On February 5, 2025, Superintendent Dr. LaTanya D. McDade presented the proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Budget and Capital Improvement Program to the Prince William County School Board. The $1.89 billion operating budget emphasizes strategic investments that align with the Vision 2025 Launching Thriving Futures Strategic Plan.
Accompanied by Chief Financial Officer Shakeel Yusuf, Chief Human Resources Officer Dr. Donna Eagle, and Chief Operating Officer Vernon Bock, Dr. McDade outlined priorities aimed at strengthening student success, workforce investment, and operational efficiency.
“Each year, our budget is driven by the strategic priorities set forth in our long-term plan,” said Dr. McDade. “We are focused on investing in people, programs, and initiatives that directly enhance student achievement and well-being.”
A central highlight of the FY26 budget is the funding for the first year of a historic two-year wage agreement totaling over $160 million, over two years, to ensure competitive pay for Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) employees. This includes back-to-back average pay raises of 7% in the first year and 6.4% in the second year, as well as adjustments to the certified pay scale and supplements at or above the regional median. These investments recognize the value of PWCS educators and staff, reinforcing the district’s commitment to Learning and Achievement for All.
Beyond the $83.2 increase in compensation, an additional $46.7 million is dedicated to strategic initiatives, with $28.9 million focused on Learning and Achievement for All. This funding will add 50 special education teacher assistants, improving inclusion and individualized support. The district is also reducing English learner student-teacher ratios to meet state standards, ensuring students receive targeted language instruction.
To strengthen behavioral and academic support, PWCS is hiring 15 new behavior specialists to assist with classroom management and student interventions. Additionally, eight graduation coaches will mentor at-risk students, helping them stay on track for graduation. Recognizing the importance of mental health, the district is expanding student support services by adding five new school psychologists. To enhance early learning, five new kindergarten teacher assistants will be hired to provide small-group instruction and foundational support.
PWCS is making key investments to enhance school culture and student well-being. The budget funds a dean of students in every middle and high school to ensure consistent implementation of the Code of Behavior and reinforce student expectations. To develop future educators, the district is expanding the PWCS-VCU Apprentice Program, offering hands on experience for aspiring teachers.
Additional funding is allocated for more social workers and security assistants, strengthening student support systems and school safety. These initiatives reflect the district’s commitment to creating an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Recognizing the importance of family-school partnerships, the FY26 budget supports enhanced communication and engagement efforts. Over the past three years, PWCS has invested in over 100 full-time parent liaisons, ensuring families have access to essential resources. While no new funding is required for these positions, the district is introducing a transportation liaison to assist families with school transportation concerns and improve communication between schools and transportation services.
To further enhance customer service, PWCS is launching a website chatbot, providing real-time automated responses to families seeking information about school services, policies, and resources. These initiatives aim to increase accessibility, transparency, and trust between PWCS and the community.
The FY26 budget includes $8.2 million to improve operational coherence, ensuring an effective and responsive school system. A portion of this funding will go toward hiring 20 new school bus attendants and five additional van drivers to strengthen transportation services and ensure students arrive safely to and from school.
To address teacher shortages and invest in the future workforce, PWCS is increasing its funding for the PWCS Student Teacher Program. This initiative provides on-site training, hands-on experience, and coaching for aspiring educators, helping the district attract and retain high-quality teachers.
Dr. McDade emphasized that the FY26 budget is more than just financial planning. It is a strategic investment in the future of students, staff, and the broader community. By aligning financial resources with strategic priorities, PWCS is working to create a school system where every student thrives in an inclusive, supportive, and academically rigorous environment.
“This budget is more than numbers—it represents our unwavering commitment to ensuring every student has access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to thrive,” said Dr. McDade. “By aligning our financial resources with our strategic goals, we are shaping the future of education in Prince William County.”
The School Board will conduct public meetings and work sessions to review the FY26 budget proposal, with final approval expected in March. Once approved, the budget will be submitted to the Prince William County Board of Supervisors for consideration.
For more details on the budget process, upcoming public meetings, and opportunities for community input, visit the PWCS website.