FCPS Summer Internship Program

FCPS; Falls Church (VA); On-site; USD 22,964 - 25,857; Part time

Job summary

FCPS is offering a six-week paid Summer Internship Program for current high school students and FCPS alumni. This internship provides an excellent opportunity for participants to gain hands-on experience across various central office departments while working alongside professionals on mission-critical projects.

Date of the program is from July 6 to August 14, 2026. Interns will receive competitive pay and participate in weekly workshops covering personal finance, communication, resume writing, and networking skills.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years old and authorized to work in the U.S.
• Ability to network and build new skills during the internship.
• Reliable transportation to internship locations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with mission-critical projects in various departments.
• Participate in weekly professional development workshops.
• Gain hands-on experience across FCPS central office departments.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Collaboration

Customer Service

Education

Currently enrolled in FCPS high school or alumni in post-secondary education

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Basic Accounting Tools

Job description

Supporting FCPS and Shaping Your Future: The Internship Experience

Shine This Summer as an FCPS Intern!

Ignite your learning outside the classroom as a Fairfax County Public Schools Summer Intern. FCPS is excited to launch Year 2 of the Summer Internship Program - a six-week, paid, in-person opportunity for current FCPS high school students and FCPS alumni enrolled in post-secondary education. Following a highly successful pilot, this program continues to provide meaningful, real-world work experiences across the division.

Brighten your break by gaining hands‑on experience across FCPS central office departments. Interns work alongside professionals on mission‑critical projects that help prepare FCPS for the upcoming school year, while also participating in weekly professional development workshops focused on personal finance, communication, resume writing, and networking.

This summer's program will be held from July 6 through August 14.

Through this experience, you will:

• Build new skills and confidence.
• Network with professionals across FCPS.
• “Test drive” a potential career pathway.
• Six weeks, July 6 through August 14, 2026
  • The first day of the 2026 Summer Internship Program is Monday, July 6, 2026. The program will end on Friday, August 14, 2026.
• Paid.
  • Current HS Students enrolled in SY 2025‑26, $16.67/hour.
  • FCPS HS graduates, including the class of 2026 and FCPS alumni enrolled in a post‑secondary educational program, $18.77/hour.
• In‑person, 20 hours/week.
• Locations: Gatehouse Administration Center, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, and other FCPS facilities.
• Limited internship positions are available for this program.
• The interest form for the 2026 Summer Internship Program is now closed.

FCPS is committed to cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging students of all backgrounds and abilities to apply and contribute their unique strengths and talents.

Equal Opportunity & Accessibility: We believe great work happens when everyone can show up as their best selves. FCPS is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the ADA and relevant state laws, we provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, upon request. If you require any accommodations to participate in our hiring please contact us at [emailprotected].

• Semi‑finalists will be selected to interview between April 20 - May 15. Semi‑finalists will need to complete a formal application that requires a resume and contact information for two references, such as a teacher, school counselor, or work supervisor.
• Offers will be sent to finalists the weeks of May 11 and 18.
• Offers must be accepted by Friday, May 22.
• Pre‑employment and onboarding will take place in‑person at Gatehouse on either June 1 or 15.
• The first day of the internship is Monday, July 6.
• Interns must be 16 years old as of July 6 and legally authorized to work in the United States.
• Interns must be currently enrolled FCPS HS students in SY 2025‑26 or an FCPS graduate, including the class of 2026, enrolled in a post‑secondary education program.
• Interns must be available to work in person for the 6‑week internship.
• Interns must have reliable transportation.
• FCPS is committed to cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging students of all backgrounds and abilities to apply and contribute their unique strengths and talents.
• Equal Opportunity & Accessibility: We believe great work happens when everyone can show up as their best selves. FCPS is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the ADA and relevant state laws, we provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, upon request. If you require any accommodations to participate in our hiring please contact us at [emailprotected].

Explore the 2026 Summer Internship opportunities below, listed alphabetically. Each listing includes the number of available positions and indicates whether the opportunity is open to current FCPS high school students, FCPS graduates, or both.

