FCPS to offer limited virtual instruction in the fall

In-person instruction at Annandale High School. [FCPS]

Fairfax County Public Schools will offer all students five days of in-person learning in the fall, along with “a limited, centralized virtual program for students with documented health/medical needs,” FCPS announced May 4. 

The virtual program is a response to the impacts of COVID-19 and will not be offered beyond the 2021-22 school year. 

Families must apply by May 21 if they want their student to continue with virtual education in the fall. They also must submit a health/medical certification of need completed by a licensed physician, nurse practitioner, psychiatrist, or a licensed clinical psychologist by May 21. 

Currently, 85,396 students are attending in-person instruction, and more than 80 percent of those students are in a school building at least four days a week. 

FCPS in-school COVID-19 transmission rates remain less than 1 percent, FCPS reports, even though the social distancing requirement has been reduced from six to three feet.

Related story: School should be back to normal next fall 

“We are encouraged and hopeful that learning in the fall will look as close to normal as possible,” said FCPS Superintendent Scott Brabrand. “Over the past year, perhaps more than ever, we are reminded of the crucial role our schools play in our community as a gathering place where creative thinking, a culture of caring, and lifelong connections are fostered.” 

The FCPS virtual program will be taught by FCPS teachers and will accommodate students with special education needs and those who require English as a Second Language instruction. 

Some FCPS specialized programs will not be available virtually, however, including some immersion, Advanced Placement courses, and specialized career and technical programs. 

While there may be options for virtual students to participate in activities or athletics, such decisions will be made on a limited, case-by-case basis. Course offerings in the virtual program will be limited and will be subject to student enrollment and staffing availability. 

FCPS plans to send a letter this week to all families with students who are currently taking their classes virtually asking them whether they intend to apply for the virtual program for fall 2021.