Prince William County Public Schools
Explore Program
Vision
To empower students with disabilities to unlock their full potential and achieve independence by fostering a future where competitive integrated employment is accessible to all, creating a workforce that values diversity, inclusivity, and the unique talents of every individual.
Mission
Our mission is to provide students with disabilities, ages 18-22, with a transformative transition program set within a supportive business host environment. Through targeted workplace readiness training, mentorship, and real-world experiences, we aim to equip participants with essential skills, confidence, and opportunities to succeed in competitive integrated employment and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Program Goal
By the end of the program, our team strives to ensure that each intern secures competitive employment and has a well-structured plan for postsecondary success. Achieving this goal requires a strong commitment to hard work, effective communication, and unwavering dedication from every intern. For more information about Prince William County Public Schools' Explore Program, please contact Ann Johnson, Special Education Supervisor, at [email protected].
Explore Spotlight
The Explore program, a collaborative initiative within Prince William County Public Schools, is designed for students aged 18 to 22 with disabilities who are working toward competitive employment. The program supports a smooth transition from school to adulthood by providing daily, unpaid internship experiences aligned with the school calendar. Through meaningful relationships and real‑world learning, Explore helps students build confidence, develop workplace readiness skills, and ease their entry into the workforce. Beginning in August 2026, PWCS will expand to eight Explore sites, enrolling up to eighty student interns across the division. This growth underscores the powerful impact of socially conscious, community-supported programs and the essential role they play in preparing young adults to become active, successful members of society. The involvement of local businesses and organizations reflects a shared commitment to social responsibility and demonstrates how community partnerships can positively shape the future of students and the broader community.
Application Overview
Eligible, interested students must submit a completed application, and school staff should gather all required supplemental documentation to ensure a complete application packet is submitted to the assigned High School Transition Specialist or Explore staff. The student application window opens no later than the first week of January and closes in February. All prospective applicants are required to attend an Information Session in January. Eligible applicants will be invited to participate in an interview and Skills Assessment Day in March. Following the Interview and Skills Assessment Day, candidates will receive decision letters informing them of their selection status. For more information about PWCS Explore, please email Ann Johnson at [email protected].
Explore Business Partners
Eastern Business Host Site: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA)
Since 1965, Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) has established itself as a beacon of academic excellence and opportunity. Today, we stand as one of the largest community colleges in the U.S., driving the talent pool in Northern Virginia. We welcome students from all walks of life. Whether you're a recent high school graduate, returning to school, or exploring a new career path, NOVA is your launchpad to success.
Visit the NOVA Woodbridge Campus website.
Address: 2645 College Dr, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Eastern Business Host Site: Todos Neighborhood Market
Todos Supermarket was created in July 1990, aiming to fulfill the needs of the growing community, which eventually expanded to other communities in the Woodbridge area. Todos is the business partner for the PWCS Explore Program on the eastern end of the county.
Visit the TODOS Neighborhood Market website.
Address: 16593 River Ridge Blvd., Woodbridge, VA 22191
Eastern Business Host Site: Tribute at the Glen, Atlas Senior Living
Imagine living in a beautiful setting designed to bring out the very best in you. Say hello to Tribute at The Glen, a modern and luxurious community located on Old Bridge Road in Prince William County, Virginia, offering rich amenities and engaging holistic programming for every part of life, including assisted living apartments and residential memory care.
Visit the Tribute at the Glen website.
Address: 4151 Old Bridge Rd., Woodbridge, VA 22192
Western Business Host Site: Capitol Ridge Gracious Retirement Living
Capitol Ridge Gracious Retirement Living is so much more than just a place to live. It’s a place to enjoy delicious chef-prepared meals, lively game nights, or quiet evenings with family and friends. It’s where our residents always feel comfortable, safe, and secure, knowing that our management teams live on-site and are available throughout the day.
Visit the Capitol Ridge Gracious Retirement Living website.
Address: 12751 Sudley Manor Dr., Bristow, VA 20136
Western Business Host Site: Hilton Garden Inn/Magnoliya Grand Manor
Our goal is to make your stay better and brighter. If something isn't just the way you like it, simply let any hotel team member know, and we'll make it right. Guaranteed.
At Magnoliya Grand Manor, our vision is to provide you with an unparalleled event experience. We believe that every gathering, from corporate conferences to life's most celebrated moments, deserves a setting that is both exceptional and effortlessly accommodating. Our dedicated team is here to bring your vision to life, ensuring every detail is impeccable.
Visit the Hilton Garden Inn / Magnoliya Grand Manor website.
Address: 6991 Infantry Ridge Rd., Manassas, VA 20109
Western Business Host Site: UVA Health
UVA Health Haymarket Medical Center, as part of the broader UVA Health system, operates under the mission to transform health and inspire hope for all Virginians and beyond. Their focus in the Northern Virginia region is to provide high-quality, specialized care close to home while engaging with local communities.
Visit the UVA Health Haymarket Medical Center website.
Address: 15225 Heathcote Blvd, Haymarket, VA 20169
