Fairfax County Public Schools, in collaboration with its valued community partners, is hosting the 2025 Family Summit: Beyond Labels – Nurturing a Culture of Belonging on Saturday, March 15, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School. This event, an extension of the Special Education Conference, is designed to support families in creating inclusive environments where every child can thrive.
A Community Where Every Child Belongs
In Greenbriar, we are proud to have families from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories, traditions, and perspectives. Our children possess a wide range of strengths, talents, and needs, and it is essential to ensure they all have the opportunities and support necessary to reach their full potential. This summit is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, educators, and community members to gain valuable insights and strategies for fostering belonging, engagement, and success for all students.
What to Expect at the Summit
The event will begin with an opening session led by inclusive schooling specialists Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak, who will provide inspiration and practical guidance for creating environments that embrace neurodiversity and empower all learners.
Attendees can choose from a variety of breakout sessions, explore vendor exhibits, connect with community resources, and enjoy a student showcase featuring the talents and achievements of local youth.
Sessions Tailored to Families’ Needs
The summit offers specialized sessions for families navigating the world of special education, including:
- Autism Awareness
- Twice Exceptional (2e) Programming – Supporting gifted students with disabilities
- Transition Services – Helping students prepare for life after high school
- IEP Processes – Understanding and advocating for Individualized Education Plans
- Neurodiversity – Celebrating different ways of learning and thinking
- Assistive Technology – Tools and resources to enhance student learning
- Supporting Children & Siblings with Disabilities – Strengthening family relationships and support systems
Additionally, families of all students will find valuable information on topics such as:
- College and Career Readiness – Preparing students for the future
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL) – Teaching strategies that meet diverse learning needs
- Leveraging School/Family Partnerships – Strengthening collaboration between home and school
- Opioid Crisis Response – Addressing substance abuse concerns in the community
- English Language Development for Multilingual Learners – Supporting language growth and academic success
- Students’ Rights and Responsibilities – Ensuring every child knows their rights within the school system
Support for Families
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, childcare will be provided, including specialized care for children with high support needs. Families can sign up for childcare services during the registration process.
Get Involved and Register Today!
This is a wonderful opportunity for Greenbriar families to learn, connect, and engage with experts and community resources. Whether your child receives special education services or you simply want to gain insights into fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment, this event has something for everyone.
For more information or to register, visit 2025 Family Summit or email FamilySummit@fcps.edu.
Let’s work together to ensure every child in our community has the resources and support to thrive!