On September 16, First Lady of Virginia Pamela Northam visited Fairfax County to recognize the important work of early childhood educators as part of her annual Back to School tour. She toured three sites and delivered hand sanitizer, face coverings and books to educators. First Lady Northam’s tour began at Office for Children Early Head Start provider Leticia Flores-Ortiz’s home in Herndon. She was joined by Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton, State Delegate Ibraheem Samirah and State Senator Janet Howell’s legislative staff.

Next, Mrs. Northam visited Hutchison Elementary School in Herndon, where she participated in the Fairfax County Public Schools’ Grab & Go food distribution and enjoyed a virtual tour through Fairfax County's Supporting Return to School (SRS) program.

Mrs. Northam concluded her time in Fairfax County with a visit to the Hopkins House McNeil Preschool Academy in Alexandria, where she was joined by State Delegate Paul Krizek. She met staff and board members, toured the program, and read a story to the children (following social distancing protocols).

Throughout the tour, Mrs. Northam thanked the educators for their continued service supporting Virginia children and families and adapting to challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. She let educators know that they are superheroes!