History
Middle Schools in Fairfax County are generally named after poets or writers of distinction. Washington Irving was the author of “Rip Van Winkle” and “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”, stories familiar to Americans for generations. Although Washington Irving won worldwide fame for these two stories, he was known as a humorist and master of graceful style. Irving was a true American in his devotion to American ideas.
Our school’s construction was completed in time for classes to start in September, 1960. The renovation of the building including room additions began in the summer of 1992 and was completed in the spring of 1995. Our projected enrollment for the 2008-2009 school year is approximately 1060 seventh and eighth grade students. We are proud of our students’ long record of outstanding achievements.
The Irving Rock
The Washington Irving Rock represents tradition dating back to the 1960’s when road crews uncovered it while working in front of the school. The principal asked that the workers move the boulder, pointed-side upward, and put it on school property. Almost immediately, students started painting it with symbols, statements, and names. “The Rock” reflects the flavor of the times, starting with peace signs in the 60’s, rock music groups in the 70’s, yellow ribbons during the Gulf Wars and Iraq, Olympic Rings, New Year greetings, etc. With over 100 coats of paint on it, “The Rock” will continue to be a vehicle for artistic expression by the students who pass through Washington Irving Middle School.
