The new principal of Osbourn High School has rolled out a variety of new policies and practices in an effort to increase student performance at Manassas’ only high school.
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We had a blast at Haunted Happenings in Downtown Manassas. The streets were closed to vehicles, allowing families to stroll and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Seeing so many creative costumes was a delight, and the business owners were incredibly welcoming. They greeted everyone warmly, handed out candy, and decorated their shops, making the experience even more magical. Many also invited us in for some shopping, adding to the day’s fun.
We’d love to see your photos from the event! Share your Halloween moments with us by emailing them to [email protected] or texting them to 571-989-1695.
Fredericksburg’s streets were full of costumed children (and adults) for the annual Treats in the Streets.
Fredericksburg has hosted this event since 2016, where families are invited to dress up in Halloween costumes and stroll downtown, stopping at participating businesses to collect treats, toys, books, and gifts.
Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.
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From the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office:
The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office is investigating multiple larcenies from vehicles in the England Run Subdivision.
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Press Release:
The Workhouse Arts Center has been awarded a 2025 ArtsFairfax Operating Support Grant to further its mission to support a vibrant arts center that offers a unique combination of visual and performing arts, arts education, historical perspective, and community engagement. In addition, the Workhouse has been awarded a 2025 Project Support Grant to continue developing innovative, new community-based projects. The center is among 58 Operating Support Grant and 12 Project Support Grant recipients based in Fairfax County, the City of Fairfax, and the City of Falls Church.
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Recent data presented at the October 22 Manassas City School Board meeting showed that Osbourn High School has seen a significant rise in absenteeism. Over 16% of its student population has been categorized as chronically absent, meaning they miss more than 10% of the school year. This places Osbourn among the city’s schools, which are struggling the most with attendance, directly affecting its academic performance and state accreditation.
Student absenteeism has become a growing concern in Manassas City Public Schools, with Osbourn High School facing particularly troubling attendance trends. During a Potomac Local News forum on October 17, 2024, school board candidates and community leaders discussed the root causes of absenteeism and the efforts needed to address this critical issue.
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The Career and Technical Education (CTE) program at Osbourn High School is a shining example of how Manassas City Public Schools are preparing students for both college and careers by offering practical, hands-on learning experiences. The program covers a variety of fields, including health sciences, information technology, automotive technology, welding, and cosmetology, helping students gain the technical skills they need to thrive in today’s job market.
During a Potomac Local News forum held on October 17, 2024, Maidy Whitesell, a school board candidate and longtime community volunteer, highlighted the need for expanding the program to meet student demand. “There’s a lot of interest in fields like plumbing and electrical work. These are valuable skills, not just for immediate employment but for life in general. We should continue to expand the program to give our students more opportunities to succeed,” Whitesell said during a recent town hall forum on Manassas City schools.
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Manassas City Public Schools face increased scrutiny over falling student performance and a contentious grading policy as the November election approaches. During a recent town hall hosted by Potomac Local News, candidates for the city’s school board and concerned residents discussed the troubling decline in Standards of Learning (SOL) scores and how the division’s grading practices may exacerbate the issue.
In the past year, SOL scores for Manassas students have significantly dropped, leaving the school division well below state averages. Two of the city’s schools, Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School, remain partially accredited under pandemic-era standards and struggle to meet performance benchmarks. Caitlyn Meisner, our Manassas Local Editor, covering the school board for Potomac Local News, has followed the downward trend closely since late 2023.
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One of the most pressing concerns discussed during the town hall was increased student behavioral problems, which have created significant classroom disruptions. School board candidate Javanese Hailey, a former teacher at Metz Middle School, shared her experience with a lack of accountability in the school.
“When I worked at Metz in 2019, there was just an absolute lack of accountability. The kids were allowed to do whatever they wanted, and there were no consequences,” Hailey said. “I had seventh graders who were on third-grade level academically, and that, coupled with behavioral issues, created chaos. It felt like something was going to break down at any moment.”