Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Welcome back from what I hope was a relaxing and safe Spring Break. Earlier this week, PWCS honored several dedicated educators and staff through the annual Outstanding Educator Awards program. I had the pleasure of participating in the red-carpet event and inspiring ceremony, which recognized educators who received or renewed their National Board Certification, and our finalists for the Support Employee, Novice Teachers of the Year, Teachers of the Year, and Principals of the Year.

These exemplary individuals embody the exceptional work occurring in our classrooms and across our schools, equipping our students for success after graduation. We extend our gratitude to our business partner and event sponsor, Apple Federal Credit Union, for their generous support again this year. Thanks to their contribution, each of our winners received a $1,500 award. Congratulations to our following winners:

• Support Employee of the Year
  • Connor Sadler, Potomac High School
• Novice Teacher of the Year for grades pre-K-5
  • Destiny Fauntleroy, Sinclair Elementary School
• Novice Teacher of the Year for grades 6-12
  • Sara Antillon, Gainesville High School
• Teacher of the Year for grades pre-K-5
  • Kristen Hao, Westridge Elementary School
• Teacher of the Year for grades 6-12
  • Kelly Wasson, Independence Nontraditional School
• Principal of the Year for grades pre-K-5
  • Heather Goode, Sinclair Elementary School
• Principal of the Year for grades 6-12
  • Amanda Johnson, The Nokesville School

We are also celebrating PWCS Transportation Employee Appreciation Week. We give our deepest thanks to the dedicated individuals who ensure safe and reliable transportation for our students each day. Our Transportation Department plays a critical role in creating a positive start and end to our students’ school days.

Speaking of high-quality education, I would like to remind all families about the upcoming Standards of Learning (SOL) tests and end-of-year course assessments. These evaluations are crucial as they help us gauge the progress of our students’ learning and the effectiveness of our curriculum and instruction. As we approach the beginning of May, we appreciate your partnership and support as we work together to ensure our students are well rested and attend school every day.

Preparations are well underway for a great start to the 2025-26 school year. Our middle and high school students have been working with school counselors to choose classes that match their career interests and goals. Families should watch for communication about opportunities to modify course requests for 2025-26 and consult the PWCS Secondary Course Catalog for information about courses and career pathways. Each student's personalized Student Vision Profile is always available in StudentVUE and ParentVUE to help you and your child chart a strong pathway for continued success.

In closing, I would like to congratulate all the seniors making their decision on National College Decision Day, May 1. Whether committing to a two-year or four-year college, trade, industry, or military pathway, we celebrate your hard work and the bright future that awaits you.

Sincerely,

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