Students leaving school on the last day of the school year

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

As we reach the end of another school year, I want to take a moment to celebrate all that our community has accomplished together. From the classroom to the stage, the field, and beyond, our students have continued to grow, achieve, and demonstrate what it means to build a strong foundation for a thriving future.

Thank you to our students for their determination, our families for your ongoing partnership, and our staff for the care and commitment you bring each day. It is a privilege to work alongside you in support of every student’s success.

I am proud to recognize two outstanding student achievements:

Congratulations to Julienne Lim, a graduate of Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, who has been awarded a 2026 National Merit College-Sponsored Scholarship. She is among approximately 2,500 students nationwide selected for this prestigious honor, which recognizes academic excellence, leadership, and strong potential for success in college-level work.

I also want to congratulate Luke Davis, a recent graduate of Battlefield High School, who was selected from more than 6,500 students as a semifinalist in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program—one of the nation’s highest honors recognizing academic achievement, leadership, and service. This distinction highlights his exceptional accomplishments both in and out of the classroom.

As we wrap up the school year, I encourage everyone to take pride in how far we’ve come together. Each year builds upon the last, and the progress we’ve collectively made sets the stage for even greater success ahead. With our PWCS Elevate 2030 Strategic Plan, I look forward to fulfilling our vision to 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.

While this is my last end-of-week letter for the 2025-26 school year, our work continues. We will remain active throughout the summer, preparing for a strong start in August. We will continue to share important updates and back-to-school information through the PWCS website, communication channels, and your child’s school.

I wish everyone an enjoyable and relaxing summer, and I look forward to the start of the new school year on August 24, 2026.

With Heartfelt Gratitude,
Dr. McDade signature
LaTanya D. McDade, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Prince William County Public Schools