it is: bigotry.
In 2015, I led the successful effort to change the nondiscrimination policy of Fairfax County
Ryan McElveen
Public Schools to protect community members from discrimination based on gender identity.
The change led our district to become the first in the state to offer this kind of protection. At the
time, this undertaking garnered national headlines, in part because it occurred on the leading
edge of a national movement attacking the rights of the transgender community and pushing
many other jurisdictions to drop their efforts to provide similar protections. Although we faced
backlash in Fairfax, we persisted and were successful, in large part because it was the right
thing to do.
In the years since, the adoption of Regulation 2603 has codified the intent of that
nondiscrimination policy change. I support ensuring student agency for sharing and
expressing their gender identity and sexual orientation while preventing schools from sharing
this information without student permission.
It is incumbent on School Board members to ensure that our schools remain places where our
students are welcomed, respected, and loved, no matter who they are. Creating this
environment requires including LGBTQIA+ issues not only in sex-ed classes but also in the
broader curriculum, ensuring that the LGBTQIA+ community is represented on committees and
where policy is made, hosting books about the LGBTQIA+ experience in school libraries, and
providing social-emotional supports for LGBTQIA+ students and staff. I have always been, and
will continue to be, a champion of this community.
Ilryong Moon
I supported our non-discrimination policy as a School Board member, and I will continue to
support it. I also support the current Regulation 2603. Student health and safety is a prominent
concern for the students who may not be authorizing schools to share the information. We must
protect our students and respect their decisions. I have not seen any evidence that the current
Regulation negatively affects our students and their families.
Hamid Munir
We must put the students first, their safety and well-being is critical to support the optimum
learning experience.
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April 26, 2023
This issue hits home for me as I was the first openly LGBTQIA+ African American elected
Lawrence Webb
official in the Commonwealth of Virginia back in 2008.

Yes, our most sacred duty as a School Board member is to provide a safe place for all of our
kids to learn. Regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation, every student should
have the right to be true to themselves and have a sanctuary of learning in our FCPS Schools.
School is often the only safe place students have to be true to their gender identity and sexual
orientation. It is my intention to use my authority on the Fairfax County School Board to give
each of our LGBTQ students that protection.
I was a member of the Board of Directors for Equality Virginia for a number of years and helped
to lead the fight lobbying legislators in Richmond for equal rights in Virginia. I will continue to do
so to combat what Governor Youngkin and conservatives are doing to repeal advances made.
QUESTION 8: SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES. FCPS is required to provide a free and appropriate
public education to students who are identified as needing an IEP or 504 plan. What are your policy goals
related to Special Education services? Families of children with disabilities often express frustration with the
services and education provided. How will you ensure that every child in FCPS receives an equitable
education regardless of their abilities?
Kyle McDaniel
This starts with increased communication and consistency. One of the complaints I hear is a
lack of consistent program access and implementation across the County. This is a recurring
theme, and one that I am very serious about addressing, especially for our Special Education
community. While there is some utility in deferring programmatic decision making to the school
level, in this case I would say it causes inconsistent access to services that are needed.
Additionally, we need to do a better job raising awareness, especially in underserved areas of
the County, of the many programs that are available for students with these needs. One of the
main barriers to this is the sheer size of our school system, but we can’t let logistical difficulties
stand in the way of equitable education for kids. I have heard many stories of kids needing
these services, but for various reasons the parents were either not aware of their availability or
did not have the means to apply for and shepherd their child through the system. This is
unacceptable and needs to be corrected.
Ryan McElveen
After years of legal complaints and settlements regarding special education services, FCPS is
working toward providing improved services for our neurodiverse students, including the recent
hiring of specialists for dyslexia, neurodiversity, and twice exception education. However, the
county must do better to support our students with disabilities, twice exceptional students, and
profoundly gifted students – programs for whom have strengths but also pervasive weaknesses.
The weaknesses stem from the fact that robust curriculum and pedagogical practices have not
spread equitably throughout the system and, as a result, have left many students without
access to the benefits of those programs. We need to provide all students access to
environments – in some cases specialized schools or academies – where they can blossom.
Ilryong Moon
My goals are to provide the special education students appropriate services meeting their
individual needs so that they become prepared to meet the challenges in the next phase of their
life once they leave us. We must provide our special education staff with the adequate support
they need to educate the students. We must continue our inclusion practices and provide
necessary practical skills. Twice-exceptional students’ needs should not be overlooked, and
they should be provided with opportunities to realize their full potential. The staffing ratio needs
to be at an appropriate level. The current staffing ratio overwhelms our teachers in meeting the
students’ needs and results in a high turnover of the special education teachers. Both federal
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April 26, 2023
and state governments must step up in providing enhanced level of resources. IEP process
must be well communicated to and understood by parents. Often, parents feel that they are
overrun by the school system’s experts and educational jargon and that their opinions do not
matter. In a lot of cases, better communication is the key, but our special education staff are
overloaded with work. I hope that we will implement all the recommendations made by
American Institutes for Research in September 2022 in its audit report of the special education
services provided in our schools.
Hamid Munir
The state and federal government need to help financially support these programs. There are
many needs in FCPS and we can’t provide the services needed without support from our
partners.
Lawrence Webb
It is critical that every student with an IEP Policy and 504 Plan receive their full accommodations
and services as outlined. We must face the fact that many FCPS Students with Special
Education services faced unfair barriers to learning during the period of virtual learning. Policies
of seclusion and restraint are not the long-term answers that kids deserve. Therefore, I intend to
work with parents, students on the School Board and in our community to find the best practices
to ensure that each of our students is provided the accommodations and services outlined in
their IEP or 504 Plan.
QUESTION 9: SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS. Do you support the current structure of the School
Resource Officer program or would you recommend changes? For example, SROs are now permitted to
arrest students for any violation of state and county codes, including low level offenses. Would you support
limiting criminal investigations to serious violent actions that are not suitable for resolution through the
disciplinary process?
I generally align with the Arlington County model which removed routine policing functions from
Kyle McDaniel
SROs. Our schools are places of education, community, and inclusion, not places where law
enforcement conduct criminal policing activities. Per the Arlington report, which I agree with, I
would argue that SROs in Fairfax County are conduction jobs that are not law enforcement
related, which is outside their training and role. This is not to say that we should outright
eliminate any relationship with FCPD. But, rather, that we should curtail it to emergency
response, informational and community building, and handling specific incidents that are outside
the capabilities of FCPS administration to handle.
I would support limiting arrest authority in schools because I do have a concern about the
school-to-prison pipeline which, when coupled with the glaring disparities in discipline, leads to
disproportionate arrest of low income and minority students. I would support curtailing arrest
and investigative functions to serious, violent actions that would be outlined in a Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) with the County.
As previously stated, the primary responsibility of school systems is to keep students safe and
Ryan McElveen
secure while at the same time preserving a welcoming environment. SROs play an important
role to keep schools safe at the middle and high school levels. Although some FCPS studies
have presented the option of expanding SROs to elementary schools, I do not recommend
expanding the SRO program beyond its current configuration. I am supportive of limiting
criminal investigations to serious violent actions.
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April 26, 2023
Ilryong Moon
No, I do not support the current structure. It can be improved. Maintaining a trusting relationship
between the students and SROs is critical to the success of the SRO program. If SROs are just
seen as police officers enforcing criminal laws, that relationship will be jeopardized. I would
support limiting the criminal investigations to serious infractions.
We need SROs in the schools. They need to be better trained and roles defined so that
Hamid Munir
disciplinary actions and criminal actions can be separated and dealt with by the administration
and SROs accordingly.
I would propose and support some changes to the current program with regards to areas of
Lawrence Webb
intervention in the schools. I would not support SROs being able to arrest students for any low
level offense, only those that would lead to harm to themselves or other students and staff.
With the rising opioid crisis and more incidences of violent acts in schools I would support in
these limited situations SROs to investigate any possible information received with regards their
presence in the building. I would also allow for them to take the lead when investigating serious
violent acts on the school campus.
QUESTION 10: JOINT ENVIRONMENTAL TASK FORCE. How will you assure that FCPS meets the
climate recommendations for facilities and operations in the Joint Environmental Task Force Report, and
assure that awareness of the climate crisis is an important part of the curriculum?
Kyle McDaniel
I support integrating climate change into appropriate curriculums as recommended by subject

matter experts.
Addressing the JET goals, (all electric bus fleet by 2035, and carbon neutrality by 2040 to name
some examples) we need to integrate them into the strategic plan and tie the Superintendent’s
performance reviews directly to meeting these goals. This takes stakeholder and expert input to
develop appropriate metrics, and follow-through to ensure we are making progress towards
them.
Ryan McElveen
It is not only sufficient to have strong School Board support of the JET goals – we need to have
supportive system staff leadership. I will push for the School Board to establish regular check-in
meetings with the Superintendent focused on progress toward the JET goals as well as develop
relationships with – and hold accountable for complying with JET goals – the assistant
Superintendent for facilities and transportation, executive director of capital improvements and
planning, and the directors of transportation services and facilities management.
FCPS has made great progress toward ensuring that awareness of the climate crisis is an
important part of the curriculum by funding the Get2Green program. The Global Classroom
project brings together FCPS students with students around the world to focus on issues like
climate change. To continue ensuring that awareness of the climate crisis is embedded in the
curriculum, school activities, and the FCPS experience more broadly, I will support:
o Preserving green space and working to start a countywide tree planting campaign on
school grounds to allow for more carbon capture
Continued next page
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April 26, 2023
o Co-locating County facilities in or on school property, as has been done in the

