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August 13, 2020 - Vol. 3, No. 6

Superintendent of Schools to retire at the end of school year

Dr. Steven Walts announced that he will retire as Superintendent at the conclusion of the 2020-21 school year. Dr. Walts has served as Superintendent of Prince William County Public Schools for more than 15 years. Under his leadership, PWCS has seen a significant increase in the on-time graduation rate, creation of full-day kindergarten, and the building of 25 new schools, all during a period that saw student enrollment nearly double. 

Read more

Learn more about SwimKids 
This ad supports SPARK, the Education Foundation for PWCS.

The bell schedule for all PWCS high schools will be moved by one hour, to start at 8:30 a.m. The new start time will apply to all high school students, those attending in-person and virtually. The end time will move back one hour as well, so the total time of the school day remains the same. This change will apply in the first quarter, or longer, as long as the majority of students are virtual. 

View sample high school schedule 

Applications available for 2020-21 school year

Meals are available for free or reduced prices for eligible students in Prince William County Public Schools. In order to receive these benefits, you must apply for meal assistance every year. Applications filed last year are only good for the first few days of school. 

Visit the PWCS Food and Nutrition Services website to learn more about eligibility and the online application process.

Student Health Reminders for 2020-21 School Year

Immunizations and Physicals

Parents are encouraged to proceed with well-child physicals and immunizations for school enrollment

Requirement of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine for rising seventh-grade students

Drive-thru Tdap Vaccine Clinic for Rising Seventh Graders
Monday, August 17, 2020
9 to 11 a.m.
Metz Middle School
9950 Wellington Rd
Manassas, VA 20110

• COVID-19 precautions will be in place so remember to wear your face mask
• All people in the car will receive a COVID screening (not a test).
• Held rain or shine
• No appointment needed - first come first served (limit 200 doses)
• Parent/guardian must be present for their student to receive the vaccine.
• Must bring a copy of your child’s insurance card(s).
• Please note: Insurance status does not determine your child’s eligibility to receive the vaccine.

HPV vaccine optional for students before entering sixth grade

Student Athletes

All students planning to try out for a school athletic team must have a current physical and have completed concussion training.

Visit the Student Athletics webpage for links to forms and online concussion training.

Announcement

School Board to meet Wednesday, August 19 regarding Return to Learning, Return to Work plans

Find answers to your Return to Learn questions 

To help answer the many questions we know our parents and students have about the new school year, PWCS has developed a comprehensive, one-stop FAQ webpage. If you prefer video format, you can watch/listen to many of the Return to Learn FAQ on this YouTube playlist.

Good News

Unity Reed High School Teacher Taylor McManus’ artwork featured in “Newsweek” magazine

Congratulations to Taylor McManus, art teacher at Unity Reed High School, whose portrait was selected to accompany an article in “Newsweek” magazine. Read more

King Elementary virtual summer camp offers hands-on STEM lessons 

Missing interaction with students in after-school clubs, King Elementary teacher Jennifer Dittamo was inspired to host a virtual summer camp with STEM activities to keep students engaged and learning. Read more

 “Tee Off for Education” Golf Classic raises funds for students

SPARK and Old Hickory Golf Club hosted the 27th Annual “Tee Off for Education” Golf Classic to support public education in Prince William County, specifically the SPARK Innovative Grants Program. Read more

Meet the Principal - Mike Nicely