Business and Community Partnerships (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship is designed to provide project and administrative support to Community Relations. Under the supervision of the Administrator, Business and Community Partnerships, the intern assists with initiatives that strengthen collaboration between FCPS, local businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community stakeholders. This short‑term internship offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in community engagement, partnership development, and communications, within a large public‑school division.

Preferred High School Course Connections: Business Management, Information Systems, Entrepreneurship, Marketing (and Advanced Marketing), Public Speaking, Leadership Training (SGA/Leadership Class)

These courses fulfill the academic requirements for high school students seeking High‑Quality Work‑Based Learning (HQWBL) credit through this internship.

Business Management (current HS student only)

This internship is designed for students interested in the financial and business side of school renovation and construction projects within FCPS. Interns gain exposure to how capital projects are planned, budgeted, and managed from a financial perspective. Participants will work with financial analysts to explore funding financial impacts of renovation projects. They will build skills in Excel analysis, and basic accounting procedures used in construction project management.

This internship is a great opportunity for students curious about careers or college majors in business, finance, accounting, project management, or operations.

Property Management (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship is designed for students interested in commercial real estate, organizational space needs analysis, property selection, lease negotiations, and the business aspects of capital planning and space management within FCPS. Interns will gain hands‑on exposure to coordinating post‑occupancy adjustments, staff relocations, and build‑out implementations. Participants will have the opportunity to work across departments and collaborate with teams in finance, design and construction, and facilities management to better understand the impact of property management within a large school system.

Through this experience, interns will develop key skills in commercial real‑estate transactions and negotiations, lease administration, space planning, site selection, and project management. This internship is a great opportunity for students curious about careers or college majors in business, project management, or facilities operations.

Office of Design and Construction (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship program is for students interested in the architectural/engineering design and/or building construction industry as a possible career choice. Working alongside FCPS professional architects, engineers and construction trade experts, participants will gain exposure to the design process, teamwork, and interdisciplinary collaboration necessary to produce the drawings and documentation necessary to construct complex buildings and their systems. The program will aid the student’s exploration of the fields of architecture, building systems disciplines such as mechanical/plumbing, electrical, and civil engineering, and construction management.

Educate Fairfax (current HS Senior or FCPS graduate)

This internship program is designed for students interested in learning how a nonprofit education foundation supports public schools and serves students in need. Participants will gain hands‑on experience with programs focused on student support—including school supplies and food insecurity—as well as high school leadership development. Interns will work closely with the Educate Fairfax team, building skills in organization, communication, and teamwork while assisting with event planning, outreach, and day‑to‑day program operations. Along the way, they will gain insight into how education foundations collaborate with schools and community partners to address resource gaps and support student success.

Preferred HS Course Connections: Leadership, Marketing

ERFC Investments (current HS students only)

This internship program is for high school students interested in learning how a fund manages retirement assets for public employees. Participants gain exposure to institutional investing across public equities, fixed income, and private markets. Interns work alongside investment professionals, build skills in research, communication, and teamwork, and learn how pension funds make long‑term investment decisions. The program helps students explore careers and college majors in finance, investing, economics, and business. If you’ve enjoyed DECA, FBLA, or Math Club, this internship is a great next step to build on those experiences.

ERFC Finance (current HS students only)

The internship program is for high school students interested in learning how a public pension fund plans, tracks, and reports its finances. Participants gain exposure to government budgeting, basic accounting, and financial reporting within a public pension system. Interns work alongside finance professionals to build practical skills in organization, analysis, and teamwork while gaining hands‑on experience supporting budgeting, accounting operations, and financial reporting. The program helps students explore careers and college majors in finance, accounting, and business.

ERFC Communications (current HS students only)

This internship program offers high school students a unique opportunity to learn how a public pension fund uses strategic communications to educate and support its members. Participants gain hands‑on experience with a wide range of communications tools and platforms, including digital media, print materials, analytics, and social media. Interns work alongside experienced communications professionals while developing practical skills in design, web content management, copywriting, social media strategy, and collaboration. Through real‑world projects, participants apply their skills in a professional setting and build a strong portfolio. The program helps students explore potential college majors and career paths in strategic communications, writing, design, marketing, and analytics.