Opportunity Neighborhoods program, to make services more accessible and require less
transportation
o Continuing to reduce the use of single use plastics, Styrofoam, and other non-
biodegradable waste
o Creating a countywide composting program in school cafeterias
o Adding solar panels on every school and administrative building
o Improving energy and water efficiency in schools
o Expanding school gardens to every school
o Electrifying and increasing the energy efficiency of county vehicle fleets
o Building on efforts to both electrify and reduce the nation’s largest school bus fleet by
offering free Fairfax Connector bus passes for students
Ilryong Moon
I supported the School Board's formation of the Joint Environmental Task Force (JET) in 2019. I
also supported the school system's goals to place solar roofs, purchase electric buses, meet the
green building standards in new constructions and renovations, provide more renewal energy
for its buildings, educate our students and staff on sustainability, use more recyclable items, and
reduce the waste. However, as I understand, the school system is quite behind meeting the
goals set forth in the JET’s final report.
If I get elected, I will regularly ask for a progress report. That should include reasons for the
FCPS not being on track and what we should do to meet those goals. I would support efforts to
direct the Superintendent to develop a clear plan of action for implementing the School Board's
JET goals. Additionally, part of the Superintendent's annual performance evaluation should
include assessing progress on implementing the JET goals. However, we certainly have work to
do without even waiting to hear from staff. For example, there seem to be more trailers that we
use for instructional purposes in less affluent areas which also tend to have a higher percentage
of the minority population. Furthermore, when our students in poorer areas are on longer bus
routes, these students are subject to more health risks. Their parents are less likely to be able
to provide them with rides and they are less likely to have their own cars to drive. They spend
more time on the roads.
Our efforts to meet the JET goals cannot become successful without everyone in the school
system being aware of the climate crisis we are in. For students, that should be in the
curriculum, taught, and reminded as often as needed. Teachers and staff should all participate
in the school system’s efforts to meet those goals as well. Energy waste should be avoided, and
recyclable materials should be used as much as possible.
Hamid Munir
I would work with the county and FCPS staff to ensure we continue the conversation of energy
efficiency.
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April 26, 2023
Lawrence Webb
I would make sure that the Joint Environmental Task Force Report “JET” that the School Board
adopted are fully carried out by the Superintendent and staff. This would be an evaluation point
for me when reviewing the Superintendent. The Superintendent and staff should be working to
come up with a plan that meets the expectations set by the JET goals and bring concrete
recommendations to the Board to act upon. If funding is needed to reach these goals the
Superintendent should bring funding options for the Board to consider in helping the goal move
forward.
During my time in Falls Church, we built a LEED Gold certified high school that is currently
being used as a teaching tool to support curriculum for students to help them build sustainable
thinking. There are opportunities currently in the curriculum to include sustainability and
directives at every level of schools. I would like the Superintendent to review and make sure
that we do provide age-appropriate information talking to climate change, and environmental
issues and what they can do to become better stewards of the planet.
QUESTION 11: ALTERNATIVES TO COLLEGE PREP. College is not a good path for every student upon
graduation from high school. Do you support dedicated funding for technical and vocational skills and
athletics, as well as programs for music and the arts? What other suggestions do you have to prepare these
students for postgraduate life?
Kyle McDaniel
As a pilot and entrepreneur, this is an area of particular importance to me. Personally, I am still
paying off student loans, so I understand the long-term consequences of the push to send kids
through college, regardless of whether it’s a good fit.
I fully support the expansion of STEAM pathways and academies throughout all regions of
FCPS. I would be supportive of increasing funding for these programs, and establishing new
programs within the arts, music, and, of course, aviation. I would note, that in grade school I
benefited from music. I played woodwind, string, and brass. I not only learned how to
understand music, but those skills translated to another subject I struggled with, math. Had I not
had music in my life, I may not have fully appreciated the practical application of math.
As an entrepreneur, I would like to see the creation of elective courses on business and
entrepreneurship. I would also like to create an FCPS wide “shark tank” style competition that
encourages kids of all ages to come up with innovative ideas, invent products, and solve
problems. We have incredible talent in FCPS, and we should foster and encourage it.
Ryan McElveen
I have always been a strong supporter of our athletic, music, theater, and arts programs, and
I’ve maintained that support in difficult budget times.
I have supported improved alignment between FCPS, community colleges, four-year college
institutions and apprenticeships, and been a champion of Career and Technical Education and
community college dual-enrollment programs. I also led Board advocacy to the UVA Board of
Visitors to reinstate the AccessUVA program, which aids many economically disadvantaged
FCPS graduates (the program was later restored).
Continued next page
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April 26, 2023
One of FCPS’s best resources is its school-based academies, but too few students have access
to these programs because attending these programs often requires long bus rides and double-
blocking. I want to make these academy programs accessible to more students by reducing the
geographic divides and increasing specialized program offerings throughout the county.
Finally, an additional effort I spearheaded was the creation of the FCPS Alumni Networking
Action Group, which developed a plan to better engage FCPS alumni and establish an alumni
association, with the goal of improving fundraising, mentorship and networking opportunities in
the Fairfax County community. This work included efforts to improve the collection of
information from graduating students so that they can remain connected with the community
after graduating and the system can better track their college and career paths. I hope to
continue this work and move toward the establishment of an FCPS Alumni Association.
Ilryong Moon
Yes, I support dedicated funding. The percentage of our students not going to college directly
after graduation has increased for a variety of reasons. Our Career and Technical Education
(CTE) programs should be expanded so that both non-college bound students and college-
bound students can have more opportunities to be exposed to and acquire practical job skills.
So, the answer is once again yes that I support dedicated funding for technical and vocational
skills and athletics, as well as programs for music and arts.
We could also increase our efforts for the students to have more internship opportunities so that
they could witness firsthand the kinds of skills the real jobs would require. The internships could
also provide our students with a chance to use in the real world what they learned from our
programs. Those opportunities should be also equitably available to all students throughout the
county. Currently, not all schools enjoy the same opportunities.
Hamid Munir
I would support funding for CTE and Fine Arts programs, in order to meet students where they
are academically. I would also support more sports opportunities for our middle school students.
I would support more internships, both paid and unpaid, for high school students to better
prepare them for a career, whether or not college is in their future.
Lawrence Webb
As an admissions officer for over 20 years, it's my job to recruit students to attend college.
However, I know that college is not for every student though I am a firm believer that all
students should have a plan for after high school. Currently we have good career and technical
education programs in Fairfax County Public Schools, but the availability of the programs is not
done in an equitable way from school to school. I would be a champion of making sure that the
academy and career enhancing programs are available to all students who want them,
particularly those students coming from marginalized and underrepresented communities.
I would look for community partners such as trade unions to develop student apprenticeship
and internship opportunities for firsthand experience. Finally, I would work to help remove the
stigma that some students feel when they make the choice to pursue a path other than college
as both paths provide students with options for success in life.
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April 26, 2023
QUESTION 12: CHARTER SCHOOLS. Under what circumstances, if any, would you be inclined as a
member of the School Board to support a public charter school application presented to the Board? What
legislative changes, if any, would you recommend that the General Assembly enact regarding charter
schools, laboratory schools or other uses of public funds for private education?
Kyle McDaniel
I do not support use of public funds for private education at all. I oppose vouchers, charters, etc.
I am not running for the General Assembly, but I would encourage lawmakers to ensure that tax
dollars are not funneled to private companies in education, and that charter schools/lab schools
are governed locally by duly elected School Boards, not state or private appointed Boards.
Ryan McElveen
I am not inclined to support public charter applications; however, I would not prejudge
applications, especially those submitted by Fairfax County educators. Ultimately, the likelihood of
public charter applications coming to the School Board is very low, as applications first must be
approved by the State Board of Education.
For example, in 2012-13, the School Board was presented with the opportunity to support the
Fairfax Leadership Academy, a charter school envisioned by JEB Stuart High School educator
Eric Welch to help support high school students at risk of dropping out. It was an interesting
proposal in that it would have been able circumvent state requirements on traditional public
schools (like preventing year-round schooling).
Ultimately, the problem with that charter proposal, like other charters, is that it would have
funneled resources from traditional schools that could otherwise have supported the same
students with fewer start-up costs. What this experience taught us is that we need to listen to our
educators and provide them with opportunities experiment with unique ideas within the public
school system and advocate for changes to state law where needed.
I do not think that any legislative changes are needed regarding using public funds for charter
schools or private schools. It is rightly difficult to establish new charter schools in Virginia.
However, I do think traditional school districts should be allowed more flexibility – and local
control – in terms of running their schools, and that is something that the School Board must
fight for every session as part of the FCPS legislative program.
Ilryong Moon
I am not in favor of programs that are taking resources away from our public schools. However,
under the current law, I am obligated to review all applications which may come to the School
Board, and I will do so. I would recommend legislative changes which would give local school
districts latitude to initiate and try creative programs that might not meet all the state regulatory
requirements.
Hamid Munir
I would have to see the application and judge it on independently. I have many questions about
charter schools and I look forward to the chance to learn more.
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April 26, 2023
Lawrence Webb
We have an amazing school system here in Fairfax County. I cannot think of a situation
that I would support redirecting scarce tax dollars to charter schools or the current buzz
phrase of “school choice" that the Governor and Republicans in the Virginia General
Assembly continue to support. What they should be working to do is fix the local
composite index (LCI) which determines the percentage of state funding we receive.
Fairfax County sends a large amount of tax dollars to Richmond but we do not receive
our fair share costing us millions of dollars every year. We must oppose any use of tax
dollars that diminish the authority of local School Boards, lower standards, or replace
student-educating motivations with profit-making motivations.
QUESTION 13: RESTORING CIVILITY. School Board meetings have become disruptive and lacking in
civility. How will you bring civility back?
Kyle McDaniel
This is a tough issue to address because we must respect the First Amendment. On the one
hand we can’t violate the free speech rights of the public, however I do recognize that we also
cannot permit monopolization or disruption of the discussion. This involves close coordination
with various staff to promulgate rules and policies. I think a civil tone starts at the top, in this
case the School Board.
Calm, levelheaded, steady leadership goes a long way. I do not see right-wing agitators
slowing down, in fact if anything they may become emboldened. As I have said since day one
of my campaign, we need members of the School Board to stand together as a united team to
protect our schools, kids, and teachers, from these bad actors. That is what I intend to do.
Ryan McElveen
As a School Board member, I had a front row seat to incivility. I am used to having my head
on a stake, being called epithets, and undergoing safety training in preparation for being
attacked at the School Board dais. When I brought forward the proposal to extend our
nondiscrimination protections to gender identity in 2015, I personally faced the brunt of
hostility and hatred.
It is important to remember that School Boards are the elected bodies that are closest to the
people, and that all citizens deserve to be heard, no matter how much we may disagree with
their opinions. Things go too far when safety is threatened.
In recent years, discord has also been rising over the inability of political leaders to
substantively address white supremacy, gun violence, and climate change. Young people
have turned to social media to amplify their voices and mobilize their followers to act. The
aftermath of the Parkland school shooting witnessed students around the country organizing
protests and moments of silence. Some school districts supported the first amendment rights
of students; other districts punished them. I recognized the need to systemically change how
American school systems support students across the political spectrum who are eager to be
civically engaged. I proposed and we passed a policy — a first of its kind in the United States
— allowing students to receive an excused absence to participate in civic engagement
activities. The following year, the Virginia General Assembly enacted a state law modeled
after that policy, so now all Virginia students have that same right. This initiative helps teach
students how to funnel their advocacy in productive ways, thus helping turn the tide of
incivility.
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April 26, 2023
Ilryong Moon
It is important to set rules with which everyone is expected to comply. We also need to be
consistent in enforcing the rules. However, we also need to provide adequate venues for the
public to participate in a discourse on student needs. We will, however, always have naysayers
and rule breakers no matter how hard we try. We can only do our best; but, if we have fair rules
and enforce them with consistency in good faith, the community will understand.
Hamid Munir
I support the freedom of speech, however, verbal attacks on staff or those elected to serve with
the School Board meeting environment should be met with the expectation that all who are
present will observe the rules outlined in order to have a productive meeting. I am a very calm
person and always try to see everyone’s position openly but believe in setting perimeters of
behavior. I have a lot of experience speaking to and within various organizational structure and I
would bring that level of civility to the Board meetings.
Lawrence Webb
It is sad to see the breakdown of decorum at School Board meetings across the country today.
I would first lead by example setting an expectation that even though we may have differences
of opinion we can express them in a respectful way. I would ask the Superintendent and staff to
review best practice of School Board meetings across the country to see if anything can be
incorporated to bring civility back to meetings. There are limits to what can be done with bad
actors, however we must seek ways to address the dysfunction that has been occurring as it
takes away from the serious work that is taking place.
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April 26, 2023
BRADDOCK DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Rachna Sizemore Heizer

Rachna Sizemore Heizer
Addressing mental health needs has been a strong focus of the current School Board. We
recognized that, according to the CDC, student anxiety and depression have been on the
rise for ten years. And I’ve long said that the pandemic is a global trauma from which we
have global PTSD. I think that is part of what has caused the divisiveness and anger. During
my tenure on the Board, we have expanded mental health services, including starting a tele-
mental health service for high school students, expanding access to counselors, increasing
counselors and psychologists, and embedding mental wellness into the school day. I was
proud to champion creating a Trauma Informed Specialist position and starting the work of
creating a trauma-informed policy. Going forward, we should complete the trauma-informed
policy to guide our work going forward. We need to look into expanding tele-mental health
services to all students and staff, protecting and expanding counseling, and continuing to
build strong relationships with state, local, and non-profit partners to help provide support
and mentoring for mental health needs. For staff, we need to continue to look at ways to
reduce workload and provide mentoring and mental health support. And we need to continue
to partner with students and staff to hear from them what would help the most. We need to
expand peer-to-peer support programs, mental health first aid programs, and programs
aimed at building resilience. Studies also show providing access to outdoor education and
creating authentic ways for students to connect and belong promote mental wellness.
As for bullying, I will continue to champion efforts to not only promote civility but to
intentionally teach acceptance, respect, and understanding for all. We must teach about the
specific harm that comes from bullying, that bullying based on identity such as LGBTQIA+,
neurodiversity, or other identities is a form of bigotry, and will not be tolerated. We must
teach about how to be inclusive and respectful and why. I have long been a champion of
inclusion but that can only be successful if we create welcoming environments where
students can be their authentic selves. This must include explicitly naming the harm bullying
causes, the bigotry behind bullying based on identity, and that we do not tolerate name
calling or bigotry against LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, racial or ethnic minorities, gender,
religious, and other marginalized groups. We must continue to include inclusive lessons and
books where our diverse populations are represented to build understanding and inclusion.
Research shows that one of the most effective ways to address bullying is to turn bystanders
into champions. In other words, teach students who witness bullying but don’t say anything,
into champions who speak up against it or tell a trusted adult so the situation can be
addressed immediately.
Continued next page
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April 26, 2023
We must continue to ensure our school environments are respectful and welcoming to
reduce the potential for bullying. While this requires a multifaceted approach of reteaching,
naming the bigotry and harm, building bridges of understandability, accountability, justice,
and creating a respectful atmosphere, I am proud to have championed the hiring of a
Neurodiversity Specialist and a Twice Exceptional Coordinator whose jobs include creating
an atmosphere of understanding and respect and inclusion of the lived norms of
neurodivergent students as part of the lived norms of humanity. Statistics show
neurodivergent students currently experience some of the highest rates of bullying. The
higher prevalence of neurodivergent students who are also LGBTQIA+ means this work will
impact multiple marginalized communities. We must continue to be trauma-informed in our
work to keep our schools safe and inclusive.
When I fight for inclusion, I am not only fighting for children with disabilities. I fight for ALL of
us, educated together, accepted and welcomed. Inclusion leads to understanding.
Understanding leads to acceptance. One way to have a more accepting society, to address
the rise in bullying, hate, and divisiveness, is through inclusion, through everyone learning
and working together. That has to start in our schools.
This Board has been focused on doing what we can to prevent gun violence. Much of the work
needs to be done at the state and federal level to ensure common sense gun safety regulations.
On this Board, we need to ensure our educators and staff recognize the potential signs of
violence, and continue our robust threat assessments immediately upon notice of a potential
threat. We must continue to enhance and implement best practices research based mental
health supports, crisis intervention programs, and violence prevention programs. This Board
initiated a safety and security audit and it will be important to work with the Superintendent to
implement the recommendations of the audit. We have done many things within our limited
power to address gun violence prevention, including requiring the Superintendent to notify
parents yearly that they have a legal obligation to securely store guns, changing our legislative
programs to advocate at the state and federal levels for better gun violence prevention laws,
fully funded security vestibule construction, and expanding gun prohibitions to all school
property. We must continue to address discipline disparities for marginalized communities,
including students of color or disabled students. Safety must mean safety for all.
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April 26, 2023
issue?
As Chair of the School Board, I was proud to have led the Board to a unanimous vote on the
collective bargaining resolution that will give teachers a stronger voice in the decision-making
spaces as well as support the initial vote that kicked off the process that led to the resolution.
Now that the collective bargaining resolution is in place, it can be a gamechanger for recruiting
and retaining staff. I am proud we have increased compensation and provided bonuses for two
years (and a third coming), but we need help from state and federal partners to incentivize
people to go into teacher training programs, including career switchers, through loan
forgiveness incentives, subsidized housing, and funding for higher salaries.
We can expand FCPS’ Teach for Tomorrow program, a student teaching class for current
FCPS students, with some being guaranteed a contract upon completion of teacher training
programs. A particular focus should be on expanding these programs in schools that have a
more diverse population. We have dedicated human resources focused on attracting and
retaining excellent diverse candidates, and can continue to review our leadership development
programs, principal pool processes, and recruitment efforts.
We must also focus on retention strategies as close to 50% of first-time teachers leave the
profession within five years. We can strengthen our teacher mentorship program, provide robust
resources for teachers and a central space for sharing of resources and protect teacher
planning time and teacher directed workdays. We have created affinity groups for teachers and
staff and expanded outreach to underrepresented teachers and staff to better understand the
challenges.
families?
In my time on the School Board, I have championed efforts to pass an inclusive calendar,
supported our expert librarians and their inclusive collections, fought efforts to ban books, and
supported development of culturally responsive and inclusive curriculum and practices. As
chair, I have led the work with my colleagues to stand up to the Governor against his
dangerous policies targeting teaching of accurate and complete history, his efforts to silence
teachers, and against his attempts to revise standards to teach inaccurate history. I was
proud to testify on behalf of the School Board to the Governor and his Virginia Department of
Education that the proposed changes deemphasized critical thinking and analysis skills, were
historically inaccurate and lacked inclusion of multiple perspectives. I am a firm believer that
we need to teach all our history in order to prevent repeating the mistakes of our past and
move towards a better, more inclusive future. I also believe our democracy needs citizens
capable of critical thinking and understanding all of history. I will continue championing efforts
to ensure our curriculum, especially our social studies curriculum, is inclusive,
developmentally appropriate, accurate, and reflective of our full history and the narratives of
our diverse multicultural community.
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April 26, 2023
to change?
Despite the national agenda and concerted efforts to ban books, which has resulted in
hundreds of books being banned across the country, I am proud that our Board has not voted to
ban a single book. We have stood strong with our expert librarians and educators who have
used their training and education to curate inclusive, diverse, accurate, and developmentally
appropriate reading materials. We should continue to handle the availability of reading materials
as we currently do, by allowing our experts in education to do their job.
FCPS has a long history of partnering with parents/caregivers through robust PTAs, parent
engagement in principal councils, workgroups, community groups, forums, town halls, hiring
panels, participation in advisory committees, surveys, and more. We have also expanded the
availability of information online for parents and caregivers to see curriculum guides and more.
We absolutely value family engagement, as studies show family engagement leads to better
outcomes for students. We have expanded our family liaisons and continue to provide free
webinars and resources through the Parent Resources Center, have included many parents
and community members throughout our strategic planning process through participation in
planning teams, surveys, focus groups, and community forums. This voice is critical in the
strategic planning work that will set the vision for our schools. We have a clear process for
considering objections to reading material and we also have opt-out procedures for families so
they can partner regarding their own student without impacting the rights of other families and
students.
I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust Policies.

