Message from the Superintendent

I would like to thank the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors for approving the FY27 Operating Budget as presented, marking an important step forward for our students, staff and school communities. This budget reflects our shared commitment to ensuring every student has access to the opportunities, support and resources they need to thrive. It continues critical investments in services for English Learners and students receiving special education support, expands academic access through additional teachers and instructional coaches, and strengthens specialized programs such as Dual Language Immersion, the Academy of Global and Linguistic Studies, the R.I.S.E. Academy and the International Baccalaureate Career Pathways program.

This budget also creates new opportunities for student engagement through the addition of girls flag football, boys volleyball and girls wrestling, while honoring our commitment to the talented employees who make this work possible through meaningful investments in compensation and benefits.

I am extremely appreciative of the continued partnership of the Board of Supervisors and the many families, staff and community members who contributed their voices throughout this process. And, I am so grateful to serve in a community that so deeply values public education and the children we serve. Together, we are committing to supporting our students today while preparing them for the future. To learn more about our budget process, please visit the budget page on our LCPS website.

We need your feedback! You are invited to take a quick survey to help LCPS gain insight into what’s working well and what needs improvement across our schools and school campuses. Please look for a link from the LCPS Capital Budget Team, lcpssurveys@lcps.org, to arrive TODAY!

You will be asked for input about your school's buildings and grounds. Please note that this feedback is strictly focused on the physical environment and does not include questions about staff, instruction, curriculum or school culture.

Don’t miss this chance to be heard! The survey should take no more than five minutes. Many thanks for helping us understand your campus learning environment.

Please remember that the Loudoun County School Board, at its March 24 meeting, made two changes to this school year's calendar.

Tuesday, April 21 will now be a student holiday due to the special statewide election. Scheduled after-school activities will continue as planned. Check your school’s website for updated information. For school staff, April 21, will be a remote-eligible workday. LCPS staff should consult their supervisor with any questions.

The last day of school for students for the 2025/26 school year has also been changed from Monday, June 15 to Friday, June 12. Monday, June 15 will be a professional development day for school staff.

Visit the Loudoun County website to learn more about the special election, including early voting information and polling locations. The calendars for 2025/26 school year have been updated. Read more about these calendar changes. Thank you for your flexibility and understanding regarding these schedule changes.

We are excited to share that the Lightspeed Parent Portal has introduced two powerful new features to help you manage your child’s digital wellness at home. First, you can now restrict YouTube access on school-issued Chromebooks during non-school hours, ensuring a more focused environment when needed. Additionally, a new recurring schedules tool allows you to automate when your student can access the internet, making it easier to establish consistent routines. Learn more about Lightspeed.

All rising 7th‑ and 12th‑grade students must show proof of required immunizations before starting school next year. Don’t wait until August! Plan now to ensure your student has the necessary vaccines. Students without proper documentation will not be permitted to attend on the first day of school.

Required Immunizations for 7th‑Grade Students

Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) vaccine given at age 7 or older
Meningococcal vaccine given at age 10 or older

Encouraged for 7th‑grade students:

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine

Required Immunization for 12th‑Grade Students

Meningococcal vaccine given at age 16 or older

Learn more about Loudoun County and regional resources that provide the required immunizations for school enrollment and admittance.

John Champe students and staff participating in podcast

For the April episode of the School Spirit podcast, Renée Dawson, Director of Family and Community Engagement, sits down with six students from John Champe High School and Shalonda Davis, the school’s Student Activities and Engagement Coordinator. The students, who are involved in a variety of student leader roles in band, DECA, athletics and student government, share their perspectives on what makes John Champe a welcoming and supportive community. Their conversation highlights several key themes: choosing kindness, staying open‑minded, embracing new opportunities, and the importance of mentorship. From the staff perspective, John Champe educators strive to ensure that every student knows they have someone in their corner and are equipped to leave high school with the confidence and skills they need.

