OUR FOCUS
Educate Fairfax is the 501 (c)3 non-profit and the only charitable foundation dedicated exclusively to raising funds to support the success of Fairfax County Public Schools by addressing gaps in funding.
Our focus is in alignment with Fairfax County Public Schools’ s Strategic Plan 2023-30.
Our work focuses on proactive engagement, anticipating needs, and aligning with the division's strategic priorities.
By fostering partnerships, adapting to emerging challenges like food insecurity and equitable access to innovative learning opportunities, and creating targeted initiatives, we demonstrate an approach rooted in strategy and impact.
Educator & Staff Support
Family
Partnerships
Community Engagement
KIDS IN NEED
Our schools benefit from a robust network of non-profits, businesses, faith-based groups and individuals who support students with a strong start in Pre-K through 12th grade.
Imagine a child walking into his neighborhood school with a fresh haircut, wearing new clothes and carrying a backpack filled with the proper school supplies. This is a child ready to learn and be successful in school.
For more than 69,000 FCPS students, the reality is much different. In the 2024 - 2025 school year, 1 in every 3 FCPS students (37%) receive free or reduced-price meals, an indicator that they, and their families, are living in need.
The Kids in Need fund works through direct distribution and with the help of social workers, and teachers to provide necessary items to students who need them.
See below for two opportunities for you to make a big impact on students’ lives – consider hosting a food drive or school supply drive at your business or in your neighborhood! It’s as easy as clicking on ‘Download Flyer’ for instructions and flyers ready to print.
Supplies for Success
Funds raised through this effort help purchase school supplies for students who may be experiencing economic hardship – including newcomer, foster care, homeless, military-connected, and recently displaced students.
A donation of just $15 equips a student with the essential tools they need to start the year strong. Twenty-five dollars provides a backpack with those supplies.
Click below to host a drive and download flyers.
Food For All
Students in Fairfax County need your help to focus on their studies!
The food collected in food drives is one of the wraparound services we offer students and their families so they can focus on their education.
Please consider hosting a food drive or donating to support this program.
Click below to host a drive and download flyers.
INNOVATORS FUND
Innovation is one of the ways we support educational initiatives across Fairfax County Public Schools.
The Innovators Fund empowers FCPS educators to provide diverse learning environments and opportunities for students to excel by addressing gaps in funding.
We assist businesses and individuals in making strategic investments in unique experiences for students to innovate, create and explore within a classroom or school setting preparing students for college, career or the workforce.
Help us raise funds. Educate Fairfax will match the first $50,000 in donations to this fund!
Educate Fairfax Grants
Supporting the innovation, passion, and commitment of our first-class educators and staff by providing the resources and recognition they need to thrive; empowering us all to create a brighter future for our community.
One way we do this is through Educate Fairfax Grants.
School-based educators and staff may apply for an Educate Fairfax Grant each fall so that they can provide students with equitable access to innovative learning experiences and opportunities in alignment with the 2023-30 FCPS Strategic Plan. Grants are available up to $2,000. Funds must be used by the end of the same school year, and applicants must submit an impact report detailing the outcomes and impact to students.
During the 2024-2025 school year, we awarded 107 Educate Fairfax Grants to 100 schools across FCPS, benefitting over 36,000 students! We have big goals for next year—to fund all 199 FCPS schools and centers, with the help of our generous donors.
To see a full list of our schools who received grants last year and their impactful projects visit: https://sqr.co/EducateFairfaxGrants2425/
Grant applications for the 2025-26 school year are closed. Check back next fall to apply.
EDUCATE FAIRFAX SCHOLARSHIPS
Educate Fairfax Scholarships open doors, ensuring FCPS students have access to college and career opportunities, including clinicals, internships, apprenticeships and more.
We are deeply committed to ensuring every FCPS student has the opportunity to succeed beyond high school, regardless of their background or financial situation. Many of our talented students face financial barriers that prevent them from pursuing their dreams.
We offer multiple scholarships to students to help them reach their dreams.
Educate Fairfax Imagine! Believe! Achieve! Scholarship
The Educate Fairfax Imagine! Believe! Achieve! Scholarship provides a $2,000 award to graduating seniors at any FCPS high school.
Imagine! Believe! Achieve! provides financial assistance to students pursuing post-secondary education at a community college, trade school, or university who may face additional barriers to achieving their higher education goals. This may include students who are first in their family to attend college in the U.S., Multilingual Learners, students who are economically disadvantaged, and students with disabilities.
