going to another county's school (Jefferson, Fairfax: public school, property taxes, living)

[tchjnkie113]

Hi, I'm a resident of Fairfax county and have who just moved from Loudoun County. I wanted to know if it was possible (legally) to live in Fairfax County and go to a Loudoun County public school. Any info. would be greatly appreciated!

[Yankeesfan]

My understanding is that it's illegal to go to Fairfax County schools while living outside of Fairfax. Anyone who is caught doing this can be required to reimburse the school system for the cost of educating their child. This makes sense because the schools are funded primarily by local property taxes so if you aren't paying taxes in the county you are not helping to fund the schools.

Based on that, I would assume that Loudoun would have the same policy. But I don't know that for a fact, so you should check into it, since the consequences can be expensive.

The one exception is Thomas Jefferson High School. I think they have reciprocity with some neighboring areas to accept a certain number of their students, with the students' county governments reimbursing Fairfax County. At least it used to be that way -- I remember it was controversial that some Fairfax County students were being shut out to make room for students from elsewhere.

[car54]

To do what you are proposing would require falsifying the residency affidavit.

This is a Class 3 misdemeanor.

If you decide to proceed anyway...DO NOT drive your child to school on a regular basis. School admin and RSOs are on full alert for vehicles dropping off students that DO NOT DISPLAY A LOUDOUN COUNTY DECAL! (and for Maryland and DC tagged vehicles as well)

Teach your kid a lesson in integrity and move back to Loudoun if you wish to maintain LCPS enrollment!

[claremarie]

You can't do it legally without paying tuition, and even then it might not be permissible. The only way to know for sure is to contact Loudoun County schools and ask.