Collage of students seated in classrooms, including high school, middle school, and elementary school students

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

As we close out our second week of school, I continue to be inspired by the energy across Prince William County Public Schools. Students are settling into new routines, teachers are building strong classroom communities, and our schools are establishing the expectations that will help students succeed throughout the year.

Congratulations to PWCS educators Merissa Daley of Occoquan Elementary School and Virginia Ormero Gonzalez of Marsteller Middle School, who were named 2026 Participate Learning Teachers of the Year. Through global connections, cultural exchange, and engaging classroom experiences, they help students develop a broader understanding of the world around them.

A strong start to the school year sets the foundation for success. As we recognize Attendance Awareness Month in September, I want to reinforce one simple message: Every day matters. PWCS has made great progress in reducing chronic absenteeism, with last year's rate dropping to 14.2%—down 1.9 percentage points from the previous year. We can keep that momentum going by working together. I encourage families to establish strong attendance routines and contact their school for additional attendance support.

Speaking of resources, the Family Engagement Series continues next week. Families are invited to join us from 6:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 10, for a webinar “Understanding PWCS Child Find and the Parent Resource Center Services.” I encourage families to take advantage of this webinar and other opportunities to learn more about the special education services and supports available throughout our school division.

Thank you to the families who participated in the 2025-26 Gallup Family Engagement Survey. Your feedback helps PWCS strengthen school-family partnerships and improve the educational experience for all students. The survey results are now available for review, and I encourage you to participate again later this school year.

Finally, please remember that schools and offices will be closed to the public on Friday, September 4, and schools and offices will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day. We look forward to welcoming students back on Tuesday, September 8.

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