Two photos of student performers in PWCS holding instruments and a group photo of students with an awardThe Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association (VBODA) recognized 20 band and orchestra programs across Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) with Program of Honor Awards. The honor highlights outstanding achievement by student musicians and their school music programs.

“This recognition speaks to the depth of music learning taking place in our schools,” said Dr. Annamarie Bollino, supervisor of the arts for PWCS. “Our students are not only developing the skills to perform at an exceptional level as an ensemble, but they are also challenging themselves through individual performances, honor ensembles, and other opportunities that extend their learning beyond the classroom. This distinction reflects the dedication of the students, educators, administrators, families, and communities who make these programs possible.”

Congratulations to the student musicians, directors, and school communities whose commitment to musical excellence earned this distinction.

2025-26 VBODA Program of Honor Schools

Band

  • Beville Middle School, Director – Daniel Post
  • C.D. Hylton High School, Director – Dwight Fontenot
  • Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, Director – Timothy Grant
  • Gainesville Middle School, Director – Steven Ballas
  • Lake Ridge Middle School, Director – Nick Robinson and Joseph Rupert
  • Marsteller Middle School, Director – Shannon Fairbank
  • Osbourn Park High School, Director - Ashley Radabaugh
  • Parkside Middle School, Director – Abby Izzo and Daniel Louden
  • Patriot High School, Director – Katherine Williams
  • Potomac Shores Middle School, Director – Ryan Burr and Myles Matalavage
  • Ronald Wilson Reagan Middle School, Director – Mohammad Al-Khalili
  • Saunders Middle School, Director – Michelle Rupert

Orchestra

  • Battlefield High School, Director – Edward Scully
  • Benton Middle School, Director – Miranda Nash
  • Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, Director – Ben Bernstein
  • Gainesville High School, Director – Jennifer Malechek
  • Osbourn Park High School, Director – Stephen Kelsey
  • Patriot High School, Director – Katie Highfill
  • Potomac Shores Middle School, Director – Amy Ruhlman
  • Woodbridge High School, Director – Taryn Wood

The VBODA Program of Honor Award recognizes programs that demonstrate excellence across multiple areas of music performance and student participation. To qualify, a program must first earn a Superior rating at the VBODA District Concert Assessment with its most advanced eligible ensemble. High school programs must perform Grade 4 literature or higher, while middle school programs must perform Grade 2 literature or higher.

Programs must also earn additional points through achievements that extend beyond their primary ensemble. Depending on the type and level of the program, schools must earn between six and 10 points. Opportunities include Superior ratings by additional ensembles, participation and Superior ratings at the District Solo and Ensemble Assessment, student placement in all-district and regional ensembles, invited conference performances, and, for eligible programs, All-Virginia placement and Superior ratings at jazz or marching assessments.