Superintendent marks 25th anniversary of Sept. 11, 2001, highlights community service

Dear PWCS Families, Employees, and Community,

Today, on Patriot Day, our nation marks 25 years since the tragedy of September 11, 2001. We remember the lives lost, honor the extraordinary courage of the first responders and everyday citizens who rushed to help others, and recognize the families and communities forever changed by that day.

For our students, September 11 is history rather than a lived experience. This makes it especially important that we help the next generation understand not only what happened, but also the courage, service, perseverance, and unity that emerged in the days that followed. I invite you to watch this video as our PWCS community reflects on Patriot Day and honors a promise that has endured for 25 years: we will never forget.

As we honor the spirit of service and compassion for one another, we also recognize the ways our schools support students and families every day. The PWCS Food Pantry Program continues to reduce food insecurity and support student success. During the 2025–26 school year, the program served more than 6,400 people, including over 3,600 children. This school year, our network has expanded from 14 to 21 fully operational, fully stocked school-based food pantries, all serving families from neighboring schools to ensure equitable access. With 21 of the 40 food pantries envisioned under Elevate 2030 now open, PWCS has exceeded the halfway mark toward its 2030 goal in the initiative's first year.

Next week, PWCS celebrates National Arts in Education Week, recognizing the essential role the arts play in a well-rounded education. Divisionwide, our students create, perform, design, and express themselves through visual art, music, theatre, dance, and other creative experiences. Arts education strengthens creativity, communication, and collaboration, which are essential skills that serve students in every facet of their lives. I am grateful to our arts educators who help students discover their talents, find their voices, and see new possibilities for themselves and their futures.

As a final reminder, please complete the Annual Back to School Packet in ParentVUE as the deadline for submission is next Friday, September 18. Keeping this information current ensures our schools have the important contact and emergency information needed to support your student throughout the school year.

Thank you for your continued partnership and for the many ways you support our students, our schools, and one another. As we reflect on the lessons of September 11, may we continue to carry forward its call to serve, support, and strengthen our community together.

Sincerely,

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