Opened in 1965 Fairfax Villa Elementary School stands as more than just a place of learning. It is a cornerstone of community. Let’s step back in time and explore its story.
Fairfax Villa Elementary School started with 20 classrooms. The architecture firm Hayes Seay Mattern and Mattern designed it. Wayne Construction Company built it for $552489.
From its earliest days Fairfax Villa Elementary School was envisioned as a neighborhood school. Though enrollment grew it kept its intimate feel. Staff and students know each other well here. There’s a strong sense of community and family.
Tanya Black says Fairfax Villa has always fostered acceptance and teamwork. Students excel academically and are seen as community leaders. Teachers work together to prepare each child. They focus on academics emotions and social skills.
Melissa Eddy recalls being introduced to Fairfax Villa Elementary School as “the little school with a big heart” in the 90s. Even as it grew the school maintained that big heart. Villa traditions like Diffendoofer Day and the 6th Grade Musical endure. The school expects excellence and helps create well-rounded students.
Robin Mims remembers when Fairfax Villa Elementary School had only 325 students. It was considered “the best kept secret in Fairfax County.” She recalls it as a tiny school with a big heart and a caring staff.
Colleen Nelms sums it up “Fairfax Villa is a one of a kind school.” She feels lucky to teach here where everyone supports each other.
In 2007 the school board honored Robert Bob Glynn. He served Fairfax Villa Elementary School for 36 years as a physical education teacher. The school gymnasium was named after him. Glynn promoted a caring learning community. He emphasized health nutrition and physical exercise. He led student activities like Jump Rope for Heart and Safety Patrol.
Fairfax Villa Elementary School also presents the Kathy Garland Award. Kathy Garland was a special education teacher. She advocated tirelessly for students. She believed in inclusion. The award recognizes a special education student. This student embodies Garland’s hard work and achievement overcoming obstacles. The award is presented on the last day of school to a sixth-grader.
One tradition at Fairfax Villa Elementary School is the sixth grade showcase. It highlights the talents of the sixth grade class. It celebrates the end of their elementary education. The showcase evolved from a talent show into a musical theatre performance.
Hooray for Diffendoofer Day was another long-standing tradition. Based on a Dr Seuss book it celebrated the school’s academic performance. Students were rewarded with a parade of hats and a dramatization of the story.
Fairfax Villa Elementary School stands beside the neighborhood known as the Villa. This neighborhood has 460 houses on 182 acres. The school is located just outside the City of Fairfax. Fairfax Villa Park sits to the west. The neighborhood streets curve and roll creating a calm atmosphere.
Fairfax Villa Elementary School is more than bricks and mortar. It is a place where students thrive and traditions endure. Its history reflects a commitment to community. The school prepares students for their futures.