Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5-9, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to our teachers for their transformative work in creating a positive, rigorous, and safe learning environment. I invite you to watch this inspiring video where students share the incredible impact of their teachers. I encourage you to make it a point to show your appreciation to your child’s teachers on National Teacher Day, Tuesday, May 6, and throughout Teacher Appreciation Week.

Congratulations to Rutvi Devani, a junior at Patriot High School and The Governor's School @ Innovation Park! Rutvi was surprised as the winner of the cell phone policy slogan contest with her slogan, "Stop the Scroll, Take Control," which will be displayed in all middle and high schools in Prince William County Public Schools. The slogan contest supports the new bell-to-bell cell phone policy, which takes effect for the 2025-26 school year, to boost student focus and engagement by limiting cell phone usage during school hours.

PWCS is deeply committed to ensuring that every student has access to opportunities that match their potential. I wish to invite all interested parents to attend Parent University, an event hosted by Gifted Education and Talent Development at the Kelly Leadership Center on Saturday, May 3, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. There is no cost to attend this event. I encourage you to view the class schedule and learn more information about our gifted education program.

We are also deeply committed to ensuring every learner can thrive, which is why we partner with Decoding Dyslexia in Prince William County. Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences, and with the right support, students with dyslexia can thrive academically and beyond. I invite you to attend the upcoming “Power of Literacy-Embracing Dyslexia” parent and student event this Saturday, May 3. For details about this event and to learn more about resources available to you, please visit DecodingDyslexiaVaPWC.org.

Additionally, we invite you to the Kelly Leadership Center for our second annual PWCS Sports Fair next Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. This event showcases the diverse athletic opportunities available to middle and high school students in PWCS. Coaches and athletes will be on hand to provide information about the various sports offered, with translators available to assist. This event is free and open to all students and their families. Enjoy a fun-filled day with a DJ, food trucks, giveaways, and engaging activities.

PWCS promotes a climate and culture based on belonging and inclusivity. In recognition of National School Nurse Day on Wednesday, May 7, we acknowledge the contributions and dedication of our school nurses to maintaining a healthy and positive environment for students. Additionally, May is recognized as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Jewish American Heritage Month, reflecting the diversity within PWCS and celebrating our cultural history.

Congratulations to our seniors who signed their commitments yesterday on National College Decision Day and to those graduates who are planning to sign on Career and Technical Education Signing Day, Tuesday, May 20.

It truly takes us all to build a school community where every child can thrive. So, thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to the success and well-being of every student in Prince William County Public Schools.

Sincerely,

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