The LCPS Podcast brings you behind the scenes with school leaders, educators, students and community members to explore trends shaping K–12 education and incredible moments you won’t find anywhere else. New episodes drop every Thursday. Find the LCPS Podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music and iHeart Radio. Listen to this week's podcast episode.

Cathy Stolze, a teaching assistant at Aldie Elementary, is this month's SHINE Award winner. Ms. Stolze was nominated by Aldie Elementary Principal Ashley Barkley.

Ms. Barkley shared that Ms. Stolze provided stability for students during the transition to a new teacher. “Cathy created and maintained a positive, welcoming and structured learning environment that helped students feel safe and supported during the change. She approached each day with optimism, warmth and a calm presence that reassured students and allowed them to remain focused and successful,” wrote Ms. Barkley in her nomination.

As a SHINE award recipient, Ms. Stolze received a gift coordinated by the Loudoun Education Foundation and sponsored by IMEG. SHINE, or Spotlighting Heroes in Education, is a joint LEF and LCPS initiative celebrating staff who go above and beyond for students and the community. Learn more about SHINE.

There is still time to submit your nominations for the Minority Student Achievement Advisory Committee (MSAAC) awards. These awards celebrate educators, students, programs, parents and community members who excel at making LCPS a more equitable and inclusive place to learn. Nominate an LCPS star whose passion and hard work helps make a real difference for our students and staff. Submit your nominations using the 2025/26 MSAAC Awards Call for Nominations form by tomorrow, Friday, April 10, at 5 p.m. Visit the MSAAC Annual Awards webpage to learn more.

preschool students participating in art class

For many families, preschool is a child’s first experience in a classroom, and LCPS is committed to making that experience joyful, supportive and meaningful. LCPS preschool classrooms are led by certified teachers and teaching assistants who understand how young children learn best. Through play, exploration, stories and hands-on activities, children build early academic skills while developing confidence, friendships and independence.

Preschool days are thoughtfully designed to balance learning and play, helping children grow socially and emotionally while preparing them for kindergarten routines. Classrooms are welcoming, structured and responsive to each child’s needs. Families are not expected to navigate the application process alone. LCPS staff are available to answer questions, explain eligibility and provide support at every step.

Learn more about LCPS preschool and apply. Please contact the Preschool Office at 571-252-2110 or HeadStart@lcps.org with any questions.

Families and students interested in learning more about William Obediah Robey High School are invited to attend one of the upcoming open houses. Robey High School offers a personalized and innovative learning environment where students can build confidence, earn their diploma and prepare for meaningful futures. Students may earn up to 10 credits per year through a compressed schedule, providing flexibility and support for a variety of learning pathways. Families are encouraged to attend an upcoming open house to learn more about programs offered, meet staff and explore how Robey High School supports student success.

Open House Dates:

Wednesday, April 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Thursday, April 23, 6:30-7:30 p.m. (Virtual session)

Open houses will be held at Robey High School (21328 Augusta Drive, Sterling). Please RSVP if you are interested in attending. The link to the virtual session will be made available on the Robey High School website under the "Apply Today" tab.

The Special Permission application period is currently open, but closes at the end of April. Special Permission allows families to request that their student attend a school outside of their assigned attendance zone. The Special Permission process is guided by Policy 8155, School Assignment, and its accompanying regulation. Policy 8155 establishes 85% of the building’s base capacity as the maximum student enrollment for considering Special Permission applications. Initial Special Permission applications submitted to schools that are at or above 85% of the building’s base capacity will be voided within 30 days of application. Review schools projected to be at or above 85% of the building’s base capacity on the Special Permission website. This list is subject to change. Once the application window closes on April 30 at 11:59 p.m., no additional Special Permission applications will be accepted. For more details and to apply, please visit the Special Permission webpage.

