
🌟 Meet Ms. Wilson and Ms. Schooler, your Walker-Grant Youth Mental Health Taskforce Leaders! 🌟
The Fredericksburg City Public Schools Youth Mental Health Taskforce is a diverse group of middle and high school students who have come together to raise awareness about mental health issues within their school community. The youth taskforce is working on a variety of initiatives, including hosting workshops, creating informational materials, and organizing events aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
Ms. Wilson, a school counselor at Walker-Grant Middle School, supports students’ academic, emotional, and career growth. She’s passionate about helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Ms. Schooler, now teaching art at Walker-Grant Middle School after seven years of teaching English, is excited to help students express themselves creatively.
Ms. Wilson believes mental health is key to success. She’s seen how it impacts students' learning and provides a safe, supportive space for them to thrive. Ms. Schooler stresses the importance of speaking up about mental health and encourages students to share their feelings and prioritize self-care.
Fun facts:
• Ms. Wilson is a proud Swiftie and saw Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour three times! 🎶
• Ms. Schooler recently started crocheting and loves making amigurumi while listening to audiobooks! 🧶


Due to incoming weather conditions, Kindergarten Registration has been postponed. Please spread the word. A new registration date will be announced soon.


Congratulations to Xavier Deshaun Gathers, the Optimist Student of the Month for February!
Xavier, a senior at James Monroe High School, is a dedicated student-athlete who excels both on and off the field. As a member of the Boys Soccer, Winter Track, and Cross Country teams, he demonstrates outstanding commitment and teamwork.
Xavier’s achievements include earning a varsity letter in Boys Cross Country, the Elvis Jimenez Memorial Cross-Country Award, and the James Monroe Boys Cross Country Coaches Award. His hard work and passion have earned him well-deserved recognition!
After graduation, Xavier plans to attend Germanna Community College for two years before transferring to the University of Mary Washington to pursue a degree in Engineering.
Join us in celebrating Xavier’s accomplishments and wishing him success in his bright future!
#OptimistStudentOfTheMonth #StudentAthlete #JM #CrossCountry #Germanna #UMW #Engineering


Due to the current weather advisory as well as uncertain weather conditions, FCPS will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19 on Code Blue/Remote Learning Day.
Students should not report to school but should participate in teacher-planned learning opportunities. Students should work remotely.
Some students received at-home learning packets while other students will complete work on Canvas or another online platform.
If families have questions, please contact your student’s teacher on ParentSquare.
All employees should work from home while essential workers should contact their supervisor for report times.
Again, tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19 is a remote learning day with all staff working from home. Essential staff will need to report later in the day upon speaking with their supervisor.


Earlier this month, the JM community came together in the most generous way, and we couldn’t be more grateful. As part of Kindness Week, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported us when we needed it most. A special shoutout to Anita’s Cafe for the delicious coffee and pastries, Officer Monahan for donating Paul’s Donuts, and School Board Member Molly McFadden for helping spread the kindness by pushing the cart. Your generosity and support mean the world to us. We appreciate you! 😊🍩☕
#Kindness #Coffee #Pastries #Donuts #Community #ThankYou





School Resource Officer Appreciation Day was on Saturday, but we wanted to wait until a school day to say thank you!
Officer Stephen Monahan brings so much to our school community beyond his role in law enforcement. When he’s not serving and protecting, he enjoys playing the guitar and spending time with his loyal dog. He’s also a proud dad, supporting his daughter as she takes on new adventures at UVA.
Thank you, Officer Monahan, for all that you do to keep our schools safe and welcoming! #ThankYou #SROAppreciation #CommunityHero


Happy Kindness Week. We want to showcase the Key Club today who participated in the MLK day of service this month. Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” Students answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support.
A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward!
#KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #Community #GiveBack
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625645/large_1.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625657/large_Day_of_Service_8.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625656/large_Day_of_Service_7.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625654/large_Day_of_Service_6.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625649/large_Day_of_Service_5.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625646/large_2.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625655/large_Canal_path.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625651/large_Day_of_Service_2.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625652/large_Day_of_Service_3.jpg)
![Dr. King’s words remind us that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” This week, we answered that call through acts of service, kindness, and community support. From [briefly mention activities, e.g., assembling care packages, cleaning up a park, or helping at a shelter], every effort made a difference! 💕 A huge thank you to everyone who showed up with hearts full of service. Let’s carry this spirit of kindness forward! 💫 #KeyClubCares #MLKDayOfService #KindnessWeek #ServiceWithASmile](https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/fredericksburg_city_schools_ar/live_feed_image/image/13625648/large_Day_of_Service_4.jpg)

JOIN US!! Career & Technical Education Night of Pathways to Success
Students and families are invited to join us for two exciting evenings to explore a wide range of community partners, participate in engaging hands-on demonstrations, and gain valuable insights into the educational pathways for the 2025-2026 school year.
✏️For rising 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students, please see the details below for your Night of Pathways:
Date: Thursday, February 20, 2025
Time: 5:30-7:30 PM
Location: Walker-Grant Middle School
✏️For rising 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th-grade students, your Night of Pathways details are as follows:
Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
Time: 5:30-7:30 PM
Location: James Monroe High School
Click the link below or the link in our bio to sign up.
https://fxbg.link/CTEnightofpathways
Night of Pathways is committed to providing students, parents, and the community with a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities available through our pathway program.
• We'll showcase hands-on demonstrations, provide informative brochures and instructor-led engagement
• We aim to inspire student success, foster collaboration, and equip all attendees with the resources and connections needed to thrive in their educational and career journeys.
• We provide tangible involvement opportunities for various levels of student ability.
• We support pathways to success for all students who choose Career and Technical Education (CTE)
If you want to become a community partner for this event, please email dclaytonfulcher@cityschools.com.