Imagine! Believe! Achieve! aims to encourage students to pursue their educational and career goals and is awarded to those demonstrating a hopeful spirit, trust in their potential, and the drive to succeed.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
Think Big Expect More Scholarship
The Think Big Expect More Scholarship, sponsored by Think Big for Kids will provide support for students who have been accepted into a program at a university, college, or trade school.
The Think Big Expect More Scholarship opportunity typically offers students financial support of approximately $2,500 to work towards completing their degree at a school of their choice.
The Think Big Expect More Scholarship is open to current Fairfax County high school seniors attending Annandale HS, Falls Church HS, Herndon HS, Justice HS, Lewis HS, and Mount Vernon HS and graduating in spring 2026.
We hope to encourage students to think big and expect more by pursuing education and training to meet their career goals and will award this scholarship to a student that demonstrates the core values of integrity, determination, and passion.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026. Click below to begin your application.
ITServe STEM College Scholarship
The ITServe STEM College Scholarship provides
a $2,000 award to graduating seniors at any Fairfax County Public School high school.
The ITServe STEM College Scholarship provides financial assistance to FCPS graduating seniors pursuing a STEM degree full-time at a two-year community college or four-year university in Virginia.
With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and excellence, ITServe aims to elevate the local IT industry through networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development.
The ITServe STEM College Scholarship supports 2026 graduating seniors for the Fall 2026 semester, with the potential of providing funds for additional semesters contingent on maintaining eligibility requirements.
The scholarship also includes the potential for mentorship and internship opportunities for scholarship recipients.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
The John Lewis Leadership Program Scholarship
The John Lewis Leadership Program Scholarship is a $500 award for graduating seniors from Lewis High School who have participated in the Lewis Leadership Program and demonstrated meaningful growth and impact.
Inspired by the legacy of Congressman John Lewis, the scholarship honors students who lead with purpose, courage, and care - regardless of GPA or traditional academic metrics.
The John Lewis Leadership Program Scholarship supports students as they transition into their next chapter, and honors students who have made a difference in the Lewis community and who plan to continue their leadership journey. Students with nontraditional paths are especially encouraged to apply.
The John Lewis Leadership Program Scholarship is not just financial support - it is a recognition of your voice, your vision, and your power to lead change, wherever your path may take you.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
Love Like Adam
Scholarship
Each spring the Love Like Adam Foundation in collaboration with Educate Fairfax will award three graduating seniors who through the selection process meet the criteria of the Love Like Adam Scholarship.
The Love Like Adam Scholarship honors the memory of Adam Oakes by recognizing FCPS seniors who exemplify kindness, empathy, inclusivity, and strong character.
This annual scholarship supports students as they pursue higher education, providing financial assistance to help them achieve their goals. Each recipient receives $2,000 to assist with expenses such as tuition, books, supplies, room and board.
By celebrating students who uplift others, the Love Like Adam Scholarship keeps Adam's legacy of compassion and friendship alive.
To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be nominated by a FCPS staff member and write a short essay.
Staff members, please access the nomination form by clicking the “Staff Members” button below.
Students, please access the application and essay by clicking the “Students” button below.
The 2026 application is NOW open and accepting nominations until April 16, 2026.
Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship
The Irene Rosenbaum Memorial Scholarship provides $5,000 per year, renewable for up to four years (contingent upon continued enrollment and eligibility), to Lewis High School students to support their postsecondary education.
It honors the life and legacy of Irene Rosenbaum, a devoted volunteer who supported students and staff at Crestwood Elementary School for nearly 20 years.
A compassionate and steady presence in the school community, Irene spent countless hours volunteering in classrooms, assisting teachers, and encouraging students who needed extra support. She believed deeply that every child deserves dignity, opportunity, and care.
This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors from Lewis High School who demonstrate resilience, financial need, and a commitment to serving others. It supports students who have faced challenges with determination and who plan to pursue postsecondary education or career training.
By honoring students who embody Irene’s spirit of kindness, service, and perseverance, this scholarship continues her legacy of uplifting others through education.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
Juliana Kai Russell Memorial Scholarship
The Juliana Kai Russell Memorial Scholarship, which provides a $2,000 award to graduating seniors at Edison High School who are currently or have previously taken a CTE course, supports postsecondary education.
It honors the life and legacy of Juliana Kai Russell, a beloved Business and Information Technology teacher at Edison High School whose passion for teaching and dedication to her students left a lasting impact on the school community.
Juliana was known for her dynamic classroom leadership and her deep involvement in student organizations such as Future Business Leaders of America and the Latino Student Union. She believed in the potential of every student and worked tirelessly to help them grow academically and personally.
