New draft policies that would limit schools’ ability to support transgender students are currently under review by Fairfax County Public Schools.
Unveiled Friday afternoon (Sept. 16), the Virginia Department of Education’s proposed 2022 model policies directs schools to defer to parents in determining accommodations for LGBTQ students, including the names and pronouns staff can use for them.
The proposal upholds Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s commitment to “preserving parental rights and upholding the dignity and respect of all public school students,” spokesperson Macaulay Porter said in a statement to The Washington Post.
If the policies take effect, staff must refer to students by the name and sex on their official school records or a “commonly associated” nickname. To change their official records, a student or parent must provide legal documentation, such as a birth certificate, passport, a state or federal identification or court order, supporting the change.
Even with a records change, though, schools can’t require staff and other students “to address or refer to students in any manner that would violate their constitutionally protected rights,” suggesting misgendering and deadnaming will be permissible despite state prohibitions against discrimination and harassment, including based on gender identity.
Under the draft policies, bathroom usage and participation in athletics and other activities must be based on students’ sex as assigned at birth, though “single-user” facilities are supposed to be “made available in accessible areas and provided with appropriate signage” indicating universal accessibility.
The guidelines reverse model policies that the state education department released last year and contradict FCPS’ regulation supporting equity for transgender and gender-expansive students — a policy that Youngkin specifically criticized late last month.
“I understand the concerns that our LGBTQIA+ staff, student, and family community have about what this change of direction by the state may mean for our school division,” Superintendent Michelle Reid said in a message sent to families yesterday (Sunday). “Please be assured that FCPS remains committed to an inclusive learning environment for each and every student and staff member and that our schools will continue to be safe and respectful learning spaces.”
FCPS is in the process of “thoroughly reviewing” the draft guidelines and will release “a more detailed response” soon, Reid said.
The draft policies “betray” a state law adopted in 2020 to protect transgender and queer students, who have become a frequent target of anti-LGBTQ legislation nationwide, says the Pride Liberation Project, an advocacy group of over 200 students.
Calling on the state to withdraw its proposed revisions, the LGBTQ student advocacy group argued that the model policies would require schools to out students, prevent students from expressing their gender identity, and enable parents to block their kids from accessing critical counseling services at a time of increased concern about students’ mental health.
“As a closeted student, I wouldn’t be able to come home if my parents found out that I was Queer. I am terrified that these draft regulations will take away one of the few places I can just be myself,” an anonymous Fairfax County student said in a press release from the student-run group.
Fairfax County School Board Chair Rachna Sizemore-Heizer didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment from FFXnow, but multiple school board members promised on social media that FCPS will continue to support LGBTQ students.
We will not stand silent as Youngkin tramples the rights of LGBTQIA+ students and their families. He’s putting the lives of young Virginians in jeopardy to score political points and he should be ashamed.
https://t.co/1SHpeRtfef
— Karl Frisch (@KarlFrisch) September 17, 2022
I know many of our families are waking up to the news from the Governor. Please know your students are safe & we will do everything in our power to ensure they stay that way.
To our— Laura Jane Cohen (@LJ4fcps) September 17, 2022
Our schools’ mission is to keep students safe and educate them. That is what we will continue to do for our #LGBTQIA+ students, and all students. We will not be bullied.
— @MelanieForEdu (@MelanieForEdu) September 19, 2022
Reid’s full message to families is below.
September 18, 2022
Dear FCPS Families,
On Friday evening, we became aware of a new proposed model policy from the Virginia Department of Education regarding the privacy, dignity, and respect for all students, staff, and families in Virginia’s public schools. The newly proposed model policy is scheduled for a 30-day public comment period starting September 26.
I understand the concerns that our LGBTQIA+ staff, student, and family community have about what this change of direction by the state may mean for our school division. Please be assured that FCPS remains committed to an inclusive learning environment for each and every student and staff member and that our schools will continue to be safe and respectful learning spaces.
