Join

Students Plea for School Funding to Lower Class Sizes

With the possibility of fewer local and state school funding next year, public school students made an impassionate plea to Prince William County officials Tuesday night. They said their overcrowded classrooms have led to disruptions, fighting among students, and have negatively impacted the academic process.

The students, as well as members of the Prince William Federation of Teachers, urged the Board of Supervisors to fully fund the county’s public school system during the upcoming budget season. Students also said there too much focus has been placed on Virginia’s Standards of Learning exams.

“In my classes, the focus has been put on passing a test and not succeeding overall in life. We should put more focus into learning form all sides,” said Kimberly Alfaro, 17, a junior at Gar-Field High School in Woodbridge. “I love to learn…I love to ask questions from all angles, not about just what’s on the next test.”

With only one teacher to an average classroom of 25 or more learners, keeping students well-behaved and under control can often get in the way of educational time.

“I’ve seen a lot of wandering eyes on tests, and when we have chaotic classrooms – when a large amount of adolescents are in confined spaces – it can be a danger to others and learning” said Jessica Wilson, 17, a senior at Woodbridge Senior High School.

Prior to coming to Woodbridge high, Wilson spent a year in an all girls classroom at Woodbridge Middle School where, she said, the classroom was rife with student disruptions and misbehavior.

“In a classroom of all 28 girls, you can image how that went,” she said.

Prince William officials give just over 57% of the county’s entire budget to the school division. Schools Superintendent Dr. Steven Walts told school officials that an expected reduction in state and local funds in the coming year could impact efforts to reduce the average number of students in classrooms. Prince William County has the largest number of students per teacher in the Washington area.

“We urge you to fully fund our school system for the good of the county,” said Bill Hosp, with the Prince William Federation of Teachers. “Great things can happen if we put our differences aside for the moment and focus on what’s good for our students.”

Photo: Woodbridge Senior High School student Jessica Wilson addresses the Prince William County Board of Supervisors. 

 

Recent Stories

The mother of a former student at North Stafford High School has filed a lawsuit against the county school division seeking $15 million in compensatory damages, alleging failure to protect her child.

Virginia is beginning to experience some of the impacts from the cargo ship crash that brought down Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, closing a vital shipping lane leading to one of the eastern seaboard’s busiest ports.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger was in Stafford County on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 to tout her efforts to bring federal dollars to the district.

Route 1 is closed at Port Potomac in Woodbridge, near Cardinal Drive. 

Are you facing life’s challenges, feeling overwhelmed, or seeking personal growth? Embrace the path to emotional well-being with our expert psychotherapy services!

Why Choose Us?

Our team of compassionate and experienced psychotherapists is here to guide you on your journey to inner peace, self-discovery, and positive change. We provide a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Dreaming of small-town charm with big-city convenience? Look no further than 7156 Main St in Clifton, Virginia! Nestled just 30 miles from the heart of Washington D.C., this picturesque property offers the best of both worlds.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to find tranquility in this quaint, historic town. With its tree-lined streets and friendly community atmosphere, Clifton is the perfect place to call home. Yet, with its close proximity to the nation’s capital, you’ll never be far from the excitement and opportunities of urban living.

Imagine weekends exploring local shops, dining at charming cafes, and enjoying outdoor adventures in nearby parks. Then, commute to D.C. for work or play, soaking in all the culture, entertainment, and career opportunities the city has to offer.

Read More

Submit your own Community Post here.

Van Metre 5K Run

Participate in the 32nd Annual Van Metre 5K Run, a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, and every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and

Ă—

Subscribe to our mailing list