FCPS must remain a welcoming and inclusive school system, with equitable opportunities and
access for all students. Together, we can protect and strengthen public education, the bedrock
of our community, economy, and democracy. This work must include closing gaps in
achievement and discipline, confronting racial and social inequities, and improving language
access. I was proud to support the School Trust Policy and the goals of One Fairfax, which
mandates opportunity and access for all students to the excellent education for which Fairfax
County is known.
To continue to work on our One Fairfax commitment, we need to do the following:
● Equitable program placement to expand access to advanced academics, career and
technical education, arts, athletics, and other enrichment programs. No matter where
you live, you receive FCPS’ world class education.
● Needs-based resources, intensive support, and inclusive education for those with
achievement and opportunity gaps. We must create an inclusive environment where
students are welcomed, connected, belong and provided with the support and
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April 26, 2023
resources to meet their needs and thrive. This includes increased investments in
translation and interpretation, multilingual family liaisons and multilingual family support.
● through the Parent Resource Center for multilingual families of students with disabilities
to better understand and participate in the special education processes, intensive
intervention for students with limited or interrupted education (SLIFE) students. We
need to continue to provide needs-based resources to Title I schools and those on the
“bubble” of being Title I schools. We need to continue to fund family liaisons at these
schools to build strong family partnerships, provide interventions and programs aimed
at college success, and ensure equitable access to enrichment and programs.
It is important to remember that the School Board is a policy and governance board. We set
policy while the Superintendent is responsible for day-to-day operations. Our job is to set clear
metrics of success and measurements of that success, as well as adequate funding, and
oversee the Superintendent’s effectiveness in meeting these needs and closing gaps through
her annual evaluation.
their gender identity and sexual orientation and does not authorize schools to share this information without
their permission. Do you believe this should remain standard practice in FCPS?
I supported and continue to support R2603 and the amendments to our Student Rights and
Responsibilities identifying the rights of transgender and gender-expansive students. I worked
with my colleagues to develop a statement standing up to Governor Youngkin’s attempts to
undermine protections for LGBTQIA+ students, staff and families and will continue to stand up
to these efforts.
I have been a steady voice of support in our work around these and additional changes to our
regulations and proposals that support LGBTQIA+ people and affirm their dignity and against
efforts in Richmond to strip away rights and protections from LGBTQIA+ people.
I commit to upholding our stringent policies protecting LGBTQIA+ students, stronger than
anywhere in the state, ensure a safe and welcoming atmosphere, and stand up to efforts to
strip away rights from our LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and families and to continue to fight
efforts to weaken these protections.
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April 26, 2023
It is imperative to provide a free and appropriate public education as required by IDEA. I have
spent many years fighting for the rights of students who need a 504 or an IEP. As the mother
of two twice exceptional students, one with a 504 and another with an IEP, for whom his
exceptionality isn’t yet fully recognized within the twice exceptional language, I am no stranger
to the needs and issues. I learned from my son, my brilliant musician with autism for whom I
had to fight to be included in music classes, that we need to look at our students for their
strengths first, providing support for their needs without letting their challenges limit their
potential.
I was proud to advocate for the hiring of our Twice Exceptional Coordinator to build and
improve services, understanding, and programs for twice exceptional students. We need to
continue to improve programming to meet the academic, social, emotional, and executive
functioning needs of twice exceptional students. It should not be an either-or choice. I was
proud to champion and work closely with our Neurodiversity Specialist to shift our culture to
one where students with disabilities are seen as part of the diversity of human existence,
shifting the mindset around the education of students with disabilities. We must create a policy
and atmosphere of neurodiversity and strengths focused education, where we meet student
needs but do not let their deficits limit their potential. Otherwise, we will continue to see the
gaps in achievement, discipline, and outcomes. I will continue to work with our neurodiversity
specialists, families, staff, and stakeholders to implement the 19 recommendations from the
comprehensive School Board initiated external review of special education programming and I
look forward to reimagining special education in alignment with our new strategic plan and with
a strengths-focus to ensure postsecondary success. We also need to ensure robust family and
caregiver partnership in the process, improved transition services and support at key transition
points, and in postgraduate and postsecondary transition programs, and measure success by
postsecondary outcomes. And we must ensure meaningful inclusion for students, while still
providing a continuum of services to provide that individualized education based on evidenced
based best practices.
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April 26, 2023
I was on the 2018 commission that revised the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the
Fairfax County Police Department and was a strong voice to include disability awareness
training. I also advocated for clarity of roles and responsibility and better data collection. We
need to evaluate the efficacy of the MOU to see if the desired results have been achieved and
that all SROs and administrators are undergoing the appropriate training and have the requisite
knowledge in how they approach their work. It is important to ensure SROs are enhancing
security within a defined role that is well understood. I used to be on the Board of the Falls
Church Fairfax Community Services Board, which oversees the Diversion First program. I
would be interested in a co-responder model and other efforts to provide appropriate support
and disrupt the school to prison pipeline. We must address serious and violent offenses and
keep our schools safe but also ensure we address behavior issues in school as much as
possible.
I was proud to support the School Board’s vote to adopt the JET directives. I have asked Dr.
Reid for the operational plan to carry out these directives as well as annual updates on results.
We must also advocate for funding to support implementation of the JET directives. We are
fortunate to have robust environmental stewardship in our curriculum but we need earlier focus
on climate change. A review of our science curriculum would be appropriate to ensure
environmental stewardship, climate change and other evidenced based best practices is
reflected in our curriculum at all grade levels as developmentally appropriate, which includes
how to critically analyze the misinformation around climate change in some outside media.
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April 26, 2023
We have robust career and technical education programs in FCPS but we need to focus on
equitable access to these programs, both within the schools and our academy programs. We
need to ensure access to these programs – both removing transportation and scheduling
barriers and ensuring proper support for access to academy programs and ensuring
consistency of career and technical education programming in each school. We need to partner
with trade unions and other vocational organizations to create additional apprenticeship
opportunities for students. As a parent of two art students – one of whom is pursuing a music
career, but both of whom found their passion and place to belong in the arts, I know how
important the arts are for our students. Studies show robust arts participation leads to better
cognitive and social outcomes, as well as building strong “soft skills” of teamwork, collaboration,
communication and more. I know vital STEAM education (science, technology, engineering,
arts and math) is necessary for all our students to have the skills for success and leadership in
the 21st century workplace. I also know that a foundation in the arts and humanities results in
ethical and thoughtful technology practitioners and leaders.
Finally, we need to ensure we provide exposure to career and technical education to our
students and families in elementary school and middle school and educate them about the
possibility of multiple paths to success that include college and career.
I serve on the School Board to ensure our schools value and foster all our children’s passions,
whether it be academic, artistic, technical, vocational, or athletic, in an inclusive and accepting
school environment. We need to help our children discover and flourish at their strengths and
passions, while providing the academic, mental resilience, and executive functioning “learn to
learn skills” foundation to be successful on their chosen path.
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We have excellent public education in Fairfax County that provides all students the chance to
succeed on their chosen path, but we need funding to support our programs and improve to
ensure equitable access and opportunity for all. Virginia is still behind the nation in teacher
salaries and public education funding. Instead of sending tax dollars to charter schools,
laboratory schools, or similar “choice” initiatives, the Governor and Virginia General Assembly
should fix the long-standing imbalance in the local composite index, which is the school funding
formulas that disadvantage Fairfax County Public Schools, and force our local taxpayers to pay
a significant portion of the cost of public education. We cannot take limited tax dollars away
from public schools, the only institution committed to educating everyone, no matter who they
are, their needs and strengths, or where they come from.
Lack of civility at School Board meetings has mirrored, to some extent, the lack of civility we see
on some online forums, but now from behind a microphone in person. While legal guidance
limits what we are able to do regarding limiting public comment, we can continue to study best
practices and what other regulations districts have implemented around meeting rules and
public comment to foster civility and transparency. As the chair of the Public Engagement
Committee in 2020-2021, we instituted some changes to our public comment practices to
ensure the same few folks wouldn’t speak each week to allow for more of the public to be able
to speak, as well as instituted a few other changes allowable by law to encourage a broader
swath of comment. School Board members can also lead by example, with clear guidelines for
meeting behavior. And we as a society need to speak up to condemn the behavior, without
giving it airtime.
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April 26, 2023
DRANESVILLE DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Robyn Lady

Robyn Lady
As a former counselor (Marshall, TJ, & McLean) and Director of Student Services (DSS)
(Chantilly), I have witnessed firsthand how the stressors indicated above have adversely
impacted students, teachers, and staff. I also know that when a strong positive culture exists,
and when schools promote a responsive, caring, and inclusive community where all feel valued,
and supported, these stressors reverse course.
As a former coach and class sponsor, I know that when students are actively engaged in co-
curricular, athletic, and after school programs, they feel more connected, included, seen, and
honored. They also have additional adult mentors in their life who they can trust and turn to in
times of need. Additionally, when faculty coach, sponsor, and support extracurricular activities,
they build positive relationships with students, which benefits them as well. We need to help
students connect to activities before, during, and after school.
Recently FCPS started offering all high school students free virtual mental health services
through Hazel Health. I would advocate for expanding this to faculty, staff, and middle school
students. While this opportunity is fantastic, we also need to lower the student to counselor
ratios and add additional school psychologists and social workers in all schools.
Finally, when/if students are the target of bullying and harassment, we must name it and make it
clear that such bigotry will not be tolerated. When responding to cases, administrators must
help bullies understand that there is nothing wrong with people from other races, cultures,
religions, orientations, etc.
Robyn Lady
Most importantly, I would focus on preventing such an event from happening. During my 27
years working in FCPS, I do not recall ever being trained on the pre-attack behavior of an active
shooter. As a School Board member, I would recommend hiring an expert to design a
presentation that outlines the specific behaviors that may precede an attack and that might be
useful in identifying, assessing, and managing those who may be on a pathway to violence.
While the DSS at Chantilly, our administrative team participated in an active shooter drill with the
office of Safety and Security every year. This training was an excellent opportunity for us to work
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April 26, 2023
as a team and discuss in detail the best plan of action. While I am not an expert in this subject, I
wonder if this depth of training would be helpful for the entire faculty.
As a counselor and DSS I was part of several Student Threat Assessments. These teams are
pulled together when administrators are notified of a student threat against another person.
There are strict protocols regarding how to conduct them. Since some student behaviors start at
the previous level (elementary to middle, and/or middle to high school), I would recommend
pyramid training to ensure consistency in completing these assessments and how to document
them.
Finally, I will continue to advocate and support gun safety laws at all levels. I also support fully
funding security vestibule construction at the main entrance of every school.
issue?
Robyn Lady
We must invest time, energy, and resources to recruit and hire an exceptional and
diverse workforce. This requires administrators and Central Office staff to travel to job
fairs at colleges and universities both in and out of state. I also believe we must recruit
from our Historically Black Colleges and Universities and our Hispanic Serving
Institutions. We cannot open any of our schools with long-term substitute teachers.
Fairfax County must pay our employees better while also continuing to provide them
with outstanding benefits. Collective Bargaining will help achieve this goal.
Once hired, we need to ensure that our onboarding process is culturally responsive and
a pleasant experience. Fairfax County is huge and too often new employees feel like a
number and struggle to get answers to their questions. We should survey new
employees three to six months into the job for feedback on their transition and
recommendations that would make their onboarding experience better.
We must continue to support and grow our Teachers for Tomorrow program and have
them sign contingency contracts that guarantee they will be hired by FCPS upon
successful completion of a teacher education program. I am also very interested in
working with state delegates to push for a bill that would pay for the tuition for Virginia
residents who attend Virginia schools, complete teacher certification programs, and
teach for five years in a public school in Virginia.
families?
Robyn Lady
Absolutely! History is an essential part of our curriculum, and we must ensure that students
have an equal understanding of the U.S. and VA’s factual history. When FCPS approved
African American History at the high school level, I worked with counselors and other faculty
members to ensure we had enough students to teach the class. When the College Board
initially shared their plans for Advanced Placement African American History, I was excited
and felt certain we would have more students enroll because of the AP designation. I was
beyond disappointed when the College Board edited the curriculum and deleted several
important topics. History and all social science classes must prioritize critical thinking, diverse
perspectives, developmental appropriateness, and historical accuracy.
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I will always advocate for and support culturally responsive classrooms and libraries. Age-
appropriate diverse books can serve both as mirrors and windows of different human
emotions and experiences. They offer a powerful opportunity to build community, provide
validation and affirmation, tell students their stories matter, and show students possibilities of
who and what they can be. They also help reduce stigmatization and foster social integration
and cultural inclusiveness.
to change?
Robyn Lady
First and foremost, I always encouraged the involvement of parents and guardians in their
children’s education – I know the school system shares that goal. It has been my experience
that when this occurs, students achieve greater success in school. While schools throughout
our country are banning books, I am extremely proud of our School Board for not banning
any. FCPS has and should continue to trust educators and librarians to select age
appropriate, diverse, and inclusive literature for students. If someone objects to reading
material, FCPS has a clear process for considering those complaints.
Robyn Lady
Yes, I support the One Fairfax and School Trust policies. I will work with my colleagues on
the School Board and the Superintendent to create and fully fund equity initiatives, which
includes Pre-K for those who cannot afford private preschool. We must invest in early
childhood education and provide the necessary staffing and resources to ensure that all
students are reading by third grade. We must also support staffing ratios that account for the
different proficiency levels of English Language Learners. When literacy and numeracy skills
are learned by third grade, all students will be better prepared to tackle advanced academics.
We must work with and support immigrant families and educate them on the Trust Policy. To
do this we must increase funding for more multilingual liaisons, and translation services and
help parents and guardians enroll in ELL classes. Additionally, we must increase efforts to
ease transitions and close gaps for students with limited or interrupted formal education.
We must have high expectations for all learners. Counselors and teachers need to encourage
all students, especially those with IEP’s or 504’s, and those from under-represented
backgrounds, to take advanced coursework. When students take these courses, we must
provide them with resources to help them succeed. And we must better understand the
college landscape for our DACA students, help them find schools that will help them, and
funding to support their enrollment.
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April 26, 2023
Robyn Lady
If elected I will fight to protect and strengthen R2603. As a lesbian and former employee who
spent years afraid to be out for fear of losing my job, this hits very close to home.
R2603 was life changing for our LGBTQ+ students. I am extremely grateful to the current
School Board, and especially Karl Frisch for taking the lead on this work. As the Director of
Student Services at Chantilly High School when this regulation passed, I saw firsthand the
impact it had on our most marginalized students. As a member of the community, I also felt
more empowered to be my authentic self and safer than I had felt prior to that regulation
passing.
When Governor Youngkin attempted to undue this amazing and much needed work, I was
extremely proud of the School Board for standing their ground and continuing to enforce R2603.
Robyn Lady
Fairfax County Public Schools has a robust offering of services for students with learning
differences. People from all over the country and the world move to Fairfax because our
services are so good. Having said that, I know there are families of children with disabilities who
are not happy with the services for their child. When this happens, it is essential to listen to
parents, commit to understanding their concerns, and discuss how the school can help. It has
been my experience that 99+% of the time, we can come to agreement on a viable plan for the
student.
Since students receiving special education services can attend high school until they are 23, we
should expand the Secondary Transition to Employment Program (STEP) to more high schools.
Areas of focus and other thoughts:
• We must continue to implement the Science of Reading program and ensure all
students have numeracy and literacy skills by third grade.
• For those not reading, we must utilize reading specialists to get them on grade level.
• We cannot wait until high school to do remedial reading with students.
• Category A students in high school should be active participants in their own IEP
and 504 meetings. This will help ensure that the accommodations received are
needed and used.
• We must do a better job working with our twice exceptional students. We must focus
on their strengths and diversify instruction to allow students to tap into how they
demonstrate learning best.
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April 26, 2023
Robyn Lady
We must have safe and inclusive schools. I fully support having SROs in our schools and would
like to consider adding them to elementary schools.
I will once again speak from experience. While SROs are allowed to arrest students for low level
offenses, it seldom to never happens (at least in the schools where I worked). Most of them are
well trained at diffusing situations and their uniform presence alone helps deescalate situations
where student behavior is disruptive and threatening. Having said that, I think it is good practice
to revisit the Memo of Understanding (MOU) with the Fairfax County Police Department on an
annual basis and see if there should be any changes.
Robyn Lady
I would support efforts to require the Superintendent to create a detailed scaffolded plan for
implementing the Joint Environmental Task (JET) Force directives. To ensure these initiatives
are a priority, progression towards these directives should be part of the Superintendent’s
annual performance review. Additionally, energy efficiency begins in our schools and offices.
While working in four different FCPS schools, I observed faculty and staff members with
refrigerators and microwaves in their classroom and/or office. FCPS needs to make sure we
have energy efficient refrigerators and microwaves in department workrooms and forbid faculty
from having their own appliances.
One Fairfax commits FCPS to conduct all its work with an equity lens. I am grateful the JET
directives include a requirement that this be applied to our climate and sustainability work.
When adding solar panels, we started with diverse Annandale High School and Mason Crest
Elementary, a Title I school. The school division also made sure that our first electric buses
would be used by all students – not just those who are affluent. It is incredibly important that
green opportunities with career and technical education are prioritized with an equity lens. I also
support the current science curriculum to ensure that students are learning about climate
change in elementary school. We must also train our students to know how to fact check as
misinformation about climate change appears in social media and other news outlets.
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April 26, 2023
Robyn Lady
Absolutely! I spent almost my entire career in FCPS working at high schools that had Career
and Technical Academies which are now known as STEM Governor’s Academies. This
transition took place around 2010 to gain recognition from the state and create a college going
culture through our academies. While I support this academic course work, we lost classroom
space for traditional trades. When building the master schedule at Chantilly High School, I saw
firsthand how this impacted students looking for technical and vocational skills. Instead of
adding sections of auto technology, carpentry, and auto collision as needed, we put 50+
students on a waitlist. At the same time, we added a new classroom for Exploring Health
Sciences and Language of Medicine. As we look to the future, we must find a way to create
classroom space for trades.
As a former coach of five sports, I know firsthand how one’s sport can open doors for our best
athletes. We must support this pursuit of excellence and ensure that all our high school
counselors are familiar with NCAA requirements. Additionally, if we paid our coaches better,
they would be more qualified and committed to helping these young athletes.
Finally, we must support and expand our arts programs. As the supervisor for Performing Arts
at Chantilly I was frustrated and saddened when I learned that some of our feeder elementary
and middle schools were cutting programs.
Robyn Lady
Fairfax County Public Schools offers a world class education to all students. As a counselor and
DSS I registered students from all over the country and world who moved to Fairfax because
their parents knew they would receive an amazing education. To that end, we cannot move
sacred tax dollars to charter schools. Instead, we need our delegates and senators to work at
the state level to change the school funding formulas and ensure that more of our tax dollars
come back to Fairfax County.
Robyn Lady
This is very sad but true. The decorum of some community members during the public comment
period at each Board meeting is inexcusable. The one thing I can do is model appropriate
behavior. I would also like to investigate if the Superintendent and staff can study this issue and
create a document indicating best practices and other recommendations for the public comment
portion of the meetings moving forward.
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April 26, 2023
FRANCONIA DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Marcia St. John-Cunning

