Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) is making significant strides in expanding access to advanced coursework to ensure that all students have the opportunity to excel academically.
As the second-largest school system in Virginia and in the most diverse county in the Commonwealth, PWCS serves a student population representing 159 countries and speaking more than 170 languages. The division also includes 23,660 English learners – its fastest-growing demographic – along with 13,249 students with disabilities and more than 29,000 economically disadvantaged students as identified by federal criteria.
Recognizing the importance of providing inclusive academic opportunities, PWCS has strengthened its commitment to increasing student participation in advanced coursework, such as Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge, and dual enrollment programs.
These efforts have led to a surge in advanced course enrollment across all demographics. A notable 53.8% of high school students now participate in at least one advanced course. Overall participation in advanced courses increased by 5.6% from the 2022-23 to 2023-24 school year.
Participation rates grew across multiple student groups:
- 5.2% among English learners
- 6.5% among Hispanic students
- 5.8% among Black students
- 5.2% among students with disabilities
AP course enrollment and exam performance have also seen significant gains.
In 2019 (pre-pandemic):
- 5,825 students took AP exams
- 11,767 AP exams were administered
- 57.2% of exams earned a score of 3 or higher
By 2024:
- The number of test takers increased to 6,824 (+999 from 2019)
- AP exams administered rose to 12,172
- 61.4% of exams earned a score of 3 or higher (+4.2% from 2019)
These improvements highlight the increased confidence, engagement, and success of PWCS students in advanced coursework.
Superintendent of Schools Dr. LaTanya D. McDade stated, “Research shows that students who access advanced coursework have a higher probability of not only getting to college but also persisting toward postsecondary degree completion.”
PWCS has worked to eliminate barriers to enrollment in advanced courses, ensuring that all students have access to rigorous learning experiences. A key initiative in this effort is the Student Vision Profile, a tool that provides students and families with personalized academic data to help them make informed course selections.
“We want every student to have the opportunity to see themselves capable of collegiate level studies, even if they choose a different path for themselves,” said Dr. McDade.
To support students new to advanced coursework, PWCS has also introduced a mentorship initiative where first-time AP students are paired with a trusted adult. This strategy has resulted in increased student engagement and achievement.
“Our students have always had the potential, the grades, and the interest,” said Dr. McDade. “Now, they have the encouragement and support needed to thrive in advanced courses.”
As scheduling for the next academic year begins, PWCS encourages students and families to review their Student Vision Profiles and explore advanced course options in the Secondary Course Catalog. School counselors are actively working to ensure that students select coursework that aligns with their strengths and future goals.
With a clear vision for student success and a commitment to inclusive education, PWCS continues to ensure that every student is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to create a thriving future beyond graduation.