STAFFORD, Va. – Students in the Cyber4+ Cohort I (Class of 2026) from Stafford County Public Schools came together for a special luncheon on Tuesday, May 20, at Robiolina Italian Cuisine. The event, themed “Cyber4+ Reflect – What’s Next,” offered students a chance to reflect on their progress and connect with local mentors in cybersecurity, IT, and public service.
According to a press release from the school division, Cyber4+ launched in 2021 through the Virginia Department of Education’s CTE High School Innovation Grant. The program is a partnership between Stafford County Public Schools, Germanna Community College, GCubed Inc., and the Stafford County Office of Economic Development and Tourism. It helps high school students earn CompTIA certifications and prepares them for jobs in the fast-growing cybersecurity field.
Students heard from leaders in business, education, and public service who have supported the program since it began. Delegate Joshua Cole (D-Frederickskburg, Stafford) encouraged students to explore all post-graduation paths—college, apprenticeships, and public service. Other guest speakers included Dr. Alaysia Black-Hackett of ABH Solutions, Ratisha Smith of Quad 22, and Devon Heholt of G3 Community Services, each sharing insights from their own career journeys and offering mentorship to students.
Stafford Schools’ Career and Technical Education Coordinator Deea Green highlighted the real-world tools the students use, including ManTech computers, CompTIA’s learning platform, TestOut simulations, and certification boot camps—all designed to help students succeed in the cybersecurity industry.
RICHMOND, Va. – Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) students have once again claimed top honors at the 47th Annual Model Judiciary Program Supreme Court Round, marking their third consecutive victory at the state level.
According to a PWCS release, Battlefield High School students Anandya Sampath, a senior, and Sakshi Gowda, a sophomore, were named overall winners after presenting appellate arguments before justices from the Virginia Supreme Court and Court of Appeals. Their performance topped the competition, which simulates real court proceedings.
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FAIRFAX, Va. – More than 7,500 Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) students were celebrated this week during one of the college’s largest-ever commencements.
Held May 12 at George Mason University’s EagleBank Arena, the graduation ceremony drew over 1,600 graduates and more than 5,000 guests. The crowd was so big that overflow seating and a livestream were set up in a nearby concert hall, according to a release from the college.
Themed “Rising Beyond,” the event recognized the resilience of the Class of 2025. Keynote speaker and NOVA alum Hannah Williams, now the founder of Salary Transparent Street, encouraged graduates to persevere through uncertainty. NOVA President Anne M. Kress praised the students’ determination in the face of academic and personal challenges.
Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA), established in 1965, is the largest public educational institution in Virginia and one of the largest community colleges in the U.S. Serving more than 70,000 students across six campuses and multiple centers throughout the region, NOVA provides affordable, accessible, and high-quality education and workforce training.
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MANASSAS, Va. – Hundreds gathered last night at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas to honor nearly 300 Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) employees who are retiring this year.
According to PWCS, 278 educators, administrators, and support staff were recognized during the ceremony for their years of dedication to students across the county. The honorees included those who officially submitted retirement notices between April 2024 and April 2025.
“These employees have spent their careers creating safe spaces for students to learn and grow,” the division stated in an announcement. “Their impact on our schools and community will be felt for years to come.”
The full list of 2025 retirees is available on the PWCS website.
STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. – Thousands of elementary students in Stafford County will head to different schools starting in the 2026-27 school year, following the School Board’s unanimous approval of a countywide redistricting plan.
The board voted on Tuesday, May 13, to adopt Scenario Lime, a boundary adjustment that prepares for the opening of two new elementary schools currently under construction—Elementary School 18 (ES-18) and Elementary School 19 (ES-19).
Which Schools Are Affected?
According to Stafford County Public Schools, the following elementary schools are affected:
- Barrett Elementary
- Conway Elementary
- Ferry Farm Elementary
- Garrisonville Elementary
- Hartwood Elementary
- Kate Waller Barrett Elementary
- Margaret Brent Elementary
- Park Ridge Elementary
- Rock Hill Elementary
- Rocky Run Elementary
- Stafford Elementary
- Widewater Elementary
- Winding Creek Elementary
- Elementary School 18 (ES-18)
- Elementary School 19 (ES-19)
- Neighborhoods such as Rappahannock Landing, Old Forge, and Clearview Heights are among those expected to see students move to different schools under the new boundaries.
Why the Change?
School officials say the redistricting is needed to relieve overcrowding and balance enrollment across the county’s elementary schools. The two new schools are being built to handle growth in areas like Westlake, where new housing developments are underway.
