School counselor talking to a student in her office

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Welcome to the second semester! As we are now halfway through the school year, I encourage all families to check-in with your student’s academic progress and well-being. Second marking period report cards for middle and high school students will be mailed by February 7 and available for families of elementary school students in ParentVUE on February 7. Great resources to help monitor student progress and assignments include ParentVUE and Canvas. If your student needs academic support, be sure to reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor, as we are committed to helping every student succeed.

National School Counseling Week is February 5-9. I hope you will take a moment to send your appreciation and thanks to your child’s counselor. Their unwavering support and guidance play a pivotal role in the preparing, planning, and launching of our students’ thriving futures. Thank you to our counselors and those across the nation for your vital contributions to our educational communities.

Black History Month is a time to honor and celebrate the significant contributions and achievements of African Americans throughout history, recognizing their profound impact on our collective society and culture. This month is an opportunity to continue the march toward equality and justice, while also understanding and appreciating the rich diversity and resilience of the African American community. By dedicating this month to learning about and reflecting on our history and the role African Americans played in the growth of our country, we can foster a more inclusive and compassionate world. Look for more features this month from the division as we highlight how our schools are undertaking this month of celebration.

Upon visiting the School Board meeting room this week, I was awed by the colorful demonstration of support from PWCS schools and students for our School Board. Student-made posters and paper mâché coat the walls, and I could not think of a better way to start the celebration of School Board Appreciation Month. Thank you all who contributed and thank you to our School Board for continuing to keep students first.

Enjoy the weekend.

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