Stafford County Public Schools announced the Valedictorian and Salutatorians for the Class of 2025 today. The division will host ticketed graduation ceremonies for Mountain View and Stafford HS on Friday, May 30, at 6:30 p.m. Brooke Point, Colonial Forge, and North Stafford HS will host graduation on Saturday, May 31, at 8 a.m. All ceremonies will be available through a livestream link for those unable to attend.

The school division will graduate 2,611 seniors in total, setting them on their path to success. The Class of 2025 accumulated $10,125,381 in scholarships and will go into the workforce, serve in our military, and continue their education.

Brooke Point HS:
Olivia Holder, GPA: 4.703

Olivia has been accepted to study Aerospace Engineering at the University of Alabama. Olivia participated in several organizations while at Brooke Point High School including Model UN, she was President of the German Club, and Co-Captain of the Varsity Academic Team. She was also Brooke Point’s representative for Girl’s State in 2024.

 

Karina Pacheco, GPA: 4.678

Karina Pacheco will be attending Virginia Commonwealth University with a double major in Performing Arts and Biomedical Science. She also plans on interning at the Capital and working as a paraprofessional at an elementary school. While at Brooke Point High School, Karina participated in Theatre, NHS, SSAC, HOSA, Crochet Club, Improv Art and DECA.

Colonial Forge HS:

Paulina Ilina, GPA: 4.875

Commonwealth Governor’s School senior Paulina Ilina is determined. She taught herself to swim and became swim captain two years later. She also coached younger athletes. Already bilingual in English and Russian, she earned her Seal of Biliteracy in French her junior year. She challenged herself to take a rigorous course load, including seven AP and one DE class her senior year. Outside of her classwork, Paulina has been an active volunteer with the Science National Honor Society, National Honor Society, and Buddy Club, and served as vice president and then president of the French Honor Society and treasurer of Student Creators for Change. She has also volunteered in the community with her local swim teams, the Woodland Wahoos and the RAYs, and as part of GOYA, the Greek Orthodox Youth Association. She plans to double major in chemistry and world languages at the University of Virginia while working towards a career in pediatric emergency medicine.

Kelly Coulter, GPA: 4.859

In her four years with the Commonwealth Governor’s School, Kelly has earned numerous awards, including the CGS Math Award freshman year, and the CGS Overall Award in grades 10 and 11. She has been a member of the Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society, the National Honor Society, and the vice president of the History National Honor Society. She has volunteered her time with the Red Cross Club and UNICEF, and has served as an EMT. She also participated in French Club and DECA. Kelly hopes to make a difference and plans to pursue a pre-med path at the University of Virginia in the fall.

 

Mountain View HS:

Brody Kester, GPA: 4.907

Brody is a passionate and determined student, a mock trial and debate champion, a two-time varsity cross-country runner, a three-time FBLA regional event medalist, and an imminent Eagle Scout, honored with the Senior Patrol Leader Excellence Award. Through the MVHS gifted program, Brody attended the American Legion’s Boys State, earning Best City and winning the Moot Court Championship. As Cyber Club vice president, he competed on the winning CTF team, achieving top-three state finishes in the Commonwealth CyberCup for two consecutive years. Brody is a member of the Student Council Association, National Honor Society, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes, where he serves as a huddle leader and was recently awarded the Jersey Mike’s Champions of Faith Scholarship for his leadership. Every Sunday, Brody volunteers at church—either playing guitar or running the soundboard for worship. As a student leader, he heads the youth worship band with his keyboard and vocals. Informally, he enjoys reading physics and mathematics books, playing recreational soccer, and deconstructing orchestral chord progressions. This fall, Brody will attend the University of Virginia to major in computer science, pursuing a cybersecurity focal path including ethical hacking and data obfuscation, with prospective additional concentrations in law and data science.

Joline “Mei” Lee, GPA: 4.871

Mei is a dedicated and creative student, recognized as an AICE Cambridge Scholar and a U.S. Presidential Scholar semifinalist. Since moving to Mountain View, Mei has continued to pursue a rigorous academic path through a combination of IB, AP, and Dual Enrollment courses. Passionate about the arts, she has received multiple Scholastic Art Awards and previously served as President of both Art Club and National Art Honor Society. While living in Florida, Mei worked as a graphic design intern for the school district, where she discovered her passion for design and connecting with her community. At Mountain View, she has continued her involvement in community service through volunteer opportunities in the National Honor Society, Interact Club, and Bobcat Buddies. In her free time, Mei enjoys drawing, binge-watching her favorite shows, and collecting cute trinkets that make her smile. In the fall, Mei will be attending Northeastern University in Boston to study Mechanical Engineering and Design. She aims to explore the possibilities of artistic creativity with functional innovation.

