Unlocking Student Potential

As shown in this FCPS Video - Unlocking Student Potential: Through “Unlocking Student Potential”, our school demonstrated groundbreaking and innovative efforts to uncover the potential of our Multilingual Learners and foster academic growth for all students. Our commitment to research-based practices is evident in our School Innovation and Improvement Plan (SIIP) and alignment with the division’s strategic plan to provide equitable and transformative education for all students. 

POG Centered School-Wide Agreements

Students are celebrated for demonstrating Portrait of a Graduate skills directly connected to the Dranesville school-wide agreements. Students are nominated monthly by staff and peers.  These students are then celebrated quarterly with families and Dranesville staff during a Breakfast of Champions.

#AttendanceMatters

Dranesville’s 14 point drop in chronic absenteeism is a reflection of the intentional connection and care of Dranesville staff and the supportive partnerships with families throughout the Dranesville community.

Dranesville Receives VDOE Continuous Improvement Award

Dranesville Elementary School was one of 93 schools in the state, which was recognized with a 2023 Continuous Improvement Award, presented by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE).  This recognition underscores Dranesville’s unwavering commitment to providing equitable access to grade-level instruction for all students. Our shared vision and values have been instrumental in driving significant progress, ensuring that every child receives the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

Dragon Runners: Heart and Sole

Fun and fitness are at the heart of Dragon Runners. This PTA sponsored after-school program engages students in grades 3-6 in a running club that meets twice each week during the Fall and Spring sessions. Each season ends with a 5K run during which students strive to meet and exceed their personal best time.

Sparked by Student Agency, Student Journalism Produces Monthly Newsletter

Dragon’s Spark, Dranesville’s Journalism Club, was initiated by two students who pitched their idea to Mrs. Gadley during lunch bunch in 2023. The students have realized their goal of sharing students’ voices and perspectives in a monthly school newsletter.

Dranesville Historians Compete at Regional and State Competitions

Students in grades 4-6 are invited to participate in History Club, led by Ms. Peterson. Students in the History Club research a topic of interest aligned with the annual National History Day theme. Dranesville historians have participated in both Regional and State competitions.

Dranesville Purples Up in Support of our Military Connected Families

On October 21, 2024, the Virginia Council on the Educational Opportunity for Military Children voted to approve Dranesville Elementary School as a first time recipient of the SY 2024-2025 Purple Star Award.  Our collaborative work towards this recognition is a reflection of Dranesville’s commitment to providing a welcoming community for our military-connected students and families.

Elevating Engagement in Partnership with EduFuturo

Our school mission, Dranesville CARES, highlights a commitment to connection, access, relationships, excellence, equity, and stakeholder engagement. For the second school year, Dranesville has partnered with EduFuturo to provide family learning series including Participa, Strengthening Families, and Workforce Development Series. Our goal is to empower all families to serve as informed partners in their children’s educational experience.

Dranesville Staff Honored for Excellence

Fairfax County Public Schools is all about excellence in teaching students, leading schools, and providing support. The Department of Human Resources sponsors the recognition of outstanding employees who seek to create and demonstrate the best instructional and support practices.  The following staff members received school based recognition:  Jamie Gadley, Kayla Mejias, Heidi Bajpai, Lauren Laspe, and Angela Agana.

Jamie Gadley was awarded the honor of Outstanding Principal for FCPS. Lauren Laspe received the award for Outstanding Professional Employee for the Herndon Pyramid.