Schools - Page 6 of 212 - Potomac Local News

Osbourn High Students to Appear on ‘It’s Academic’ Television Quiz Show

Published November 5, 2025 at 12:36PM

“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.

Governor Glenn Youngkin Issues Executive Order to Reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test in Virginia Schools

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 4, 2025 at 7:44PM

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) held a bill signing ceremony at Beanstalk, an indoor vertical farming company near Manassas. [Photo: Alan Gloss]

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.

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Schools Across the Region Closed Tuesday, November 4

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 3, 2025 at 6:20PM

Kindergarten students get off the bus at Park Ridge Elementary School on "transition day," Monday, August 11, 2025. [Photo: Stafford County Public Schools]

“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.”

Manassas leaders confirm 1948 Jennie Dean vocational wing; city to return 1914 MIS cottage to campus by 2027

By Potomac Local News

Published November 3, 2025 at 3:00PM

Jennie Dean statue at Jennie Dean Memorial Park in Manassas, honoring the founder of the Manassas Industrial School for Colored Youth in 1893.

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Prince William Unveils Design for 14th High School Amid Declining Enrollment Debate

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 3, 2025 at 2:00PM

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.

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ICYMI: Happening tonight: Stafford’s 15th Annual “Band Together to Fight Hunger”

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 3, 2025 at 7:00AM

(Photo: Mary Davidson/PotomacLocal.com)

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.

Eighteen Prince William County Schools Earn 2025 Virginia Purple Star Designation

By Uriah Kiser

Published November 1, 2025 at 10:03AM

“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.

Dr. Tashika Griffith selected as new president of Germanna Community College

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 30, 2025 at 8:25PM

Dr. Tashika Griffith

“It is with deep humility and great enthusiasm that I assume the role of President of Germanna Community College,” said Dr. Tashika Griffith, who was appointed by Dr. David Doré, Chancellor of the Virginia Community College System, to become Germanna’s seventh permanent president, VCCS announced. “I extend my sincere gratitude to Chancellor Doré, the college’s Advisory Board, the search committee, and the many faculty, staff, students, and alumni who participated in this process.”

“I have been deeply impressed by Germanna’s strong sense of community and its steadfast commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success,” Dr. Griffith added. “I look forward to building upon this remarkable foundation as we continue advancing the College’s mission and impact across the region.”

Teachers’ Union in Trouble: PWEA PAC Slapped With $1K Fine as Members Revolt

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 23, 2025 at 1:00PM | Updated October 23, 2025 at 4:27PM

The Virginia Department of Elections has fined the Prince William Political Action Committee of Educators $1,000 for failing to file a required campaign finance report — the latest controversy to surface as the Prince William Education Association (PWEA) remains under state control and faces growing calls for transparency.

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Stafford School Board Chair Maureen Siegmund Addresses Title IX ‘Misinformation’ Ahead of Election

By Uriah Kiser

Published October 23, 2025 at 6:49AM

“Unfortunately, this time of year often brings an increase in misinformation and fear meant to influence local and state elections,” Maureen Siegmund wrote. “Recently, there has been renewed concern about Title IX and, in particular, student bathroom use in Stafford County Public Schools.”

Siegmund said district policies “are public, reviewed regularly, and fully compliant with all state and federal laws.” She cited legal guidance presented by the school board’s attorney confirming that the Grimm v. Gloucester County School Board case remains controlling law in the 4th Circuit, guaranteeing transgender students the right to use facilities consistent with their gender identity. Siegmund, running as an independent for re-election, added, “The law is the law, and I will continue to follow it.”