North Stafford HS:

Caitlyn Spencer, GPA: 4.875

The daughter of a proud Filipina mother and a U.S. Air Force veteran father, Caitlyn has been committed to both academics and athletics. She was a part of the STAT engineering program and a proud National Honor Society member. Additionally, she participated in competitive Virginia aerospace innovation programs like the Virginia Aerospace Science and Technology Scholars (VASTS) and the Virginia Space Coast Scholars (VSCS). On the field, Caitlyn was a varsity cross-country runner for four years while serving as a captain for two. She was also on the varsity girls soccer team for four years, leading the team as a senior captain. In the fall, Caitlyn plans to get a degree in aerospace engineering for astronautics at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach.

 

Fabiola Rodriguez, GPA: 4.773

Fabiola is a STAT Biomedical Sciences program and the proud daughter of a Puerto Rican family rooted in service and education. Her mother is a dedicated teacher, and her father is a U.S. Navy veteran. Their values of perseverance, faith, and community have deeply influenced her journey. She served as President of the Hispanic Student Association, Vice President and Secretary of the Spanish Honor Society, and as an Officer in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She was also a member of the National Honor Society, HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and the All-County Choir. She is recognized as a College Board AP Scholar, received the National Hispanic Recognition Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement, and earned the Global Seal of Biliteracy. She volunteers as a tutor and Sunday Bible School teacher.

During her senior year, inspired by her strong commitment to the well-being of the Hispanic community, she focused her STAT Capstone project on addressing mental health disparities affecting Hispanic adults. She conducted research and led an advocacy campaign aimed at raising awareness and improving access to culturally competent mental health care. Fabiola will attend the University of Virginia to study Biology on the pre-med track, with the goal of becoming a neurologist.

Stafford HS:

Jenah Chase, GPA: 4.897

Jenah is the daughter of Tram and Julia Chase. She has been actively involved in sports, clubs, and activities over the past four years at Stafford High School. She has been a member of Varsity Field Hockey for four years, Girls’ Tennis team, and is the co-founder and co-president of Pickleball Club. Jenah is the secretary for Math National Honor Society and Science National Honor Society. She is also a member of National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Future Business Leaders of America, and Key Club. Jenah has been a part of the Learn and Serve program for the past two years, where she has earned over 70 hours of community service each year. In her spare time, Jenah enjoys playing the piano and guitar, as well as playing board games, card games, and sports. Jenah will be attending the University of Virginia in the fall and plans to major in elementary education.

 

Rachel Kessler, GPA: 4.842

Rachel is a quadruplet born in Bethesda, Maryland to Captain and Mrs. George A. Kessler, Jr. Her father’s military career had the family move around as she grew up, which included living in Japan and Italy prior to arriving in Stafford. She has enjoyed her time at Stafford High School and was active in Key Club, National English Honors Society, Pickleball Club, and Girls Soccer. Her favorite class at SHS was AP European History. Her passions include reading, baking, and spending time with friends and family. Rachel plans to continue her academic career at Jacksonville University pursuing a degree in Nursing followed by a career in the U.S. Navy.

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County residents will see a higher tab when dining out, as the Board of Supervisors voted 4–3 on May 20, 2025, to increase the county’s meals tax from 5% to 6%. The move is expected to generate an additional $3.2 million in annual revenue, all of which will be earmarked for public schools—specifically to support salary increases for teachers and staff.

Heated Debate Over Tax Hike

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Coffee with a Cop

The Stafford County Sheriff’s Office invites the public to its next Coffee with a Cop tomorrow, Wednesday, May 28, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Paradise Diner, 260 Warrenton Road.

Community members, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to attend for a casual conversation with deputies. Attendees can ask questions, express concerns, and get to know the deputies serving their neighborhoods. The event aims to break down barriers, build trust, and foster meaningful relationships throughout Stafford County.

Assault and Battery

Walmart, 125 Washington Square Plaza, 5/24, 10:58 p.m.
Deputy S.C. Steinway responded to a fight between employees. An investigation revealed one employee became upset after being written up and told a witness he would “deck” the victim to “teach him a lesson.” The suspect assaulted the victim as he exited the store. He was identified as the predominant aggressor and charged with assault and battery. A magistrate released him on personal recognizance.

