US Education Department Launches Enforcement Action Against Fairfax County Schools Over Underage Abortion Allegations

The U.S. Department of Education has initiated an enforcement action against Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) following allegations that a Centreville High School social worker scheduled abortion appointments for students without parental notification or consent during the 2021-2022 school year. The social worker reportedly paid clinic fees and pressured at least one student to have an abortion, actions that potentially violate the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA), which requires schools to notify parents about invasive physical procedures and allow opt-outs. FCPS has launched its own internal investigation and engaged an outside law firm, while Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has requested a criminal investigation by the Virginia State Police. Education Department Acting General Counsel Candice Jackson condemned the alleged conduct as morally and legally unacceptable, emphasizing the importance of parental rights in decisions affecting their children's well-being. The Department has demanded written responses from FCPS by mid-October and warned of possible federal funding consequences if the district fails to comply. This case is part of broader tensions involving FCPS and the federal government, including ongoing disputes over school policies.