After more than four decades in public education, Superintendent Jeff Platenberg has announced his retirement from the City of Fairfax Schools, effective July 31, 2025. Mr. Platenberg shared the news during the May 5 School Board meeting, citing deep reflection and immense pride in the work accomplished during his time in Fairfax.
“While there is always more work to be done, I am profoundly proud of what we have achieved together,” said Platenberg. “It has been a true honor to serve the students, staff, and families of this remarkable city.”
Mr. Platenberg joined the City of Fairfax Schools after a distinguished career in educational leadership and operations across several school systems. Before serving as Superintendent, he held leadership roles in Fairfax County Public Schools as Assistant Superintendent for Facilities and Transportation, and in Loudoun County, South Carolina, and Georgia school systems. He has also supported the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Schools.
A recognized leader in school operations and infrastructure, Mr. Platenberg is a certified educational facility planner, a licensed general contractor, and a past recipient of numerous national awards, including the Association of School Business Officials International Eagle Award, the Education Week "Leader to Learn From," and the Bammy Award for "What is Right in Education."
Under his leadership in the City of Fairfax, the school division expanded academic and support services, launched strategic capital investments, and deepened partnerships with George Mason University. Highlights include:
- Laying the foundation for an Electrical CTE program at Fairfax High School
- Adding behavioral and transitional support roles across all grade levels
- Expanding student mentorship, tutoring, and early admission opportunities through GMU
- Leading the successful bond referendum to modernize elementary school facilities
- Completing numerous capital projects and safety upgrades, including ADA enhancements, athletic facility renovations, and EV charging stations
- Enhancing school security with new staff, surveillance technology, and entryway improvements
“Relationships are the foundation of great schools,” Platenberg said. “I’m most proud of the collaborative culture we built with our principals, staff, city partners, and community. We are a small division that accomplishes extraordinary things.”
The Board accepted the superintendent’s announcement and will begin the process to identify a new superintendent in the upcoming weeks.