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School board approves contract with James Madison University to expand "Grow Your Own" teacher pathway
Summary
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously approved a contract with James Madison University to offer a teacher pipeline bachelor'level pathway for FCPS staff working toward licensure in high-need areas such as elementary and special education.
The Fairfax County School Board unanimously approved Jan. 23 a contract with James Madison University that will allow FCPS staff, including paraprofessionals and other instructional assistants, to pursue bachelor’s degrees and teacher licensure through a tuition-share Grow Your Own program.
The nut graf: the contract targets high-need endorsement areas identified by the Virginia Department of Education — notably elementary education (pre-K through grade 6) and K-12 special education — and aims to convert experienced classroom assistants into licensed teachers.
Board member Mr. McElveen, who moved the item out of consent for discussion, described the program as an opportunity to “upskill” current staff and said the program helps fill “critical needs in special education and elementary education in particular.” He urged his colleagues to support the item. Mr. Moon seconded the motion and asked staff to clarify program delivery and recruitment outreach.
Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reed explained the program is a tuition-share model used historically for instructional assistants and paraprofessionals who already work in FCPS classrooms; she said the initial cohort includes 12 staff and the program spans about 2.5 years (six semesters). Dr. Reed said some coursework may be virtual and some in-person but staff would follow up with more precise delivery details.
The board voted unanimously to authorize the superintendent or the director of procurement to execute, deliver, and administer the contract on behalf of the school board. The motion passed with the following recorded yes votes: Miss Marron; Miss Dixit; Mr. McElveen; Dr. Anderson; Mr. McDaniel; Miss Anderson; Mr. Moon; Miss Lady; Miss St. John Cunning; Miss Sizemore Heizer; and Chairman Frisch. Mr. Dunaway was absent from the dais.
Ending: staff said they will return with program details on virtual vs. in-person delivery, eligibility and outreach plans for both FCPS staff and community members.
