Superintendent congratulates National Merit Finalists, talks financial aid

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

I am excited to provide an update following the National Merit Scholarship Corporation’s recent announcement recognizing six PWCS high school students as National Merit Finalists. Congratulations to Luke Davis and Alexander Gushi (Battlefield), Rebecca Clark (C.D. Hylton), Julienne Lim (Charles J. Colgan Sr.), Benjamin Fu (Gainesville), and Luke Pomfret (Patriot). I invite you to read more about these outstanding students on our website.

This is also an exciting time for many of our seniors and their families as college admission decisions arrive, and students begin planning their next steps. In recognition of Financial Aid Awareness Month, I encourage families to take advantage of the resources available to support their students’ futures. Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is an important first step in accessing financial support for college and career training.

Additionally, students who may not be eligible for federal student aid may still meet state financial aid requirements and should complete the Virginia Alternative State Aid Application. Find out more about grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs by visiting our Financial Aid website. Please reach out to our college and career counselors, who are available to guide families through this process and help ensure every student can pursue their postsecondary goals.

As we celebrate these academic achievements and support our seniors’ journeys, it’s important to recognize the diverse pathways available to all students in PWCS. Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in PWCS highlights programs that prepare students with skills for high-demand careers. CTE students are already breaking down barriers and expanding opportunities in classrooms. Watch this video for just one example of their outstanding work in our schools.

As a reminder, we want your voice to help shape the future of family engagement in PWCS. The Family Engagement Survey is open now through February 27 and only takes five to 10 minutes to complete. Families are encouraged to complete the survey for each of their students. I appreciate your ongoing collaboration and everything you contribute to our students and schools. Together, we can see every student graduate on time with the knowledge, skills, and habits of mind necessary to create a thriving future for themselves and their community.

Sincerely,

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