DUI

Wendy’s, 145 Garrisonville Road, 5/25, 11:57 p.m.
While stopped at a red light at Garrisonville and Mine roads, deputies witnessed a vehicle run the red light. The driver, upon being stopped, showed signs of intoxication and admitted to having a shot and “some sips of someone else’s drink.” Field sobriety tests led to charges of driving under the influence and failure to obey a traffic light. The suspect was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail until sober.

Fraud

Madison Court, 5/24, 9:10 a.m.
Deputy C.D. Sullivan responded to a report of a scam. The victim received a phone call claiming fraudulent bank charges, including an Airbnb booking and Dubai amusement park tickets. After providing personal information to the caller, funds were fraudulently withdrawn from her account.

Cedarview Court, 5/24, 12:54 p.m.
Deputy N.D. Fonseca investigated an extortion scheme. The victim received threatening text messages from someone posing as a member of a cartel, demanding money via Zelle or threatening harm to the victim and his family.

Larceny

ABC, 43 Town and Country Drive, 5/24, 6:12 p.m.
Deputy C.D. Quebedeaux responded to a theft. A customer saw a man conceal a bottle of vodka and exit the store. The investigation remains ongoing.

Walmart, 217 Garrisonville Road, 5/25, 2:48 p.m.
Deputy C.D. Sullivan responded after store staff observed a 19-year-old male hiding $150 worth of jewelry in his pants. The suspect also possessed cigars. He was charged with shoplifting and underage tobacco possession. He is being held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail.

Public Intoxication

Cross Ridge Court, 5/23, 3:56 p.m.
Deputy X.D. Bates responded to a domestic disturbance. The suspect, visibly intoxicated, argued with his girlfriend and attempted to argue that public drinking wasn’t a crime. He was charged with public intoxication and held until sober.

Sleep Inn Motel, 595 Warrenton Road, 5/24, 2:32 a.m.
Deputy M.A. Holub was called after a male guest caused issues with motel staff. The suspect was found publicly intoxicated and admitted the beverage in his hand contained alcohol. He was charged with public intoxication and held until sober.

Shoppers, 1505 Stafford Market Place, 5/24, 5:54 p.m.
Deputy X.D. Bates encountered a man sleeping in the parking lot. The suspect, previously charged for similar behavior, was once again arrested for public intoxication and held until sober.

FREDERICKSBURG, Va. – Two potential river crossing corridors have emerged as frontrunners in the effort to ease regional congestion and strengthen north-south connectivity across the Rappahannock River, according to FAMPO staff recommendations presented Monday, May 19.

During the May 19, 2025, meeting of the Fredericksburg Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (FAMPO) Policy Committee, Executive Director Ian Ollis and his team unveiled two preferred alignments—Options A and C—that they believe offer the most viable pathways for a long-debated new bridge linking Stafford County and the City of Fredericksburg.

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STAFFORD, Va. – A new class of future first responders is ready to serve.

In a Facebook post, Stafford County Public Schools congratulated the graduates of High School Fire Academy 6, a program that prepares high school students for careers in fire and emergency services. The photo shows a proud group of students in uniform standing in front of the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Department, smiling with certificates in hand.

The High School Fire Academy is a partnership between Stafford County Public Schools and Stafford County Fire and Rescue. Students who complete the program receive hands-on training in firefighting skills and emergency medical response while earning high school credit and gaining a head start on their careers.

These young cadets represent the sixth class to complete the program — and judging by the photo, they’re more than ready for the next challenge 💪

STAFFORD, Va. – Stafford County residents gathered at the Armed Services Memorial on Friday, May 23, 2025, for the county’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony, a time to honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Deuntay Diggs opened the ceremony by thanking those in attendance and inviting veterans and their families to stand. “We welcome you and thank you for coming today to help us honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom,” said Diggs. “We do this because it is our solemn sacred duty, but more than that, we do it to ensure their sacrifice was not in vain”.

Pastor Chris Brown delivered the invocation, praying:
“Heavenly Father, as our nation pauses today to remember the men and women of our military who have sacrificed their lives so that we could experience the freedom we enjoy as citizens of the greatest nation in the world, we dedicate this service to them… Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction if it’s not fought for, if it’s not protected, if it’s not passed down to future generations”.

