Kindergarten students sitting on the floor in a classroom

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Preparations and planning are well underway for a great start to the 2026-27 school year. Kindergarten registration is now open for families with children who will be 5 years old by September 30. Kindergarten sets the foundation for learning, friendships, and a love of school. Visit the Kindergarten Registration webpage to learn how to take the first step toward an exciting school year.

Our middle and high school students have been working with school counselors to choose classes that match their career interests and goals. Families should watch for communication about opportunities to modify course requests for the 2026-27 school year and consult the PWCS Secondary Course Catalog for information about courses and career pathways. Each student's personalized Student Vision Profile is available in StudentVUE and ParentVUE to help you and your child chart a strong pathway for continued success.

April holds significance throughout PWCS, with our community marking several notable observances. During National Child Abuse Prevention Month, we reaffirm the importance of creating safe, supportive, and nurturing environments for every child. At PWCS, we know that our students’ well-being is essential to learning, growth, and long-term success, and we remain committed to working alongside families, staff, and community partners to ensure every student is cared for, protected, and empowered to thrive.

In recognition of National Autism Acceptance Month, PWCS strives to provide every student with valuable educational experiences that foster independence both at school and beyond. I invite staff, families, and community members to champion initiatives that support autism awareness and acceptance for the many individuals diagnosed each year.

Additionally, April is recognized as the Month of the Military Child, and we are honored to support more than 5,000 military-connected students. Every year, many of our schools seek the Virginia Purple Star Designation, which highlights them as military-friendly schools. PWCS is proud to boast 51 Purple Star Schools, and we are continually strengthening our support for students connected to the military. I invite our division to show support for military-connected students by wearing purple in celebration of Purple Up Day on April 22.

April is also National School Library Month, a time to celebrate the vital role our school libraries play in cultivating a love of reading, supporting student learning, and enriching our school communities. We are especially grateful for our dedicated librarians and library media assistants, whose passion, creativity, and expertise make our libraries welcoming spaces for curiosity, discovery, and growth.

We have so many special events happening throughout April, and I invite PWCS families to join us for our many end-of-year celebrations. Thank you for your continued support and involvement. I wish you and your family a relaxing weekend.

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