City Of Fairfax Schools Superintendent To Retire At The End Of 2021-22 School Year

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — Dr. Phyllis Pajardo, who has been the superintendent of the City of Fairfax Schools for the last five years, will be stepping down from that role at the end of the current school year, according to a release.

“In my past seven years in the City of Fairfax, I have been fortunate enough to work with a wonderful staff, a conscientious and supportive school board, and talented educators,” said Pajardo, in a statement. “I look forward to taking some time to travel, spend time with my family and continue to support current and future educational leaders as an author and consultant.”

Pajardo announced her retirement during Monday night's regular meeting of the school board. Her last day as superintendent will be June 30.

“Dr. Pajardo has been a compassionate, talented and strong leader, as well as advocate for the students and staff in the City of Fairfax Schools,” said Carolyn Pitches, City of Fairfax School Board chair, in a release. “While we are sad to see her go, we are grateful for her leadership and she will leave with our respect, admiration and best wishes into retirement.”

Parjado had served two years as the school system's assistant superintendent before the school board hired 2017 to become the new superintendent. Prior to coming to Fairfax City, she had a 35-year career as an educator, leader and assistant superintendent in Fairfax County Public Schools.

Highlights of Pajardo's tenure as the city's school superintendent included overseeing the renaming of Katherine Johnson Middle School, the expansion of advanced academic programs at the city's two elementary schools, and the establishment of a partnership between Fairfax City's four schools and George Mason University.

The school board hired former City Superintendent Ann Monday to assist in the search for Pajardo's successor.