PROPEL and Level Up are getting ready for Innovation Day, their biggest event of the year. Volunteers are needed to help make it a success. Held on Saturday, April 18 at the Academies of Loudoun, Innovation Day will welcome nearly 600 students in grades 4–8 for a full day of robotics competitions and innovative project presentations. LCPS staff and community members are encouraged to sign up for any time that fits their schedule between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Volunteer roles include:

Guiding students to their stations
Judging STEM projects (no experience needed; training provided)
Setting up or breaking down VEX robotics fields
Assisting with lunch or supporting event logistics

Adults are welcome to volunteer, and they may bring a friend or family member who would also like to help. Each volunteer should complete the sign‑up form. This is a wonderful opportunity to support students and be part of a day that celebrates creativity, problem‑solving and innovation. Please email the PROPEL and Level Up team with any questions.

You can help students in Loudoun County by running a hygiene drive this spring with your office, neighborhood, or sports team. Through its Fueled Program, the Loudoun Education Foundation serves over 2,000 students in 57 schools, providing weekly meal bags, snacks, and hygiene items. With your participation, Fueled can meet the basic needs of students, empowering them to focus on the important work of learning. See the LEF website to learn more and to access hygiene drive flyers. Once your drive is complete, contact the Fueled team for pickup: Kirslyn.Schell-Smith@lcps.org.

LCPS students of all grades are invited to take part in the Student Environmental Action Showcase (SEAS) on April 29 at the Academies of Loudoun. SEAS is an annual event where students share projects that reduce waste, conserve energy, protect natural habitats, support sustainability in their schools and communities and more. It’s a chance for students to express their connection to the environment and show how their ideas make a real impact in Loudoun County. Cash prizes will be awarded to students who place 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the three school-level categories: elementary, middle and high school. Community partners will also be on site with hands‑on activities and opportunities to explore environmental careers and volunteer pathways. Learn more and register. SEAS is presented by the Loudoun Environmental Education Alliance, the GREENetwork and LCPS.

LCPS and Claude Moore Opportunities are partnering to host a screening of Multiple Choice on Thursday, April 16, at the Academies of Loudoun. This documentary highlights a Virginia school division's efforts at increasing career and technical education opportunities for its students and emphasizes the value of this type of participatory education for all students. The film follows students at Winchester Public Schools as they explore diverse career pathways and develop both new and traditional workforce skills. Beginning at 5 p.m., LCPS students will showcase their own experiences in CTE programs. The film screening will start at 5:30 p.m., followed by a panel discussion offering additional insight into the many career pathways LCPS students can explore while still in high school. Please RSVP at multiplechoice@lcps.org.

Film Screening and Panel Discussion

Film: Multiple Choice

Date: Thursday, April 16; Student showcase at 5 p.m.; Film and panel discussion at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Academies of Loudoun (42075 Loudoun Academy Dr., Leesburg)

This month's Family Academy workshop will provide families a clear and approachable overview of the assessments students experience throughout their K–12 journey. Families will learn the purpose behind state and local assessments, how results are used to support student growth, and what to expect at various grade levels. Practical strategies will be shared to help students prepare for assessments with confidence, reduce anxiety, and feel supported every step of the way.

April Family Academy Workshop

Workshop Title: Demystifying Assessments: What Families Need to Know

Date and Times: Wednesday, April 23, noon and 6 p.m

See the Family Academy webpage to register and to check out previous workshop recordings.

The Family Academy offers expert-led discussions on topics such as academic pathways, home-school partnerships, college and career readiness and learning at home. See the Family Academy webpage for workshop registration information. The Family Academy is hosted by the Division of Family and Community Engagement.

The Modern Freshman: A Parent's Playbook

Wednesday, April 29, 6-7 p.m. Virtual. See the EL FACE Family Room webpage for webinar links.

Fake Pills, Real Risks

Wednesday, April 29, 6:30-8 p.m., Lightridge High School (41025 Collaboration Dr., Aldie)

Welcome to LCPS English Learner Family Workshop

Wednesday, May 6, 6-8 p.m., The Historic Douglass High School ( 407 E. Market St., Leesburg). Register.

See the LCPS Events and Meetings Calendar for more events and workshops.

