Local Spotlight Member News
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Prince William Parks & Recreation
Summer Camp Guide Preview Now Available!
Registration will begin at 8 a.m. on March 5. Start planning your child’s summer fun today.
- Summer Camp Guide
- Log in to your account now to verify that your household is listed correctly (email, phone, family members listed, birthdays). Can’t remember your password? Now is the time to reset it.
- Don’t have an account yet? No worries. Now is the time to set up your family’s account. It’s easy.
- Take advantage of the wish list option and be one of the first to check out on March 5 to avoid being on the waitlist for popular camps. The wish list option is only available to account holders. This is important as camps fill quickly.
Manassas Park Community Center
We’re still floating on cloud nine since the grand reopening of our newly renovated Strength Room last week! After days of new flooring and machine installation, we are excited to welcome you back to experience the transformation firsthand. Visit Our Twitter
Veterans Growing America
The small business community gathered for an annual celebration of achievement at the Prince William Chamber of Commerce Awards ceremony hosted on Friday at Foxchase Manor in Manassas.
Prince William Board of County Supervisors Chair Deshundra Jefferson presented the 2024 Prince William County Business Partnership Award to the Veterans Growing America (VGA) CEO Donnell Johns, Sr., acknowledging his work towards elevating veteran-owned and military spouse-owned businesses at the local, state, and national levels. Learn More
Leap Year Celebration at Water’s End Brewery: Win Free Memberships!
Happy Leap Year from Water’s End Brewery! To celebrate this extra day, we’re offering an extraordinary opportunity for beer lovers. This Leap Year, we’re giving away four FREE Memberships that won’t expire until February 29, 2028. That’s four years of enjoying your favorite brews on us!
Celebrate Leap Year at Water’s End Brewery. Bring a frog and win a membership! To participate, all you have to do is catch a glimpse of a frog and bring it to our Lake Ridge or Potomac Mills Taproom before the last call today, February 29. It’s a leap for joy and a leap towards free, delightful beer! Not sure where to find a frog? If you’re subscribed to the W.E. bulletin, check your inbox for extra hints and tips.
This is your chance to leap into the fun and win a membership that celebrates your love for beer for years to come. Don’t miss out on this unique Leap Year celebration. Visit us at either location and who knows? You might just hop away with a membership that keeps the beer flowing freely till 2028. Remember, it’s a leap-year special, so leap into action now! Learn More
Thanks for your continued support,
Uriah Kiser
Founder and Publisher
Potomac Local News
The Prince William County Board of County Supervisors voted to reallocate nearly $2 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) coronavirus relief funds from CASA — a local organization that helps immigrants new to the U.S. following an audit of the county revealing improper expenditure (not affiliated with the local non-profit Court Appointed Special Advocates).
Woodbridge District Supervisor Margaret Franklin sought a 90-day deferral, but the motion failed. Franklin pushed to give $2 million to CASA in 2022 to build an immigrant welcome center in Woodbridge.
According to information obtained by FOIA, the county hired RSM to audit CASA and found $306,000 in expenditures submitted by CASA for reimbursement; $ 197,000, or 64% of the expenditures, was deemed unallowable by RSM. The specific details of the testing, findings, and observations were communicated to CASA leadership by the County in August 2023 and February 2024.
Due to challenges in adhering to required procurement guidelines and a slow rate of providing eligible expenditures, with only approximately $109,000 expended out of nearly 20 months since July 2022, the recommendation is to reallocate $1.5 million of the CASA allocation to other pressing, ARPA-eligible programs, projects, and services.
Franklin motioned to defer the reallocation to allow CASA and county staff time to address concerns. However, Gainesville District Supervisor Bob Weir opposed the motion, highlighting the urgent need to comply with federal guidelines and deadlines for fund allocation. Ultimately, the motion failed with a vote of 2-5, leading to further discussions on fund reallocation.
Subsequently, Franklin proposed an amendment to allow CASA to retain $800,000 of the funds, citing an updated plan submitted by the organization. However, concerns were raised regarding the eligibility of specific organizations to receive funds directly. County Executive Christopher Shorter clarified the process, indicating that funds were distributed through the Northern Virginia Food Rescue to maximize impact and adherence to federal guidelines.
