From Tim Singstock, of Montclair:
The community has engaged in debate over naming the new elementary school under construction in the Potomac Shores Community. Prince William County is blessed to have two wonderful choices for the school naming: Betty Covington and John Harper.
I met Mr. Harper and his wife at the 2016 NAACP dinner in Quantico. As an Army veteran and son of a Vietnam Veteran, I honor Mr. Harper’s military and combat service.
I stand with my friend Betty Covington to honor her more than half century of service to Prince William County Schools. In the last 54 years, Betty has been a teacher, and principal at Dale City, Kilby and Dumfries Elementary Schools. She has served with distinction on the School Board.
I first met Betty in 2003 when we competed (along with four other candidates) for the open Dumfries District School Board seat. Betty easily won the election given that she was already well-known and highly respected in the community.
So well-regarded was Betty Covington that she ran unopposed in 2007 and 2011. Potomac District School Board Member Justin Wilk worked very hard to earn his seat on the board and carries the unique distinction of being the only person to ever run against Betty and win!
For this reason, it is noteworthy that Justin Wilk is proposing the new Elementary School be named after Betty Covington. Like me, Justin has come to admire Betty and call her a friend.
Betty once shared a piece of advice to students who would soon be entering the workforce: “If your employer requires you to work eight yours, you work nine. Give your employer that extra hour to show that you appreciate your job.”
How many extra hours did Betty give the families of Prince William County during her 54 years of service? Now it is time to show Betty our appreciation. Name the new elementary school the “Betty D. Covington Elementary School.”
Recent Stories
A 36-year-old man from Front Royal is still hospitalized with life-threatening injuries following a motorcycle crash on Garrisonville Road.
With this summer’s powerful thunderstorms in our region, and a deadly flood in Texas that captivated the nation, local rivers are getting some attention, including the Rappahannock River and the City of Fredericksburg.
After a sweltering weekend that brought heat index values over 100 and a heat advisory, today feels like a slight relief. Highs will reach the low 90s, but lower humidity and fewer storms will make conditions feel more manageable.
Fredericksburg City Public Schools’ new travel policy for Board members grew out of budget-busting traveling expenses and concerns about transparency.
The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
