Fairfax County Public Schools and Centreville Elementary School are committed to supporting our military-connected students and families. We value their service and commitment to our nation and are thankful for everything they do. CES is proud to have been recognized by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Council on the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children as a 2023 Purple Star School. The Purple Star designation is awarded to military-friendly schools that have demonstrated their commitment to meeting the needs of military-connected students and their families.

Annual Veterans Day Recognition

Each year, CES has a Veterans Day Celebration where we invite veteran members of our community into CES so we can recognize and show appreciation for their service to our country. In 2022, these veterans read to different classes across multiple grade levels, shared about their experiences, and answered student questions that pertained to their service in the military. Following these morning reading and Q&A sessions, they were able to enjoy a wonderful lunch catered by Mission BBQ to recognize our veterans and their sacrifice.

Student Ambassador Program

At CES, we have a student ambassador program where students from each class learn leadership and communication skills in order to welcome new students and foster student connectedness. Student ambassadors provide tours to new students and support the transitional needs of military connected students. When new students arrive, our student ambassadors introduce students to staff, help them to get acquainted with our school, and serve as a buddy throughout their school day. Their focus is on building relationships with new students and ensuring every student feels a sense of belonging at CES. 

Students with Special Education Accommodations

CES and FCPS follow federal guidelines with respect to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Individual Education Plan (IEP) and the 504 process and eligibility. Visit the FCPS Navigating Special Education Needs and Parental Rights page for information specific for military families.

Points of Contact

School-based Military Support Point of Contact

• Rachel Forte, Assistant Principal, [email protected]

School Division (FCPS) Point of Contact

• Meredith Ayala, Family Partnerships Specialist, 703-204-4305, @email

Military School Liaison Officers (SLOs)

The National Capital Region school liaison officers serve our school district. These school liaison officers are DOD employees. They are available to assist military families in all branches of the military with education-related matters.

• Marie Bailey, [email protected]