“At Vocelli Pizza, we believe that when times get tough, neighbors step up for one another,” Vocelli Pizza North Stafford shared. “Some families shared that they couldn’t make it last time — and we couldn’t let anyone feel left out. So, we’re doing it again.”

As a Partner in Education with Stafford County Schools, the restaurant will offer one free large cheese or pepperoni pizza per furloughed family on Thursday, November 6, from 4 to 7 p.m. at its North Stafford location, 44 Mine Road. Families need only present a federal government ID at pickup.


“Over 400 high school and college students participated in this year’s Workforce Now Mock Interview Day, an incredible event dedicated to preparing our future workforce for career success,” Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce Workforce Now announced. “Students had the opportunity to practice real interview skills with local and regional business leaders and receive personalized resume reviews and feedback — helping them gain confidence and refine their professional presence.”

Be a Local in the Know. Get All the News & Fewer Ads. Since 2010, Potomac Local News has produced honest, trusted local news reporting. Please become a member today for 100% access, and support community journalism.


“NOVA students can access free food and personal care items at our Nighthawk Nest pantries,” Northern Virginia Community College announced. “See locations and hours here.”

The initiative provides essential support to students facing food insecurity, especially as state and federal nutrition programs adjust. The Nighthawk Nests are stocked with groceries, toiletries, and hygiene products—free to all enrolled students—with pantries available on every NOVA campus.


“Osbourn High School’s ‘It’s Academic’ team — made up of students Victoria, Gabrielle, and Marshall — proudly represented MCPS during the show’s 65th season taping on October 25,” Manassas City Public Schools announced. “Special thanks to the team’s coaches, Mrs. Bond, Mr. Iqbal, and Ms. Hagood, as well as Chair Seaberg, Vice-Chair Spall, Ms. Tania, and Mrs. Cook for their support in making this experience possible.”

“We can’t wait to cheer them on when their episode airs January 10 — stay tuned!” the division added.


The original Presidential Fitness Test began under President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 and was introduced in schools in 1966 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was phased out nationally after 2012, when the federal government replaced it with the Presidential Youth Fitness Program. The change reflected a shift away from ranking students by athletic performance toward a focus on individual health, inclusivity, and lifelong fitness habits.

Be a Local in the Know. Get All the News & Fewer Ads. Since 2010, Potomac Local News has produced honest, trusted local news reporting. Please become a member today for 100% access, and support community journalism.


“Reminder: There will be no school for students on Monday, November 3 or Tuesday, November 4,” Prince William County Public Schools posted.

Fredericksburg City Public Schools also reminded families, “There is no school for students tomorrow, Tuesday, November 4, 2025.”


This article is exclusively for our Locals Only members. Please Sign In or upgrade to become a Locals Only Member today! Your support helps us continue delivering more in-depth community news that matters to you. Thank you.

This article is exclusively for our Locals Only members. Please Sign In or upgrade to become a Locals Only Member today!

Your support helps us continue delivering more in-depth community news that matters to you. Thank you.


Prince William County school leaders unveiled the design of the division’s long-planned 14th high school — a light-filled, environmentally conscious building they say will redefine how students learn and connect.

This article is exclusively for our Locals Only members. Please Sign In or upgrade to become a Locals Only Member today!

Your support helps us continue delivering more in-depth community news that matters to you. Thank you.


A countywide showcase of music and community spirit will return next month as Stafford County’s five high school marching bands come together for the 15th annual Band Together to Fight Hunger event.

Event coordinator Deb Pickeral and the drum majors representing each high school announced plans for this year’s concert during a presentation before the Stafford County School Board.


“Each year, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside our schools that go above and beyond to foster a culture of support, understanding, and resilience for our military-connected students,” shared Kimberly Simpson, PWCS military achievement specialist, as Prince William County Public Schools announced the recognition of 18 schools as 2025 Virginia Purple Star schools. “The Purple Star designation is a powerful acknowledgment of the collaborative efforts that ensure every student, regardless of background or mobility, can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”

The Virginia Department of Education recognized 18 PWCS schools—including four first-time honorees and 14 renewals—for their continued support of military-connected students. With this recognition, 51 PWCS schools now hold the Purple Star Designation, representing 53% of the division’s total schools.


View More Stories