Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,
In the wake of last week's tragedy in Winder, Georgia, schools across the county and country have received a disheartening amount of unsubstantiated social media threats. The highest priority for PWCS is safety and security, which is why PWCS diligently reviews our crisis and emergency preparedness plans, tactically invests in safety initiatives and infrastructure, and routinely evaluates our building security.
PWCS does not, and will not, tolerate any form of joke or prank messaging related to threats of violence or disruption to our school environment. Such actions not only create unnecessary fear and anxiety but also place an undue burden on our school community, law enforcement, and emergency personnel.
PWCS and the Prince William County Police Department take every threat seriously and seek to investigate and prosecute every instance to the fullest extent of the law. These disruptions hinder the focus on our primary mission—providing a safe and positive learning environment for all students. Families, please talk with your children about the responsibilities of being a digital citizen. We will continue to be vigilant and take every threat seriously to protect our students, staff, and school communities.
PWCS is vibrantwith teaching, learning, and celebrating. As we move through September, we are reminded of the many national recognitions that highlight the diverse contributions and dedicated efforts of individuals and communities across our school system.
The National Merit Scholarship Program has named six PWCS students as semifinalists. Congratulations to Daniel Choe and Alan Peng from Battlefield High School, Isabella Carter from Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, Alexandra Whalen from Osbourn Park High School, James Younts from Patriot High School, and Benjamin Eikenberry from Forest Park High School. I invite you to read more about our semifinalists on our website. While at our website, please note the graduation dates for the class of 2025 and mark your calendar should you have a high school senior.
This week, PWCS celebrated National Arts in Education Week, a perfect time to recognize the vital role the arts play in contributing to students' holistic education by cultivating critical thinking, resilience, and collaboration. Art initiatives like the elementary strings program have served PWCS elementary students with music education for over 57 years and contributed to the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation’s recognition of PWCS as one of the Best Communities for Music Education for the fifth year in a row. Please read more about the elementary strings program and visit our website to learn about our arts programs.
Next week, PWCS recognizes National Security Officer Appreciation Week, observed annually during the third week of September. I want to thank our security officers and staff who play a vital role in ensuring the safety of our classrooms, hallways, and schools. I invite you to watch this video that highlights the crucial role security officers play in creating a positive climate and culture.
National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, is a time to celebrate and recognize the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans. This month honors the diverse influences that have shaped our country, from art and music to politics and science, highlighting the vibrant traditions and values that continue to enrich our community. PWCS is proud to celebrate and highlight the enduring legacy and stories of individuals whose impact is felt across our nation.
We look forward to seeing all our students return on Monday morning. Until then, I wish you a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
LaTanya D. McDade, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Prince William County Public Schools