The LCPS Letter

As part of the fun on our 2nd Annual One LCPS Celebration Day, held Thursday, Oct. 16, schools and departments submitted more than 500 incredible photos for our division-wide contest. These snapshots captured the heart and energy of this day created by Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence to celebrate the amazing staff and students who make LCPS shine. From joyful moments to creative displays of school spirit, the entries showcased the very best of our community. And now the results are in! Check out which schools and departments took home top honors in categories like:

• Most People in a Photo

• Best Lunch Spirit

• Best Playground Spirit

• Best Use of Science Equipment

• Best Mascot Photo

• Best Use of Musical Instruments

See the full list of winners at lcps.org/celebrationday and relive the joy, pride and purpose that make us One LCPS!

LCPS is developing a 2032 Strategic Plan to help guide LCPS decisions and clearly define priorities in our work together. Our goal every day is to support student excellence and well-being, be responsive to and supportive of our staff (the largest workforce in the county) and foster positive interactions across our community to build trust.

We are seeking input from students, families, staff and community members to help shape the future of our school division to ensure we provide the best education possible for our students.

LCPS families/parents and staff received invitations to take the survey on November 5. Search for an email from Superintendent Aaron Spence with the subject “Take the LCPS Strategic Plan Survey.” We are also asking community members to get involved. We want to hear from all of our constituents as we reexamine our mission, vision and core values, and determine how to bring them to life in the coming years to improve student achievement and future pathways.

We envision that the 2032 strategic plan will continue to allow for school improvement, better student outcomes, and increased parental involvement in the school communities and the division. We would love to hear your voice in the process.

LCPS and Loudoun County School Board are reviewing the attendance boundaries of 18 schools in the Ashburn and Dulles North areas. The process is guided by Policy 6530, Changing School Attendance Zones, which requires that all school attendance zones be reviewed every five years.

The office of Planning and GIS Services presented two proposed attendance boundary plans, Staff Plan R11 and Staff Plan R17, at the Oct. 28 School Board meeting. LCPS staff believe the 18 schools under review have sufficient capacity to accommodate all students and programs while easing overcrowding. The rezoning initiative aims to:

• Alleviate overcrowding in high-enrollment elementary schools
• Create space for special education programs
• Expand opportunities for specialized programs
• Delay construction and the associated costs of a new elementary school (ES-36)

On Wednesday, November 5, the School Board held a Public Meeting and Work Session to continue discussing the attendance boundary zone change process. During this meeting, LCPS staff referenced Redistrict, an online tool created by graduate students at Virginia Tech’s Sanghani Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics, that allows users to map their own attendance zone plans and share them with their neighbors and School Board members. LCPS staff invited the School Board and community members to consult this tool and put forward alternatives.

In addition to the two meetings already held, four additional meetings will be held to facilitate the review of this attendance zone process. Families and community members are encouraged to stay informed about this process and to participate in the conversation. All meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. and be held at the LCPS Administration Building (21000 Education Ct., Ashburn).

• Monday, Nov. 24: Elementary School Attendance Zone Public Hearing & Work Session
• Tuesday, Dec. 2: Review of Elementary School Attendance Zone Recommendations
• Monday, Dec. 8: Elementary School Attendance Zone Briefing & Public Hearing
• Tuesday, Dec. 16: Adoption of Elementary School Attendance Zone Changes

Planning and GIS Services has also created a dedicated webpage for reviewing the Ashburn and Dulles North elementary school attendance zone change process, which will provide all data and information shared with the School Board throughout this process. This webpage also includes a Questions & Answers running document, answering written questions received from community members, including parents/guardians, which includes all questions and answers asked about this process. There is also a direct link to this webpage on the homepage of each of the 18 schools’ websites. Look for the ‘Fall 2025 ES Boundary Process’ link. Any adopted changes to the attendance zone will take effect with the start of the 2026-2027 school year.

