Manassas City Public Schools

MANASSAS, Va. – Families in Manassas may be pleasantly surprised to learn that every student enrolled in Manassas City Public Schools will receive free breakfast and lunch again this school year—but it’s not a new perk.

The school division has been participating in the federal Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) since the 2021–2022 school year, a program that allows schools in low-income areas to serve free meals to all students without collecting household applications. What began during the height of the pandemic has quietly become the new normal for Manassas schools.

MANASSAS, Va. – The Manassas City School Board will meet Tuesday, July 22, to review progress on key projects ahead of the new school year, including construction of the new Jennie Dean Elementary School, changes to the division’s Code of Conduct, and strategies to address bullying in schools.

Jennie Dean construction update

Abigail Huser, a life science teacher and department lead at Metz Middle School, has been named Manassas City Public Schools’ 2025 Washington Post Teacher of the Year. Known for her energy, leadership, and dedication, Huser is being recognized for going the extra mile to support students’ academic and personal growth.

Huser joined MCPS in 2022 and quickly became a mentor, coach, and instructional leader. From translating lessons for multilingual learners to coaching the volleyball team, she brings creativity and heart to everything she does. Metz Principal Juliet Finnegan called her “the teacher every student hopes to have,” praising her ability to create a classroom culture rooted in curiosity and respect.

MANASSAS, Va. – A spirited discussion emerged at the June 5 Manassas City School Board work session as board members debated whether the district should allow teachers to assign zeroes to students who fail to turn in assignments.

The proposal, introduced by board member Sara Brescia, aims to revise the current grading policy, which uses a 50–100 scale and does not allow grades below 50%, even for missing work. Brescia argued that the lack of a true zero disincentivizes student effort.

Students were honored for their medal-winning performances and commitment to public service and career development:

Others competed in Crime Scene Investigation and Job Interview events