SPARK recognizes 2025 Business Partnerships of the Year

SPARK, the education foundation for Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), recently hosted its annual Business Partnerships of the Year reception at the Hylton Performing Arts Center. This annual celebration honors exceptional school-to-business partnerships that explore new ways of connecting and engaging with students of all ages through innovative programs, paving the way for student success.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. LaTanya D. McDade delivered an address highlighting the progress made over the past four years toward the PWCS Vision 2025 Launching Thriving Futures Strategic Plan. She illustrated the expansion of opportunities, enhancement of educational quality, and strengthening of community ties.

School Board Vice Chairman Tracy Blake (Neabsco District) shared his appreciation for the critical role business partnerships play in launching thriving futures of students in PWCS.

Event sponsor Kenny Word, from RRMM Architects, and representatives from each of the presentation sponsors, announced this year’s winning partnerships, which include:

  • A.T. Augusta Medical Center at Fort Belvoir and the PWCS Practical Nursing program
    • Deeply rooted in the PWCS Strategic Plan, this partnership ensures that student nurses receive high-quality, hands-on training, advanced mentorship, and equitable opportunities. With impressive NCLEX pass rates and a commitment to enhancing educational quality, the collaboration not only prepares future healthcare professionals but also cements strong ties within the community. Learn more about PWCS' partnership with A.T. Augusta Medical Center at Fort Belvoir.
  • Hylton Performing Arts Center
    • The partnership with Hylton Performing Arts Center has significantly expanded access to the arts for PWCS students and their families. By integrating free in-person and virtual field trips, masterclasses led by renowned performing artists, and immersive production opportunities, this collaboration enriches the curriculum while igniting students’ creative passions. Learn more about PWCS' partnership with Hylton Performing Arts Center.
  • STEM SPARK partnership between the Children's Science Center Lab and PWCS, with support from AWS InCommunities
    • Since 2022, the STEM SPARK partnership has provided hands-on STEM experiences for many Title I fourth- and fifth-grade students. Through immersive field trips that align closely with science SOL standards, the partnership is dedicated to nurturing confidence and competence in STEM—a cornerstone of the PWCS Strategic Plan’s commitment to Learning and Achievement for All. Learn more about PWCS' partnership with Children's Science Center Lab.

The evening’s celebrations culminated with the presentation of the 2025 Sharon Henry Community Partner in Education Award to Sarah Tyndall, the founder and executive director of Boxes of Basics. Since the launch of the nonprofit from her basement in August 2018, it has grown into a vital resource, providing thousands of children with clothing given with dignity and compassion. Boxes of Basics now operates from a large warehouse in Manassas, engaging over 1,400 volunteers and employing five part-time staff members. By collaborating with school counselors, social workers, and more, Boxes of Basics works tirelessly to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. The award was presented by Allison Henry, the daughter of the award’s namesake. Learn more about PWCS' partnership with Boxes of Basics.

SPARK extends special thanks to the event’s sponsor, RRMM Architects, and to the event’s presentation sponsors— Finley Asphalt and Concrete, IMEG Corporation, and the Prince William County Community Foundation – whose support helped bring the evening to life.