The Virginia Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Association honored Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, Superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), with the prestigious School Administrator Award at their annual state leadership and recognition conference on Saturday. This award recognizes school administrators who have given outstanding support to the organization. 

"I'm honored to receive the Virginia FCCLA Association’s School Administrator Award,” said Dr. McDade. “FCCLA empowers students with real-world skills, perfectly aligning with our mission at PWCS to prepare our students for post-secondary success. FCCLA provides robust career and leadership development opportunities for so many of our students and I’m proud of our strong partnership.” 

FCCLA provides support to students aspiring to careers in hospitality and tourism, arts and design, education and training, financial services, human services, and public service. Dr. McDade is a strong advocate of career and technical education (CTE), recognizing its crucial role in preparing students for rapidly evolving industries.  

Since her tenure at PWCS began, Dr. McDade has significantly enhanced the division's CTE programs and industry credentialing opportunities, offering over 135 high school CTE courses across several program areas including agricultural education, business and information technology, health and medical sciences, marketing education, technology and engineering education, and trade and industrial education. 

This recognition highlights Dr. McDade's steadfast commitment to enhancing education and ensuring all students are well-prepared for post-secondary success. Under her leadership, PWCS continues to thrive, providing students with the necessary tools to succeed in their academic and professional endeavors. 

FCCLA is a national Career and Technical Student Organization for students enrolled in Family and Consumer Sciences courses and programs. These courses are offered at all PWCS high schools and middle schools and include subjects such as Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education, Nutrition and Wellness, and more. PWCS has FCCLA chapters at Brentsville, C.D. Hylton, Charles J. Colgan Sr., Forest Park, Gainesville, Patriot, and Potomac High Schools, with a total of 1,232 student members. 

The organization helps middle and high school students become leaders and address important family, career, and community issues through Family and Consumer Sciences. FCCLA offers programs, contests, scholarships, and opportunities for students to develop real-world skills, prepare for college and careers, and make a difference in their families, careers, and communities. The organization has more than 200,000 members across the country.