City of Fairfax School Board Chair Carolyn Pitches is calling for Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) to hire an independent agency to investigate allegations of recruiting violations and residency regulation abuses within the Hayfield Secondary School football program.
In a letter addressed to the FCPS School Board over the weekend, Dr. Pitches voiced concerns about how the allegations were handled when they first emerged over the summer. She argued that FCPS’s decision not to initiate an independent investigation early on has led to unnecessary disruptions and a lack of trust within the community.
“An independent inquiry would have demonstrated a commitment to integrity and helped restore community trust,” wrote Dr. Pitches. She also highlighted the ripple effects of the delayed response, such as Robinson Secondary being removed from playoffs and Fairfax High School facing an overloaded game schedule.
The City of Fairfax School Board, though not directly involved in FCPS policymaking, is urging immediate action. Dr. Pitches has called for a thorough, unbiased investigation conducted by an external firm and for the findings to be publicly shared.
“Our community deserves clarity, fairness, and a resolution that reflects the core values of our educational system,” she stated.
The situation underscores ongoing tension over how athletic programs are governed and the importance of transparency in maintaining public trust in school leadership.
