The culmination of Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) strategic planning work for 2023-2030 resulted in the development of four pillars that identify what FCPS must do well to reach the plans’ goals.
The Four Pillars serve as the foundation of strategic planning and define the capabilities to strengthen the effectiveness of instructional programs and Division-wide infrastructure. They are the building block for action and decision-making, and provide a durable frame for organizing and focusing our work.
1. Differentiated and Culturally Responsive Learning Environments
Innovative professional practices are designed to engage, empower, include, and challenge the whole learner through varied opportunities.
2. Vibrant Home, School, & Community Partnerships
Trusting partnerships are built that sustain a safe, inclusive culture for learning and work, and promote proactive collaboration with respect, honesty, and transparency.
3. Diverse, Adaptive, & Supported Workforce
Staff are recruited and retained to reflect the diversity of students and families; provide meaningful continuous learning, exceptional compensation, and balanced workload; and create a safe and culturally responsive environment that values staff voice.
4. Culture of Equity, Excellence, & Accountability
Processes and structures are grounded in intentional partnerships, shared responsibility for equitable resource allocation, and data-driven continuous improvement and innovation.
The strategic plan identifies five overarching goals that will drive positive change throughout the district.
Goal #1 – Strong Start: PreK-12
Every student will develop foundational academic skills, curiosity, and a joy for learning necessary for success in Pre-K through 12th grade.
Goal #2 – Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered
Every student will experience an equitable school community where student health and well-being are prioritized, and student voice is centered.
Goal #3 – Academic Growth and Excellence
Every student will acquire critical and creative thinking skills, meet/exceed high academic standards, and achieve their highest academic potential.
Measures
A. Growth and performance in coursework (e.g., course grades, grade point average [GPA], meeting Individualized Education Program [IEP] goals, and language acquisition goals) (including students with 504s)
B. Growth and performance on state/national/international assessments in reading, math, social studies, and science
C. Successful completion of Algebra 1 by 8th grade
D. Evidence of progression towards or successful completion of advanced coursework (e.g., Honors, Advanced Placement [AP], International Baccalaureate [IB], dual enrollment, Career and Technical Education [CTE], etc.)
E. Growth with evidence in at least one/two self-identified Portrait of a Graduate skills, annually
F. Students reading on grade level by the end of 3rd grade
Goal #4 – Equitable Access and Opportunity
Every student will have access to high-quality academic programming and resources to support their success.
Goal 5 – Leading for Tomorrow’s Innovation
Every student will graduate ready to thrive in life after high school and with the skills to navigate, adapt, and innovate for a sustainable future.
Measures
A. Availability of, accessibility to, and participation in multiple pathways and work-based learning opportunities (e.g., shadowing; internship; apprenticeship; and Career and Technical Education)
B. Attainment of FCPS Portrait of a Graduatecompetencies and digital and financial literacy
C. Supported and successful transitions leading to high school graduation and postsecondary opportunities
D. Students on track for graduation at the end of 9th grade
E. Increase in the percentage of students earning an advanced studies diploma
F. Reduction of the percentage of students earning an applied studies diploma
G. Enrollment in college, entry into the workforce or public service, enlistment in military, or other, verifiable post-secondary plan
H. Students innovating and preparing for the future
The new strategic plan will ensure that students are well prepared to innovate and thrive after they leave FCPS.
