8/18/2026 - FCPS School Board Work Session

The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) School Board held a work session on August 18, 2026, focusing primarily on two key topics: the potential implementation of fees for middle school after-school programs and the rollout of a new digital literacy curriculum. Regarding the after-school programs, staff presented data on the program's scope, costs, and a proposed $300 fee per participant aimed at generating approximately $1 million in revenue. Board members expressed concerns about the feasibility and equity of charging fees, noting potential declines in participation and the impact on students from Title I and free/reduced meal-eligible schools. The board discussed alternative funding approaches, including private partnerships and donations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining broad access to these programs. On digital literacy, the board reviewed a new curriculum integrating digital citizenship, media literacy, and AI literacy across K-12 grades, with lessons designed to be developmentally appropriate and embedded within existing instruction. Questions were raised about technology use policies, opt-out options for parents, and the balance of technology integration in classrooms. The board also addressed concerns about device use in kindergarten, compliance with state reading intervention requirements, and the management of AI tools and social media within schools. No formal votes on procurement or contracts were recorded, but the discussions highlighted budgetary constraints, staffing needs, and policy considerations that could influence future procurement and program funding decisions.