Here at Fairfax County Public Schools, we are dedicated to providing a caring climate and culture where each and every student, staff member, and family is welcomed, respected, valued, and supported, as they experience a deep sense of belonging.
Our core beliefs and mission hold that:
Fairfax County Public Schools inspires and empowers students to meet high academic standards, lead healthy, ethical lives, and be responsible and innovative global citizens:
- Each student is entitled to an excellent education that meets his or her individual needs.
- Everyone thrives in a vibrant, healthful, safe, enriching, and respectful environment.
- Our diversity is a strength that creates resilient, open, and innovative global citizens.
These core values and beliefs speak to the very heart of who we are at Fairfax County Public Schools, and our students, staff, and families, are counting on us to adhere to them. These core values — to enhance school safety and create a fair, equitable, and supportive school environment — are also outlined in the 2022-23 Student Rights and Responsibilities.
We will be thoroughly reviewing the new state proposed model policy in the coming days and will share a more detailed response to the newly proposed policy soon. In the meantime, we remain committed to maintaining equitable opportunities and access for each of our students, staff, and families in a justice-centered, future-focused, and student-driven school environment.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Michelle Reid
Superintendent
Fairfax County Public Schools
Photo via Alexander Grey/Unsplash
The McLean Project for the Arts (MPA) is kicking off fall with a celebration of the culinary, visual, and musical arts.
The McLean Project for the Arts will bring its annual MPAartfest back early next month. The 16th annual MPAartfest is scheduled for 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2, in McLean Central Park (1468 Dolley Madison Blvd).
“This year’s event will feature a diverse group of more than 35 juried artists from across the Mid-Atlantic region, as well as a world of music curated by MPA Music Director Ken Avis, the beloved Children’s Art Walk, food vendors, children’s art activities, and more,” the MPA said in a release.
New highlights include a juried gallery displaying art from local elementary school students.
In terms of food, a wine and beer stand called Café Beret will return, along with a variety of local food trucks. The event will also feature live music throughout the day.
“A one-day juried fine art show and sale, MPAartfest transforms McLean Central Park into a lively landscape of mini art galleries showcasing and offering for sale the work of acclaimed artists from the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond,” the release said.
Admission to the MPAartfest is free and parking will be available at the McLean Community Center (1234 Ingleside Avenue).
“Each fall MPAartfest celebrates our community and the arts in the beautiful setting of McLean Central Park,” MPA Executive Director Lori Carbonneau said. “We are so appreciative of our lead community sponsor, the McLean Community Center, and of all the generous community sponsors who help to make this event possible. We invite all the community to join us for a relaxing and inspiring day of art in the park!”
Extended Route 50 Lane Closure in Seven Corners Starts Today — “The northbound lane of the bridge over Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard) just west of Route 7 (East Broad Street/Leesburg Pike) that connects the eastbound Route 50 service road with the westbound Route 50 service road will be closed from 9 a.m. Monday, Sept. 19 through Friday, Oct. 7 for cleaning and painting” [VDOT]
Four Sentenced in 2019 West Falls Church Gang Murder — “Four individuals were sentenced Monday and yesterday to multiple life terms and 26 years in prison for numerous charges relating to a murder, a violent gang enterprise, and a drug trafficking conspiracy operating in Virginia, California, and several other states.” [DOJ]
Virginia Proposes Changes to Policies for Transgender Students — “Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s administration on Friday night released policies that roll back LGBTQ students’ rights in Virginia schools. The ‘2022 Model Policies‘ will require that students use facilities and programs that ‘match the sex they were assigned at birth,’ and require parental permission to change their names and genders at school.” [WTOP]
