A Superior Superintendent Remains at the Helm

In today’s divided world, it was a pleasure to see agreement in a school board meeting, as the Fairfax County School Board (FCSB) unanimously agreed to extend Dr. Michelle Reid’s contract for another year.

Recently, Dr. Reid was ranked the second most powerful Virginian after Governor Youngkin. Thankfully, she has worked to use this power for good as she, the Fairfax County School Board (FCSB), and FCPS work towards quality, equitable education for Fairfax County students and higher pay and protections for staff.

Some have loudly questioned her compensation package; however, her negotiated contract is well in line with compensation for other Superintendents of the largest school districts in Fairfax County. Additionally, she took on the job in the midst of coordinated attacks on FCPS by well-funded radical groups wishing to upend public education through repeated lawsuits and disinformation. Few professionals would be willing to walk into a job with that level of work, scrutiny, and impact no matter the compensation package, particularly when the job seems to run 24-7.

Finally, Dr. Reid seems to be everywhere all at once. Whether she is visiting schools, supporting communities, or working with Virginians Organized for Interfaith Community Engagement (VOICE) to improve mental health , she is working to ensure that our schools offer quality education and opportunities, in a safe and restorative environment for students and staff. Thank you Dr. Reid and FCSB for this partnership.