Tea Time: FCPS News for September 22

Posted Date: 09/22/26 (06:00 PM)

A speaker at a podium presents a slideshow with classroom photos in a large, brightly lit auditorium.

James Farmer Scholars Kick Off a New Year

Last week, James Farmer Scholars gathered at Walker-Grant Middle School for the program’s annual kickoff dinner. The evening featured informative and inspiring presentations as scholars and families came together to start another year of learning and growth. We’re excited to see all that our James Farmer Scholars accomplish this year!

A three-part image shows elementary school students engaged in art activities and posing proudly in their classroom.

GWES Gators Celebrate International Dot Day

Gladys West Elementary celebrated International Dot Day, a global celebration inspired by Peter H. Reynolds’ book The Dot that encourages students to embrace creativity, courage, and self-expression. Our Gators joined in the fun by creating their own artwork and putting their imaginations to work. We loved seeing our Gators get creative!

Three smiling professionals pose next to an event sign for the Education & Industry Forum.

FCPS Leaders Join Regional Education & Workforce Foum

Last week, Superintendent Dr. Marci Catlett, Chief Academic Officer Dr. Brendon Albon, and Workforce Development Coach Lauryn Myers joined education, business, and community leaders from across the Fredericksburg region for the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce’s WorkForce NOW Education & Industry Forum. Dr. Catlett participated in the “Strong Schools. Strong Communities. Strong Workforce” discussion, sharing perspectives on the important connection between strong public schools, thriving communities, and the region’s future workforce. We’re proud to have FCPS represented in conversations about preparing today’s students for the opportunities of tomorrow.

A group of students proudly hold a large baking sheet filled with freshly baked cookies in a school kitchen.

JM Chefs Get Cooking

Last week marked the inaugural meeting of the new Cooking Club at James Monroe High School! The club gives students interested in culinary arts an opportunity to build their skills, explore their interests, and get hands-on experience in the kitchen. We’re excited to see this new opportunity available to our JMHS students!

A group of children and adults pose in front of a white sign that reads 'HUGH MERCER ELEMENTARY' on a landscaped hill.

Scouts Lend a Hand at Hugh Mercer

Last weekend, local Cub Scout Pack 802 lent a helping hand at Hugh Mercer Elementary School, landscaping the area around the school sign and the hillside in front of the building. We’re so grateful to these Scouts for their hard work and for taking the time to help care for our school. Thank you, Pack 802, for being great community partners!

A diverse group of adults sit attentively at tables in a brightly lit classroom or meeting room, listening to a presentation.

Professional Learning with TTAC

Last Thursday, FCPS staff participated in a full day of special education professional learning with our partners at TTAC. Participants gained new strategies and skills they can bring back to their classrooms to support student learning. We’re grateful to TTAC for partnering with our educators for a great day of learning!

The Fredericksburg City Public Schools 2026-2027 School Year Calendar displays monthly views with highlighted holidays and school days.

Instructional Calendar 2026-27

The 2026-27 Instructional Calendar reflects a thoughtful balance of instructional time, scheduled breaks, and professional learning days designed to support student success and family planning. We encourage families and staff to review the calendar.

View Calendar

Looking for a Helping Hand?

We know that all families can benefit from a helping hand from time to time, whether it's connecting with local services, finding activities for kids, or learning about programs that make life a little easier. Our community is fortunate to have many wonderful organizations and resources available to support families in a variety of ways. Below, you'll find information about local programs and services that may be helpful to you and your family. We encourage everyone to explore these resources—many offer valuable support that can benefit families at any stage.

We want to thank School Social Worker Cat Eicke for compiling these incredible resources and helping connect our families with the support and services that strengthen our entire FCPS community!

View Resources

A flyer for Walker-Grant Middle School's Families and Community Night on October 21, 2026, featuring event details and photos of students engaged in CTE activities.

A promotional flyer for an in-person SEAC meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the WGMS Library, featuring happy children illustrations.

Flyer for the FSO Youth Soccer Camp on Sept. 26, 2026, at Walker-Grant Middle School, featuring a soccer ball and camp details.

James Monroe HS Football: All Season Long, broadcast on regionalwebtv.com.

A promotional flyer for the FXBG City of Fredericksburg Career & Resource Fair on October 7, 2026, featuring city skyline imagery and event details.

Flyer for 'Stay Safe September' event on Sept 26, 2026, at King George Elementary School, featuring an image of a parent holding a baby.

Fredericksburg City Public Schools graphic for September Attendance Awareness Month, featuring the text 'Your presence matters' and four icons representing being present, ready, belonging, and successful.

A flyer for a National Night Out community event hosted by the Mayfield Civic Association on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 1-5 PM at W.L Harris Mayfield Playground.

Flyer for the Robert E. Jenkins Fall Scholastic Chess Tournament on Sat, Nov. 7, 2026, featuring young players and chess pieces.