In April 2025, a new Virginia State Law was passed that restricts the use of all personal student technology for students in all grades during the school day. Key terms from this law include:

• "Bell to bell" means after the first bell rings at the start of the school day to begin instructional time until the dismissal bell rings at the end of the school day. "Bell to bell" includes lunch and time in between class periods.

• "Smart device" means any personal electronic device that can connect to the Internet and wirelessly collect, process, and transmit data, including smart watches and tablets.

This new law will impact LCPS’ existing practices and will restrict student access to personal technology during the school day, except for those students with documented accommodations.

A draft updated Policy 8655, Student Personal Device Use, was an information item at the Oct. 27 Student Behavior and Accountability Committee meeting. The policy is currently available for review and feedback. The School Board will also discuss the draft policy, with the anticipation that a finalized version will be approved by the School Board at its December 16 Board meeting. Any potential changes would most likely be implemented when students return from winter break on January 5, 2026.

In this week’s LCPS Podcast, Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence sits down with authors Dr. Floyd Cobb and John Krownapple to explore their book, Belonging Through a Culture of Dignity. The conversation unpacks how dignity and belonging -- while seemingly obvious -- are often misunderstood or overlooked in educational spaces. As these core human needs are examined more deeply, educators gain insight into the barriers that can hinder meaningful student relationships, especially across lines of difference. Even the most empathetic and responsive educators benefit from recognizing what the authors call “dignity distortions,” subtle, normalized behaviors that can undermine connection and inclusion.

The LCPS Podcast brings you behind the scenes with educators and students 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. Check out the LCPS Podcast webpage to listen to this week's episode and to catch up on episodes.

Riverside High School transformed into a culinary showcase on Monday, Nov. 3 as LCPS hosted its second annual Food Show. With over 460 attendees, including students, staff, food service vendors and community partners, the event served up more than 30 mouthwatering recipe ideas. From breakfast bites to savory lunch creations, and even some dishes crafted by LCPS students, the Food Show highlighted the new, fresh direction of school meals and provided an opportunity for LCPS students and community members to help shape what’s served in our schools. Read about the Food Show.

Showing the proper identification is especially important when there is a substitute bus driver, a new bus driver, or when routines change. Drivers and attendants are strictly instructed not to release kindergarten or students with special needs to adults without proper identification. While we understand that these measures may occasionally cause inconvenience, they are essential to protect every child. Thank you for your continued cooperation and support.

A reminder to all LCPS students and families: If you could use supplemental weekend meals, please get in touch with your school's family liaison. They will share the request with the Loudoun Education Foundation (LEF), and other providers, to ensure all students' needs are met. LEF's Fueled program serves students and their families through in-school pantries and meal bags delivered to schools each week. We are working closely with other local emergency food providers to meet an increase in need among Loudoun County families. See LoudounFeeds.org for additional emergency food assistance near you. If you are able to help support your neighbors during this time, consider donating to LEF to support the Fueled program.

In response to the federal government shutdown, the Commonwealth of Virginia will issue Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) benefits to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers in November. Under VENA, 25% of a customer's monthly benefit will be issued on a weekly basis, so that in the event the shutdown ends sometime during November, normal distributions from the federal government will resume. See the Virginia Department of Social Services for more information.

The Office of the Auditor General (OAG) evaluates internal controls, financial procedures and compliance with policies and regulations. As independent internal auditors, the OAG reports directly to the Loudoun County School Board and the Legislative, Audit, and Policy Committee. The OAG’s mission is to ensure compliance and also to enhance process effectiveness, improve efficiency and safeguard assets.

The OAG operates an independently managed hotline, providing a confidential channel for reporting suspected wrongdoing. Violations may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Abuse of authority or using a position for personal gain
• Theft or misuse of school funds or property
• Corruption and bribery
• Receiving kickbacks
• Records falsification (such as personnel records, time and attendance, or procurement)

LCPS community members may submit a complaint or concern to the Auditor General, who, as appropriate, will act on your submission. When submitting a claim, choose the method that is best suited to you. Visit the OAG webpage to learn more or use Online Submission.

