High school culinary program students preparing food in a kitchen

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

The legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is proudly exemplified through the MLK Youth Oratorical Program, a competition that provides students with the opportunity to write and present an oration celebrating his life and accomplishments. Congratulations to the following students for earning recognition at the 41st annual MLK Youth Oratorical Competition:

  • Beulah Sarsah - Senior at C.D. Hylton High School
    • Best Before the Audience Award
    • Best Before the Judges Award
  • Arwa Zinddine - Senior at Gar-Field High School
    • Judges Choice Award
  • Danielle Odom - Seventh grader at Rippon Middle School
    • Best Before the Judges Award
  • Qaveem Ahmad - Seventh grader at Saunders Middle School
    • Judges Choice Award

Today marks the official close of the first semester. I am reminded that the most meaningful progress happens when we pause to reflect, plan with purpose, and take thoughtful steps toward the future. Middle and high school students will begin academic advising by individually meeting with their school counselor to review academic plans and select courses for the upcoming school year.

Updated Student Vision Profiles will be available by January 30. I encourage families to review these profiles together and explore advanced learning opportunities—such as dual enrollment through College and Career Ready Virginia—to help students make the most of their high school experience. These conversations help students reflect on their interests, plan intentionally, and align their choices with future goals.

Starting February 2, PWCS high school students will gain access to Microsoft Copilot through their school accounts. Copilot is a generative artificial intelligence (AI) tool that can support writing, research, and organizing schoolwork in a classroom setting. Families are invited to visit the Artificial Intelligence in PWCS webpage to learn how AI is used in our schools and to find resources to support students at home. As we prepare students for a rapidly changing world, we remain committed to responsible and meaningful integration of emerging technologies.

As a reminder, Monday, January 26, is a non-student attendance day due to the scheduled teacher’s workday, parent conferences, and professional development. Please refer to my earlier message today for my update regarding the weekend weather.

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