Amid deliberations, Gainesville District Supervisor Weir proposed a revised motion that won the day: Reallocate about $2 million, providing $190,000 to the Northern Virginia Food Rescue for food distribution and related administrative costs, allocating $100,000 for the community to purchase additional food inventory for community feeding, and supporting the Community Safety Initiative with $270,400 for the development of community-centric safety strategies.
Additionally, $100,000 is allocated to the Human Services Alliance of Prince William County, emphasizing community violence prevention and intervention. The motion also involves transferring and budgeting an additional $1.4 million to the Capital Projects Fund for additional costs associated with the courthouse renovation project in Manassas.
Franklin, and Neabsco Distirct Supervisor Victor Angry voted no.
Several CASA members sat in the Board Chambers as the elected officials deliberated. “I would simply say, reach out to our offices and please come by and have conversations of where we go from here,” said Franklin before they exited the room.
Margaret Franklin received $5,125 from CASA and seeks the Democratic Party nomination for Congress in Virginia’s 7th District. Virginia’s 7th District, including eastern Prince William County, Stafford County, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg City, King George, Caroline, Culpeper, Madison, Greene, and Orange counties. The seat is held by Abigail Spanberger (D), who is instead running to replace Glenn Youngkin as Virginia Governor in 2025.
Newly-seated At-large Chair DeShundra Jefferson said her vote to reallocate the funding was not a political decision. “This is a policy vote, it is not a political vote. And I have tried very hard to keep politics out of the board chambers. I respect the work that Casa is doing, and I respect your mission,” said Jefferson. “However, I will be voting to reallocate the money simply because I have concerns about the timeframe. Again, this is not how I want to start a relationship, but we will continue to work together.”
“I support CASA. I’m proud to have the welcome center in my district, and I’m proud of the work that CASA does for our community. Again, as was said before, these are federal dollars that have very specific uses for them,” said Occoquan District Supervisor Kenny Boddye, who collected $55,794 in campaign donations from the organization.
CASA has provided campaign donations to only progressive Democrats in state and local politics in Virginia. Tuesday’s vote comes amid a history of tension between CASA and certain board members, stemming from contentious issues such as immigration policies.
On June 16, 2020, a Board of County Supervisors meeting was notably disrupted by CASA members, marking a significant moment of tension between the organization and Republican board members, including Supervisor Yesli Vega and former Supervisor Jeanine Lawson. CASA members said Vega — the first elected Hispanic member of the county board —  “is the devil,” and told her “zip your mouth,” following Vega’s support for the federal 287(g) program at the county jail that had been used to identify illegal aliens charged with a crime.
The Fredericksburg Free Press officially marked its entrance into the local news scene with a well-attended ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, February 19, 2024. The event, held at the publication’s office at 4o1 Princess Anne Street in Downtown Fredericksburg, drew a sizable crowd eager to witness the birth of a new non-profit news outlet serving the region.
As a Virginia 501(c)(3), the Fredericksburg Free Press has set out with a noble mission: to deliver impartial and nonpartisan digital news coverage to educate and inform the residents of the Fredericksburg region.
Reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Seth Silber, one of the founding members of the board of directors, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from the community. Silber, whose familial ties include the ownership of the Fredericksburg Nationals Baseball team, highlighted the communal spirit that drives endeavors like the Free Press, stating, “It’s incredible… when it comes together, and it sees a need, and it wants to do something, it does it.”
With a team of three full-time reporters onboard—Kathy Knotts, Taft Coghill, and Joey LoMonaco—the Free Press boasts a wealth of journalistic experience, with each member contributing to publications such as The Washington Post and the Free Lance-Star and the Wytheville Enterprise in southwest Virginia.
Mitzi Brown, legal services director for Gerlach Law Firm, PLC, played a pivotal role in shepherding the establishment of the online news operation within a relatively short timeframe. Brown, emphasizing the critical need to address the local news void, remarked, “Fredericksburg is a local news desert,” stressing the importance of informing residents before stories gain traction on broader platforms.
Looking to the future, the Fredericksburg Free Press sets its sights on expansion, with ambitions to double its reporting team within a year and potentially quadruple it within two to three years. This growth trajectory underscores the publication’s commitment to providing comprehensive coverage of local affairs.