LCPS uses an online platform called Peachjar to share electronic flyers from LCPS departments, schools, community partners and local organizations. Flyers are emailed every Tuesday and Friday. Families can also view all flyers from the past month on the Peachjar Flyerboard. These flyers include important information about upcoming school and community events, programs and opportunities. Be sure to take a look!

School Board Summary and Meeting Schedule

Read a summary of the School Board's March 24 meeting. A recording of the School Board meeting and more information can be found in Board Docs. The next School Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 14, starting at 4:30 p.m. The agenda will be posted to the School Board website (under Meetings) by 5 p.m. the Friday before the meeting. All School Board meetings are live-streamed.

Policy Review

LCPS policies are reviewed every five years per the Code of Virginia. During this process, LCPS asks for input from advisory committees, stakeholder groups and the community at large. Visit the Policy Review webpage for more details and feedback submission deadlines. Providing input does not guarantee that the feedback will be included in the final policy. All feedback will be reviewed by the School Board Committee as they develop policies for submission to the entire School Board. The authority for final approval of any policy lies solely with the Loudoun County School Board.

Third quarter ends today, Thursday, April 9.
Friday, April 10 is a student holiday.
Tuesday, April 21 is a student holiday due to the Virginia Special Election.
Consult the calendars for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 school years before scheduling vacations or other student absences.
The 2026 LCPS graduation schedule is posted on the LCPS website.

Loudoun County Public Schools

Ask the Department of Communications and Community Engagement
21000 Education Court, Ashburn, VA, USA
571-252-1040

www.lcps.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LCPSofficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lcpsofficial/
X: @lcpsofficial

Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Approves FY27 LCPS Operating Budget Loudoun County Board of Supervisors Approves FY27 LCPS Operating Budget

Message from the Superintendent

Take a Survey About Your School Campus Take a Survey About Your School Campus

Reminder: School Board Approves Two Changes to the 2025/26 Calendar Reminder: School Board Approves Two Changes to the 2025/26 Calendar

Lightspeed Parent Portal Enhancements Lightspeed Parent Portal Enhancements

Don't Wait Until August! Make Sure Your Student Has Their Required Immunizations Don't Wait Until August! Make Sure Your Student Has Their Required Immunizations

LCPS Podcast: John Champe Students Reflect on Kindness, Connection and Community LCPS Podcast: John Champe Students Reflect on Kindness, Connection and Community

Aldie Elementary Teaching Assistant Receives SHINE Award Aldie Elementary Teaching Assistant Receives SHINE Award

Celebrate Equity and Inclusion: Submit MSAAC Award Nominations by April 10 Celebrate Equity and Inclusion: Submit MSAAC Award Nominations by April 10

LCPS Preschool Provides a Play-based Start to Learning LCPS Preschool Provides a Play-based Start to Learning

Learn More About Robey High School at Open Houses Learn More About Robey High School at Open Houses

Special Permission Application Period is Open Special Permission Application Period is Open

Innovation Day Volunteers Needed Innovation Day Volunteers Needed

Host a Hygiene Drive to Help Meet Student Needs Host a Hygiene Drive to Help Meet Student Needs

Environmental Showcase Provides Students Opportunity to Express Connection Environmental Showcase Provides Students Opportunity to Express Connection

UPCOMING EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS UPCOMING EVENTS AND WORKSHOPS

Documentary Spotlights Student Career Exploration and Educational Opportunities Documentary Spotlights Student Career Exploration and Educational Opportunities

Family Academy April Workshop to Provide Overview of Assessments Family Academy April Workshop to Provide Overview of Assessments

More Events to Support Your Student More Events to Support Your Student

Check the Flyerboard for Event Information and Opportunities! Check the Flyerboard for Event Information and Opportunities!

SCHOOL BOARD NEWS SCHOOL BOARD NEWS

CALENDAR REMINDERS CALENDAR REMINDERS

QUICK LINKS QUICK LINKS

Loudoun County Public Schools