ERFC Information Technology (current HS students only)

This internship allows high school students to work closely with the ERFC IT team to support daily technology operations across device management, end‑user support, and office technology systems. This hands‑on internship provides exposure to enterprise IT environments, hardware and software provisioning, and service desk workflows within ERFC. This role offers a blend of technical support and cross‑functional learning, including collaboration with business, IT process development, and operations teams. The position is ideal for candidates seeking real‑world experience in corporate IT.

Financial Accounting and Reporting (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship program is for students interested in learning how the post‑year‑end close process and year‑end audit work for a governmental organization. Participants gain exposure to year‑end financial needs, journal entries, accruals, preparation of the ACFR, preparation for the external audit, year‑end tasks necessary to close the financial statements and teamwork. If you’ve enjoyed accounting classes, finance, working with numbers/data and systems, this internship will help you to see what a career in finance/accounting looks like.

Client Services, Welcome Center (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship offers students a hands‑on introduction to administrative and office support for Human Resources supporting a centralized unit responsible for performing complex technical‑clerical tasks and responding to inquiries from both internal employees and the general public. Working with the Client Services team, this intern will engage in the following professional activities:

• Client Engagement: Greet and assist clients via phone, email, and in‑person interactions, including support on computers.
• Information Management: Use varied technology to retrieve and input data, ensuring accurate and timely completion of documents.
• Transaction Processing: Assist with processing transactions and reviewing documents for required supporting information to meet regulatory requirements.
• Communications: Help explain school division policies and procedures to the public and assist in responding to inquiries from current and future employees.
• Office Operations: Support daily business operations using standard equipment such as computers, photocopiers, and filing systems.

This internship provides hands‑on experience in Employee Relations within a large public school system, with exposure to workplace policies, employment law, and employee support services. The intern will work alongside HR professionals to better understand how FCPS promotes a fair, respectful, and legally compliant work environment.

Responsibilities may include assisting with organizing case materials, reviewing policies and procedures, supporting documentation related to employee concerns, and observing aspects of the employee relations process, including workplace investigations and labor relations activities (as appropriate). The intern may also assist with research related to Virginia employment law, workplace practices, and employee engagement initiatives.

Through this experience, the intern will gain insight into areas such as employment law, labor relations, and workplace investigations, as well as the importance of professionalism and discretion in handling sensitive information. This role requires a strong commitment to confidentiality, attention to detail, and professionalism.

This internship aligns with CTE coursework in Criminal Justice, Law, and Business Management, providing students the opportunity to apply classroom learning in a real‑world setting while exploring career pathways in human resources, law, and public service.

Salary Services and Classification & Compensation (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship offers students a hands‑on introduction to the Salary Services and Classification & Compensation teams within Human Resources. Interns will support a centralized unit responsible for professional duties such as position classification, compensation analysis, and salary calculations. This intern will:

• Data & Analysis: Gather data for occupational and organizational analysis reports.
• Information Management: Use varied computer technology to retrieve, input, and process human resource data.
• Transaction Processing: Review and reconcile documents, forms, and business transactions related to salary administration.
• Client Engagement: Respond to general inquiries and provide technical customer support to current and future employees.
• Office Operations: Support daily business operations in a professional office environment using standard equipment such as computers, photocopiers, and filing systems.

Business Systems (current HS Junior or Senior)

We are seeking a motivated high school student to join our technology team as an intern. This role provides hands‑on experience supporting daily IT operations, contributing to technical projects, and learning real‑world software development and system management practices.