Central to the Free Press’s ethos is its pledge to uphold journalistic integrity and independence. As stated on its website, the publication aims to deliver news objectively and honestly, free from any undue influence from funding sources or special interests, its website states.
Noteworthy is the Free Press’s origins, which can be traced back to Fredericksburg.Today, an online local news platform previously owned by Chris Muldrow. Muldrow, who now serves on the Free Press’s board of directors, donated the website as the cornerstone of the new venture.
“This is something of the end of a ten-year journey for me,” said Muldrow, highlighting the collaborative effort and the pivotal role of community support in shaping the future of local news coverage in Fredericksburg. “And we kind of planted a little flag in the sand, and the Free Press is sort of becoming what we thought that might be, which is a news operation to cover this community.”
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
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Good Sunday evening, and welcome to the Publisher’s Post. This week, a I break down the funny thing that happened at the gas station, what’s on tap for the shortened week ahead (thanks, President’s Day holiday tomorrow) and Local Spotlight member news.
On Super Bowl Sunday, my car went to the dogs, literally. But it’s good to know Stafford County’s finest was there to help me.
I was taking our three small dogs to our dog sitter in preparation for a family weekend trip to Williamsburg. On the way, I stopped at a gas station to fill my tires with air.
With three dogs inside, I left the car running, with the air vent blowing. After I filled the tires, I tried to reenter my vehicle, only to find myself locked out.
One of them stepped on the door and locked the car (maybe all of them, who knows). With my cell phone sitting in the console, I politely asked the gas station clerk if I could use their phone, and they agreed.
After about 30 minutes of unsuccessfully trying to reach someone to help — not to mention trying to recall from memory the phone numbers I regularly call without the help of a cell phone — I finally called the Stafford County non-emergency number and asked if anyone could help.
A few minutes later, Deputy Jeff Smihal arrived, ready to help. However, as luck would have it, the Frenchie had once again stepped on the door and rolled down the passenger side window halfway.
I reached in, grabbed the keys in the ignition, turned off the car, and then went to greet the deputy.
I thanked him for coming, apologized, and shared my embarrassment for what had occurred. After recognizing me as the Potomac Local News publisher, he laughed and thanked me for our work to educate and inform the community.
Ours was undoubtedly one of Deputy Smihal’s easier interactions during his shift. He told me he was working overtime due to staffing shortages at the department.
If Deputy Smihal is any indication of the ladies and gentlemen working for the Stafford Sheriff’s Office, this is a department for which you want to work.
Now for Local Spotlight member news
Manassas Park Community Center Strength Room Upgrade
- The strength room at MPCC will be closed from 2/13 to 2/20 for renovations, reopening on 2/21 with new equipment and flooring. Expect selectorized machines, a cable crossover stack, a functional trainer, a Smith machine, Hammer strength units, and updated accessories. Thank you for being so patient, and we’re excited for you to see the improvements!
Apply Now for the Prince William Chamber of Commerce Scholarship for Graduating Seniors
- Attention graduating high school seniors! If you’re a member of the Chamber, here’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce is offering scholarships exclusively for Chamber members who are graduating this year.
- These scholarships are a fantastic opportunity to support your future academic endeavors. Whether you’re planning to attend college, vocational school, or pursue other educational opportunities, this scholarship can provide valuable financial assistance.
- But don’t delay! The deadline to apply is fast approaching. All applications must be submitted by March 1st, 2024. Take advantage of this chance to invest in your education and apply for the Prince William Chamber of Commerce scholarship today.
Director of PWC Parks & Recreation to Present State of the Parks Address and Annual Report Findings
- Join us as we leap into the new year of parks in our community as the Director of PWC Parks & Recreation delivers the state of the parks address and shares findings from our 2023 annual report. Thursday, February 29, 6:30-9 pm. Kelly Leadership Center 14715 Bristow Rd Manassas.
The Week Ahead
Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024
Prince William Board of County Supervisors meeting
Prince William County Unveils $1.77B FY2025 Budget: Prioritizes Schools, Public Safety, and Fiscal Stability
- Prince William County proposes a $1.77 billion budget for FY2025, maintaining the real estate tax rate at $0.966 per $100 of assessed value. The plan emphasizes strategic priorities such as collective bargaining agreements, capital project advancements, and enhancing service delivery efficiency. Significant allocations include a 10.1% increase in school transfers to $887.2M and funding for public safety staffing and infrastructure projects. The budget aims to balance fiscal responsibility with the need for community and economic development, maintaining essential services without increasing the general tax rate.
