Weems Elementary School in Manassas has seen remarkable progress in recent years, particularly in reducing chronic absenteeism and improving student literacy. Under the leadership of Principal Michelle Huppman, the school has created an environment focused on equity, achievement, and community involvement, leading to academic improvements.
One of the school’s most notable achievements is reducing chronic absenteeism. In the 2022-2023 school year, Weems faced a concerning % chronic absence rate of 28%. This figure, which emerged after the pandemic, reflected the challenges many schools faced. However, the school has halved that number through dedication and hard work. “I am so happy to share with you that Weems’ current chronic absence rate, as reflected in the school quality profile, is half of that number, down to 14%. This is a school community that rose to the challenge,” said Sarah Brescia, a Manassas City school board member.
The improvement in attendance has had a direct impact on student achievement. Huppman explained, “Last year, we had a 24% increase in literacy pass rates for our students in kindergarten through second grade. For the Virginia Standards of Learning reading test, we had a 6% increase in pass rates for our students in third and fourth grade.” While math scores dropped slightly due to virtual instruction during the pandemic, Principal Huppman is optimistic about the future. “This year, we are fully staffed in all classrooms and in all instructional support positions without the need for virtual instructors,” she said.
The school has also worked hard to foster a sense of belonging for students and their families. “As a school, we are creating belonging, embedding equity, and expecting excellence. We hold the crown high for every student in our school and challenge each one to grow tall enough to wear it,” Huppman explained.
The school recently hosted a multicultural night where families could share their cultural heritage. “The families decorate [paper dolls] with their native dress. We invite them to bring artifacts and food from their countries,” added Huppman. “It’s always a very well-attended event, and people are so proud to share their community with us.”
Community support has played a role in Weems’ success. Local businesses have conducted school supply drives, and a church in the city has adopted the school, providing monthly snacks for students.
In addition, a group of retired women in the city made over 250 stuffed bears for preschool and kindergarten students, providing reading buddies to help young learners practice their reading skills. “The support of our city council and our Manassas City community has helped us create a positive school culture, enhanced teacher morale, and strengthened our bonds as a community, all of which can lead to better academic performance and student engagement,” Huppman noted.
As Weems Elementary continues to build on these successes, Principal Huppman remains committed to providing every student with the opportunity to succeed. With the continued support of the community, the school is poised for even greater achievements in the years ahead. “I’m proud to say that our students are beginning to see the potential in themselves,” she concluded.
Weems Elementary School serves around 600 students, providing a diverse and inclusive environment that celebrates its students’ varied backgrounds. The school is part of the more prominent Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) district, with a total enrollment of approximately 7,000 students across its eight schools.
