Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) and the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights (OCR) have reached an agreement following OCR’s investigation of racially discriminatory incidents that occurred at Brentsville District High School in 2019. These incidents do not align to PWCS core values, or the values of our diverse community, and PWCS is taking immediate and decisive action to address this issue.

OCR’s findings are a call to action for all of us to reflect on our school culture and to work together to create an environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and respectful of every student and staff member. We recognize the impact that such an environment can have on the well-being and academic success of our students, and we apologize to anyone who has experienced discrimination in our schools.

To address the OCR’s findings, PWCS is implementing a comprehensive plan both at the school named in the agreement and divisionwide that include:

• Immediate Training: All staff at the school will participate in mandatory training focused on cultural competency, anti-racism, and creating inclusive classroom environments.
• Policy Revision: We will review and revise our division policies to ensure they are robust and effective in preventing and addressing racial and other forms of discrimination and harassment.
• Student Training: Upon approval by OCR of our revised school policies students at the named school will receive training on racial sensitivity, discrimination laws, and how to foster an inclusive school environment.
• Support Services: We will provide additional support services for students affected by discrimination and harassment, including counseling and support groups.
• Employee Training: Upon approval by OCR of our revised school policies, all employees will receive training on discrimination and harassment laws, and how to foster an inclusive school environment. Site-based administrators will receive additional training on how to handle and remedy reports of discrimination and harassment in schools. 

PWCS is committed to providing learning and working environments free from all forms of discrimination. PWCS encourages all members of the school community to work together to prevent and remedy discrimination, including harassment and bullying based on any protected class.  As we enter the school year, it is important that all students, families, and staff understand that PWCS has no tolerance for harassment, bullying or intimidation of students based on race, color, religion, national origin (including shared ancestry and ethnic characteristics), sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions including lactation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information or any other basis prohibited by law.