Update on Federal Relief Fund Allocation
- The Prince William County Government is revisiting the distribution of $2 million in federal coronavirus relief funds amid concerns over their initial allocation to CASA, a nonprofit supporting working-class communities. The funds were slated for an immigrant welcome center, but a county audit allegedly revealing mismanagement has prompted a reevaluation.
- Proposed reallocation plans include directing funds towards food distribution, community safety strategies, and the Judicial Center Renovation project. The discussion, set for the February 20, 2024, Board of County Supervisors meeting, follows heightened scrutiny over the use of federal funds and CASA’s role in local politics. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
Prince William County Supervisors Greenlight Zoning Amendment for Homeless Navigation Center – East
- The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has paved the way for establishing the Homeless Navigation Center – East, addressing homelessness in the area as part of the adopted comprehensive plan. Supervisors will discuss where it will be built.
Stafford County Board of Supervisors
Stafford County Announces Results of 2024 Property Reassessment
- In Stafford County’s latest property reassessment for 2024, significant increases across various property types were observed, reflecting the county’s dynamic real estate market. Residential properties saw an average increase of 13%, while commercial properties experienced a notable jump of 23%. Agricultural and multi-family properties also saw increases of 14% and 9%, respectively. Overall, the county’s property assessments have risen by an average of 13%. This adjustment aligns with the state’s mandate to reflect current market values in property assessments.
Manassas City Council
Manassas City Council to Address Education Infrastructure and Jennie Dean Elementary School Development at Feb. 20 Meeting
- The Feb. 20, 2024, Manassas City Council meeting will primarily focus on critical discussions regarding education infrastructure, particularly the Jennie Dean Elementary School. Among the key agenda items will be updates on the construction of the new Jennie Dean Elementary School, along with an assessment of the current condition of the existing school building.
- The council will deliberate on potential uses for the old Jennie Dean Elementary School building, exploring options such as expanding Career and Technical Education (CTE), establishing a STEM Center, or accommodating alternative education programs.
- Additionally, the meeting will address the school replacement schedule and considerations for establishing a permanent central office location. Progress updates on the Osbourn High School Connector project will also be presented, reflecting the council’s commitment to enhancing educational facilities and resources within the community.
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
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The arrest of Jose Rafael Lizama, a 47-year-old resident of Manassas Park, has stirred concerns following the death of Justin Burns on December 2, 2023.
Burns, a beloved figure known for his altruism and community service, was fatally struck by a drunk driver while walking the streets near Old Town Sports Pub in Downtown Manassas.
Prince William County Adult Detention Center Superintendent Peter Meletis shared pertinent details regarding Lizama’s time in custody. Police arrested Lizama immediately following the crash on December 2, 2023, when he was arrested for driving while intoxicated. Astonishingly, he was released the very next day on a personal recognizance.
This decision now raises questions from the victim’s mother, Kim Burns, about how this case was handled.
Police arrested Lizama a second time on February 2, 2024, when Lizama, this time facing charges of involuntary manslaughter in connection to Burns’ death. However, Lizama was released on February 5, 2024, upon posting a $5,000 secured bond, said Meleits.
Potomac Local asked Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Amy Ashworth why Lizama was released from jail and about the timeline and circumstances surrounding Lizama’s initial arrest. If Lizama was indeed arrested on December 2, 2023, as indicated in preliminary reports, questions abound as to why he was released expeditiously despite the gravity of the allegations against him.
Reviewing camera footage from the crime scene took weeks, including cell phone video. Police had to obtain warrants to view some of the video, which prolonged the investigation, said Manassas police Sgt. Brett Strumpf.
Moreover, questions regarding the measures taken by the court to ensure Lizama’s compliance with legal proceedings and to mitigate the risk of recurrence while he’s out on bond have arisen. Concerns regarding Lizama’s propensity for driving under the influence and the potential dangers posed to the community necessitate proactive measures to safeguard public safety and uphold the law.
“This is an active case, and therefore, I will not make any statement to the media until the matter is concluded,” Ashworth wrote in an email to Potomac Local.
