PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY, Va. — Prince William has once again been recognized as one of the best 100 communities in the nation for young people.
America’s Promise Alliance named the growing county of 410,000 people one of the best for the third year in a row. The distinction was given to communities in 42 states, and many more were reviewed.
A celebration was held at the Prince William County Public Schools Edward Kelly Leadership Center on Friday morning where breakfast was served and several elected officials spoke.
More in a press release from the county school system:
The recognition is testament to the collaborative efforts of county parks, schools, and private sector organizations and individuals to promote positive experiences that influence the choices young people make. Among the Prince William County initiatives noted are student leadership and community service programs and school safety initiatives to combat bullying.
More than 56 percent of the local budget is allocated for schools, and an additional 10 percent is used to support youth programs. Programs such as Beat the Odds and Learn and Serve encourage students to take on leadership positions, which allow them to interact with adult mentors. Since its inception, Beat the Odds has provided more than $100,000 for youth-focused programs. The county’s Parents as Educational Partners outreach program helps empower parents to become their children’s biggest advocates; it has also improved English language skills and education among program participants. Today, Prince William County Public Schools graduates 88 percent of its students, well above the national average.
With the distinction comes a $2,500 grant that goes to fund signage that designates the county as an award winner, and to cover the cost of Friday morning’s celebration.
The judges for the competition evaluated criteria such as healthy and successful children, community safety, and how the community has worked together to overcome challenges.
