Superintendent, Long-Time Educator, Ann Monday to Retire

After 35 years of work in Fairfax County Public Schools and five years as superintendent of Fairfax City schools, Ann Monday is retiring at the end of this school year.

"The reason for my retirement is simple: I realize that it is time for me to begin the next chapter in my life," Monday said. "I want to pursue the simple, personal goals of having more time for family and friends, pursuing interests and learning new things."

Known for overseeing the tail end of and renovations, Monday worked hard to support learning above and beyond FCPS offerings. She, along with the City of Fairfax School Board, gave students a chance to take additional after-school and summer programs and promoted technology, teacher training and online SAT preparation.

Monday started her career in education in 1973 as an English teacher at Kilmer Intermediate School in Vienna. Since then she's been an English department chairperson at Chantilly High School, an administrative aid at Marshall High School, a Lake Braddock subschool principal, an assistant principal at Fairfax High School, an associate, and eventually principal of Robinson High School, a FCPS Cluster VI superintendent, and a FCPS superintendent of instruction.

She took over as superintendent for Fairfax City schools in 2007, replacing 11-year veteran George Stepp.

Though she enjoyed every year she spent working in area schools, Monday keeps special fond memories of her time in Fairfax City.

"Every part of my career has been good, and I feel very fortunate for the opportunities that Fairfax County provided during my years there," she said. "The five years that I will have spent with the city schools have been especially rewarding. I have enjoyed being part of this 'small town' where everyone really does know each other. I have great respect for the people who work in the city and make it such a wonderful place to live."

What's next? Monday plans to continue living in Fairfax City. Since her husband is already retired, she looks forward to traveling and enjoying the finer things in life with him at her side. And, of course, she intends to stay active in city affairs, volunteering her time to her community.

"It will be hard for me to leave this position, as it has been so satisfying, even when challenging. But it is time."

Monday has only good things to say about the city's school board and staff, and the sentiment is shared.

"I have really enjoyed my time with her. She is quite funny, and so there are often times stories or anecdotes that have us all giggling," said Susan Wiczalkowski, executive assistant to the superintendent. "We have a small office, so I feel like we are all very close. She is extremely dedicated to the city schools, staff, and students, and is always ‘just a phone call away.’  I’m very excited for her and this new chapter, but I will miss her terribly!"

School board chairman Janice Miller echoed her sentiments.

“Ann Monday has been a stellar employee and the school board is sad to see her go,” said Miller. “While Ann will be difficult to replace, we are fortunate she will be an active participant in choosing a new superintendent and has committed to a seamless transition. We thank her for her tireless service, commitment to City of Fairfax students and wish her all the best retirement has to offer. Ann Monday will be missed by all.”

And so Fairfax begins the process of finding another superintendent for the city's four schools. Applicants must turn in their resumes by Jan. 31. Interviews will be complete by the end of February. The school board will announce its pick at its March 5 meeting. 

Click here for more information on the hiring process.