Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Happy Valentine’s Day!

As we wrap up this week, I wish to remind you that PWCS is conducting the Gallup Divisionwide Family Engagement Survey to gather valuable feedback on how families feel about the schools their children attend. This input helps shape decisions to enhance engagement, environment, academic standards, and more. All participants have received their survey via text and email. Parents and guardians, if you have not completed the survey yet, please do so for each one of the schools your students attend by February 28 at 5 p.m. using this family survey link. PWCS staff are also asked to complete the survey sent to you directly from Gallup. Your voice matters in making PWCS schools better for everyone.

I am proud to announce that the Virginia Department of Education has awarded Osbourn Park High School with the Virginia School Breakfast Award. This honor highlights our commitment to ensuring students have access to nutritious meals that support their learning and well-being. Osbourn Park High was one of only three schools in the state to receive this distinction for expanding breakfast access, maintaining nutritional integrity, and serving more scratch-cooked meals. I invite you to read more about Osbourn Park’s award and congratulations to the Osbourn Park community!

As February is Black History Month, PWCS continues to honor and recognize the significant contributions of African Americans throughout history. I encourage everyone to take part in learning opportunities and events happening in our schools and community, like the music class found at Piney Branch Elementary School.

This week also marks the conclusion of Random Acts of Kindness Week, a wonderful reminder of the power of small gestures in fostering kindness, inclusivity, and positivity. I challenge each of us to find ways to uplift one another through simple acts of generosity and get inspired by how our students are spreading kindness in their own way.

Additionally, February is Career and Technical Education Month, and I am excited to share that PWCS is once again teaming up with Virginia Ed Strategies to host the annual Instruction 2 Industry Future Ready Conference on Tuesday, February 18. This free career exploration event provides students with valuable opportunities to prepare for tomorrow’s workforce. More than 100 local industry professionals will be available to connect with students about in-demand career paths.

I also want to invite families to join us on Saturday, February 22, at Forest Park High School for a conference hosted by the PWCS Special Education Department and Parent Resource Center. The Parents as Partners in Special Education Conference is designed to empower parents of preschool through grade 12 students by providing resources to help them navigate Section 504 and special education processes. The conference will feature breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and live, in-person support to ensure successful outcomes for our students. Register in advance to let us know you will be attending.

Finally, a quick reminder that schools and offices will be closed on Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents Day. I hope you all enjoy the long weekend and take time to recharge.

Sincerely,

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