When I joined Falls Church City Public Schools (FCCPS), I was struck by the palpable sense of community and excellence that defines this small yet mighty school division. From the moment I walked into my first meeting, it was evident that FCCPS is not just a workplace but a thriving hub of collaboration, passion, and relentless pursuit to ensure the success of all students.
This remarkable and award-winning school division in the Commonwealth of Virginia is recognized for its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the holistic development of its students. The community exemplifies the best public education, rooted in collaboration, equity, and a student-centered philosophy that inspires greatness. As Chief Academic Officer, I have witnessed firsthand what makes FCCPS a beacon of educational distinction, and I am proud to contribute to its ongoing legacy of success. FCCPS is distinguished by its small size and tight-knit community, which allows for a level of personalization that is rare in public education. Here, students are not just numbers but individuals with unique talents, needs, and aspirations. As a leader in this division, I’ve supported prioritizing initiatives that reflect this ethos, ensuring that every decision we make as a district puts students at the center. A hallmark of our work includes building cultures of hope for students and staff at every school and office and investing in our people by providing opportunities for staff to continue their education.
Students and staff consistently strive for excellence, and our students excel academically, artistically, and athletically because of their talent and dedication and the unparalleled support they receive from our highly skilled educators. To sustain and enhance this excellence, we have worked to build a culture of professional learning and student support among all faculty and staff members. Our students are shining examples of well-rounded individuals. The sports teams have consistently brought home district, regional, and state-level championships, demonstrating teamwork and resilience. Simultaneously, our performing arts programs, including the bands, choir, and theater department, set a gold standard for excellence. Watching our students perform, whether on the stage or the athletic fields, is a testament to their hard work, talent, and the support they receive from their coaches, teachers, and families.
Academically, FCCPS continues to lead the way. With all schools fully accredited and state standardized test scores ranking among the highest in Virginia, the commitment to academic rigor and innovation is clear. Teachers and staff work tirelessly to create environments where students feel supported and challenged, ensuring they are prepared for tests and life beyond the classroom. Immediately upon entering a classroom, one will recognize that FCCPS students are thinkers, collaborators, and problem solvers and exemplify what it means to be an IB learner.
By designing and implementing robust professional learning communities, teachers engage in collaborative practices focusing on student achievement, evidence-based instructional strategies, and reflective practice. This work has elevated the teaching and learning experience across the division, ensuring that every classroom reflects our high standards of rigor and innovation.
Equity is another cornerstone of what makes FCCPS exceptional. As an advocate for closing achievement gaps and increasing access, I have championed efforts to provide equitable opportunities for all students. This includes intentionally recruiting and retaining talented and diverse staff who bring varied perspectives and experiences to our schools. FCCPS leaders have led targeted professional development initiatives that address unconscious bias, culturally responsive teaching, and strategies to support historically marginalized student populations. By focusing on equity, we are addressing systemic barriers and ensuring that every child, regardless of background, sees themselves in the curriculum and has access to the tools they need to succeed.
The FCCPS community thrives on collaboration and partnership. Families, local businesses, and civic organizations are deeply invested in the success of our schools, creating a rich ecosystem of support for our students. In my role, I have facilitated partnerships aligning with our strategic goals, enhancing resources and opportunities for students and staff. These partnerships have fostered innovative programs, expanded access to technology, and enriched the educational experience. For me, the heart of FCCPS lies in its relationships. The partnership between staff, families, and the broader community creates a sense of belonging that is hard to replicate. Whether it’s a Friday night football game, a packed auditorium for a student performance, or a celebratory parade honoring another milestone, the pride and support of this community are unparalleled.
At the heart of FCCPS is a commitment to preparing students for the future. We embrace a forward-thinking approach, integrating STEM initiatives, arts education, and opportunities for real-world learning into our curriculum. Under my leadership, we have expanded pathways for personalized learning, including advanced academic programs, dual enrollment courses, and career-focused opportunities. These efforts reflect our shared vision of empowering students to become lifelong learners and engaged global citizens. We are nationally recognized as one of the only PreK-12 IB continuum school divisions across America. This recognition is a proud distinction that all members of our community embrace.
FCCPS is a special place not just because of its accomplishments but because of the people who make those accomplishments possible. Each day, I am inspired by my colleagues’ passion, our students’ brilliance, and our community’s unwavering support. It is an honor to be part of this incredible team, and I am honored to contribute to its legacy of excellence. In reflecting on what makes Falls Church City Public Schools so special, it is clear to me that it combines our exceptional educators, engaged families, innovative programs, and unwavering commitment to excellence. I am deeply honored to play a role in shaping the future of this outstanding school division. Together, we continue to build on our proud tradition of excellence, ensuring that FCCPS remains a place where every child can thrive and every educator is empowered to make a difference.
About Dr. William Bates: The Chief Academic officer for the Falls Church City Public Schools began his professional career in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, as a behavioral specialist consultant working with disadvantaged youth. Dr. Bates then became an alternative education teacher for the Pittsburgh Public Schools. After moving to Fairfax County, Virginia, he helped open an emotional disabilities comprehensive center for students with social-emotional challenges and learning disabilities. He then became the principal of a large comprehensive high school. “One of my greatest accomplishments was being selected as the Fairfax County Principal of the Year and the Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leader of the Year,” says Dr. Bates, who was also recognized for his leadership by the House of Delegates and the Virginia General Assembly with House Joint Resolution 395, on March 1, 2016. Dr. Bates then served as an assistant superintendent in Baltimore County, MD, supervising 20 secondary schools. His research includes the relationship between teacher self-efficacy, teacher behaviors, and academic achievement.