The resolution incorporates an $8.8 million state increase—including directed and one-time funds. As part of the plan, the board proposed reducing its local funding request by $1.325 million as an “olive branch,” achieved by moderating some additions such as partial high school counselor positions and deferring certain bus replacements.

The special called meeting, held on June 30, 2026, addressed the tight timeline following state budget finalization. Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith, Ed.D., and Deputy Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer Chris R. Fulmer presented the recommendations. Board Chair Dr. Elizabeth Warner (Griffis-Widewater District) facilitated the session. Other members participating included Vice Chair Dr. Sarah Chase (Falmouth District), Mr. Josh Regan (Aquia District), Ms. Patricia Healy (Rock Hill District), and others, with Ms. Randall absent.


Prince William County Public Schools News reported that the Battlefield High School baseball team won its first Virginia High School League Class 6 Championship with a 6-3 victory over Independence High School on June 18, 2026. Junior Luke Raflo hit a grand slam in the seventh inning to help secure the title, while strong pitching from Alex Kamprowski and Josh Gunning limited Independence’s offense.

The win marks the second consecutive year a Prince William County Public Schools team has claimed the state title, following Gainesville High School’s victory last year. Head coach Jay Burkhart praised his team’s resilience after an early-season slump, with players highlighting the achievement as a long-awaited milestone for the program and its coach of 16 years.


“The MS in AI in Business is designed to equip students with the knowledge and applied skills to integrate AI technologies into organizational strategy, operations and innovation,” stated University of Mary Washington Provost Tim O’Donnell. “Artificial intelligence is transforming how organizations operate, compete and serve their communities. This degree will prepare graduates to lead in this field.”

“Organizations today don’t just need technical AI specialists – they need leaders who can connect data, technology and decision-making,” said Christopher Garcia, director of accreditation and graduate programs and professor of quantitative methods.


“If I fall, I fall. If I die, I die. I’ve got to suck it up. Can’t live forever,” D.J. Palmer replied, Fredericksburg Free Press reported. “I should be fully back walking in six months, everything like nerves, and all that will be back. I’ll be chasing the kids around and doing what I normally do.”

“This is going to be something special,” Palmer added.


“We look forward to honoring the accomplishments, memories, and bright futures of our students as they take this exciting next step,” Stafford County Public Schools announced. “Congratulations to the Class of 2026!”

North Stafford and Stafford High School graduation ceremonies for the Class of 2026 begin at 8:30 a.m. today. The events can be watched live at www.staffordschools.net/graduation. Satellite parking is available for North Stafford at The Mount Church and Park Ridge ES, and for Stafford High at Conway ES and Stafford Crossing Community Church. Tickets and clear bags are required for all attendees.


George Mason University has selected Marion Underwood as its next provost and executive vice president, effective July 27. Underwood comes to Mason from Colorado State University, where she most recently served as provost and executive vice president. She brings 35 years of academic leadership, research and student success experience.

President Gregory Washington said Underwood’s background at institutions similar to George Mason makes her a strong fit. At Colorado State, she created the Strategic Roadmap 2025, advanced student mental health initiatives, helped refine the budget model and hired multiple academic leaders. She previously served as dean at Purdue University and the University of Texas at Dallas.


Stafford County supervisors will meet Tuesday, May 26 at 5 p.m. at the County Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road, to discuss implementing a formal revenue sharing agreement with Stafford County Public Schools. 

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Stafford County Public Schools and Stafford County Fire and Rescue partner on the High School Fire Academy, a hands-on program that gives local high school students real-world training in firefighting and emergency medical response. The program allows students to earn high school credit while learning skills that can lead to careers in public safety.

Class sizes appear to vary. Recent sessions have included around 20-25 students. The latest, High School Fire Academy 7, graduated in spring 2026. The program has grown since its start, with earlier classes having smaller groups.


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