Did Not Respond: Mark Tenney
Marcia St. John-Cunning
First and foremost is acknowledging that mental health needs for students, teachers and staff
should be addressed by the FCPS system. The education of the whole child in today's
society cannot only be limited to academics or left to educators alone. FCPS has taken steps
to incorporate Social Emotional Learning (SEL) for students, yet it needs to ensure those
lessons are taught by competent adults in the building. That means having more counselors,
social workers, and psychologists in each school building whose mission it is to address the
mental health needs of the students.
If FCPS could recruit and retain more professionals qualified to meet the mental health needs
of our students, it would go a long way in helping to relieve the stress on FCPS educators
and staff. However, that is not enough.
Encouraging authentic parent engagement to build strong school communities that work in
partnership to support everyone in the building would be a foundational building block in
addressing the mental health issues faced by students, teachers, and staff.
As someone who currently works in a school building, I am aware of all the safety protocols
FCPS has in place regarding the prospect of an active shooter. The front office staff is well
trained to screen everyone that enters the building and ensure they sign in with a photo
identification. All classroom doors are locked once students are in the classroom and each
school has a safety and security team. Staff and students also regularly participate in active
shooter drills. Every adult in every building I have worked in is prepared to protect every
student in their school. Having said that, I feel the best steps we can take to ensure safety for
everyone in our schools when it comes to the possibility of an active shooter, is to advocate
for the sensible regulation of firearms in our community.
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April 26, 2023
issue?
It is important to understand the "why" of the current teacher shortage. If you spend time in
our schools, you will meet dedicated and qualified educators that are passionate about
teaching. However, they are being burdened by extraneous tasks that pull from basic
teaching and require hours of work outside of the classroom. The demands and expectations
for teachers to solve every issue for every child are unrealistic and even the most committed
and seasoned teachers are burning out. A great first step to empower teachers is the recent
win for them to be able to participate in collective bargaining, so that they are adequately
compensated. It is important to not lose sight of the fact that our educators need to be treated
as the respected professionals they are and trusted to teach our students. A supportive
workplace culture and climate not only benefits our educators, it benefits our children.
families?
Yes, I will absolutely commit FCPS to teach history that is factually accurate, inclusive and
age appropriate. The greatest legacy we can leave to our children is a well-rounded,
comprehensive education that develops critical thinking skills. This is what will allow them to
fulfill their potential and to become productive and creative citizens. Exposing our students to
literature that is representative of our diverse community is one of the best ways to ensure
our students become global citizens. As a Latina that grew up in a bi-lingual household, I
have experienced the value of reading literature by Hispanic authors and know how important
it is for students to see themselves and their experiences in literature. As someone who
works with a diverse community, I also know how valuable it is to have books available that
represent our LGBTQ students and families, students and families with disabilities, and
students and families of color.
Additionally, I will work to make sure we have books in different languages, so non-English
speaking students can access literature, and even for non-English speaking parents to be
able to read books to their students. I have had the honor to work with dedicated and
committed librarians and reading teachers, whose expertise and experience I trust. I have
seen them search for books that will resonate with specific students and often purchase them
from their own pockets and donate the books to the library or provide them to children. Their
passion for assuring every student learns to love reading is only exceeded by their generosity
of time and money to ensure children have books in their hands.
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April 26, 2023
to change?
I am proud of the fact that FCPS has not banned any books to date and that calls to do so
have in some cases inspired student-led opposition to such bans. It points to the fact that
FCPS is doing an excellent job educating our students. Again, I go to trusting our educators
and excellent school librarians to fill our school libraries with age-appropriate books that will
develop lifelong readers.
Unfortunately, the phrase "parental rights" has been co-opted to imply parents don't have
rights. As a parent-liaison and community school coordinator, I have spent my career inviting
and encouraging authentic parent involvement in our schools. From organizing parenting
classes, facilitating parent-teacher conferences, one on one meetings to explain services and
school programs, recruiting PTA/PTO Boards and members, parent supported after-school
enrichment programs, parent led luncheons, activity and international nights, tutoring
programs, to parent advocacy. FCPS welcomes parent voices and actively reaches out to
marginalized communities in an effort to hear all parent voices. There is a small vocal
minority that implies there is a lack of parental rights, when nothing can be further from the
truth. As someone that has worked for years with parents, it is important to note that parent
rights also include parent responsibility to partner in a respectful and authentic manner so
that together our children receive the best education possible.
Yes, I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies. Throughout my career I have
worked with immigrant communities and have seen the detrimental impact on families,
students and communities when fear is a prevalent factor. Families who are forced to live in
the shadows are often exploited and will not seek the support and help they or their children
qualify to receive. Support that can move the family and student to becoming integral and
productive citizens in our community and prevent them from being exploited by unscrupulous
individuals. Trust is essential in order to prevent our marginalized families from living in fear.
FCPS and Fairfax County have robust Equity teams in place that are working hard to
dismantle systemic racial and social inequities in FCPS policies and practices. It is a work in
progress that will require consistent and intentional work by all the key stakeholders in Fairfax
County and our FCPS system. As a School Board member, I will continue to support this
work and advocate for its expansion.
My FCPS career has been in South County and I will work hard to highlight and address
some of the FCPS inequities regarding access to resources for the South County community.
As systemic barriers are dismantled, new evidenced based programming can be explored to
address the disparity in academic achievement for racial, linguistic minority, socio-
economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities, as well as the disparity
in discipline faced by said students.
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April 26, 2023
LGBTQ+ students deserve to be protected and affirmed just like any and every FCPS
student. They need to feel safe, secure and valued in every school and in every classroom by
every adult in the building. FCPS confidentiality policies are strict and exist to protect each
and every student and staff member. There is absolutely no reason why this practice should
be deviated from in any way for any reason regarding any student due to race, creed,
economic status, immigration status, sexual orientation or gender identity status.
I have worked with many families who have moved to Fairfax County, specifically because of
the quality of the Special Education services offered by FCPS. I am aware that frustrations
exist with how services for some students are delivered and I will listen to parents and work
with the division to find solutions to best meet the needs of their students.
In my capacity as an FCPS interpreter and parent liaison, I have sat in hundreds of IEP
meetings. One of things that has become clear is how time consuming and daunting the
IEP/504 plan process is for parents to understand. When I first started working at FCPS there
was a Special Education administrative assistant in each school who arranged all the
IEP/504 plans meetings for the school team and coordinated with the parents. This individual
had the time to explain the process to the parent before the fact which helped both the
educators and the families begin on a better footing from the onset. This was extremely
beneficial to all families, but especially to non-English speaking families who required more
time and attention to understand the process. I will advocate to restore these positions, which
will not only help our families understand the process but will also reduce the administrative
burden on our teachers, counselors, and school administrators. Finally, it is important to not
leave our twice-exceptional and/or non-English speaking students behind when it comes to
Special Education needs.
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April 26, 2023
I would like to evaluate the structure of the School Resource officer program to determine the
reasoning of what protocols are followed for low level offenses. There is a great deal of data
that needs to be teased out to determine the efficacy of current policies. The type and quantity
of offenses, the number of interventions provided, and demographic information are only a few
of such data points. However, just as an IEP recommends the "least restrictive environment,"
disciplinary action should follow suit with every avenue in the FCPS disciplinary process
pursued before an arrest is made. Although rare, there are serious and violent actions that
preclude the FCPS disciplinary route.
I would be interested in learning about the type of training and requirements the Fairfax Police
department requires of their officers before they are placed in a school and have to interact with
students.
I saw a dramatic change made in FCPS when LEED practices were introduced and followed in
an effort to increase energy savings and reduce the carbon imprint. FCPS must continue to
follow the JET task force recommendations with fidelity in order to meet the goal.
Communicating the goals to administrators, educators and staff is crucial, as well as providing
best practices guidelines to be effectively practiced at each individual school.
Students at every level are keenly aware of the importance of being good stewards of our
planet and natural resources. They want to be engaged and do their part which provides us with
an excellent opportunity to introduce age-appropriate curriculum regarding how to best care for
our communities’ natural resources. Partnering with organizations that teach students how to
compost, grow and harvest food ties into multiple discipline areas (science, health, citizenship,
commerce) and provides enrichment opportunities for our students without putting all the
burden on educators. Collaborating with successful non-profits and seeking grant funding will
help build a greater sense of community and responsibility for our students and families.
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April 26, 2023
Yes, I support dedicated funding for technical and vocational skills as well as for athletic,
musical and arts programs. The value of technical and vocational skills in our society is critical
and as such those paths need to receive the same recognition as paths to college.
FCPS offers strong Academy programs, but as a Board we need to be mindful about
accessibility for all students. Career and technical education should be intentionally expanded
to provide FCPS students with the skill set needed to fill the countless positions currently
available in the workforce being left unmet due to lack of skilled personnel. Funding should be
strategic in an effort to ensure all students have access to participate in Academy programs.
Athletic, music and art programs can develop skills in students that can be used to launch a
career, earn a scholarship to finance higher education, and feel a sense of belonging in their
school community. My daughter benefited greatly from The Musical Theatre Academy program,
which equipped her with all the necessary skills to successfully audition for spots in college
theater programs.
Marcia St. John-
Cunning
The cornerstone of our community and democracy is a free public education that is
equitable, accessible and inclusive. FCPS has consistently been ranked as the best in
the country while serving a diverse cultural and socio-economic student population. At
a time when we are facing learning gaps and loss due to the pandemic, it is not wise to
siphon public funds to support private and or charter schools that would not be serving
our entire community. It goes against the One Fairfax policy commitment to equity.
Marcia St. John-
Cunning
As a member of the School Board, my responsibility is to represent my district with integrity and
dignity. I will work hard to build mutually respectful and trusting relationships with all the
members on the Board and work in good faith for the best possible outcomes for our students.
Unfortunately, I cannot control the behavior of individuals that participate in public meetings. To
the extent that modeling appropriate behavior is not only best practice it is often the best
"teacher," it is my hope that if the Board listens respectfully and with dignity, individuals
addressing the Board will do likewise.
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April 26, 2023
HUNTER MILL DISTRICT
Responding Candidates: Melanie Meren, Paul Thomas