This position will:

• Assist team members with daily technical tasks and ongoing projects
• Perform routine system checks (e.g., monitoring remote loaders and system status)
• Support efforts to automate repetitive daily processes
• Test staff and parent‑facing applications, including writing test cases and assisting with basic security/penetration testing
• Learn about the Ping Identity product family and how they relate to our workflows
• Collaborate with multiple departments to gather requirements and provide technical support
• Maintain and improve documentation by updating outdated materials and creating new guides

Preferred HS Course Connections: Business Management ,IB Business, Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Computer Network Software Operations, Business Management

DIT Robotics Initiatives (current HS Sophomore or Junior)

The Department of Information Technology (DIT) seeks a student leader to help shape FCPS Robotics from a student‑centered perspective. This role is for a high‑level thinker who can assess challenges in building and leading robotics teams and support program expansion across grade levels.

Responsibilities may include analyzing the current landscape of robotics clubs and competitive teams to identify barriers such as funding and technical support; collaborating with DIT staff to develop recommendations that streamline equipment and software management; and designing a framework to scale robotics programs equitably across FCPS schools. The intern may also support development of a consistent K‑12 pipeline, communicate insights to Division leadership, and propose solutions to logistical challenges during competition seasons to improve the student experience.

We are looking for someone who demonstrates:

• Leadership: Experience leading robotics teams (e.g., VEX, FIRST, or similar) in an FCPS club or academy setting
• Systems Thinking: Ability to design scalable, division‑wide program improvements
• Technical Communication: Strong skills in translating complex issues into clear, actionable reports
• Problem‑Solving: Demonstrated ability to address technical or logistical challenges

Preferred HS Course Connection: Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Communication Systems

IT Security (current HS Junior or Senior)

As a Junior Cybersecurity Analyst, you will play a vital role in protecting the data and privacy of thousands of students and staff. You won’t just be “watching a screen”—you will be the “boots on the ground” ensuring FCPS meets privacy laws and industry cybersecurity standards while managing the evolving risks associated with educational technology in a large K‑12 school district. In this position, the primary responsibilities will be:

• Compliance & Assessment Support: Assist in conducting internal security assessments to ensure key systems and applications meet IT security standards.
• Third‑Party Risk Management (TPRM): Review and vet new IT systems and vendors. You will assess their security posture and ensure they adhere to the district’s information security standards.
• Cybersecurity Awareness: Help develop and update cybersecurity training materials and phishing simulations tailored for teachers, staff, and students.

We are looking for a student who possesses:

• Technology Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook, Google Drive, Zoom, and AI tools (e.g., Gemini, ChatGPT).
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills with keen ability to clearly explain technical concepts with non‑technical professionals.
• Problem‑Solving: Apply critical thinking to investigate complex issues and identify innovative solutions using AI and other technology platforms.
• Information Synthesis: Synthesize information from diverse sources to provide actionable, data‑driven recommendations.
• Adaptability: A willingness to learn and remain flexible when supporting different teams across the IT Security Office.
• Certifications: CompTIA Security+.

Preferred HS Course Connections: Business Management ,IB Business , Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Computer Network Software Operations, Cybersecurity

IDTS: School Technology Innovation (current HS Junior)

The Integrated Digital Technology Services team is seeking a motivated high school intern to support our School Technology Innovation Partners (STIPs) in facilitating innovative technology practices that drive innovation in our FCPS offices and schools. During the summer, you will collaborate on various projects, such as shaping AI support for FCPS staff by ensuring student perspectives and voice are centered in the content. Other responsibilities may include assisting with the coordination and support of various conferences, piloting emerging technology tools, and capturing feedback from peers to improve the classroom experience. The schedule is flexible and based on the summer calendar, with some weeks requiring up to 35 hours and others as few as 8, and there is potential for the role to continue into the school year. We are looking for an intern who has:

• AI & Technical Skills: Experience using AI to support learning; background in computer science and coding to accompany a developing understanding and connection to “vibe coding” being implemented through features in AI tools.
• Customer Service: Experience providing customer service that would translate to work such as troubleshooting AV equipment or assisting with technical support during summer conferences.
• Adaptability: Takes direction well and ability to be flexible to meet the needs and priorities of the team.
• Collaboration: A positive attitude toward teamwork and the ability to work effectively within a professional office environment.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in preparing documentation or visual summaries that help explain user needs to both technical and non‑technical audiences.