Based on projections shared by school staff, all schools are expected to open under capacity in 2026. However, by 2030, three schools could slightly exceed their limits, with the highest expected utilization at 103%.
What Happens Next?
The changes will go into effect when ES-18 and ES-19 open in fall 2026. School officials plan to notify affected families and provide transition support over the next year.
A proposal to let rising fifth-graders stay at their current schools for one final year—if parents provided transportation—was narrowly rejected in a 4-3 vote. As it stands, all impacted students will move to their new schools in 2026 unless they qualify for a transfer under existing policies.
Looking Ahead
School leaders acknowledge redistricting can be challenging but say this plan positions Stafford’s elementary schools to better serve students as the community grows.
More information, including new boundary maps and transition resources, is expected to be released soon by Stafford County Public Schools.
Hey Everyone, I’m Uriah Kiser, founder and publisher of Potomac Local News.
Graduation season is here, and we have the full schedule for every local high school. We’re also bringing you highlights from student events across our region and breaking news about a significant elementary school boundary change coming to Stafford County in 2026. Here’s what you need to know.
PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Prince William Schools Honor Nearly 300 Retirees
Prince William County Public Schools celebrated 278 retiring employees during a ceremony at the Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. The group included teachers, administrators, and support staff who served students across the county.
Over 100 Students Shine in All-Virginia Music Ensembles
More than 100 students from Battlefield, Colgan, Gainesville, Osbourn Park, Patriot, Unity Reed, and Woodbridge earned spots in the 2025 All-Virginia Band, Choir, and Orchestra.
Class of 2025 Graduation Schedule
- Battlefield High School: May 28, 7 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Brentsville District High School: May 30, 7 p.m. at Brentsville Stadium
- C.D. Hylton High School: May 28, 2 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Colgan High School: May 30, 7 p.m. at Colgan Stadium
- Freedom High School: May 31, 2 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Forest Park High School: May 29, 7 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Gar-Field High School: May 31, 7 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Governor’s School @ Innovation Park: May 17, 10 a.m. at Colgan Auditorium
- Independence Nontraditional School: June 5, 6 p.m. at Hylton Center
- Gainesville High School: May 29, 9:30 a.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Osbourn Park High School: May 31, 9:30 a.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Patriot High School: June 2, 7:30 p.m. at Jiffy Lube Live
- Potomac High School: May 30, 2 p.m. at EagleBank Arena
- Unity Reed High School: June 2, 1 p.m. at Jiffy Lube Live
- Woodbridge High School: May 30, 9:30 a.m. at EagleBank Arena
STAFFORD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Conway Elementary’s Cougarpalooza Brings Big Smiles
Games, food trucks, obstacle courses, and a dunk tank delighted families at Conway Elementary’s Cougarpalooza.
See the photos on Facebook.
Senior Walk Tradition Returns May 28
Seniors are invited to visit their former elementary schools on Wednesday, May 28, to thank their teachers.
See the announcement on Facebook.
Stafford High Students Tour New High School 6
EPIC students got a behind-the-scenes look at High School 6, set to open in August 2026 off Route 17.
Heather Empfield Scholarship Honors Madison Marsden
Madison Marsden of Winding Creek was awarded the Heather Empfield Day School Scholarship for academic and community excellence.
Big School Shuffle Coming for Stafford County Elementary Students in 2026
Thousands of elementary students will move to new schools in 2026 as Stafford County opens two new elementary schools and redraws school boundaries to relieve overcrowding.
Read the full story here.
Class of 2025 Graduation Schedule
- Mountain View High School: May 30, 6:30 p.m.
- Stafford High School: May 30, 6:30 p.m.
- Brooke Point High School: May 31, 8:30 a.m.
- Colonial Forge High School: May 31, 8:30 a.m.
- North Stafford High School: May 31, 8:30 a.m.
View the full schedule and livestream links.
MANASSAS CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Manassas Reads Delivers 3,000 Free Books to Students
Families gathered at Metz Middle School for Manassas Reads, helping PreK-12 students build their home libraries with free books.
Osbourn High School Class of 2025 Graduation
Thursday, May 29, at 2:00 p.m.
EagleBank Arena, Fairfax
FREDERICKSBURG CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Wellness Fair Supports James Monroe Families
Held on May 10, the Mental Health, Wellness & Safety Resource Fair provided free haircuts, yoga, journaling, and more for Fredericksburg students and families.
Two Half-Days Added to May Calendar
Students will be released early on May 21 and May 22.
May 19 and May 20 remain full school days.
James Monroe High School Class of 2025 Graduation
Friday, May 16, at 7:00 p.m.