Dominion Energy Rate Increase Approved — The State Corporation Commission (SCC) approved an increase on Friday (Sept. 16) to the fuel rate for Dominion Energy customers in Virginia. Effective on an interim basis since July 1, the increase adds $14.93, on average, to the monthly bill for residents who use 1,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month. [SCC]
Two Arrested for Shoplifting and Assault at Tysons Nordstrom — “Two juveniles, from Falls Church and Annandale, took merchandise without paying on Sept. 5 at 3:40 p.m. at the Nordstrom store in Tysons Corner Center, Fairfax County police said. When confronted by a store employee, one juvenile allegedly assaulted the victim, police said.” [Sun Gazette/Inside NoVA]
FCPS to Boost Mental Health Support — “During Thursday night’s school board meeting, Superintendent Michelle Reid said the district is working to secure a ‘telemental health group’ that will provide short-term, evidence-based counseling sessions with therapists for high school students…As part of the $3.3 billion budget, school board officials allocated $500,000 for the telemental health services.” [WTOP]
Car Flips Over Into Lorton Yard — “A car flipped over into a yard in Lorton, Va. Saturday near I-95, but the driver only suffered minor injuries. A witness told 7News’ Victoria Sanchez one woman was in the car and was talking to first responders.” [ABC7]
New Chantilly Street Signs Honor Tamil Poet — “The Fairfax County Department of Transportation installed new signs designating the honorary Valluvar Way on Brentwall Drive in Chantilly. A thriving Tamil community of over 50,000 residents in Virginia, including 10,000 residents in Fairfax County, celebrates the Tamil poet, ThiruValluvar, also known as Valluvar” [FCDOT]
It’s Lanternfly Egg Season — “Fairfax County Forest Pest Management is asking residents to ‘search-scrape-and destroy’ spotted lanternfly egg masses. Adult females lay their inconspicuous egg masses in September and through the first few hard frosts of November.” [DPWES]
It’s Monday — Partly cloudy throughout the day. High of 83 and low of 66. Sunrise at 6:55 am and sunset at 7:12 pm. [Weather.gov]
Before you soak in the last summer rays before leaf-gathering season arrives or head to bed for some much-needed sleep, let’s revisit the past week of news in Fairfax County.
Here are the five most-read stories on FFXnow this week:
- North Carolina truck driver killed in I-495 crash
- Hiring underway ahead of Wegman’s 2023 opening in Reston
- County board approves preferred path for Soapstone Connector in Reston
- Inova gets green light for new Springfield hospital from Fairfax County
- Fast-casual Indian restaurant to open in the Town of Herndon
Ideas for potential stories can be sent to [email protected] or submitted as an anonymous tip. Photos of scenes from around the county are welcome too, with credit always given to the photographer.
Feel free to discuss these topics, your weekend plans, or anything else that’s happening locally in the comments below. Have a great weekend, Fairfax County!
One year ago, Capital One Center launched The Perch, a 2.5 acre park with mini-golf and a biergarten adjacent to the Capital One headquarters. To celebrate the anniversary, Capital One Center is launching a weekend-long festival.
Trash troubles keep piling up with the county out of trash cans for at least another two months.
Fairfax County has “exhausted” its inventory of trash cans and won’t be able to provide new ones to residents until later this fall, Dept. of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) spokesperson Sharon North told FFXnow.
“A new order already has been placed and should be in-house by early November,” she said via email.
In the meantime, North suggested that residents who are waiting on a new trash can to put their trash in a box or another container and leave it curbside on their pick-up day.
“It will be picked up, even if it’s in a box,” she said.
The missing trash can issue was brought to FFXnow’s attention by a Dranesville District resident.
Just called @fairfaxcounty to get a new #trash can after mine cracked. Was told they don’t have any and don’t know when they will be getting any. Also said they won’t reimburse me for one I buy. Told me to put my trash in a box 🤔 @ffxconnector @TysonsReporter @washingtonpost
— Kate Hawken (@katehawken) September 15, 2022
About 90% of county residents and businesses have their trash picked up by private haulers, but about 10% have theirs picked up by the county. That’s about 43,000 residential units.
It’s those 43,000 that are potentially impacted by the shortage, though it only applies to those who are requesting a new trash can due to theirs being broken, moving into a new house, or are otherwise in need.
