FCPS weighs options for fall and for graduation

Signs like these are cropping up all over.

The Fairfax County School Board reviewed three possible scenarios for the 2020-21 school year at a May 11 work session. 

Meanwhile, a state-level COVID-19 Education Task Force plans to issue policy guidance in June on the conditions for reopening schools.  

The three possibilities considered for fall 2020 include the following: 

Scenario 1: Virtual start to the year – The school year would start with distance learning. There would be activities on community building, establishing virtual learning routines, and enhanced distance learning resources. Instructional schedules would be revised to better meet student learning needs. Community partnerships would be expanded to support students, including childcare services. 

Scenario 2: Planning to return to school with social distancing – If schools reopen with social distancing requirements, class size would be limited to 12 students, and bus capacity would be greatly reduced. The priority would be students that most require face-to-face supports, such as students with disabilities. There could be alternating in-school and virtual schedules based on health department guidelines. There would also be guidelines for non-classroom space, such as cafeterias, hallways, libraries, playgrounds, and buses. 

Scenario 3: Some unable to return – Online learning would be provided to support students unable to return to the school building for personal reasons. 

In keeping with the results of a survey on graduation for the Class of 2020, FCPS recommends a virtual Class of 2020 celebration video in June or July and an individual graduate photo recognition opportunity with students dressed in caps and gowns. 

There would be a face-to-face graduation in fall 2020 if health conditions permit. A decision on whether that happens would be announced shortly after Labor Day.