The top prosecutor forwarded our list of questions to her Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) officer, who also stonewalled our investigation, noting our records order was denied due to provisions in § 2.2-3706.1, which exclude disclosure of criminal investigative files related to ongoing cases. The office aims to promote governmental transparency and confirm compliance with the request, she added.
Justin Burns lived in Blackstone, Va., and was an Osbourn Park High School graduate in Manassas. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from West Virginia University.
On the night of his death, Burns had planned to meet with some high school friends at the Old Town Sports Pub, who were in town for a class reunion, Burn’s mother told Potomac Local.
He was deeply involved in his community, volunteering with organizations such as the City of Manassas Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and founding Succor Solutions, Inc., a nonprofit specializing in disaster recovery and economic development.
Burns was remembered as a Renaissance man dedicated to service, adventure, and compassion. He is survived by his parents, Roger and Kim, sister Clare Davitt, brother Nicolas, nephew Nicolas Montgomery, and numerous extended family members.
Lizama is due in Prince William County General District Court on March 8, 2024, on charges of inventory manslaughter and DWI at 11:30 a.m. The open proceeding will occur at the courthouse, 9311 Lee Avenue in Manassas.
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
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Open Space Arts hosted a panel discussion titled ‘African American and the Arts.’ Set against the backdrop of the current ‘Poetic Visions of America’ exhibit, the event marked a significant moment in exploring African American identity and artistic expression.
The panel, hosted by Prince William County Woodbridge District Supervisor Margaret Franklin, brought together voices from the local arts community. Among the speakers was Herb Williams, the Art Director of Prince William County, who delved into the insights of Langston Hughes’ essay, “The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain.” Kim B. Miller, a former Poet Laureate of Prince William County, enraptured the audience with two original pieces. At the same time, Denise McPhail, the Executive Director of the Creative and Performing Arts Center (CAPAC), shared her experiences producing performances in the county for over two decades.
The discussion provided a platform to explore the challenges and triumphs of African American artists and ignited a conversation about embracing diversity in the arts. Attendees and members of the wider community have hailed the event as a catalyst for change, calling for establishing an annual ‘State of the Arts’ presentation for Prince William County to support the contributions of local artists.
Guests were treated to an array of delicacies provided by a local caterer, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the evening. For more information and upcoming events, visit Open Space Arts at 15000 Potomac Town Place in Woodbridge.
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
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After nearly a year of investigation, law enforcement officers have apprehended the suspect in connection to a stabbing incident that occurred in Dale City on March 4, 2023. Robert Dejell Rufus Jackson, 43, of 13206 Haddock Rd. in Dale City, was taken into custody by Alexandria City police on January 24, 2024.
The incident, which occurred at a residence in the 13700 block of Greenwood Drive near Minnieville Elementary School, left a 41-year-old man with multiple stab wounds. Authorities were alerted to the situation at 4:32 a.m. when a caller reported finding the front door of the residence ajar. Upon entering, they discovered the victim suffering from severe injuries.
Emergency services were immediately contacted, and the victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Thankfully, his injuries were determined to be non-life-threatening.
Jackson faces charges of malicious wounding and abduction in connection to the incident. Despite the passage of nearly a year since the attack, authorities continued to pursue leads diligently, ultimately leading to Jackson’s arrest.
A court date for Jackson is pending.
Strong-Arm Robbery
On February 14 at 7:43 p.m., authorities responded to a robbery near Miramar Dr. and Streamwalk Ln. in Manassas (20109). A 51-year-old woman and a 31-year-old man were approached by two unidentified men who demanded money. One suspect seized the woman’s purse before both fled. No injuries were reported.
Suspect Descriptions:
- White male, approximately 5’10”, skinny build, dark brown hooded sweatshirt
- White male, approximately 5’9”, skinny build, red hooded sweatshirt
Reckless Handling of a Firearm
On February 13 at 8:47 p.m, police were called to the 1500 block of Sandpiper Bay Lp. in Dumfries (22026) for reported gunshots. Shots were heard near the riverbank, followed by the rapid departure of two vehicles. No evidence of shooting, injuries, or property damage was found.