Kindness matters more than ever! Even the smallest act can make a big impact on someone’s day. In a world that can sometimes feel tough, we all need reminders to lift each other up and spread hope. Let’s keep being the positive influence someone else might need! The Kindness Wall in the Commons was a huge hit! It filled up with amazing, uplifting messages, and the positivity was everywhere! Think of something you can do this week for Kindness Week for a classmate or staff member at JM. #KindnessWall #GoodVibesOnly #SpreadTheLove #BeTheGood










📰Wheeler to serve as interim principal at Hugh Mercer Elementary📰
https://www.fredericksburgfreepress.com/2025/02/14/wheeler-to-serve-as-interim-principal-at-hugh-mercer-elementary/


Reminder: Schools are closed on Monday, February 17, 2025.


Fredericksburg City Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Friday, February 14.
The forecast suggests below freezing temperatures this evening and into the morning which will make invisible ice a significant possibility tomorrow morning on area roads.
Out of an abundance of caution, we will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Friday, February 14. This will provide us time to reassess, as necessary, in the morning.
Again, we apologize for the late notification. Our intent is to give families and staff sufficient notice this evening and not wait until morning to make a decision and notify our community.


🚀 We're Ready for Kindergarten Take-Off🚀
If you have a child entering Kindergarten next year or know someone who does, it's time to get ready for take-off! Registration for Kindergarten and Kindercamp at Fredericksburg City Public Schools is open. 🏫
🔑 What to bring:
‣Original Birth Certificate or Passport
‣Parent/Guardian Photo ID
‣Proof of City Residency (e.g., utility bill or lease)
‣Immunization Record & School Entrance Physical Exam
‣Completed Registration Forms (available online)
📞 Need help or more info?
🔗https://www.fxbgschools.us/page/new-student-registration
Contact FCPS Registrar, Camm Taylor 📧 ataylor@cityschools.com 📱 540-940-8380
Don’t miss the chance to get your child ready for an exciting school year!
🎒✏️ #FCPS #KindergartenRegistration #ReadyForKindergarten #FCPS2024
Share this post; tag your friends; and spread the word!


Fredericksburg City Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay tomorrow, Thursday, February 13. City roads and FCPS parking lots appear to be in excellent condition. We expect the coming rain and warmer temperatures to help melt the snow. Out of an abundance of caution, this should provide both safe travel times and the opportunity for us to re-assess, as necessary, in the morning.


Fredericksburg City Public School buildings will be closed on Wednesday, February 12. Essential personnel should contact their supervisor regarding report times.


Our next SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee) Meeting is scheduled for February 13, 2025, on Zoom from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. We will be voting on officers and discussing the 2025 priorities.
Contact your school's special education liaison for additional questions or the Zoom link to join the meeting.


Big moves for our Vanguard students! They recently explored cohort and admission opportunities at the University of Mary Washington, where diversity, leadership, service, honors, and summer transition programs open doors for academically talented and intellectually curious students. Exciting opportunities ahead! #Vanguard #UMW #FutureLeaders #CollegeBound







Fifty Multilingual Learners from JM took an exciting trip to the Science Museum of Virginia in Richmond last week! Thanks to the museum’s generous $10 grant per student, they got to experience the IMAX film Flight of the Butterflies, which follows the incredible journey of Monarch butterflies and the scientists who uncovered their migration mystery.
Students also explored hands-on exhibits, from electrifying static electricity demos to futuristic LEGO towers. Plus, they walked through history inside the stunning former Broad Street Station, designed by the same architect behind the Jefferson Memorial!
A day filled with science, history, and discovery—what a way to learn! #JM #Science #Adventure #MultilingualLearners #ScienceMuseum #Richmond #ScienceMuseumofRichmond





Due to the Winter Storm Warning issued in our area, Fredericksburg City Public School buildings will be closed Tuesday, February 11. Essential personnel should contact their supervisor regarding report times.


AP Biology got a little cell-ebritory recently with a Valentine’s themed lesson!
Students personified cell organelles and took part in a mock speed dating session, voting for titles like Most Dateable Organelle and Life of the Party. Plenty of laughs were shared as they tried to guess each organelle’s identity turns out, mitochondria really is the powerhouse of the relationship! 😂
#CellMate #APBioLove #LoveIsInTheCell #SpeedDatingScience #Creative

