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Thank you, Karen Corbett Sanders!
Mentor, Trailblazer, Advocate and the Epitome of Grace. These are just a few words that can be used to describe Karen Corbett Sanders and the incredible work she has done for Fairfax County Public Schools.
For the past eight years, Karen has worked tirelessly for our students as the Mount Vernon District Representative to the Fairfax County School Board. During her tenure, Karen has spearheaded projects for the County such as expanding career and technical education programs, bringing early college opportunities and increasing career certifications available to students in the Mount Vernon District and throughout Fairfax. She has also decreased the number of students on the Pre-Kindergarten waitlist and ensured that all schools in the Mount Vernon District are accredited.
I have had the honor of working closely with Karen on many different projects, including, the Joint Environmental Task Force (JET). JET was formed in April 2019 by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the Fairfax County School Board to join the political and administrative capabilities of the County and the school system to proactively address climate change and environmental sustainability. Karen's leadership in forming JET has helped the County and schools create ambitious goals of being carbon neutral by 2040! This is just the tip of the iceberg of her numerous accomplishments. Karen has shown great resilience, particularly in these last 4 years, in keeping the focus on doing what is right for our students. She is truly a selfless and driven public servant.
Karen, on behalf of the Mount Vernon District, we thank you for all your hard work and dedication that you have shown and, particularly, for your service to our neediest. You have been a great friend and colleague and I look forward to our continued work together.
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National Day of Racial Healing | |
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On Friday, January 12, Fairfax County's Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) joined members of the Board and leaders from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) to proclaim January 16, as a National Day of Racial Healing in Fairfax County. The event recognized the partnership between NCS and NOVA to promote racial healing and upward mobility that will secure a more equitable, just and inclusive community. Learn more.
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MLK, Jr. National Day of Service | |
Thank you to everyone who braved the winter weather and spent time volunteering in observance of Martin Luther King (MLK), Jr. National Day of Service. Held on the third Monday in January, MLK, Jr. Day is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service — a “day on, not a day off.” This day of service helps to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, address social problems and move us closer to Dr. King’s dream of a “Beloved Community.” There were volunteer opportunities all over the County including Volunteer Fairfax's Annual Give Together event. Volunteers completed several service projects for nine local nonprofits involving environmental stewardship, food insecurity, caring kits, animal welfare and more. Looking for volunteer opportunities this year? Learn more. | |
Community Information & Events | |
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Update from Mount Vernon School Board Member Mateo Dunne
Please read my partner on the corridor School Board Member (SBM) Mateo Dunne's latest newsletter to learn more about him and for an update on Fairfax County Public Schools.
SBM Mateo Dunne will host his first virtual Mount Vernon District Town Hall on Monday, January 22 at 7 p.m. to address any issues or priorities you would like to bring to his attention. Please join him and submit your questions in advance through an online form. Register now.
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Early In-Person Voting for the Presidential Primary Election
Early voting will begin Saturday, January 20, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. for the March 5 presidential primary election here at the Mount Vernon Governmental Center (2511 Parkers Lane). This is a primary for both the Republican and Democratic candidates for president. In Virginia, voters do not register by political party, and you may only cast a ballot in one of the presidential primary elections. Learn more and other early voting locations.
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Operation Press Check
Last week, the Fairfax County Police Department launched Operation Press Check — an initiative that aims to enhance our ability to investigate convicted felons found to be in possession of firearms and keep our community safe. Learn more.
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Dog Licenses Due January 31
Did you have a new four-legged companion join your family recently? In Fairfax County, all dogs four months of age or older must be licensed. New licenses must be purchased by January 31, and the quickest and easiest way to apply or renew is online on the PetData website. To learn more about licenses and other application options visit.
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Open Houses at All Park Authority Rec Centers
Check out Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers for free on Wednesday, January 24. If you are a current Rec Center member, bring family and friends along to check out these community wellness hubs. Visitors will receive a free, 7-day trial membership or be able to purchase a 30-day for $30 pass to the Park Authority's Rec Centers. Explore the Rec Centers, use gym equipment, take a lap in the pool and try out drop-in fitness classes (space permitting) all day long. Learn more.
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2024 ArtsFairfax Awards Call for Nominations
Do you know an individual or an organization that you would like to nominate for the 2024 ArtsFairfax Awards? Help recognize the visionary contributions that the arts bring to Fairfax County and the Cities of Fairfax and Falls Church. Nominations are open to the public and self-nominations are accepted. ArtsFairfax will announce the award winners in March 2024. The deadline for nominations is 5 p.m. on Thursday, February 29. Learn more.
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Body Safety Program - Volunteers Needed
The Fairfax County Department of Family Services Children, Youth and Families Division is in need of volunteers to help teach Body Safety Program classes throughout the school year. The classes are offered several times a month for children 4 - 12 years old using an evidence-based curriculum called Childhelp® Speak Up Be Safe. You must be 21 years of age or older to volunteer. If interested please contact Elizabeth Aguilar Martinez at (571) 668-2157 or elizabeth.martinez2@fairfaxcounty.gov or contact the Body Safety Program line at (703) 324-7459.
Volunteer Training Opportunity for Body Safety Program
Friday, January 26, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
12011 Government Center Parkway, Suite 628, Fairfax
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Calling All Creatives: Ignite Mural Magic by Applying to Join "Paint It, Fairfax!"
Are you an artist looking to bring your creative flair to the community? Join the debut mural program, "Paint It, Fairfax!". This initiative is geared toward building a pool of talented artists eager to participate in transforming Commercial Revitalization Districts and Areas (CRDs/CRAs), such as the Richmond Highway Corridor, Huntington and Springfield, through community-focused public art. Learn more.
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Happy New Year from Clean Fairfax
In 2023, Clean Fairfax supported 98 community cleanups, which involved over 2,000 volunteers who picked up over 66 tons of litter from our environment. These grassroots efforts saved taxpayers over $166,000! Clean Fairfax also proactively supported efforts to stem the pollution problem before waste becomes litter. In 2023, Clean Fairfax continued the work of consulting and educating citizens and policymakers on waste prevention. Read the 2023 Annual Report.
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George Mason University Accepting Applicants for the Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program
Budding scientists can apply now for Mason’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP). The highly competitive program is an eight-week immersive internship offering hands-on lab experience, STEM career exploration and opportunities to strengthen scientific writing and creative thinking. ASSIP is open to high school and undergraduate students. Applications are due by Sunday, February 11 at midnight. Learn more.
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“One Water” Art Contest Entries Due January 31
Calling all high school artists: The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) is having their annual regional art contest and this year’s theme — "One Water” — focuses on how stormwater, wastewater and drinking water are all connected. Local student artists, grades 9 – 12, can submit their art or short video capturing the importance of protecting our local water sources for a chance to win a prize. The deadline to submit is January 31 at 11:59 p.m. Learn more.
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Revitalizing Richmond Highway
We are revitalizing our Highway in preparation for the upcoming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system - "The One", here are some before/after photos of the VDOT right of way demolitions that are helping us clean up our community.
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7/11 - 8010 Richmond Highway | |
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Mount Vernon Rec Center Updates
The Mount Vernon Rec Center renovation and expansion project is continuing on schedule. See below for photo updates of the downstairs fitness area as well as the future entrance. Learn more about the project.
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Laurel Hill Central Green Restrooms Update
The Laurel Hill Central Green Restroom Building project is continuing on schedule. All exterior work around the building is complete. The concrete walkway has been installed and the materials for the roof have been delivered. Next, Dominion Energy will install the transformers and conduits for electric. Learn more.
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