Did Not Respond: Harold Jackson
Melanie Meren
Solutions and relief are to be implemented within our public schools, and also outside our
schools. Schools alone cannot conquer the mental health crisis in our community.
I’ll continue advocating for and funding existing explicit instruction in proven, “social and
emotional learning” techniques, so students learn how to regulate their emotions, make healthy
choices, treat others respectfully, and seek help when needed. I advocate for embedded SEL
content elsewhere, such as Family Life Education, so students learn the value of building
healthy relationships and what to do if they or their friends are in danger. I’ve advocated for
expanding instruction to prevent eating disorders and bullying, and advocated for restorative
justice. I will hold the Superintendent accountable for not only providing employment benefits
that include mental health coverage and services, but also creating a work environment that is
humane and safe for adults. Ultimately, decreasing class size will allow for building relationships
among staff, students, and families that are the bedrock for identifying and addressing students’
emerging mental and physical health needs.
I have consistently sought investments, partnerships, and services from community partners
they must do their share. I’ll keep working with County officials and health care and educating
them with data about the growing need for supports like mental health services and in-patient
treatment centers, for example. I have fostered an excellent report with the VA Chapter of the
American Academy of Pediatrics, and have brokered conversations with school division
leadership for the benefit of our students.
Paul Thomas
The pandemic separated students and families from each other and from teachers. Then the
Youngkin administration drove a wedge into those fractures. Our school communities need to
re-learn how to come together and collaborate.
School-based administrators and counselors know how to foster resilience in students and
parents, but they are so overwhelmed by new initiatives that they don’t have the time or energy
to do it. Grading systems, Schoology, Google Classroom, and many other changes have
overwhelmed school-based staff.
We must look at the workload and staffing levels for teachers, counselors, administrators and
other school-based staff to ensure that they all have the time to focus on what matters:
rebuilding trust with families so teachers can teach.
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April 26, 2023
Melanie Meren
Our schools have some responsibility, but the community has more. Nonetheless, since that
aid is not forthcoming, I’ve had to do more given the community’s increased concern about
the vulnerability of students and staff in our facilities.
Parents have asked me for bullet-proof doors and windows, full fencing around schools, and
windowless buildings. A fourth grader asked me recently if I’m in charge of helping teachers
get trained to know what to do; a parent asked me to fund security guards at every school.
Until now, I’ve responded with information about FCPS’ strategies, and that ultimately, it’s
about access to guns in the community and we all need to share that responsibility. Please
see this 2022 newsletter for my summary of what FCPS does to try and protect people from
gun violence. However, educating people doesn’t seem like it’s enough anymore.
I do not support hardening schools - that is, installing metal detectors and arming teachers.
However, I support doing more to fortify our entrance ways - which is why I presented the
successful motion to fund installation of secure entryway vestibules in schools.
Lately I am rethinking my position on School Resource Officers - previously my concern
about the documented negative impact on students of color in discipline matters framed my
thinking. However, principals resoundingly say they need SROs. I am inclined to support
SROs, with on-going training and assessment about how their work is antiracist and focused
on threats - not student discipline matters.
Paul Thomas
First of all, the School Board should review the Memorandum of Understanding with the
police department. School administrators shouldn’t have to deal with major safety issues, but
we also can’t allow our schools to feed a pipeline to prisons. Just as FCPD is developing a
co-responder model, a similar approach can make sense in schools.
Second, we need to be careful about hardening schools into fortresses. Every school has
more entrances than can be reasonably secured. But even if we could secure them all, that
hardening would create barriers to families feeling welcome in our schools.
Finally, the Framework for Safe and Successful Schools was put together by the national
associations for school counselors, school psychologists, and school principals (ASCA,
NASP, NAESP, and NASSP). The framework is quite robust, but staffing, collaboration and a
multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) are at its core.
issue?
Melanie Meren
Public education is in a crisis of losing teachers from the profession. This problem stems from
public opinion and treatment of educators; inadequate teacher preparation programs in colleges
to meet the needs of today’s learners; and finally, working conditions in public schools that
include limited pay due to tax revenue base limitations, the pressure to meet state standards,
and magnified public opinion reflecting a lack of trust for educators.
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April 26, 2023
I have worked to retain our teachers via Board-approved compensation increases with
across-the-division pay raises, and particular increases to bring pay parity to elementary school
principals, special educators, instructional aides, school bus drivers, and substitute teachers. I
just recently voted to approve collective bargaining, giving employment rights to staff for the
first time in Fairfax, ever.
Teachers’ working conditions are students’ learning conditions, and for that reason, I have and
will champion our teachers and instructors as the top critical resource in our public schools.
Paul Thomas
To get and retain great teachers, we need to ensure that FCPS is an attractive employer.
Prospective teachers must look favorably at the pay, support and respect they can expect when
working for FCPS.
We have to review our full compensation packages every year and make sure pay scales are
competitive with surrounding counties. We also need to do a great job of hiring, developing and
supporting our teachers and other school-based staff. When it comes to developing teachers,
we don’t need to start from scratch. For instance, Peer Assistance and Review programs can be
very effective ways to help teachers new to the profession (including career switchers), as well
as more experienced teachers who are looking to improve their skills.
Increased workload is also a major concern. Central Office leaders and the School Board must
consider how every policy change and new program will increase the workload of teachers and
other school-based staff. The School Board also needs to not dump problems on schools; it
must work with school staff to solve problems. Families can help identify and describe
problems, but school-based staff need to be partners in developing solutions that really work.
Central Office needs to provide better guidance to help reduce the burden on school
administrators and create consistent implementation plans and measurements.
If teachers and administrators don’t feel like they have our respect, they will leave FCPS for jobs
that provide them with the respect they deserve.
families?
Melanie Meren
Yes. I began advocating in 2018 for more antiracist, historically accurate and inclusive history
prior to my election to the School Board in 2019. Please see the content here. Once elected, I
convened constituents and collected their input on the proposed standards, in 2021, and
submitted detailed recommendations to the state. I also hosted a town hall about anti-bias
curriculum.
In 2022, I was one of just three School Board Members who defended the community-
supported Teach Truth Resolution for vote by the School Board. I voted against a
weakened version of what passed in its place, in a vote of 8-3.
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April 26, 2023
In 2023, I shared remarks on Martin Luther King Day in Reston. Also already in 2023, the
School Board and Superintendent sent a letter to the state with a detailed analysis as to why
the current proposed standards are egregious, and insulting to the humanity and intellect of
Virginia’s residents - past, current, and future. I continue to speak up and educate my
constituents so together we seek action. And I educate my constituents about upcoming
opportunities to vote - because elections have consequences, as we are so dreadfully
experiencing.
Paul Thomas
Yes, I will commit FCPS to teach history that is factually accurate, inclusive and age
appropriate.
The core strategy for ensuring that our school libraries are excellent is to rely on our
professional school librarians. They understand how to select and contextualize literature and
other resources. The Virginia Association of School Librarians has a framework for diversity
and inclusion, as well as resources that can help librarians implement the framework. FCPS
should lean on this framework as appropriate and staunchly defend our libraries and the
professionals who make them great.
to change?
Melanie Meren
I already have been doing this work while on the School Board.
First, I engage parents by being in places where they are, so we can have dialogues. I also
spend time sharing the Board’s work in an accessible way, largely via my newsletter to
30,000 community members, and the responses I receive are very positive - parents
appreciate better understanding what’s happening in the school division, even if they don’t
have time for deep dives into information.
As Chair of the Board’s Public Engagement Committee, a communications professional, and
a parent of two FCPS students currently, I have worked since 2020 to bring
recommendations to the Board and Superintendent that strengthen FCPS communications to
families. I’ve also worked to increase language translation and interpretation services, as well
as supported Board action to expand the availability and compensation of Family Liaisons.
Finally, regarding book banning: I have combed FCPS policy and regulation to be sure it is
clear in process for challenging materials, and air tight in its protection of the school division’s
commitment to recognizing all of our students’ experiences in our materials, under the law. I
have pledged my allegiance to our expert school librarians who curate collections that help
developing children reach their potential by feeling safe and seen. I have informed parents
about their rights to review curriculum, books, and materials, and I listen to parents who find
certain content inappropriate.
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April 26, 2023
Paul Thomas
Book banning ties back to the previous question about libraries, but goes beyond it as well.
As activists raise concerns about books that are in school libraries and/or taught in our
courses, we must gather accurate information about the instructional context and share the
full truth about when and how controversial literature is being used. As we defend teachers
and librarians, it’s important that we help the community understand the context (including
student choice) for how literature selections are used.
Parents know their students the best. FCPS encourages parents to volunteer in classrooms,
monitor and support their student’s academic progress, and help chart their academic path.
Teachers also rely on families to provide insight into each student’s strengths, challenges and
context.
Expanded parental rights are problematic for several reasons. First, parental control can be at
odds with established policies and procedures, and create unreasonable burdens on
administrators, teachers, and other school staff. Second, parental control is highly inequitable
since those with more time, money, flexibility, language mastery and influence are able to
exercise their voice more and more effectively than those who lack the same resources.
Parents should have access to information on how their student is performing in class and
what is expected. Parents also need to understand school policies and procedures. But
parents should not be able to dictate what is taught nor how a subject is taught.
Melanie Meren
Yes; I voted in support of the School Trust policy in April 2022, and was a steadfast supporter
since it was introduced months prior.
Relatedly, from above, I’ve supported the Truth in Teaching Resolution, advocated for
antiracist social studies standards and content, and worked to have translation and
interpretation services for School Board materials and meetings, respectively.
Further, I support the Equitable Access to Literacy instructional plan, for which the School
Board approved funding for FCPS-wide alignment of curriculum and educator training in the
science of reading instruction. I championed this adoption in FCPS as well as the bi-partisan
Virginia Literacy Act that passed in 2022.
Also, I have sought academic parity among students by using results from Board-directed
studies about advanced academic instruction and twice-exceptional students (“2e”); special
education; and non-core academic instructional offerings, including world language and arts
education, to make funding decisions that expand access to these opportunities.
• If re-elected, I will keep working to provide: Opportunities for students to grapple with
complex topics such as America’s – and especially Virginia’s - undeniable role in
participating in the brutality of slavery as an economic strategy, the implications of
which are still with us today
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April 26, 2023
• Learning environments that reduce and ultimately eradicate bullying and hate speech
– whether spoken or inscribed as vandalism – targeting one’s personal or cultural
identities.
Paul Thomas
Yes, I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies.

One Fairfax is critical because it pushes us to put equity front and center as we develop
policies and review practices. My lived experiences as a Black student, teacher and parent in
FCPS will help me help the rest of the School Board understand and contextualize inequities.
Specific programs that can help us address social inequities starting when students are
young include expanding Early Childhood Education and Head Start programs as well as
other efforts to improve literacy by grade three.
The School Trust policy is also incredibly important because schools can’t function without
earning the trust of families and students.
To address both equity and trust, we also need to engage more effectively with families that
lack the flexibility, financial resources or cultural knowledge to advocate for themselves.
Expanding Community Schools and engaging more robustly with Opportunity Neighborhoods
are two ways to improve this.
I completely support this regulation, and yes, it should remain standard practice. Thus far, I
Melanie Meren
have defended it when confronted by individuals who challenge this regulation. It’s simply a
matter of safety and respect that we have these protections, directives, and guidance in
place.
One course of action is to turn to the curriculum: the more we can educate our students - and
train and support our educators - about the need for the acknowledgement and acceptance of
one’s gender identity and sexual orientation and their individual rights, we will beat down the
hateful core of what threatens us.
Another course of action is to sue the Governor and the state to prevent overturning of our
regulation, and I am ready to recommend and gather support for that among my colleagues,
to direct the Superintendent.
Paul Thomas
I support Policy 2603. Protecting and affirming LGBTQ+ students is critical. The research on
this is clear: using preferred pronouns and names is critical to student mental health and
academic performance.
We encourage students to communicate with their parent/guardian, but it is important that the
school environment be safe and accepting regardless of each student’s family situation.
Navigating family dynamics while supporting students can be tricky (and it’s almost
impossible for parents not to find out), but being student-centered is in their best interests. All
of our students must feel safe and affirmed.
The biggest challenges with Policy 2603 revolve around integrating with other organizations
such as the DMV (e.g., connecting driver’s ed to getting a learner’s permit), College Board
(e.g., test registration) and colleges (e.g., transcripts).
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April 26, 2023
Melanie Meren
Special education services must be integrated into all aspects of learning in FCPS. Special
education is not a siloed experience or offering that can even be the same for each child. I
supported the School Board’s commission of an extensive audit of special education; I
discussed in detail at the 4/11 Board public work session what’s needed for transformation. I
am squarely in the space of creating change for greater access to equitable learning so each
can meet their ability. I’ve supported Board-directed studies about advanced academic
instruction and twice-exceptional students (“2e”), to best inform funding decisions to expand
access.
I will continue working on the Board to hold the Superintendent accountable for strategies
that can help: time for staff planning to accommodate needs; training of staff to understand
how to best instruct students with needs; more strongly-designed Individualized Educational
Plans, that are accessible to the variety of understanding and literacy abilities of our parents
and families.
As a Board Member I approved the creation of a Neurodiversity Specialist position, a unique
position in the US! I also champion the publicly-appointed, state-required Advisory Committee
for Students with Disabilities as a resource for FCPS staff’s work.
Finally, as a parent with current FCPS students who have identified needs, I understand the
experience families, students, and staff are going through. Having the parent’s perspective
plus that of my constituents to inform me about areas for improvement allows me to improve
instruction for our students with identified needs.
Ultimately, decreasing class size will greatly help all students meet their identified needs.
Paul Thomas
First, FCPS should implement the recommendations in the AIR Special Education Audit. We
also need to look at what led us to the Resolution Agreement with the US Department of
Education. The documentation, processes and meetings that are necessitated by the
agreement have created a massive burden on our school-based staff. If we don’t learn from
our mistakes, we run the risk of repeating them.
As with so many issues, much of our ability to provide appropriate supports for special
education students comes down to staffing and training. The teacher shortage is particularly
problematic for special education. Special Ed teachers carry the heaviest load in terms of
curriculum, differentiation and paperwork (IEPS, required meetings, etc.). Combining these
issues creates a perfect storm. We need to create better supports for all Special Ed teachers,
but especially those who are new to the profession.
FCPS needs to address intersectionality for Special Ed. For instance, we need to better
support ELLs who have disabilities and their families who struggle to find and access the
services they need. Having to navigate complex systems and not having resources in native
languages create substantial hurdles that should be addressed.
Generally, we need to listen to families who can help us understand the challenges, and we
need to work closely with Special Education staff to ensure that solutions are effective,
feasible, and sustainable.
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April 26, 2023
Melanie Meren
I approved continued focus on the SRO program, at the 4/11 public work session of the Board. I
am eager to hear about latest research and thinking given the threat of gun violence, as I
shared above in Question #2. Once I understand the data about how SROs are performing in
our schools, I can better recommend next steps for this program. That said:
I do not support SROs being able to arrest students - especially our youngest students.
I do support limiting criminal investigations to serious violent actions that are not suitable for
resolution through the disciplinary process.
Much of the authority of SROs lies in state code. I have advocated to the General Assembly for
such changes, including limiting school staff, such as principals/administrators, with the
responsibility of defining criminal activity.
Paul Thomas
The School Board should review the Memorandum of Understanding with the police
department. School administrators shouldn’t have to deal with major safety issues, but we also
can’t allow our schools to feed a pipeline to prisons. Just as FCPD is developing a co-responder
model, a similar approach can make sense in schools.
Communication between FCPS and FCPD needs to be better, and that needs to start with the
MOU.
Yes, I would support limiting criminal investigations, though I would need to talk with various
stakeholders (e.g., FCPD, FCPS, equity-focused community members) to determine exactly
where those lines should be drawn.
Melanie Meren
First, the JET goals are now adopted as FCPS Board Directives, due in part to my vote.
Second, I am working to help establish a Policy Governance model by which the
Superintendent’s evaluation will be measured publicly, in accordance with our policies. This will
ensure the Board is up-to-date on progress and needs.
Also, due to my work now on the Board's Governance Committee, the Superintendent is
conducting a holistic review of all transportation and facilities policies. Many policies have not
met their required 5-year review over the tenure of previous Boards, and furthermore, have not
been reviewed in totality to ensure alignment across the CIP, JET Goals, and budget
investments. I have also:
1. Championed Net-Zero design standards for all-new buildings, and Net-Zero-ready for
renovations, into adoption.
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April 26, 2023
2. Voted to adopt contracts to use renewable energy, including installing solar on schools
and increasing electric school buses in the fleet.
3. Ensuring cross-division alignment and implementation with environmental protection
and sustainability goals - through the current holistic review of all transportation and
facilities in which I’m participating.
4. Brought the planning and over $6 million in budgeted funds forward to install safe and
accessible outdoor classrooms to spec in all FCPS schools, plus teacher training! This
is important for students to learn the STEM content needed to go into green careers that
will combat climate change, and to encourage environmental stewardship to conserve
and protect the environment.
5. Advised individual schools on creating sustainable practices and fostering
environmental education programs, particularly to advance the FCPS’ Get2Green
curriculum.
Paul Thomas
I will work to ensure that FCPS meets the recommendations in the JET Report. Some of the
energy, solid waste/recycling and transportation goals are perhaps aspirational, but are still
important targets to which we should aim and move.
a) Plans to implement solar on schools have encountered some speed bumps as the economic
landscape has changed, but we need to get back on track and move forward.
b) Our schools need to continue finding ways to reduce waste including moving more paper to
electronic delivery and using recyclable and compostable materials in cafeterias.
c) I need to learn more about the feasibility and costs associated with transitioning FCPS’s
1,600-bus fleet to electric.
d) Creating more safe walking and biking paths to schools can help reduce the size of our bus
fleet and emissions as well.
Melanie Meren
I support dedicated funding for career and technical education (CTE), and programs for the
music and arts - absolutely!
Please see this compilation about my support of and work to expand CTE opportunities and
needs, published in my December 2022 newsletter.
Most recently, I am now advocating to right-size the stipends for our secondary school music
and performing arts educators. This was born out of direct advocacy to me, by educators
evidence that I am a trusted partner for educators who seek to advocate for their needs. You
can hear my remarks from the March 30 public School Board meeting, here.
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April 26, 2023
Paul Thomas
I need to break this up a bit.
First of all, we need dedicated and increased funding for technical and vocational education.
This includes helping students connect to apprenticeships, certifications, and other pathways
that do not require college. Connecting to programs like the WISH center at Hybla Valley can
help students stay engaged in school and find solid careers. We also need to work to
destigmatize these pathways.
Athletics, music and the arts are critical aspects of well-rounded students. Of these, athletics
seems to have the most robust funding already. When I compare funding for sports coaches
with that provided for co- and extracurricular art and music (especially on a per-student basis), I
think that we need to look at leveling the field a bit (no pun intended).
Melanie Meren
I do not support approving a public charter school in this political climate. Charter schools are
intended to be incubators of change; however, history - such as in Washington, DC - has shown
that the schools rarely repeat their best practices and gains to bring more change about. With
the political climate being so unsupportive of public schools, I will not support additional
measures to further remove investments and resources from established public schools into
new schools run by a charter organization. I continue to advocate against constitutional
changes in Virginia regarding expansion of charter schools.
Paul Thomas
Public funds must not be used for private education.

