FAIRFAX, VA – City of Fairfax Schools Superintendent Dr. Phyllis Pajardo announced Monday she will retire at the end of the school year. Dr. Pajardo’s last day as superintendent will be June 30, 2022. Dr. Pajardo has worked in the City of Fairfax for seven years, five as superintendent. Prior to her time in the City, she was an educator, leader and assistant superintendent in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) for over 35 years.
“In my past seven years in the City of Fairfax, I have been fortunate enough to work with a wonderful staff, a conscientious and supportive school board, and talented educators,” said Dr. Pajardo. “I look forward to taking some time to travel, spend time with my family and continue to support current and future educational leaders as an author and consultant.”
During Dr. Pajardo’s tenure, she oversaw the school name change of Katherine Johnson Middle School, the expansion of the advanced academic programs at the two elementary schools and middle school, the opening of partnerships with the four schools and George Mason University, the establishment of the Superintendent Advisory Team, and assisted with hiring four principals. In 2017, Dr. Pajardo was named as the Educator of the Year from Leadership Fairfax, and is the author of The Principal Influence: A Framework for Developing Leadership Capacity in Principals.
“Dr. Pajardo has been a compassionate, talented and strong leader, as well as advocate for the students and staff in the City of Fairfax Schools,” said Carolyn Pitches, City of Fairfax School Board chair. “While we are sad to see her go, we are grateful for her leadership and she will leave with our respect, admiration and best wishes into retirement.”
The City of Fairfax School Board hired former City Superintendent Ann Monday to help with the search for a new superintendent. Ms. Monday has facilitated multiple superintendent searches throughout Virginia since she retired from the City.
For more information about the superintendent selection process, the hiring timeline and to provide feedback, please go to the City of Fairfax Schools website www.CityofFairfaxSchools.org