Private and Independent Schools Invited to Join a Countywide Celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary
Fairfax County’s classrooms are about to take part in a milestone moment in American history. Fairfax250 has launched the Our Community Picnic program, a new initiative designed to help elementary schools celebrate the end of the school year while connecting students and families to America’s upcoming 250th anniversary.
The program supports end‑of‑year picnics and school community events for public and private/independent elementary schools serving grades K through 6 in Fairfax County. By pairing financial support with educational resources, Our Community Picnic turns familiar school traditions into meaningful opportunities to celebrate history, community, and shared civic pride.
Participating schools receive a $500 sponsorship to help offset event costs. Title I schools are eligible for an increased $750 sponsorship. In addition, every student attending a participating event will receive Fairfax250 giveaways along with summer learning activities designed to keep curiosity and discovery going long after the picnic blankets are folded away.
“Our goal is to create a tapestry of celebrations across Fairfax County,” said Liz Maurer, Chair of the Fairfax250 Commission. “We love events that are local, welcoming, and meaningful. By partnering with schools, we’re meeting families where they already gather and helping them connect to this historic milestone.”
Community picnics and school celebrations play a special role in bringing families together. The Our Community Picnic program builds on that spirit, encouraging schools to host inclusive events that welcome all students and their families while highlighting the importance of America’s Semiquincentennial.
While Fairfax County Public Schools will coordinate applications internally, private and independent schools are invited to apply directly through Fairfax250. Eligible schools must serve elementary grades K through 6, be located in Fairfax County, and host events that are open to their entire school community. Applicants will be asked to confirm eligibility and share basic information about their planned event.
For private and independent schools, the application process is simple and designed to be accessible. Schools can apply online using the Fairfax250 application link at:
https://tinyurl.com/Fairfax250-Independant-Picnic
By participating, schools join a countywide celebration that reflects the diversity, creativity, and community spirit of Fairfax County. Each picnic becomes part of a larger story, one that connects local schoolyards to a national anniversary 250 years in the making.
Fairfax250 encourages private and independent schools to apply early and take advantage of this opportunity to enhance their end‑of‑year celebrations while helping students and families feel connected to history in a fun, age‑appropriate way.
Let’s make history together, one picnic at a time.