“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.
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“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.”
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.
“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.”
