Graduation caps tossed in the air

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

On Wednesday evening, the School Board approved the “Rosemount Lewis” Elementary School boundary plan. PWCS will continue to reach out to parents and guardians of students who may be impacted by this change. The school naming process will begin shortly, and PWCS will keep our community updated throughout the process.

The School Board also held a public hearing on the FY 2024 Proposed Budget. A School Board work session will be held on March 8, with the School Board considering approval of the Budget and Capital Improvements Program on March 15. I appreciate the work of our budget and finance teams and the feedback our constituents have shared.

Now is an exciting time for our seniors receiving early admissions and college decision letters. With the celebration of acceptance letters, paying for college is top of mind for families. In recognition of Financial Aid Awareness Month, I wish to highlight some of the programs available to families to help aid in launching thriving futures.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an application used by almost all two- and four-year universities, colleges, and career schools for awarding federal, state, and college-funded student financial aid. This financial support can alleviate some or all the cost of higher education. Filling out the FAFSA Form is the first step toward finding financial support for our students’ continuing education.

Additionally, students who may not be eligible for federal student aid may still meet state financial aid and should complete the Virginia Alternative State Aid Application at VASAapp.org. Find out more about grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs by contacting your student’s College and Career Counselor or by visiting our Financial Aid website.

Next week, PWCS will begin hosting families and community members at one of our Safety and Security Briefings to engage in our ongoing discussions about our comprehensive approach to “deter, detect, and defend,” including the use of new preventative technology. We hope to see and hear from you at one of these scheduled community events. Times and locations can be found on the PWCS website.

As we conclude Random Acts of Kindness Week and prepare to honor Presidents Day, I reflect upon the words of Barack Obama: “We can use each day to show those who are closest to us how much we care about them, and treat others with the kindness and respect that we wish for ourselves.” While schools and offices are closed in observance of the holiday on Monday, February 20, I encourage all students, families, and staff to return from the long weekend with the goal of making the best of each school day and bringing out the best in each other.

Sincerely,
LaTanya D. McDade signature

LaTanya D. McDade, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Prince William County Public Schools