Your student recently participated in one or more of the following assessments. Scores and/or score reports are now available for review in ParentVUE. Assessment scores can be found in the “Test History” tab and score reports can be found in the “Documents” tab. More information about accessing the scores and reports.

Measures of Academic Progress (MAP), grades 1-8 and certain high school students: MAP Growth tests are adaptive (the assessment adapts to the test-taker’s ability level), providing a detailed picture of what your student knows and is ready to learn – whether it is on, above or below grade level expectations. MAP Growth tests also provide immediate and accurate information about student learning, enabling teachers to personalize instruction to meet students’ needs. Information about MAP Growth tests.

i-Ready, grades 9-12: i-Ready is an adaptive assessment tool that measures six areas of reading development. For more information, visit i-Ready.

Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program (VKRP), grade K: VKRP gives you and your child’s teacher a more comprehensive picture of school readiness across four key areas: mathematics, literacy (VALLSSPALS), self-regulation and social skills. It provides information teachers use to effectively individualize instruction and partner with you to help support your child’s school success. More about VKRP.

Virginia Language & Literacy Screening System (VALLSS), grades 1-3 and identified students in grades 4-8: VALLSS is the Virginia Department of Education’s sponsored literacy screener. VALLSS measures components of reading that are key for reading comprehension, and is aligned with the newest reading science. Literacy Screening in Virginia: Information for Families

Formative Assessment System for Teachers (FAST), grades K-12 for certain students: LCPS uses FAST as a diagnostic for oral reading fluency and early literacy skills and as a progress monitoring tool. Progress monitoring data gained is used to determine progress and responsiveness to instruction. Information about FAST.

If it is determined that your student needs an intervention plan as a result of these screenings and other data, the school will notify you and provide you with a copy of the intervention plan.

After Friday, Nov. 21, the Virginia Language & Literacy Screening System (VALLSS), grades PK & K will be available in ParentVUE.

Starting kindergarten, entering middle school, or moving up to high school can bring both excitement and uncertainty. This month's LCPS Family Academy session helps families understand what to expect at each key transition point and offers strategies to support students socially, emotionally and academically. Learn how to create a smooth path forward by building routines, fostering independence and staying connected with your child’s school team.

Next Level Ready: Helping Your Child Transition Through School Milestones

• Join us Wednesday, Nov. 12 at noon or 6 p.m.
• To learn more or register: lcps.org/familyacademy
  
• Free for all LCPS families with students in grades K-12.

Explore the many ways LCPS supports students with disabilities at the Special Education Resource Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 7 p.m. Meet representatives from LCPS programs and services and learn about resources that empower students, foster a sense of belonging and ensure access to consistent, deeply engaging instruction. This event reflects LCPS’ commitment to building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy while helping families recognize and pursue meaningful pathways to future goals. Whether you're looking for information, inspiration or new connections, the Special Education Resource Fair can help you navigate the educational journey with confidence.

The November Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC) business meeting will follow the Resource Fair. The Special Education Resource Fair is coordinated by SEAC with support from the LCPS Office of Special Education. We look forward to welcoming you to an evening of learning, collaboration and community.

Your Passport to Global Learning! Loudoun County Public Schools is launching the Academy of Global and Linguistic Studies, a new special high school program focused on global studies and world languages. Families are invited to join the free informational webinar, Your Passport to Global Learning: Inside the Academy of Global and Linguistic Studies, to learn about the two student-learning pathways, and the Special Programs Student Opportunities interest process.

Date and Time: Wednesday, Nov. 12, 7 - 8 p.m.
Location: Register to receive Webex access link by email.

Mark your calendar for Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., to attend Empowered! English Learner Family Conference, a dynamic event where learning meets fun for the whole family.

What to expect:

• Interactive sessions led by LCPS staff and community partners will offer practical tips for supporting learning at home, boosting reading and math skills, college readiness, positive behavior and more.

