by Babur B. Lateef, M.D.
Chairman At-Large
Prince William County School Board
We are excited to see that Governor Northam has placed education funding among the top priorities in his budget submitted to the General Assembly.
Virginia is the number one state for business, and we believe that it should be number one for education as well. The greatest opportunity for sustaining economic prosperity, ensuring a strong workforce with future-ready skills, and empowering individual success is through an outstanding and equitable PreK-12 education for all.Â
The foundation of a great education is a great teacher. In order to recruit and retain the best educators, competitive compensation is critical. We are pleased to see the Governor propose a teacher salary increase, in addition to last year’s, and it is our hope that the General Assembly will find a means to add funding for teachers in the first year of the biennium budget.Â
While state and local authorities work in partnership to ensure a quality education for students in the Commonwealth, past changes to Virginia’s funding for public education widened the gap between the true local-level cost of providing programs and services and the amount reimbursed by the state.
We are optimistic that our elected officials both in the General Assembly and at the Board of County Supervisors will support our students and teachers through their actions this year. Together we will ensure that we truly deliver a world-class education for all.Â
Recent Stories
A rendering for the proposed The Flats at Westminster development in Occoquan. [Courtesy of Prince William County]In a recent meeting, the Prince William Planning Commission unanimously approved a new development…
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved a third deferral for the Bristow Campus data center proposal, following a last-minute request from the applicant. The decision, made during the board’s June 24 meeting, postpones the vote on the project until September 9, 2025.
Not every story shakes the ground. Some stories simply hold it together.
Residents and visitors gathered in Occoquan earlier this month for a series of beloved community events, showcasing the town’s vibrant culture, outdoor spirit, and appreciation for volunteerism.
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.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
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