The U.S. Army’s Third Infantry Regiment, known as The Old Guard, presented the colors during the ceremony.

Retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Lester Evans, president of Rolling Thunder, Inc., VA Chapter 3, gave the keynote address. “You’ve heard it already, and you’re going to hear it again and again, that we don’t forget,” Evans said.

“I think it’s important for you all to hear real quickly our mission statement… The major function of Rolling Thunder Incorporated is to publicize the POW-MIA issue, to educate the public that many American prisoners of war were left behind after all previous wars, and to help correct the past and to protect future veterans from being left behind should they become prisoners of war or missing in action”.

He also paid tribute to Rolling Thunder’s founding executive director, Arnie Miller, who passed away in April, and shared emotional testimonies from other members about why they joined the organization. “I joined Rolling Thunder to honor the silent battles many veterans face long after combat ends, especially those struggling with PTSD, having lost more friends to these invisible wounds than to the war itself,” one member wrote.

Evans concluded: “We must be louder. We must be bolder in remembrance.”

In closing, Diggs reflected, “Though our ceremony ends, remember our duty does not. Let us leave here not only with solemn hearts, but with a renewed commitment to uphold the values these brave men and women died defending—liberty, unity, and service to others”.

 

STAFFORD COUNTY, Va. – Falmouth Elementary School students got a fresh taste of hands-on learning today, thanks to a Project Learning Garden enhancement grant from Cox Enterprises and the Captain Planet Foundation. The school celebrated the expansion of its outdoor classroom during a community event that drew local leaders and education supporters.

Originally built by students in 2017, the school’s learning garden now includes five raised beds filled with organic soil where students grow a variety of vegetables and herbs. With the help of a $500 grant, new gardening tools, a Vitamix blender, and a mobile cooking cart, students harvested their produce and prepared a garden-fresh salad—learning about nutrition, science, and sustainability in the process.

“This opportunity gives our students the resources to explore nutrition science, math, and language arts through hands-on learning,” said Principal Ashley Hall, in a press release. “With a deeper understanding of where their food comes from, our students will grow both in knowledge and appreciation for the world around them.”

Virginia House Delegate Joshua Cole (D-65, Fredericksburg, Stafford), Falmouth District Supervisor Meg Bohmke, Stafford County Administrator Bill Ashton, and School Board Chair Maureen Siegmund attended the event. They were joined by Cox Enterprises representatives and members of the Captain Planet Foundation to recognize the school’s commitment to real-world learning experiences.

Captain Planet Foundation COO LaToya Henry called the garden a powerful educational tool. “It’s an excellent way to enhance students’ understanding of natural systems, food origins, and healthy eating,” she said.

Falmouth Elementary won the Project Learning Garden grant through an online winter contest. The program provides schools with raised beds, soil, seeds, and various instructional tools. It integrates with subjects like science, social studies, math, and language arts, helping students connect academic lessons with real-life experiences.

“Project Learning Garden significantly benefits children by inspiring them through direct engagement with nature,” said Kathryn Falk, Cox Communications’ Northern Virginia market vice president. “It aligns perfectly with Cox’s mission to empower millions to lead more prosperous lives by 2034.”

STAFFORD, Va. – They say “fighting like cats and dogs,” but Winston the kitten and Dory the dog are rewriting the story.

Winston was adopted just yesterday by a family who already had a dog, Dory. The adopter, a bit hesitant about adding a feline to the mix, asked if he could return Winston if things didn’t work out. The shelter’s answer? Yes—but they always recommend giving pets time to adjust.

Turns out, time wasn’t needed. From the moment they met, Dory and Winston clicked. The gentle dog found a little brother to watch over, and the curious kitten found a best friend. It’s a heartwarming match that shows just how magical adoption can be.

Looking to write your own happy ending? The Stafford County Animal Shelter has plenty of dogs, cats, and kittens ready to meet you!

Visit the Stafford County Animal Shelter
26 Frosty Lane, Stafford, VA 22554
📞 (540) 658-7387
🌐 staffordcountyanimalcontrol.com
🕚 Monday–Friday: 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
🕘 Saturday: 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Think your home might be the perfect place for a new furry friend? Stop by the shelter today or share this story to help more pets find their forever homes!

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.

 

Colonial Forge High School’s Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program is more than just a class—it’s a commitment to saving lives, a fast track to high-demand careers, and a transformation of ordinary students into certified first responders before they don graduation robes. Stafford County Public Schools offers an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) program as part of their Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings.

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