Exposures Deported Three Times — “Northern Virginia authorities have put a hard stop to a terrifying summer of attacks by an alleged serial sexual predator. Juan Rodriguez-Alfaro, 42, has been arrested for nearly a dozen attacks along the Washington & Old Dominion Trail dating back to July 15. Rodriguez-Alfaro is from Honduras and has been living in Herndon, Virginia. Immigration and Customs officials say he was in the U.S. illegally and has been deported three times already.” [WUSA 9]
Local Students Take Park in Food Donation Effort — “More than 50 volunteers spent Thursday morning packing bags of shelf-stable food as part of the Assistance League of Northern Virginia’s Weekend Food for Kids program.” [Reston Patch]
Special Open House Slated for Historic Oak Hill Manor — The historic Oak Hill Manor will be open for a once-a-year event this Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. [Fairfax County Government]
State Tax Rebates Coming Soon — “Virginia taxpayers will want to keep an eye on their bank accounts as the state is preparing to send out millions of tax rebates. ‘We expect to issue about 3.2 million one-time tax rebates and get these rebates to taxpayers, either in the form of direct deposit or check,’ said Virginia Tax Commissioner Craig Burns.” [WTOP]
It’s Friday — Clear throughout the day. High of 80 and low of 59. Sunrise at 6:52 am and sunset at 7:17 pm. [Weather.gov]
Despite the economic uncertainty of 2022, FFXnow’s advertisers have helped us continue to report on your community.
We wanted to take a moment to thank those that have advertised with us so far this year, as of Sept. 1. This list includes a diverse range of businesses, nonprofits and governmental entities, some of whom have been long-term clients since our days of publishing only on Reston Now and Tysons Reporter.
To the long-term and new advertisers alike, we say: thank you for supporting local news in Fairfax County.
To readers: these sponsors make our local journalism possible, without paywalls, popups or other impediments. Please consider supporting them.
FFXnow’s 2022 advertisers include:
- A Cleaning Service
- Arlington Community Federal Credit Union
- Arrowine & Cheese
- Berry & Berry, PLLC
- Buffalo Wing Factory
- Clarke College Insight
- Eve Thompson Reston Real Estate
- Fairfax County
- Furniture Max
- George Mason University Schar School of Policy and Government
- Laura Schwartz
- McEnearney Associates
- McLean Project for the Arts
- Northern Virginia Orthodontics
- Reston Association
- Reston Community Center
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
- Synergy Design & Construction
- The Kensington Reston
- The Mather
- The Reston Historic Trust & Museum
- Van Metre Homes
(The list above does not include those that have advertised through our new Community Content Hub.)
The preceding sponsored post was also published on FFXnow.com
The Fairfax Connector is getting a few changes (page 228) starting early next year, including a new route along I-66’s express lanes with more Vienna connections on the horizon.
At a meeting on Sept. 13, the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved several changes that could expand the reach and efficiency of transit around the Tysons area.
“Staff proposes service changes for implementation on January 14, 2023, to improve the customer experience and increase ridership through improved connectivity, on-time performance, service reliability, and effectiveness,” staff said in a report.
There are four changes planned for January. The big one for Tysonians is a new route that would use the I-66 express lanes for a better Tysons-Centreville route.
The City of Falls Church Police announced earlier this week that they’d arrested a Maryland man on five counts of Possession of Child Pornography.
Kimball Bryant Winn (64), a Maryland resident, was arrested on Sept. 9 as the result of an investigation by a task force comprised of Falls Church police and Virginia State Police, according to the release.
“The City of Falls Church Police Criminal Investigation Division began investigating the suspect after receiving a cyber-tip from the Northern Virginia and Washington, DC Internet Crimes Against Children (NOVA-DC ICAC) Task Force about possible crimes involving child pornography. During the execution of the search warrant at the suspect’s residence on August 31, 2022, multiple digital devices were forensically previewed and child pornography was located.
The items were seized and are the investigation into the suspect’s online activities is ongoing.
Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact the City of Falls Church Police Department at 703-241-5050.