ITSS: Digital Experience & User‑Centered Design (current HS Senior)

This internship offers a hands‑on introduction to user‑centered design and digital experience strategy within FCPS. Under the direction of the Digital Transformation Manager, you will assist in reviewing existing parent and staff user journeys to identify opportunities for better usability and adoption. Your role involves documenting business and user needs, collaborating with project teams to align content with technical objectives, and supporting the testing and validation of digital tools. In addition to high‑level design support, you will perform essential digital maintenance tasks, such as updating intranet links or pages, auditing content for accuracy, and preparing supporting documentation to ensure a seamless experience for all users. You will play a direct role in the continuous improvement of the district’s enterprise platforms and user‑facing resources. We are looking for an intern who has:

• User‑Centric Mindset: A strong interest in how people interact with technology and a basic understanding of user experience design principles including accessibility and usability standards.
• Analytical Thinking: The ability to observe digital environments, identify pain points, and contribute input to design focused on the audiences of parents, teachers, and staff.
• Collaboration: A positive attitude toward teamwork and the ability to work effectively within a professional office environment.
• Communication Skills: Proficiency in preparing documentation or visual summaries that help explain user needs to both technical and non‑technical audiences.

Preferred HS Course Connection: IB Business ,Entrepreneurship ,Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, Communication Systems, Digital and Social Media Marketing

AI Development Projects (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship is designed for students interested in exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to support teaching, learning, and school system operations. Interns will work with central office staff to contribute to the development of AI tools, resources, and guidance for educators and students.

Participants will gain hands‑on experience in a professional environment while building skills in collaboration, problem‑solving, and responsible technology use. The internship also provides exposure to how school systems evaluate and implement emerging technologies in ways that are safe, ethical, and aligned to student learning goals. Experience in using AI to create apps is welcomed, but not required. This internship is open to current high school or college students.

Possible HS Course Connections: Teachers for Tomorrow, IB Digital Society, Any coding courses

Early Childhood and Special Services (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship program is for students interested in learning more about the Department of Special Services (DSS) and the Early Childhood programs under the Chief Academic Office, and this position will support both offices. The intern will assist with administrative tasks that support professional learning, school support, and resource allocation while gaining hands‑on experience in a professional environment and improving interpersonal and organizational skills. In the Office of Early Childhood, the intern will also support daily operations of a central administrative office by providing responsive customer service and clerical assistance, responding to inquiries from families and staff with accurate program information and directing calls appropriately, as well as collecting, distributing, and disseminating program applications to Family Services Assistants.

Professional Learning Summer Events (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship will support the planning, coordination, and execution of division‑wide professional learning events for FCPS teachers and staff, including Leadership Kickoff Week for school‑based and central office administrators and leaders as well as the Great Beginnings Summer Institute for new educators. The intern will gain hands‑on experience in large‑scale event planning and operations that directly support the professional growth of educators across the division.

Responsibilities may include assisting with event logistics such as registration, materials preparation, and room setup; supporting communication with presenters and participants; organizing and distributing event resources; and providing on‑site support during events to ensure smooth execution. The intern may also assist with tracking attendance, gathering feedback, and supporting post‑event follow‑up activities.

Through this experience, the intern will develop skills in project coordination, organization, communication, and customer service while gaining insight into professional learning and large‑scale event management. This role offers exposure to career pathways in event planning, program management, education, and organizational operations.

School Operations (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship will support the efficient operations of essential school services, including the warehouse, transportation, and Food and Nutrition Services. The intern will gain hands‑on experience in large‑scale operational systems that directly support schools across the division. Responsibilities may include assisting with inventory management and distribution processes in the warehouse, observing and supporting transportation logistics and routing, and contributing to food service operations such as meal preparation coordination and supply tracking.

