Through a long-standing contract with Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) called the School Services Agreement, FCPS is responsible for instructional and operational services while the City of Fairfax is responsible for maintenance and facility enhancements of the four schools. The City schools, Fairfax High School, Katherine Johnson Middle School, Daniels Run Elementary School and Providence Elementary School have a combined total student population of about 4900 students of both city and county children. Fairfax HS and Katherine Johnson MS were renovated in 2006 while the two elementary schools were renovated in 2001.
“Our five year Capital Improvement Plan allows us to intentionally assess the conditions of our buildings and address the needs and future of our four schools,” said Dr. Pajardo.
The FY 2023 CIP is projected to be $2,280,000, about 25 percent less than the FY 2022 CIP. Included in the FY 2023 CIP are auditorium and field enhancements at Fairfax High School, grounds support and improvements at all four schools including updating school marquees, updating landscaping and removing and planting trees. Other maintenance updates include moving carpet floors to tile floors, concrete repairs, painting, paving and roof maintenance at all four schools.
Dr. Pajardo acknowledged the funds available to the City of Fairfax through the American Rescue Plan. Working with FCPS, the funds (known as ESSER III funds) focuses on students academically and emotional health supports and also provides funds to enhance heating ventilation and air conditioning units within the schools.
The School Board is accepting public comments on the Capital Improvement Plan through October and at the regular school board on November 2, 2021.
To see the presentation, please go to the City of Fairfax website’s meetings page and click on the October 4, 2021 meeting.