More than 39,000 Fairfax County Public Schools students in grades 6, 8, 10 and 12 completed the 2025-2026 Youth Survey, reporting strong support at home, at school and in the community.
Mental health among students has improved since 2021, according to the survey. Most students reported no substance use in the past month, and substance use was lower than national averages.
In other county news, the Fairfax County Park Authority announced the recipients of the 2026 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, recognizing exceptional service and contributions to the county's parks, natural and cultural resources and recreational opportunities.
The awardees will be honored during a recognition ceremony in October sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation. This year's honorees were selected for their dedication, volunteerism and commitment to protecting the county's natural, cultural and historic resources.
The county also noted shorter days ahead and urged residents to stay alert and stay visible, and announced adoption fees will be waived Sept. 25-27 for the Empty the Shelters event. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has reopened the FY 2026 Continuum of Care competition, and the county has resumed preparations.