Anderson Center, University of Mary Washington
MANASSAS PARK CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Manassas Park High School Class of 2025 Graduation
Saturday, May 31
Final details coming soon from Manassas Park High School.
UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON
Brilliant Skies, Bright Futures: UMW Celebrates Class of 2025
Over 900 graduates celebrated UMW’s 114th Commencement on May 10, featuring a keynote speech from alumna Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt and recognition of seven students with perfect 4.0 GPAs.
STAFFORD, Va. – The Stafford County Board of Supervisors narrowly approved a $2.95 million warehouse purchase on Blackjack Road, siding with school officials who say the facility is essential to meet the district’s growing infrastructure needs, despite concerns from some supervisors who argued the deal was rushed and overpriced.
In a 4-3 vote, the board passed Resolution R25-105, authorizing Stafford County Public Schools to use leftover funds from its FY2024 budget to buy the building at 42 Blackjack Road. The warehouse currently houses several school division operations, including IT storage, bus driver training, and nutrition services. School leaders say owning the space will end the need to rent it and provide a long-term solution as the division grows.
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STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County Public Schools rolled out the red carpet on Thursday night to honor its top educators and staff members at the 2025 Gold Star Gala. The annual event recognizes employees across a wide range of roles who help students succeed every day.
The celebration, held before a crowd of staff, students, and community members, included student-led presentations. Gabriella Irish, the 2025 Student Representative to the School Board, kicked off the event with a welcome address. The North Stafford High School Air Force JROTC presented the colors, followed by Mountain View High School student Raina Chan singing the National Anthem.
"The Gold Star Gala honors the outstanding contributions of our Staff of the Year recipients and highlights the passion and excellence that run throughout our organization," said Dr. Daniel W. Smith, Superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools. "Each of our employees plays a vital role in strengthening our schools and inspiring those around us."
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STAFFORD, Va. – The Stafford County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to spend $2.5 million on land for the long-awaited rebuild of Drew Middle School.
The money, pulled from the county’s Capital Projects Fund, will be transferred to the Schools Capital Projects Fund to buy a new site for the school. The rebuild has been years in the making—and for many in the community, it’s personal.
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MANASSAS, Va. – The April 2025 meeting of the Manassas City School Board opened with inspiring highlights from Osbourn High School, as Superintendent Dr. Kevin Quesada and Communications Director Almeta Radford recognized two student achievement programs that reflect the school division’s growing emphasis on career readiness and technical skills.
Osbourn’s SkillsUSA Team Earns Statewide Honors
Maggie Connors, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Department Chair and SkillsUSA advisor, led the presentation recognizing students who excelled in state and regional competitions. SkillsUSA, a national organization supporting technical education, showcased the talents of Osbourn students in criminal justice, photography, and more.
Students were honored for their medal-winning performances and commitment to public service and career development:
- Suzette Ferrafino – Silver Medal, Criminal Justice
- Anaya Evans – Gold Medal (Photography, not present)
- Yureci Zarzua – Bronze Medal, Prepared Speech
- Anna Baruff – Demonstrated fingerprinting for Job Skills Demonstration A
Others competed in Crime Scene Investigation and Job Interview events
Four seniors were recognized for earning graduation cords after multiple years of participation:
Jasmine Bowman (President), Suzette Ferrafino (Vice President), Yaritza Martinez (Secretary), Gabriela Claros Ferrafino (Treasurer)
Partnerships with the Manassas Police Department played a significant role in preparing students, with special thanks given to Capt. Petty and Officer Rodriguez.
CyberPatriot Team Highlighted for National STEM Excellence
Radford also spotlighted Osbourn’s CyberPatriot team, a student-led cybersecurity group mentored by retired Lockheed Martin engineer Dave Frederick. The team participates in a national competition sponsored by the Air Force Association, learning hands-on cybersecurity and networking skills.
Students were honored for mastering Windows and Linux system administration, Cisco networking, and high-level security protocols. Participants included:
Lucas Katama, Lavette Gaither, Dimas Gonzalez Ramos, Gabriela Hernandez Najaro, Rafaela Urquizo Hurtado, and MJ (full name unclear)
Radford credited Frederick for his unwavering mentorship, not only of the cybersecurity team but also Osbourn’s robotics program and new teachers.
Gratitude and Community Presence
The board and Radford thanked students, staff, and local partners for their dedication. Special recognition was also given to Manassas Commissioner of the Revenue Tim DeMaria and the Manassas Education Association leadership for attending the meeting.
“These programs show the heart of our schools,” said Radford. “From technical skills to public service, our students are achieving remarkable things.”