I’m not aware of any legislative changes that the GA would need to enact to ensure this. Virginia
has VERY few charter schools because the process is cumbersome. Plus, only school districts
can establish a charter school – not the state. As long as this stays the case, I think FCPS will
be ok on this front.
If there were a proposal for a lab school:
a) In partnership with GMU or NOVA,
b) Targeting at-risk students, and
c) With staff that are FCPS employees with full union rights.
Then I might consider supporting it. Public education must not be for profit and must center
equity.
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April 26, 2023
Melanie Meren
I have sat through hundreds of School Board meetings over the past 4 years - and having
missed only a handful - I can attest that indeed, meetings have become disruptive and lacking
in civility.
I’d like the Board to be stronger in rejecting hate speech and mischaracterization of groups of
people, like our Queer folx, during public comments at Board meetings. Allowing public
speakers to refer to individuals or a whole group of people as “groomers” or “pedophiles” is
uncivil, hurtful, and dangerous - it desensitizes the public to the harm such true actors bring.
And then this language gets recorded and shared. A change could be worked on by the Public
Engagement Committee, to bring forth stronger policy on this matter.
I have persevered in this role since 2020. I have endured making decisions regarding a global
public health pandemic; international cyberterrorism attacks; legal suits being heard in local
courts and the U.S. Supreme Court. On this Board, I’ve sued the Governor for the
constitutionally-provided right of a School Board for local control, such as our right to decide on
requiring masks in our buildings. I voted to change the admissions policy to the most visible
high school in the nation, drawing the ire and legal attacks of the Governor, Attorney General,
and right-wing-funded opposition. I seek to remain in this role to continue my defense of public
education in this hostile political environment, and to reaffirm the necessity and value of public
education.
Balancing civility with allowing public input and free speech is not easy. The best a Board
member can do is:
Paul Thomas
● Listen to public input (take notes and try to find helpful insights and patterns),
● Resist the urge to respond immediately to public input, and
● Be civil in our discourse.
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April 26, 2023
MASON DISTRICT
Did Not Respond: Ricardy Anderson
* * * * *
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April 26, 2023
MOUNT VERNON DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Mateo Dunne

Did Not Respond: Harold Sims
To support the mental health of our students, I will advocate for:

Mateo Dunne
● The County to fund a dedicated school nurse at every elementary, middle, and high school;
● Hiring additional school counselors, with a minimum of one school counselor for every 200
students;
● Establishment (and consistent implementation across schools) of effective protocols for
anxiety, depression, and other conditions;
● Maintaining regulations and School Board policies that protect and support LGBTQ+ students;
● A comprehensive anti-bullying, anti-sexual assault, and anti-violence education campaign for
students, featuring facilitated small-group discussions by school counselors;
● Provision of intervention and counseling for kids at risk;
● The State and County to fund treatment on demand for kids at risk;
● Establishment and expansion of restorative justice practices for repairing harm and restoring
relationships; and
● Establishment and expansion of peer support programs in elementary schools, middle
schools, and high schools.
Mateo Dunne
The Federal Government and the Commonwealth of Virginia should enact legislation to restrict
the sale, distribution, and ownership of weapons, ammunition, and accessories that are
designed or intended for use on the battlefield.
In the absence of effective gun control legislation at the Federal and State levels, and to
safeguard our children from internal and external threats, I will advocate for:
● The installation of efficient and non-invasive security screening technology (such as
Evolv Technology) at every school entrance to identify weapons and other threats;
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April 26, 2023
● Installation of high-technology video cameras throughout school buildings, supported by

machine-learning and artificial intelligence to identify potential threats;
● A security survey to be conducted of every elementary, middle, and high school;
● A renewed emphasis on school security in the design and renovation of school buildings,
to include reduced building footprints;
● Reinforcement of entryways to school buildings, to include but not limited to vestibules;
● Joint coordination and planning by FCPD and FCPS (to include tabletop and real-world
exercises) to ensure preparedness for every scenario; and
● Efficient (and continuous) background checks for school personnel and volunteers.
In addition, I will advocate for an independent study of the FCPD School Resource Officer
program and FCPS Safety & Security Assistant program to evaluate their efficacy, outcomes,
and staffing.
issue?
Mateo Dunne
To address the local teacher shortage, I will advocate for FCPS to:
● Honor teachers as professionals;
● Hire additional teachers to reduce class sizes;
● Provide teachers with the highest pay in Northern Virginia;
● Empower teachers to educate our children instead of teaching to the test;
● Conduct an independent study of the administrative burdens imposed on teachers;
● Ensure every teacher has full use of their planning time, without infringement by
administrative burdens and meetings;
● Establish additional time (separate from planning time) for collaboration within and across
departments; and
● Assign school counselors (instead of math and history teachers) to teach subject matter like
Family Life Education and Social Emotional Learning.
Through the negotiation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, FCPS should seek to:
● Establish a career ladder that provides teachers with opportunities for advancement inside the
classroom as well as increased compensation, recognition, and responsibilities;
● Establish financial incentives for experienced teachers to teach (and remain) in Title I schools;
● Establish a tuition reimbursement program to reward teachers who remain with FCPS for 7
years; and
● Ensure full reimbursement for any school supplies purchased by teachers out of pocket.
In addition, FCPS should work with the County to identify opportunities to expand workforce
housing available to teachers and staff. I strongly believe that public servants—from teachers
and custodians to police and firefighters—who work daily to maintain the quality of life in
Fairfax County should have the option to live in Fairfax County with their families.
I would also advocate for an independent evaluation of the needs-based staffing formula to
determine if adjustments are required to provide additional teachers for students in need.
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April 26, 2023
families?
I will fight tooth and nail, day in and day out, to ensure that students in Fairfax County are
Mateo Dunne
taught history that is factually accurate, inclusive, and age appropriate. On March 14, 2023, I
spoke in opposition to Gov. Youngkin’s proposed revisions to the History and Social Science
Standards of Learning at the VDOE hearing at Mount Vernon. I believe that his proposed
revisions promote rote memorization rather than critical thinking. In addition, his proposed
revisions distort history by minimizing the historical achievements and contributions of women,
African Americans, Asian Americans, Indigenous Americans, and labor unions.
I oppose book bans. I will work tirelessly to ensure that students have access to literature that is
inclusive and age appropriate.
to change?
Mateo Dunne
Parents are responsible for the education of their children. By law, they have the right to
educate their children at home, at a private school, or at a public school.
I believe that the School Board needs to:
● Listen to students, parents, and community members;
● Focus on renewing the promise of public education and providing all children with a world-
class education; and
● Ensure that FCPS is transparent and accountable.
I oppose book bans. I will work tirelessly to ensure that students have access to literature that is
inclusive and age appropriate.
I support the One Fairfax policy and the School Trust policy.
Mateo Dunne
FCPS must confront the stubborn reality that:

● Many children do not have enough food to eat at home, especially on weekends and during
the summer;
● Many children have parents who are new to this country and may not have received the same
educational opportunities in their home country;
● Many children suffer from health issues ranging from anxiety and depression to drugs and
trauma; and
● There is a persistent academic achievement gap.
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April 26, 2023
Here is what I believe:

● FCPS should provide a safe and inclusive environment for every child;
● FCPS should provide a world-class education to every child, so they have the opportunity to
realize the American Dream;
● FCPS should never compromise on high expectations and high standards;
● FCPS should provide every child with the opportunity to identify and develop their interests
and strengths; and
● FCPS should provide wraparound services for every child in need to help them realize their
full potential.
We must meet every child where they are and provide them with the resources to be successful
inside and outside of the classroom and to be prepared for the workforce or higher education. I
will be relentless in challenging FCPS to be more efficient and effective, to meet the needs of
every child, and to ensure every school is performing in accordance with this essential mission.
Mateo Dunne
I will advocate to maintain regulations and School Board policies that protect and support
LGBTQ+ students–the strongest in Virginia. I will also advocate for (i) the construction of
accessible and gender-neutral bathrooms at every elementary school, middle school, and high
school; and (ii) the construction of accessible and gender-neutral locker rooms and showers at
every middle school and high school.
I believe that the School Board needs to focus on renewing the promise of public education and
Mateo Dunne
ensuring that FCPS provides all children with a world-class education, to include children with
disabilities. Towards this end, I support the full implementation of the 2021 Special Education
Audit, specifically the recommendations outlined in Exhibit 37 on pages 122 to 132.
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April 26, 2023
In 2018, I played a leading role in the negotiation of a new MOU between FCPD and FCPS,
Mateo Dunne
which clarified the roles and responsibilities of School Resource Officers (SROs). Under the
MOU, SROs have no involvement in school discipline.
I will advocate for an independent study of the FCPD School Resource Officer program and
FCPS Safety & Security Assistant program to evaluate their efficacy, outcomes, and staffing.
I will work tirelessly to eliminate the school-to-prison pipeline, which has caused incalculable
damage to minority families and communities. I believe that SROs should be encouraged to
pursue alternative solutions before making an arrest, such as restorative justice or Diversion
First. However, I believe that SROs should have the discretion to make an arrest if necessary.
The JET goals are a starting point, but we can do better. I support the existing goals because
Mateo Dunne
they are better than nothing, but they are also unsatisfactory.
I believe using the 2019 baseline is a mistake. I believe that every climate agreement and policy
should utilize 1990 levels as the baseline from which to measure reductions. Emissions in 2019
were approximately 4 percent higher than in 1990 (source: EPA, “Inventory of U.S. Greenhouse
Gas Emissions and Sinks”), so using 2019 levels represents the de facto acceptance of
emissions at a higher level.
I believe that the goals are not aggressive enough. I believe that FCPS should aim for “net zero”
by 2030. Having worked in the energy sector for 15 years, I know that rapid gains are readily
achievable, often at lower cost than expected. It only takes the political will to establish the
goals, establish a clear plan with SMART milestones, and ensure their implementation.
I believe that FCPS should hold the Superintendent accountable by developing SMART
milestones to be incorporated into her performance standards, and instructing the
Superintendent to hold regional Superintendents accountable via the same method. Linking
performance to milestone delivery will ensure that the school administrators have a vested
interest in achieving these milestones.
FCPS does not have a strong track record when it comes to meeting environmental
commitments. The real expertise lies outside the four walls of Gatehouse and Willow Oaks
where the FCPS bureaucracy resides. FCPS should utilize public-private partnerships and
outside contractors to accelerate the realization of the net zero goals. Without specifying a
preferred approach, FCPS should publish a request for information to solicit proposals from the
private sector on how net zero could be achieved by 2030. For example, there are many
companies that specialize in the installation and leasing of utility equipment, to include solar
panels. Given the potential dollar value of this contract, FCPS would attract a wide range of
ideas and bidders, which would offer FCPS the opportunity to partner with an outside company
that will provide the necessary expertise and services at low or reduced cost to FCPS.
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April 26, 2023
Through Career and Technical Education, two of my children discovered a passion for military
Mateo Dunne
service. One is enrolled in the Army ROTC program at Virginia Tech, and the other has enlisted
in the Virginia National Guard.
I will advocate for:
● The establishment and expansion of dual enrollment programs, so students can graduate
from high school with an associate degree;
● The establishment and expansion of Career and Technical Education at every middle school
and high school;
● The establishment and expansion of apprenticeship programs with local businesses;
● The establishment and expansion of certification programs with local businesses to enable
students to graduate from high school with certifications required to apply for diverse jobs; and
● Continued dialogue with local businesses to ensure that the FCPS CTE curriculum is
responsive to the needs of the private sector and is preparing students for immediate entry into
the workforce.
I oppose the establishment of charter schools in Virginia.

Mateo Dunne
I oppose the use of public funds for private education.
First, the School Board needs to listen to students, parents, and community members.
Mateo Dunne
Second, the School Board needs to focus on renewing the promise of public education and
ensuring that FCPS provides all children with a world-class education.
Third, School Board members should ensure that FCPS is transparent and accountable.
To rebuild public trust, I will:
● Consult with the community early and often;
● Listen to community concerns and priorities;
● Learn about the needs of different families and students as well as administrators, teachers,
and staff; and
● Serve as an effective advocate for community concerns and priorities.
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April 26, 2023
PROVIDENCE DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Karl Frisch

Did Not Respond: Anthony Sabio
Fairfax County Public Schools recently began offering all high school students free virtual
Karl Frisch
mental health services through Hazel Health. The school system should investigate expanding
access to these free virtual counseling services to all middle school students and all staff.
Additionally, educators need more self-directed planning time.
To help prevent burnout and encourage mental wellness, we should also explore creating a
voluntary leave bank under which staff may voluntarily contribute unused accrued annual leave
for use by another employee who is experiencing a personal or family medical emergency and
has exhausted their available accrued leave.
When it comes to bullying, our response cannot be generic bromides encouraging civility.
Instead, we should NAME IT when it happens. For example, if an LGBTQIA+ student is bullied
because of their orientation or identity, the response cannot be telling the bully they need to be
nice. They must be led to understand there is nothing wrong with being LGBTQIA+ and that we
do not tolerate bigotry against anyone, including LGBTQIA+ students and staff.
We must also take our anti-bullying work a step further and create school environments where
bullying is less likely to happen because our schools and school system lead by example and
celebrate students and staff from often marginalized communities, treating them respectfully.
Karl Frisch
Gun violence prevention has been among my top priorities on the School Board. Over the past
three years, I have:
• Sponsored the successful policy closing the gun-ban loophole, extending school gun
prohibitions to ALL school division property, including non-instructional facilities like Gatehouse,
where the Superintendent, division staff, and the School Board are located.
• Co-sponsored the successful proposal to notify parents annually about ways to prevent gun
violence and their legal obligation to store their firearms securely. We know most people do not
secure their guns, and most school shooters use guns from their homes.
• Sponsored changes to our legislative program (the issues we lobby lawmakers on in
Richmond and Washington) to include our clear support for gun violence prevention measures
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April 26, 2023
that keep our students, families, and staff safe.

