Falls Church educators present division's collaborative approach to student success in Phoenix, Arizona
A team of Falls Church City Public Schools educators recently traveled to Arizona to share the division's innovative work at the Kids at Hope Masters Institute Conference, showcasing how FCCPS is building authentic connections with every learner through a research-based philosophy that believes all children are capable of success—no exceptions.
The FCCPS delegation included (from left to right) Oak Street Elementary School teachers Miriam Schimmoller and Avery Ferreiro, School Social Worker and Homeless and Foster Care Liaison Robin Borum, and Director of Curriculum and Instruction Eric Underhill. Together, they presented the division's story and highlighted specific strategies being implemented at Oak Street to ensure every child is seen, supported, and believed in.
"The Kids at Hope philosophy aligns perfectly with our core belief that the needs of students come first," said Underhill. "This conference gave us the opportunity to share how we're creating a culture where caring adults intentionally connect with and support our students through belief, guidance, and opportunities."
Kids at Hope is both a belief system and a strategic framework that focuses on fostering hope and positive relationships to help children envision and achieve successful futures. The approach emphasizes the power of adults who intentionally build connections with young people, creating environments where every child can thrive.
The FCCPS presentation highlighted the collaborative work happening across the division to implement Kids at Hope principles in daily practice. Oak Street Elementary School has been at the forefront of this initiative, developing strategies that ensure students feel valued, capable, and supported in their educational journey.
"What makes our approach special is the collaborative excellence our team brings to this work," said Dr. William Bates, Chief Academic Officer. "No one person can reach every child alone—it takes our combined wisdom and unwavering commitment to make this philosophy come alive in our classrooms and throughout our schools."
The opportunity to present at a national conference reflects FCCPS's growing reputation as a leader in innovative, student-centered educational practices. By sharing their experiences and strategies with educators from across the country, the FCCPS team contributed to a broader conversation about how schools can create cultures of hope and possibility for all students.