Fairfax Schools to Bring Quantum Computing to K-12

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) in Virginia is preparing to install a quantum computer at Skyview High School, giving students an opportunity to experiment with a technology typically associated with universities and specialized research laboratories.

The Fairfax County School Board approved a

last month for a four-qubit computer, according to a

by school board member Kyle McDaniel. The system, developed by quantum technology company XeedQ, is expected to be installed in December, with instruction with the computer beginning in spring 2027.

The initiative, developed in partnership with the nonprofit Connected DMV and the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA), aims to introduce students to quantum science while the technology is still emerging. Organizers said they envision eventually expanding access beyond Skyview and developing educational resources that other school systems could use.

WHAT WILL STUDENTS LEARN?

At Skyview High School, the quantum computer will primarily serve as a scientific teaching instrument rather than a tool for advanced computation, according to FCEDA President and CEO George Thomas.

Gopalakrishnan Balasubramanian, founder and CEO of XeedQ, explained that students will be able to manipulate quantum states, observe concepts such as superposition and conduct experiments using a Python-based interface.