Middle school students across the Fredericksburg area will soon have a new way to explore civic engagement through the launch of the Fredericksburg Regional Civics Bee.
Hosted by the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce in partnership with WorkForce NOW and the Oberle Academy, the event brings the national U.S. Chamber of Commerce competition to Planning District 16 — including Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, Caroline, and the City of Fredericksburg.
“Congratulations to Germanna’s Chief of Police, Craig Branch, on his appointment to Governor Spanberger’s Public Safety & Homeland Security Policy Committee,” Germanna Community College announced. “Your leadership, integrity, and dedication to keeping our community safe make this honor well deserved.”
“Thank you for continuing to lead with purpose and heart,” the college added in its congratulatory message.
“Growth completely masked achievement realities,” Virginia Scope reported, quoting Virginia Superintendent of Public Education Emily Anne Gullickson during a Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission meeting. “That’s limited our ability to really deliver the right support to meet individual students’ needs.”
“We want to make sure that students are making annual progress, that they are moving and that students are getting towards grade level or exceeding the grade level,” Gullickson said. “But growth cannot be more important than ensuring that students are truly prepared on the grade level content and are able to succeed and prosper upon graduation.”
“Do you know an MCPS educator who goes above and beyond every single day?” Manassas City Public Schools posted. “Now’s your chance to recognize them! Nominations are open for the Mary V. Bicouvaris Virginia Teacher of the Year.”
“Whether they inspire students, lead with innovation, or build meaningful connections in and beyond the classroom — let’s give them the spotlight they deserve,” the school division stated.
Stafford County Public Schools to open two hours late Monday due to road conditions
“Due to current road conditions in some areas of the county, Stafford Schools will operate on a 2-hour delay schedule on Monday, December 15, 2025,” Stafford County Public Schools announced. “This delay allows for safer travel conditions in the morning while preserving instructional time for our students.”
“Families and community members are invited to review the proposed materials online or attend one of our in-person review sessions,” the school division stated. “Your feedback helps us select high-quality math resources for all learners.”
Manassas City Public Schools is evaluating new instructional materials for kindergarten through 12th-grade math courses. Community members can review the materials online or sign up for in-person review sessions before the public comment period closes on January 23.
“I returned to school after nearly two decades away. My first research assignment was a D — I almost quit,” Germanna Community College reported. “But a professor reminded me, ‘You’ve been out of school for years. Don’t give up.’ And I didn’t. My joy for learning was reignited. I finally allowed myself to be the person I always wanted to be.”
The college awarded 1,042 degrees, certificates, and credentials to more than 900 graduates during Thursday evening’s ceremony at the University of Mary Washington’s Anderson Center. Student speaker LaRai Diamond-Fortune, who earned an Associate of Applied Science in criminal justice, shared her journey of returning to college after nearly two decades and encouraged fellow graduates to embrace lifelong learning and personal growth.
“I am incredibly excited to be joining the Fredericksburg City Schools family,” Fredericksburg City Public Schools announced. “I believe that every learner, educator, and school can grow, and I am excited to be a part of the next phase of academic growth in Fredericksburg City.” “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Albon to the FCPS family,” Superintendent Dr. Marci Catlett said. “He understands the importance of educating all students to reach their fullest potential.”
Dr. Brendon Albon, a veteran education leader with more than 25 years of experience, will assume the role of Chief Academic Officer on December 15, 2025. He previously served as Assistant Superintendent for the Virginia Department of Education, where he led statewide school-support initiatives and earlier held roles in STEM and innovation, school leadership, and classroom instruction. The appointment follows the School Board’s approval and reflects the division’s focus on instructional excellence and continued academic growth.
Brentsville District School Board member Erica Tredinnick is defending her work for a firm tied to the Prince William Digital Gateway, saying she follows Virginia conflict-of-interest laws and will not apologize for “earning a living” in real estate development.
Tredinnick issued a written statement after an interview on Potomac Local News’ “PLN on YouTube,” where Prince William County School Board Chairman Dr. Babur Lateef downplayed concerns about her employment with LSI Communications.
