Virginia fourth and eighth graders’ math and reading scores have not significantly changed since 2022, per the National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the Nation’s Report Card, reports 06 News Richmond.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin said at a Wednesday press conference that the scores on this assessment, which was taken last January, were “not surprising” and “expected.”
(The Center Square) — Despite budget increases in the hundreds of millions and multiple statewide education initiatives, Virginia students still aren’t showing a definitive recovery from pandemic learning lows, reports the center square.
Their test scores from January 2024 declined from their 2022 scores – the scores that caused Gov. Glenn Youngkin to call for major education reforms – in several areas.
The White House took steps to make good on its promise to cut the federal government down to size by giving federal workers a choice: return to the office full-time or leave with eight months of pay, reports The Center Square.
The Office of Personnel Management told federal workers Tuesday night that they have until Feb. 6 to decide to stay or go. If they step down, they will continue getting all pay and benefits and be exempt from in-person work requirements until Sept. 30.
Two amendments to the Virginia Constitution were killed in committee Tuesday, leaving just five alive in the 2025 legislative session, reports The Center Square.
House Joint Resolutions 452 and 492, patroned by Republican Dels. Nick Freitas, R-Culpepper, and Del. Israel O’Quinn, R-Washington, aimed to enshrine food choice and residents’ ‘right to work’ in the Virginia Constitution. The Democratic-majority subcommittee tabled both bills in a 5-3 vote.
Stafford County
Spotsylvania County
Jiffy Lube, 724 Warrenton Road, 12/15, 4:49 a.m. Deputy C.R. Newman was observing traffic on Warrenton Road when a vehicle made a U-turn during a red light. Considering the infraction occurred right in front of him, Deputy Newman quickly conducted a traffic stop. The driver had signs of intoxication and admitted to running the red light because of “stomach issues.” The driver would have bigger issues during the field sobriety tests when he refused deputies commands and attempted to get back into his vehicle. He was detained shortly after. The driver was charged with driving under the influence, failure to obey a traffic light, and obstruction of justice. He was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.
Area of Richmond Highway and Telegraph Road, 12/15, 9:33 p.m. Deputy J.J. Suh responded to a drunk driver complaint. The caller advised a black Ford was having a hard time maintaining its lane. Deputy Suh found the suspect vehicle pretty easily due to it still swerving around and he conducted a traffic stop. When Deputy Suh made contact with the driver and asked if there was a reason why she was swerving, the driver advised it was because she was “drunk.” Her honesty continued as she admitted to consuming five Modelos. She was charged with driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content above .2. She was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.
Stafford County is preparing to recognize individuals and organizations who have made outstanding contributions to its parks system and the character development of its youth. The annual Florence D. Helms Award recognizes those who have gone above and beyond in volunteer activities in memory of one of Stafford’s most inspiring parks volunteers, Florence Helms.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our many parks and recreational offerings,” said Chairman of the Board of Supervisors, Meg Bohmke, Falmouth District. “The Florence Helms Award recognizes those who share her dedication and loyalty to the youth of Stafford.”
The Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission released its long awaited report on data centers Monday, detailing the expected soaring energy demands and large economic benefits of the industry ahead of the 2025 General Assembly session.
Past, present, and future bumped into each other. It was a tense moment.
Gingerbread House Contest Theme is Holidays: Past, Present, and Future
Stafford County Public Schools (Stafford Schools) is pleased to announce the 14th annual Band Together to Fight Hunger, organized by Stafford County’s five high school marching bands, raised $27,593 and collected 3,778 pounds of food this year, equating to 58,333 meals for the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank. The culminating event featured individual performances by each marching band from Brooke Point, Colonial Forge, Mountain View, North Stafford, and Stafford High Schools. Nearly 400 student musicians performed in a combined finale, led by North Stafford High School Assistant Principal Brandon Neal, showcasing unity and talent while supporting local families in need.
Contributions at a Glance:
