Give all staff a role in a virtual reopening

Superintendent Brabrand and the Fairfax County School Board

FCPS Support Staff have repeatedly had little to no say in what a safe return to school looks like. Sadly, this is a consistent pattern within FCPS. Whether it’s the substitute shortage, student discipline or building procedures, support staff are often the last to know about decisions made and aren’t given a seat at the table. This is disrespectful, unjust, and inequitable. Every single FCPS employee is an integral part of our school communities and essential to ensuring that our students and schools succeed. All staff deserve a role in a virtual reopening.

To: Superintendent Brabrand and the Fairfax County School Board
From: [Your Name]

Members of the Fairfax County community are united- every member of the FCPS “team” has a vital role to play in making sure our students receive the best education possible. We call on FCPS to adopt the following principles for Support Staff in a virtual reopening: provide a virtual work option for all staff, provide all staff with tools and training to succeed, eliminate the digital divide, provide clear communication to all FCPS employees and foster an environment of equity, inclusion, dignity and respect. All Support Staff deserve a voice and seat at the table to make sure FCPS reopens safely and deserve to be treated with the respect and professionalism that teachers have received. We urge FCPS to give all staff a role in a virtual reopening.