Through this experience, the intern will develop an understanding of how critical support services function behind the scenes to ensure schools operate smoothly each day. The role will also build skills in organization, teamwork, communication, and basic data tracking, while exposing the intern to career pathways in operations, logistics, and public service.

School Safety and Security Office (current HS student or FCPS graduate)

This internship program is for students interested in supporting safe and secure learning environments through both physical and cybersecurity practices. Participants gain exposure to school safety operations, including safety audits, emergency preparedness, threat assessment, and the implementation of security technologies. Interns work alongside safety and security professionals, assist with data collection and analysis, support emergency drill coordination, and participate in school site visits. Interns may also have the opportunity to observe and participate in uniformed officer patrols, gaining firsthand insight into daily security operations and school‑based law enforcement practices.

Students will also gain insight into crisis management, risk mitigation, and cybersecurity’s role in protecting school systems and data. The program helps students explore careers and college majors in cybersecurity, information technology, public safety, emergency management, and criminal justice. If you’ve enjoyed courses or activities related to technology, leadership, or problem‑solving, this internship is a strong next step to build real‑world experience.

Preferred HS Course Connections: Cybersecurity Fundamentals, Cybersecurity Operations, Cybersecurity Operations (Advanced), Cybersecurity Network Systems, Cybersecurity Systems Technology.

Prior completion of these CTE courses may fulfill the academic requirements for high school students seeking High‑Quality Work‑Based Learning (HQWBL) credit through this internship.

Student Activities and Athletics Office (FCPS graduate only)

Assist with planning and coordinating athletic events and student activities at both the high school and middle school levels. Responsibilities include data entry related to student participation, supporting overall program coordination, and helping manage inventory of athletic equipment and supplies. This internship provides experience in both central office operations and school‑based settings.

• Supporting department staff with projects.
• Participating in weekly professional development workshops.
• Shadowing staff as they complete mission‑critical projects for the upcoming school year.

Interns will participate in weekly professional development workshops on topics, including:

• Personal Finance
• Communication Skills
• Resume Writing
• Networking

Yes. Current FCPS HS students enrolled in SY 2025‑26 will earn $16.67/hour; FCPS graduates (including the class of 2026) enrolled in a post‑secondary education program will earn $18.77/hour.

Through our partnership with Apple Federal Credit Union, interns in this program will receive their direct deposit payments into an eXtras Student Savings account. Opening this account is free and a requirement of the program. As a special bonus, Apple will also contribute an initial $50 to your new account.

The interest form for the 2026 Summer Internship Program is now closed.

FCPS is committed to cultivating an inclusive and supportive environment, encouraging students of all backgrounds and abilities to apply and contribute their unique strengths and talents.

Equal Opportunity & Accessibility: We believe great work happens when everyone can show up as their best selves. FCPS is an equal opportunity employer. In accordance with the ADA and relevant state laws, we provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, upon request. If you require any accommodations to participate in our hiring please contact us at [emailprotected].

If selected as semi‑finalists, candidates will be invited to interview and will complete a formal application that requires a resume and contact information for two references, such as a teacher, school counselor, or work supervisor.

If hired for an internship, students will complete the onboarding process, which includes documenting a negative TB test or screening.

• If selected as a semi‑finalist, candidates will be invited to interview and will complete a formal application that requires a resume and contact information for two references, such as a teacher, school counselor, or work supervisor.
• Interviews with semi‑finalists will be virtual or in‑person and will be scheduled with finalists between April 20 through May 15.
• Internship offers will be sent the weeks of May 11 and 18.
• Offers must be accepted by Friday, May 22.
• Pre‑employment and onboarding sessions for accepted interns will take place on June 1 or June 15.
• All applicants will be notified even if not selected for this opportunity by May 15.
• Interns can arrange vacation/time off with their department managers, provided it doesn’t impact their 20 hours/week commitment to project needs and departmental outcomes.
• Interns can arrange outside summer job commitments with their department managers, provided it doesn’t impact their 20 hours/week commitment to project needs and departmental outcomes.