Elementary school students seated on a carpet in a classroom

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

We are closing out our second week of school with great momentum. Classrooms are alive with learning, students are forming new friendships, and our staff is working diligently to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and challenged. Thank you for partnering with us in building such a strong foundation for the 2025-26 school year.

Speaking of supporting students, thank you to the families who completed the Annual Back to School Packet. If you have yet to do so, please complete the packet in ParentVUE as soon as possible and no later than September 12. If you need assistance, please contact your student’s school or visit the Back to School webpage for more information.

School bus transportation improvements continue to take place across our school division. However, not all challenges have been fully resolved. The Transportation Department continues to work diligently with our external vendor with the expectation of full stabilization within the coming week. I know that transportation remains a concern for some families, and I am deeply grateful for your patience and understanding as we work expeditiously to address these matters.

I am proud to share that 30 PWCS schools have been recognized as Virginia Naturally schools by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. This distinction—the highest number of recognitions in the state—reflects our commitment to environmental literacy and aligns with our Strategic Plan’s vision of preparing students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Congratulations to the students, staff, and community members whose dedication made this possible.

As September approaches, we join schools across the nation in recognizing Attendance Awareness Month. PWCS provides attendance support and resources for families to build strong attendance habits early, setting students on the path to long-term success. Also, I invite you to attend our Family Engagement Series webinar, “The Secret Ingredient for Stronger Attendance is Student and Family Support,” from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 18. Together, we can ensure that every student is present, engaged, and ready to learn.

Please remember that schools and offices will be closed to the public on Friday, August 29, and fully closed on Monday, September 1, in observance of Labor Day. We hope you enjoy the long weekend with family and friends, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back on Tuesday, September 2.

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