Commercial Burglaries
On February 14 at 9:16 a.m., authorities responded to Rahama African Market at 12778 Darby Brooke Ct. in Woodbridge (22192) for a burglary. Around 11:30 p.m. on February 13, an unknown individual smashed the front glass door to enter the business. Money was stolen from the cash register before the suspect fled. A neighboring business was also burglarized in a similar manner. No suspect description is available at this time.
Angelene Daganzo and Adam Ahmed, both distinguished seniors representing Colonial Forge High School, have been chosen as candidates based on their exceptional academic performances, exemplary SAT/ACT scores, compelling essays, thorough self-assessments, comprehensive school reports, and impeccable transcripts.
Adam Ahmed, who currently holds the prestigious positions of senior-class president and Parliamentarian at the Future Business Leaders of America, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his candidacy. His involvement in various community service projects, including church and food scarcity initiatives, alongside active participation in organizations such as the Muslim Student Association and Habitat for Humanity, underscores his commitment to societal betterment. Ahmed’s aspirations to pursue a major in Biology at the collegiate level further highlight his dedication to academic excellence and personal growth.
Angelene Daganzo, serving as the esteemed JROTC Battalion Commander at Colonial Forge High School, exemplifies outstanding leadership qualities and unwavering dedication to service. Her impressive accolades within JROTC, coupled with her active involvement in numerous clubs and organizations, reflect her commitment to both academic and extracurricular excellence.
Daganzo’s commitment to community betterment is further evidenced by her volunteer work at local community centers, highlighting her genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of others. Her plans include participation in ROTC and pursue a degree in international relations underscore her determination to serve her country with honor and distinction.
The U.S. Presidential Scholars program, renowned for its recognition of distinguished graduating high school seniors, serves as an honor emblematic of academic excellence and promising potential. As the nation eagerly anticipates the selection of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars, Stafford County Public Schools takes immense pride in the remarkable achievements of Angelene Daganzo and Adam Ahmed, wishing them continued success on their academic journey.
In the coming months, the selection process will unfold, with approximately 500 semifinalists to be chosen by an independent, national committee of educators. Subsequently, semifinalists will be identified for each state/jurisdiction, culminating in the announcement of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholars in early May. Stay tuned as the journey of excellence continues for these exceptional students, exemplifying the epitome of academic prowess and personal achievement.
Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) has emerged as one of the 24 distinguished school divisions to be awarded the coveted “Grow Your Own” grant by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), a step towards nurturing local teaching talent.
With cumulative grants to school divisions totaling $1.52 million, PWCS, in partnership with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), is set to establish registered teacher apprenticeship programs aimed at alleviating teacher recruitment challenges and fostering a robust talent pool within the community.
Expressing enthusiasm for the initiative, Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons stated, “I am proud to continue our commitment to helping school divisions find ways to put exceptional people from their own communities in their local classrooms.” Coons emphasized the pressing need for innovative approaches in addressing teacher shortages and highlighted the collaborative efforts with the National Center for Grow Your Own to tailor effective apprenticeship programs to local contexts.
Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, Superintendent of PWCS, underscored the transformative potential of the Grow Your Own Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program, envisioning it as a beacon of excellence in addressing teacher shortages and nurturing dedicated educators. McDade remarked, “Looking ahead, we envision a future where the Grow Your Own Registered Teacher Apprenticeship program becomes an exemplary model for others to follow.”
This latest grant awarded to PWCS follows a previous allocation to school divisions of $1.78 million in July 2023, reflecting a sustained commitment to developing teacher apprenticeships. During the 2023-2024 school year, a total of 165 teacher apprentices are slated to benefit from the program, receiving crucial financial support and tuition discounts to pursue their teaching aspirations.
McDade said the Grow Your Own program represents a pivotal investment in the future of education, empowering PWCS to harness local talent and address critical teacher recruitment needs. With its focus on affordability and accessibility, this initiative is poised to cultivate a diverse and talented educator workforce reflective of the communities they serve.
Coons and McDade visited Leesylvania Elementary School in Woodbridge on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024, where grantee awards were announced.
If you rely on us for local news and haven’t already, please support us by becoming a member!
- Join our Locals Only Membership Today! In a world filled with everyday heroes and extraordinary tales, Potomac Local is your trusted source for news and stories that matter in our community.
- Our Local Spotlight Membership is perfect for businesses and non-profits to increase sales, donations, and branding awareness in the community.