• Supported the successful effort to fully fund security vestibule construction at our
remaining schools that did not have these more-secure dual entrances that allow for
enhanced screening of those entering school buildings.
We must also empower educators and law enforcement to respond to potential signs of
violence. We should lean into evidence-based crisis intervention programs to recognize and
support students in crisis, evidence-based school security upgrades, and trauma-informed
emergency planning protocols. Additionally, we must actively address discipline disparities for
students of color or with disabilities in this work.
issue?
First and foremost, I was proud to sponsor our successful collective bargaining resolution,
Karl Frisch
which finally gave teachers and other staff a seat at the decision-making table. This initiative
followed my effort three years earlier to sponsor the School Board’s decision to abandon its
decades-long opposition to collective bargaining and put the weight of our school system’s
lobbyist behind the ultimately successful Virginia General Assembly legislation allowing public
employees to pursue these fundamental rights.
We must also increase support for our Teachers for Tomorrow program, encouraging our
diverse FCPS students to become educators and offering them contracts if they return to our
schools to teach when they graduate. Additionally, we need a top-to-bottom reimagining of how
we build our talent pipelines and pools for new teachers AND administrators, maximizing efforts
to attract teachers from underrepresented and historically marginalized communities.
Finally, I am grateful we have increased pay for teachers and other staff over the past two years
(with a third on the way). Still, we must get creative to help them put more money in their
pockets -- from additional pay increases and better benefits to help with student loan
forgiveness and more competitive stipends for extra work. Focusing on pay and workplace
climate can change the conversation around teaching and improve hiring and retention.
families?
I was proud of our School Board’s detailed response to Governor Youngkin’s misguided attacks
Karl Frisch
on Virginia’s history and social science standards of learning. In no uncertain terms, we told the
Governor and his Virginia Department of Education that their proposed changes would deny
students from receiving history and social science instruction that prioritizes critical thinking,
historical accuracy, diverse perspectives, and developmental appropriateness.
I will continue championing staff efforts to ensure literature taught and available in school
libraries is age-appropriate and representative of our diverse community and that history taught
is also age-appropriate, factually accurate, and inclusive. As an aside, I was proud to cosponsor
the successful establishment of a joint historical markers contest with the Board of
Supervisors to help students discover and elevate local African American history. I will continue
looking for creative opportunities to showcase the rich diversity of our community.
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to change?
Karl Frisch
More than 1,600 books have been banned in public schools nationwide over the past year. I am
proud to report our School Board banned ZERO, refusing to back down in the face of often
bigoted attacks directed at our educators and librarians. We should handle the availability of
reading materials precisely as we currently do: relying on seasoned professional librarians and
educators to select age-appropriate, diverse, and inclusive reading materials for students. When
someone formally objects to student reading materials, we have a clear process for considering
such complaints, which relies on the experience of school administrators and librarians.
Too often, public schools are attacked in the name of parental involvement when they simply
refuse to kowtow to fringe political ideologies, conspiracy theories, and efforts to undermine
public education. The truth is Fairfax County Public Schools and our School Board actively
encourage the involvement of all parents and guardians. Rather than catering to the loudest
voices, our school system should work harder to hear the perspectives of a statistically
significant cross-section of our families. For my part, I will continue appointing diverse
parent/guardian voices to Citizen Advisory Committees to help shape the Board's work and
bring valuable insight to our deliberations.
Yes, I support the One Fairfax and School Trust policies. To bolster these commitments, I will
Karl Frisch
support creating a robust equity policy that insists on policy and regulatory alignment with our
values, funding decisions that advance our equity goals, and dismantling systemic barriers to
success for students from historically marginalized communities.
I was proud to co-sponsor the School Trust Policy, which protects the personally identifiable
information of students and families and prohibits voluntary cooperation with immigration
enforcement officials. It was an honor working with families, students, and community
stakeholders to advance the policy, which makes clear that our schools are only in the business
of educating students and that all families are welcome to take advantage of everything we
have to offer as a premier, world-class school system.
To meet the needs of English language learners, we must provide additional intensive supports
that ensure English language proficiency and, ultimately, mastery. We must also increase
investments in translation and interpretation services, more multilingual family liaisons, and
efforts to ease transitions and close gaps for students with limited or interrupted formal
education. All efforts to close gaps must be measured regularly for success and receive the
funding necessary to produce desired results.
We also must appreciate that the School Board is not operational in its focus. It is our
responsibility to define policies and set expectations for the Superintendent. Part of that work
should entail clear metrics of success for the Superintendent around meeting the needs of
students facing racial and social inequities and ensuring we provide adequate funding to
accomplish the Superintendent’s resulting plan. Finally, the School Board must measure
success and consider these issues during the Superintendent’s annual evaluation.
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their gender identity and sexual orientation and does not authorize
schools to share this information without their permission. Do you believe this should remain standard
practice in FCPS?
As the first out LGBTQIA+ local elected official in Fairfax County and the only out gay man
Karl Frisch
serving on a School Board in Virginia, these issues are personal.

I helped write R2603, which provides transgender and gender-expansive students with the most
robust protections and supports in Virginia and the region. Furthermore, I authored
amendments to our Student Rights and Responsibilities explicitly identifying the rights of
transgender and gender-expansive students, including prohibiting malicious deadnaming,
misgendering, and outing – a first for any school division in Virginia.
When Governor Youngkin announced his illegal attempt to undermine protections for
transgender and gender-expansive students, I was a leading voice on the School Board,
internally and externally, for our announcement that we would continue enforcing R2603 and
would never abandon our LGBTQIA+ students, staff, and families.
I will continue fighting to protect and strengthen R2603. If we must defend our regulations or
policies in court, I will work to do so aggressively. I will also continue working to put the lobbying
weight of our school division behind efforts to advance legislation in Richmond and Washington
that protect and affirm the dignity of LGBTQIA+ people.
In addition to my work around R2603 and inclusive libraries, I sponsored the successful
proposal allowing LGBTQIA+ alumni who change their names to receive new diplomas,
sponsored successful changes to Family Life Education to include representation of LGBTQIA+
families, sponsored the school division’s first recognition of Pride Month, and sponsored the
successful proposal extending family planning benefits to LGBTQIA+ employees.
No one should be forced to become an amateur paralegal to help their child receive a free and
Karl Frisch
appropriate public education. The school division must collaborate with families and
stakeholders to fully implement the American Institutes of Research recommendations resulting
from the School Board-commissioned comprehensive audit of special education services.
Studies demonstrate inclusive education improves outcomes for all students. Therefore, our
school system must vigorously interrogate all practices that serve to exclude students receiving
special education services and work to make them fundamentally inclusive. We must also
expand explicit instruction and appropriate programming to meet the needs of twice-exceptional
students and English learners with disabilities.
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We also need a more consistent use of Universal Design for Learning for curriculum and
programming, explicit and differentiated instruction, and robust partnerships with families and
caregivers, especially in local screening, IEP and 504 processes, and transition supports
between grade levels and when exiting the school system.
Additionally, we must review academic curriculum to make sure it meets the diverse needs of
students with disabilities. For example, many parents and guardians believe our Family Life
Education curriculum fails students receiving special education services because it is not
designed using a neurodiversity lens to increase efficacy.
Everything we do must promote a strengths-focused culture of neurodiversity.
The school division should examine its current Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the
Karl Frisch
Fairfax County Police Department to assess if past changes have had the impact initially
desired. Additionally, it should undertake every effort to make sure school resource officers
(SRO) enhance school safety and security, that SROs have sufficient professional
development, and that administrators and SROs clearly understand what SROs do and do not
do in our schools.
I would also be interested in investigating FCPD’s emerging co-responder model of policing to
determine if such a framework could be translated for implementation in our school system.
Finally, we should do everything possible to disrupt the school-to-prison pipeline. That does not
mean ignoring serious or violent offenses but mitigating behavioral issues within our school
system wherever possible.
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First, I was proud to serve as one of two School Board representatives on the Joint
Karl Frisch
Environmental Task Force (JET) and to co-sponsor the Board’s historic approval of the JET’s
various recommendations guiding the school division and county to a zero waste and carbon
neutral future by 2030 and 2040, respectively.
We must avoid our inclination to call the JET’s report “goals” or “recommendations.” The School
Board adopted these “recommendations” making them “directives” the Superintendent must
carry out. To that end, we need a clearer picture of how we will ultimately achieve these
directives. The School Board should direct the Superintendent to develop an operational,
strategic plan for meeting the Board’s JET expectations, with an annual report updating the
Board on progress. Furthermore, part of the Superintendent’s annual performance evaluation
should include an assessment of their implementation of this plan. If the Superintendent needs
more money or staff to meet these expectations, various options for funding must be presented
to the School Board for consideration.
The FCPS curriculum includes ample opportunities to connect to environmental stewardship
and the JET directives across grade levels. Unfortunately, it is my understanding that a
meaningful focus on climate change does not appear in the science curriculum until fifth grade. I
would support reviewing the current science curriculum to introduce age-appropriate information
about climate change in earlier grades. The review should also ensure current curriculum
instruction aligns with modern best practices and that students are educated about the history of
industry-backed misinformation around climate change to help them separate fact from fiction
as they encounter climate change news and information outside school.
We have excellent career and technical education programs in Fairfax County Public Schools,
Karl Frisch
but unfortunately, the availability of these programs is not equitable or consistent from school to
school. We must do a better job of making sure the promise of our academy and career
programs is available to all students – especially those from historically underrepresented or
marginalized communities.
In addition to creating new career pathway programs targeting the green economy and other
emerging job markets, we should partner with local trade unions to develop additional student
apprenticeship opportunities.
Finally, our work to educate families and students about these programs must begin in
elementary school and continue throughout their time in our school system. We must work to
make our career and technical education programs and academies as exciting in the eyes of
students as other post-graduation options.
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We have world-class public schools in Fairfax County. Instead of redirecting scarce tax dollars
to charter schools, laboratory schools, or so-called “school choice” efforts, the Governor and
Karl Frisch
Virginia General Assembly should prioritize fixing school funding formulas that disadvantage
Fairfax County Public Schools, costing us millions of dollars every year. We must oppose any
use of tax dollars that diminish the authority of local School Boards, lower standards, or replace
student-educating motivations with profit-making motivations.
As I have discussed with several School Board colleagues and candidates in recent weeks, the
School Board’s Public Engagement Committee should work with the Office of Safety and
Security (OSS) and the Office of Communications and Community Relations (OCCR) to study
the way school divisions across the country conduct School Board meetings and public
Karl Frisch
comment to develop a list of best practices and recommendations for bolstering civility and
fostering transparency. While there is nothing we can do to change the approach of bad actors
(per counsel, we have a limited legal ability to cut public comment speakers off), School Board
members must lead by example and set clear expectations for behavior at meetings.
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SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Sandy Anderson

