City of Fairfax School Board appoints Dr. Dustin Wright as superintendent effective Dec. 1

The City of Fairfax School Board voted unanimously Nov. 3 to appoint Dr. Dustin Wright as superintendent of the City of Fairfax Schools, with his term to begin Dec. 1, 2025, and run through June 30, 2030.

Board chair (Chair Pitches) announced the appointment following a national search and "robust community input," calling Wright a longtime Fairfax resident and a former Daniels Run Elementary administrator. "We look forward to working with Dr. Wright and we welcome him to the City of Fairfax Schools," the chair said. Dr. Wright, who recently served as chief of schools in Falls Church City Public Schools, thanked the board and community and said he was honored to serve. "I'm proud to call the City of Fairfax my home and to raise my awesome family here," he said.

The board also read and approved a full-time employment resolution for the superintendent position, citing specific sections of the Code of Virginia that require reporting to and participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS). The resolution states the position will be full time and that the employer must report any person hired in the position to VRS immediately upon employment.

The appointment resolution and the employment resolution were both moved, seconded and approved by voice vote with no members opposed. The chair said a swearing-in and reception for Dr. Wright will be held Dec. 1, with a reception at 6 p.m. and a swearing-in at 6:30 p.m. in board chambers.

Acting Superintendent Dan Phillips praised the selection process and welcomed Dr. Wright, saying the division faces an "incredibly exciting time" with upcoming renovations and other work. Board members offered congratulations and noted community events where residents can meet Dr. Wright prior to his official start date.

The board did not receive any public speakers on the appointment during the public hearing period, and the vote to appoint Dr. Wright was unanimous.