• Connect with resources to help your student thrive. Our community partners will guide you through services available to support your family.

• Fuel Up! Food trucks will be on-site with delicious meals and snacks for purchase. The first 50 families in attendance will receive a $10 food truck voucher.

• Worry-Free Fun: Child care for children ages 4 and older (potty-trained only) will be provided so parents and family members can focus on the sessions.

• Interpreters from multiple languages will be available.

Don't miss this chance to learn and grow together. Mark your calendar and bring the whole family. We can’t wait to welcome you! Learn more. This event is hosted by the Division of English Learners, Family and Community Engagement Office. No registration required.

Join the School Counseling team and SchooLinks for a Course Planner Learning Webinar for Parents/Guardians. You will receive a guided overview of the Course Planner platform, tips for supporting your student’s planning process and answers to your questions. Course Planner is an interactive tool that makes course selection and academic planning easier and more personalized. Starting in January, 5th to 11th-grade students will use Course Planner to begin selecting their courses for next school year and beyond. As part of the SchooLinks college and career readiness platform, Course Planner helps chart a clear path to graduation, connecting students’ interests with future goals and providing families with the insight they need to support every step.

Webinar Details

• 6 p.m. – For parents/guardians of students in grades 5–6. Webex Link

• 7 p.m. – For parents/guardians of students in grades 7–11 Webex Link

• Building Resiliency in Kids: How Our Best Intentions Can Interfere with Development and Increase Anxiety
  Thursday, Nov. 6 -- tonight! -- 6:30-8 p.m., LCPS Administration Building

• Ready, Set, Transition: A Guide to Transition Planning for Your Student
  Thursday, Nov. 20, Noon. Virtual -- Register to receive meeting link.

• Kindergarten Connection: Moving on from Early Childhood Special Education to Kindergarten with an IEP
  Thursday, Dec. 11, 6:30-8 p.m., LCPS Administration Building

• Welcome to LCPS English Learner Family Workshop
  Wednesday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m., The Historic Frederick Douglass High School (407 E. Market St., Leesburg)

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

Join Loudoun County Parks, Recreation, and Community Services on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Claude Moore Recreation and Community Center (46105 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling, VA) for a day filled with heart, purpose and connection. This free, all-ages event celebrates the power of giving back, featuring local small businesses, nonprofits, community groups and resources that make Loudoun thrive. Attendees will be able to:

• Shop local
• Support donation drives
• Discover volunteer opportunities
• Cheer on young entrepreneurs
• Connect with nonprofits and service providers

For more information see the Loudoun County Government announcement. See the PRCS events page for more upcoming events.

• Wednesday, Nov. 26 to Friday, Nov. 28 is Thanksgiving Break and student and staff holidays.
• Calendars for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 school years are posted on the LCPS website. Please check the school calendars before scheduling vacations or other student absences.
• The 2026 LCPS graduation schedule is posted on the LCPS website.

School Board Summary and Meeting Schedule

Read a summary of the Loudoun County School Board's Oct. 28 meeting. The next School Board meeting will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 11. All School Board meetings are live-streamed. The full meeting agenda will be available on the Loudoun County School Board website (under Meetings) by approximately 5:30 p.m. on the Friday prior to the School Board meeting.

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. The policies listed below is currently under review:

• Policy 2130, Oath of Office
• Policy 3410, Office of the Auditor General
• Policy 2140, Orientation and Professional Development for Board Members
• Policy 1035, School Board Norms, Protocols and Violations
• Policy 3120, Powers and Duties of the Division Superintendent
• Policy 8655, Student Personal Device Use
• Policy 8205, Authority To Take Disciplinary and Other Action Against Students

Please see 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.

• Ask the Superintendent
• School Calendars
• Office of the Ombuds
• Family and Community Engagement
• LCPS News Stories
• Mental Health and Community Resources for Families
• Fentanyl and Opioid Awareness

• Comment and Complaint Form
• Loudoun Education Foundation
• Join the LCPS Team

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