This scholarship recognizes graduating seniors from Edison High School who reflect Juliana’s values of resilience, leadership, and service to others. Open to students who have taken a Career and Technical Education (CTE) course, the scholarship supports those pursuing postsecondary education or career training.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
REACH IN US Scholarship
The REACH IN US Scholarship supports a graduating Fairfax County Public Schools senior who plans to pursue a career in healthcare through Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA).
This scholarship reflects the mission of REACH IN US (Resources for Education and Community Health in India and the United States) to expand access to education and strengthen communities through healthcare and workforce development. Through this partnership, REACH IN US and Educate Fairfax aim to support students who are beginning their journey toward meaningful careers that improve the health and well-being of others.
The scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate financial need and a commitment to serving their communities through healthcare. Funds may be used for educational expenses such as tuition, books, supplies, or program fees at NOVA.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 17, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
FABSE Scholarship
The Fairfax Alliance of Black School Educators (FABSE) Scholarship recognizes graduating Fairfax County Public Schools seniors who demonstrate leadership, academic achievement, and meaningful impact within their school and community.
FABSE is committed to furthering the academic success of all students—particularly students of African descent—by supporting educators and strengthening educational opportunities throughout Fairfax County. Through this scholarship, FABSE celebrates students who have shown dedication to their academic growth, leadership, and service to others.
The scholarship supports students who plan to pursue postsecondary education at a college, university, or technical or trade program. Awards are based on academic effort and achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Award amounts vary depending on the number of recipients.
By honoring students who strive for excellence and make a positive difference in their communities, the FABSE Scholarship reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders.
The 2026 application is now OPEN and accepting submissions until April 20, 2026!
Click below to begin your application.
Gateway to Careers
Gateway to Careers Scholarships offer financial support to high school juniors and seniors enrolled in Fairfax County Public Schools’ career and technical education (CTE) programs, helping them work toward career certifications and advancement.
This scholarship is designed to remove barriers to completing essential program activities, such as internships, externships, clinicals, and other requirements.
It covers costs related to transportation, childcare, and materials, helping students gain the experience needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
You can make a difference in supporting a student’s opportunity to enroll in college,
entry into the workforce or public service, enlistment in the military, or other, post-secondary plans.
IMAGINE Students’ Futures!
BELIEVE In Their Potential!
Help Students ACHIEVE Their Dreams!
FCPS CARES of the Quarter
FCPS CARES of the Quarter is an initiative started by Educate Fairfax to further recognize FCPS staff who go above and beyond with a quarterly celebration. The Educate Fairfax Teacher/Staff Support Committee reviews and nominates a winner from the pool of 21 FCPS CARES monthly winners from all five FCPS regions to recognize as the FCPS CARES of the Quarter winner.
The recipient receives a check for $500 from the sponsoring organization, a plaque, and a surprise celebration from leaders in the division and the community.
The initiative is a way to honor the staff member's dedication and contributions to FCPS and the impactful work they do to support their students, colleagues, and the community.
Do you know a teacher or FCPS staff person who has gone above and beyond recently? Go to the FCPS CARES Portal and let everyone know how much they are appreciated!
James Patterson, Kevin Vo, & Duy Nhan Nguyen
Sideburn Support Center
Fall 2025
Kylee West
Bailey's Upper Elementary School
Summer 2025
Amanda Alsbaugh
Oak View Elementary School
Spring 2025
Samantha Vivian-Beck
Twain Middle School
Winter 2025
Lawrence Cooper
West Potomac High School
Fall 2024
EVENTS
FCPS Honors
June 2026
Recognition of FCPS employees for going above and beyond to help others and show they care.
FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame Ceremony
Fall
The FCPS Alumni Hall of Fame was established by Educate Fairfax in 2022 to honor the achievements of distinguished FCPS graduates and inspire current students.
The idea stemmed from Educate Fairfax’s commitment to celebrating the lasting value of a strong public education and the impact it has on shaping leaders across government, business, education, philanthropy, and more.
Each year, Educate Fairfax hosts the Hall of Fame ceremony to recognize alumni who have gone on to make significant contributions in their fields. The event is more than a celebration—it strengthens the bond between alumni and their school community while showcasing to today’s students the opportunities that lie ahead.
Superintendent's State of our Schools
Fall 2025
Every fall FCPS meets with businesses and community leaders to present an overview of the current state of our school system and the superintendent's vision in alignment with the strategic plan.
Attendees are invited to partner with FCPS in achieving excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every student.
Beyond the Tassel
Spring 2026
Beyond the Tassel is a community celebration for the Fairfax County Public Schools’ graduating class, recognizing more than $50,000 in scholarships, and strengthening connections across alumni, supporters, and community champions.