Fairfax County is the home of world-class learning institutions, including an outstanding public school system, the second-largest community college in the country and excellent university programs, including George Mason University, the largest public research institution in the commonwealth. These institutions, along with many county programs and community-based providers, support the education and learning needs of a large and diverse population.
Many adult residents are highly educated, employed in well-paying jobs with the potential for future career growth and have broad access to digital and in-person learning programs to continue to build their skills over time. Others have less access to well-paying jobs and the learning opportunities needed to successfully compete in the regional job market, which affects both individuals and families.
There is also a tremendous need for quality early childhood education, which supports school readiness and is an essential component of success later in life. Finally, older residents need to be connected and engaged, especially through increased digital access and literacy, but also through in-person opportunities that teach new skills and offer a sense of inclusion and connection. The goal of this community outcome area is to ensure that lifelong learning opportunities and the achievement of educational goals are readily available to residents at every stage of life, regardless of age.