Did Not Respond: Debra Tisler
I currently work as a federal contractor supporting two DoD youth programs, one of which
Sandy Anderson
specifically focuses on helping 16–18-year-olds at-risk of not graduating from high school
achieve a stronger start in life. Through my work with this nationwide program, I know the
mental health impacts prevalent throughout our country are greatly impacting our children. Our
contract provides training for the staff working with our teenagers, and we employ counselors to
support these students while they are in residence with us. These employees wear many hats
that echo our FCPS counselors: academic counselors that help navigate graduation
requirements, mental health counselors to support students’ emotional wellbeing, and job
counselors to help students navigate what happens after graduation. These are just three of the
tasks our counselors are facilitating; there are certainly more.
So many of our staff members carry the burden of a multitude of requirements necessary to
ensure FCPS is successful, and ultimately, our students are supported when our staff is.
Because staff working conditions are our students’ learning conditions, we need to do better,
particularly in our post-Covid world. As I watch FCPS embrace the new Hazel Health telehealth
initiative, I am eager to explore other solutions that would support staff while providing further
benefit to our students.
Sandy Anderson
School safety is at the forefront of every parent’s mind in today’s climate. I stand with the 92% of
our population (regardless of political affiliation) that believes strongly that we must do something
about guns in our country to ensure schools are safe environments for our children. I stand with
those demanding action to create safer laws related to guns.
I also stand with those seeking to provide the mental health support to those people that see
mass violence as an answer before they have a chance to act on their misguided impulses. I am
committed to do everything possible to create policies and provide adequate funding to those
programs meant to keep our schools a safe place for our children to learn and grow.
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Specifically for FCPS buildings, I would like to know more about school safety assessments and
steps that have been taken to determine potential problem areas, such as ensuring schools have
vestibules in place, to determine specific actions that can be taken within school buildings to
immediately keep our kids safe.
issue?
We cannot solve the problem of staff leaving teaching without asking them why, and we must
Sandy Anderson
look at attrition across all our staff to address this critical need. These conversations cannot wait
until exit interviews; we need to have these critical conversations now. Even harder, we must
listen to the answers with fresh eyes and enthusiasm for the task ahead.
Throughout my campaign, I am committed to engage with teachers and listen to their concerns.
None of the solutions to this crisis are likely easy or inexpensive, but if we can find the one that
unlocks the answers, the payoff will be worth the investment.
families?
Sandy Anderson
As a former college instructor, I have encountered hundreds of students that had vastly different
viewpoints than mine. My goal was never to brainwash my students or even change their minds.
All I ever encouraged students to do was examine their ideas through research from all sides of a
topic. Throughout my education, including as a high school student at Lake Braddock Secondary, I
had this approach modeled for me by countless teachers, and this is the approach that must be
allowed to persist in our current classrooms.
Our staff must retain the ability to help students engage with those hard moments from our past, at
age-appropriate times, to help students see why our country’s ideals are still worth fighting for.
That doesn’t come from shamefully hiding the parts of our history that don’t align with an idealized
view of what our country should be.
Books are one more way for students to explore the world through one author’s vantage point. As
an avid reader that enjoys a plethora of genres, I support access to books of all varieties to meet
the needs and interest areas of all our students, both in and out of the classroom. I have been a
Review Committee Member for the library at my sons’ elementary school for many years, and I
believe expanding these programs to have local community members talk about books in question
is an amazing approach to ensure the voice of the minority doesn’t drown out everyone else.
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to change?
I have been on the Parent Teacher Organization Board at my sons’ elementary school for the last
Sandy Anderson
seven years, the last five as president. I strongly believe parent involvement in education is
essential to student success; however, engagement does not equate to control. We need to let
teachers teach. We need to trust in the expertise of these trained professionals, and those that
disagree with an aspect of the curriculum should continue to be able to opt out their children.
However, the call for expanded parental rights comes from a place of fear, and “mad” is easier
than all other emotions. That is usually a clue for me to lean in. As a member of the School Board,
I am committed to listen to all constituents in my district and provide as much clarity to the
choices being made by FCPS as possible.
The essence behind the 2017 One Fairfax policy is that “we all do better, when we all do better,”
Sandy Anderson
a sentiment that is absolutely applicable for our schools. While the process implemented by the
One Fairfax policy is not linear, work has been done regarding creating a shared language of
analysis and definitions amongst key stakeholders and leaders throughout the county in the years
since. That has been evident in language schools are using while communicating with parents,
like me, which shows the internal infrastructure we are working toward in FCPS is happening.
This framework is not a process that will necessarily have a definitive end. In order to see the
growth we are looking for, we need to keep using the skills we have acquired to eliminate
unequitable practices throughout our division, and we need to ensure that our measures of
success are not the same for every student. In that regard, we have good work left to do.
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Sandy Anderson
As a college instructor for 14 years, I had a clear vantage point of watching students learn and
examine who they were going to be, particularly when those decisions put themselves at odds
with their parents’ beliefs. This is an uncomfortable position for parents to be in if they don’t
understand that this is an important part of their children’s development.
R2603 gives students the space in our schools to safely navigate these issues in a non-stigmatizing
environment. I believe that as long as there is no threat of harm, we should defend
this space for students. Obviously, it would be ideal if students could work through these
moments with the support of their families; however, that is not always possible at first.
You do not have to do much research to understand that R2603 is going to continue to be under
attack by our current Governor, who has misunderstood parent involvement in our schools with
proposed parental control of our school system. It seems he is only proposing parental control for
parents that agree with his approach to education. Therefore, again, our School Board and
Superintendent will have to work together to ensure that we can help protect schools to be safe
places for students to examine who they are, intellectually and personally.
Our nation’s renewed focus on transgender issues should not impact something that has been
working for Fairfax County. I see no need to reintroduce segregation into any aspect of our
schools and would oppose repeal or undermining of this regulation in whatever form it takes.
Sandy Anderson
My children do not receive Special Education services; therefore, this is an area I am actively
pursuing more information about. I hope to engage with those advocates within FCPS to ensure
that I best understand the scope of the problem and the desires of the families involved.
My preliminary investigations related to frustration with the services and education to these
families reveal issues such as the need for IEP reciprocity for military families moving into our
area to ensure students receive the services they need as quickly as possible, equity within
services available from school to school, and anything FCPS can do to streamline, simplify, and
add clarity to the process. I would love to know if there are school systems across the country
that are doing better than we are and what we can do to get to where they are.
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April 26, 2023
In our current climate related to the mental health of our students, our goal should be to provide
Sandy Anderson
as many trusted adults as possible in our schools that our students know they can depend on.
The SRO should absolutely be one of those people, which is hard to maintain if they can arrest
students, particularly for lower-level offenses. Our SROs should continue their important roles of
facilitating interactions between these two Fairfax County agencies: FCPS and FCPD. SROs
should hold and transfer students to FCPD when needed, they should be honest with students
about their role within the schools, and they should work to gain the trust of the students in their
schools.
Sandy Anderson
I would ensure that the Fairfax County School Board and the FCPS Superintendent continued an
open dialogue about the status of JET directives and addressed shortcomings. Communication
about barriers to success is one way to keep everyone aligned. The School Board should also
address how the Superintendent will be held accountable to focus on the JET goals.
I am eager to learn more about the current plan to implement the JET objectives particularly
regarding the equity component. All too often, these types of initiatives are successful in their
inception without hope of bringing them to fruition, particularly in light of current staff turnover.
A result that is truly unacceptable when the topic is this significant to our shared future.
In a county as large as Fairfax, it is reassuring as a citizen to see these two major initiatives, JET
and One Fairfax, overlap. This is the type of collaboration between our governing bodies intended
by the One Fairfax policy, and the equity lens included in the JET goals illustrates a commitment
toward action. As decisions are made about how to work toward achieving the JET goals, the One
Fairfax Lens of equity should be at the forefront. Title I and highly diverse schools should continue
to be assessed for viability related to pilot programs and initial applications of sustainable
practices.
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April 26, 2023
Sandy Anderson
As a college instructor that saw these students in every classroom I ever taught in, I agree
completely that college is not an appropriate path for every student, particularly directly out of
high school. Other technical and vocational options are vital for those students seeking
successful careers.
There are amazing organizations throughout the country helping with this work to rebuild skilled
workers in a variety of job fields. FCPS does not have to be the sole solution to this problem for
our students; however, we must ensure that the ambassadors of this information are readily
available for students and their families. In a division as large as ours, it is easy for information
about opportunities to get lost, and we must work to ensure the equitable distribution of this
information.
Sandy Anderson
Adequate funding impacts everything from staff retention to the availability of the special
programs that make our schools desired throughout the country. Public dollars must stay with
public schools, and the state should provide an adequate source of funding for all the counties
throughout the commonwealth. As funding from the state is called into question, the Fairfax
County School Board needs to be ready to justify and maximize our public tax dollars for public
education, and I stand ready to take on this important task.
Sandy Anderson
The only person that I can control related to civility is myself. I will absolutely make a
commitment to conduct myself in a professional, collegial manner. I also make a personal
commitment to fight for open communication focused on clarity, not just transparency. With so
many voices in Fairfax County, we may not always agree, and there are likely going to be
unintended consequences of decisions that will have some members of our community feeling
upset. I would rather those people focus their discontent on the Board than attack our students
or staff.
I will be one of 12 members of the Fairfax County School Board. None of us will be able to focus
on specific priorities without a commitment to collaborate with each other. Therefore, fostering
that alignment and cohesion amongst my colleagues is going to be one of my top priorities. The
issues we face together are too important for us to be divided into inaction.
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April 26, 2023
SULLY DISTRICT
Responding Candidate: Seema Dixit

Did Not Respond: Cynthia Walsh
Seema Dixit
It is true that mental health of our students needs immediate attention. FCPS will need
additional psychologists, school counselors, and social workers. These professionals can
provide support and interventions to students who are struggling with mental health issues.
We need to foster a supportive school environment that promotes positive mental health. This
can be done by implementing anti-bullying policies, promoting positive social interactions, and
providing opportunities for students to participate in extracurricular activities.
Seema Dixit
As a parent, the prospect of active shooter at school is my worst nightmare, I know FCPS has
active shooter drills and plans in place but when there is an actual shooter on premise, most
plans fail. Prevention is better than cure. As one of the largest public school systems in the
nation, we need to have a firm plan not to let this happen in the first place and be a role model
to other school districts in the state and the nation.
While adding more police officials at school is not a practical solution, we can use the
technology to our advantage. There are many products in the market which will detect a
pocketknife or a gun or bomb without a physical pat down. They are better than normal metal
detectors and a number of students can pass them without disrupting the flow of traffic. They
can be placed outside the school main doors and other doors and a centralized monitoring
location with staff member can initiate an immediate lockdown and alert the principal/police
officer at school in case of active shooter trying to enter the premise.
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April 26, 2023
issue?
Seema Dixit
In my conversations with teachers, they expressed frustration with the excess administrative
work they have to do, which takes time away from instruction. Establishing a positive work
culture that fosters a sense of belonging can help retain staff. This can be achieved by creating
a supportive work environment, providing opportunities for professional growth and
development, and recognizing the contributions of employees.
The current School Board has approved the collective bargaining agreement for FCPS teachers
and staff, which is a step in the right direction. We need to listen to our teachers: they change
lives and build the future generation. Many young teachers who are in this profession because
of their passion have advanced master’s degrees. We need these teachers to stay with FCPS.
Our teachers are paid less than in surrounding school divisions and in comparison, to other
professions with the same educational requirements. I will work to advocate for better pay. Also,
FCPS has an ongoing special ed and substitute teacher shortage and there are very qualified
parents in Fairfax County who are now stepping up to offer their services to the school system,
including many of my friends. Many retired teachers are coming back to serve as substitute
teachers. They are an excellent way to increase the teacher pipeline into FCPS and attract and
retain long term substitutes by better compensation and recognition.
families?
Seema Dixit
When teaching history, it's important to use reliable sources such as textbooks, academic
journals, and primary sources that provide a well-rounded view of the topic.
History is not just about one particular group or culture. It's important to include diverse
perspectives and viewpoints to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic. It highlights
historical significance by emphasizing the significance of the events being taught and how they
relate to current events and the world today. It encourages students to think critically about what
they are learning, to question assumptions, and to consider alternative viewpoints. The
language and content should be age-appropriate, so students can comprehend the material and
relate it to their own lives.
I will work to ensure that literature taught and available in school library represents all of us. As
a woman of color and an immigrant, I strongly believe in protective our civil rights and right to
full and wholesome education for our children.
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April 26, 2023
to change?
Seema Dixit
The issue of banning books is a form of censorship that can have a chilling effect on free
expression and limit access to information and diverse perspectives. We cannot let this happen
in FCPS or elsewhere. It violates the freedom of speech and the right to access information.
Parents should have the ability to opt their children out of certain classes if they are against their
religious or personal beliefs, etc. but calls to ban the books for everyone can lead to a narrow-
minded and overly restrictive approach to learning. As a public school system, we need to
ensure that children receive a well-rounded education that exposes them to a broad range of
ideas and perspectives and FCPS will definitely doing that.
FCPS recognizes the important role that parents play in their children's education and provides
a variety of ways to encourage parental involvement like volunteering at the schools, getting
involved in PTA/PTSA, Family Engagement Centers, and Parents advisory committees.
Seema Dixit
Yes, I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies. FCPS a safe, welcoming, and
inclusive space to all students and their families. As an immigrant and woman of color, I will
personally see to it that we are doing our best to confront the racial and social inequities in
FCPS policies.
To address the disparity in academic achievement, we need to implement evidence-based
interventions, such as targeted tutoring, mentoring, and counseling, which can help improve
academic achievement and reduce disciplinary issues. For ELL Learners, providing language
support, such as bilingual instruction and translation services, can help them access the
curriculum and succeed in school. Providing students with access to resources, such as
technology, books, and extracurricular activities, can help level the playing field and improve
academic achievement.
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April 26, 2023
Seema Dixit
As a strong supporter of the LGBTQIA+ community, I will definitely defend the regulation 2603
which established procedures and guidelines for schools to ensure that all students, including
gender-expansive and transgender students experience a safe, supportive, and inclusive school
environment. I will support for it to remain standard practice in FCPS.
There is a lot of misinformation and misrepresentation about this regulation; while those who
are willing to educate themselves are able to understand the reasons R2603 was put in place,
many continue to feed false information to divide the community and instill fear in the minds of
parents.
Seema Dixit
The students with disabilities need more support as there is still a huge gap in their learning and
support system. I have a twice exceptional son with diagnosed ADHD and Anxiety, and he
struggled through high school and he did not get the support he needed; despite having an IEP
at his high school, his teachers routinely forgot to remind him to turn in his homework, etc.
which was the critical issue with him and the first point in his IEP. He told me many times that
the IEP did not help him at all. We need to work closely with the students, teachers and parents
to ensure there is a proper plan for them with regular check-ins. We need more special-ed
teachers as there is increased need and lack of staff. FCPS needs to focus on hiring the right
staff to support the learning needs of special needs students.
arrest students for any violation of state and county codes, including low level offenses.
Would you support limiting criminal investigations to serious violent actions that are not suitable for
resolution through the disciplinary process?
Seema Dixit
I do not support that SROs are now permitted to arrest students including for low level offenses;
it will result in the over-criminalization of minor offenses that might be better addressed through
other means, such as counseling or restorative justice programs. It’s important to recognize that
arrests can have long-lasting consequences for students, potentially impacting their educational
and employment opportunities in the future. Therefore, it's important to ensure that any policies
related to SROs and student arrests are carefully considered and balanced with the best
interests of students in mind.
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April 26, 2023
Seema Dixit
As a strong advocate of achieving Net Zero Carbon Pollution, I will fully support efforts to direct
the Superintendent to develop SMART Goals for FCPS School Board's JET directives. It should
be part of FCPS Superintendent's annual performance evaluation. We need to hold the leaders
accountable to implement the plans. There are many other things that can be done at local
school levels, we need to put our effort for zero waste and biodegradable alternatives. I'm
excited to read this article, it's a step in the right direction and hopefully we will be fully electric
in the next decade. https://electricschoolbusinitiative.org/electric-school- bus-series-electrifying-
partnership-fairfax-county-virginia.
I would love to work with schools to reduce their carbon footprint on the local level and remove
single use plastic from schools. We need to teach students about Reduce, Reuse, Recycle so
they grow up to be responsible citizens in the future, zero waste and carbon neutrality and
climate crisis should be part of their curriculum.
Seema Dixit
It is true that college is not necessarily the best path for every student after high school. Many
students prefer to pursue vocational or technical skills training or other career options. Some
students may also be interested in athletics or other extracurricular activities that can help them
develop skills and pursue their passions like music and arts.
We need to provide students with valuable training and skills that are directly applicable to their
chosen careers and can help prepare them for success in the workforce.
It is important to ensure that all students have access to a range of educational options that will
help them achieve their goals and prepare them for success after high school. This will need
dedicated funding and support for vocational and technical education, athletics, and other non-
college-focused areas.
Seema Dixit
The public charter schools can divert resources away from traditional public schools, leading to
funding and enrollment issues; may be less accountable and transparent than traditional public
schools; and may be prone to cherry-picking high-performing students while leaving behind
more vulnerable or struggling students. The key is to ensure that all students have access to a
high-quality education in traditional public schools and it is very much possible with the right
budgeting, resource allocation and variety in the curriculum.
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April 26, 2023
Seema Dixit
Bringing civility back to School Board meetings will require a concerted effort from all
participants, including Board members, community members, and school officials. It will take
time and effort, but with a commitment to respectful dialogue and constructive problem-solving,
it is possible to create a more civil and productive environment for all involved.
We are human first, we teach kindness to our children, we have to practice what we preach.
Public servants can be held accountable, but people should not attack them personally which
has been happening inside and outside the School Board meetings.
79

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Nonpartisan Fairfax County School Board Voter Guide 4.26.23 FINAL

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School Board

April 26, 2023

About the Sponsors……………………………………………………….…..1

HUNTER MILL DISTRICT………………………………………………………………...43

MOUNT VERNON DISTRICT…………………………………………………………….55

PROVIDENCE DISTRICT ......................................................................................... 61

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT ......................................................................................... 68

SULLY DISTRICT ..................................................................................................... 74

About the Questionnaire

Question 2 School Safety Question 9 School Resource Officers

Question 3 Teacher Shortage Question 10 Joint Environmental Task Force

Question 4 Factual and Representative Teaching Question 11 Alternatives to College Prep

Question 5 Book Banning and Parental Rights Question 12 Charter Schools

Question 6 Addressing Disparity Question 13 Restoring Civility

Question 7 LGBTQ+ Students

Responding Candidates: Kyle McDaniel, Ryan McElveen, Ilryong Moon,

Did Not Respond: Cassandra Aucoin, Saundra Davis, Linda Pellegrino

I am very focused on protecting our LGBTQ+ community members, and I am proud to be

official in the Commonwealth of Virginia back in 2008.

I support integrating climate change into appropriate curriculums as recommended by subject

o Co-locating County facilities in or on school property, as has been done in the

Responding Candidate: Rachna Sizemore Heizer

I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust Policies.

Responding Candidate: Robyn Lady

Responding Candidate: Marcia St. John-Cunning

HUNTER MILL DISTRICT

Responding Candidates: Melanie Meren, Paul Thomas

Yes, I endorse the One Fairfax and School Trust policies.

Public funds must not be used for private education.

Did Not Respond: Ricardy Anderson

MOUNT VERNON DISTRICT

Responding Candidate: Mateo Dunne

To support the mental health of our students, I will advocate for:

● Installation of high-technology video cameras throughout school buildings, supported by

FCPS must confront the stubborn reality that:

Here is what I believe:

I oppose the establishment of charter schools in Virginia.

I oppose the use of public funds for private education.

Responding Candidate: Karl Frisch

that keep our students, families, and staff safe.

serving on a School Board in Virginia, these issues are personal.

Responding Candidate: Sandy Anderson

Responding Candidate: Seema Dixit

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