FCPS’ Garza Gets Four-Year Contract Extension

The Fairfax County Public Schools Board (FCPS) has voted to extend the contract of FCPS Superintendent Karen Garza, effective today, for an additional four years. The new contract will run through June 30, 2020.

Garza came to FCPS in July of 2013, and has made a number of changes to the nation’s 10th-largest school system.

Garza’s based salary will increase 3 percent, to $300,000, FCPS said.

“Dr. Garza has been an agent of positive change for Fairfax County Public Schools,” School Board Chair Pat Hynes said in a statement. “She has positively engaged the community in a number of critical issues and has been a passionate advocate for our students and teachers.”

“We are pleased to be able to recognize Dr. Garza’s contributions by extending her contract, ensuring administrative stability and continuity in the district,” said Hynes.

Some of the school system highlights under Garza since 2013:

• Creation of the “Portrait of a Graduate” model.
• A new five-year strategic plan for the system
• Later start times for high schoolers
• Elimination of early release Mondays for elementary students
• Lobbying for staff salary increases to keep FCPS competitive with neighboring systems.
• Lowering class sizing and finding funding to keep special programs and extracurricular activities.

Photo: Karen Garza/file photo