The Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) Summer Internship Program offers paid, hands-on work experience, professional development, and project-based learning for current FCPS high school students and recent college alumni.
Interns build valuable skills while working across various FCPS departments, earning an hourly wage based on whether they are in high school or college. Applicants must be at least 16 years old by June 30 and legally authorized to work in the U.S.
Because the FCPS website can be overwhelming, with too many tabs and scattered information, I’ve written this article to highlight the key details you need to know about the program.
In addition to the summer internship, FCPS offers a broader range of Work-Based Learning opportunities, including internships and apprenticeships, typically coordinated through high school Work-Based Learning Coordinators.
The FCPS Summer Internship Program is designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application for students and young alumni within the Fairfax County Public Schools system.
Purpose and Goals
The core purpose of this program is to provide participants with meaningful, hands-on work experience within various FCPS departments. It aims to foster professional growth through practical tasks and project-based learning, allowing interns to contribute to the school system while developing their skills.
Key Benefits for Participants
Students and alumni participating in the FCPS Summer Internship Program can expect to:
- Gain valuable, real-world work experience
- Receive professional development opportunities
- Engage in project-based learning that has tangible outcomes
- Explore potential career paths within the education sector or public service
- Earn a competitive hourly wage
Eligibility: Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the FCPS Summer Internship Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a current Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) high school student OR an FCPS alumnus currently enrolled in a post-secondary institution (e.g., college)
- Be at least 16 years old as of June 30 of the program year
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States
Program Structure and Experience
Nature of Work
Interns will be involved in hands-on work relevant to the operations of FCPS departments. The program emphasizes project-based learning, suggesting interns likely work on specific assignments or initiatives with defined goals.
Learning and Development
Professional development is a significant component of the internship. This could include workshops, mentorship, or training sessions to enhance workplace skills.
Internship Placements
Internships are available across various FCPS departments, offering a diverse range of experiences depending on the student’s interests and the school system’s needs.
Compensation: Getting Paid for Your Work
The FCPS Summer Internship Program offers paid positions. The hourly rates are structured as follows:
| Intern Category | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Current FCPS High School Student | $15.88 |
| College-Enrolled FCPS Graduate | $17.88 |
Application Insights (General Guidance)
While specific application details are typically available on the FCPS website or through school channels during the recruitment period, general internship application processes within FCPS often involve:
- A completed online application
- An uploaded resume
Students interested in FCPS work-based learning opportunities are often advised to contact their high school’s Work-Based Learning Coordinator for information and application packets.
Why Consider This Internship?
Participating in the FCPS Summer Internship Program offers a unique opportunity to:
- Develop professional skills in a supportive environment
- Gain insight into the workings of an extensive public school system
- Build a professional network
- Enhance a resume with practical experience
- Make a positive contribution to the FCPS community
Exploring Other Work-Based Learning in FCPS (Contextual Information)
Beyond the Summer Internship Program, FCPS offers several other avenues for students to gain career-related experience. These Work-Based Learning (WBL) programs cater to various interests and grade levels.
| Program Name | Target Students | Career-related experiences in a future college major, paired with an adult mentor | Contact/More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Internships | Juniors and Seniors | Summer and senior year work; mentorship, industry credentials, and high school credit | Work-Based Learning Coordinator |
| Youth Apprenticeship Program | 11th and 12th graders | Credit for work experience; employer partners with a coordinator for learning outcomes | Youth Apprenticeship webpage |
| Career Research & Development Program | High School Students | Two-year program; in-school coursework and paid work reflecting future employment | Work-Based Learning Coordinator |
| Work Study | Students seeking credit for paid work | Credit for work experience; employer partners with coordinator for learning outcomes | Work-Based Learning Coordinator |
FCPS Internships for Students with Special Needs
Fairfax County Public Schools, through Career and Transition Services (CTS), provides work-based learning opportunities for high school students with special needs. These students engage in community work experiences with teacher support, working 2–16 hours weekly in clerical work, animal care, or food prep. Recruitment usually begins in April.
FCPS Student Pilot Program with Coursera
Through a pilot with Coursera’s Career Academy, FCPS high school students can explore 29+ professional certificate programs from Google, Meta, IBM, and more. These programs offer micro-credentials but do not count toward graduation and are filled on a first-come basis.
A Glimpse into Fairfax County Government Internships (Broader Opportunities)
Fairfax County Government also offers internships across departments, separate from FCPS, but accessible for students.
Examples of County Internships
- Chairman’s Internship – Paid, 30 hours/week summer position in Chairman McKay’s office.
- DPWES – Stormwater Management – Paid internship for college students in engineering fields, starting at $19.43/hour.
- Park Authority (FCPA) – Paid/unpaid internships in horticulture, marketing, and education ($15–$20/hour).
- Police Department – Unpaid internships for undergrads and graduate students (Victim Services).
- Youth Leadership Program (FCYLP) – High school juniors, monthly sessions, plus a three-week paid summer internship.
- John Hudson Internship Program – Paid summer program for college students with disabilities (380 hours).
Each has eligibility criteria, deadlines, and an application process available through Fairfax County’s HR site.
Tips for Success in Your Internship Search
- Please read the descriptions carefully to ensure they are age/level appropriate.
- Check eligibility, such as age, citizenship, and academic standing.
- Prepare well, with a strong resume and cover letter.
- Practice interviewing to boost your confidence.
- Use multiple platforms, including FCPS websites, Naviance, and other job portals.
The FCPS Summer Internship Program is a standout opportunity for students and recent alumni to earn while learning within the FCPS school system. With a wide range of work-based learning options and access to Fairfax County internships, students have many chances to gain experience, grow professionally, and build toward their future careers. Taking the initiative now can open doors for lasting success.
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