The MCPS Education Foundation is pleased to announce that it has awarded more than $74,000 to programs in Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) this year. The Foundation’s Grants program encourages educators to identify and develop solutions to educational challenges.
Lisa Harlow, STEM Instructional Coach earned funding for a new program “Take a Closer Look”, which will provide each classroom at Haydon Elementary with a hand held microscope/camera and an iPad to view the images. “This will allow students to more closely examine the scientific world around them. From simple observations in Kindergarten to the study of plant reproduction in grade four, access to these microscopes and the ability to view and record the images will enhance our students understanding of the standards they are expected to master.”
To address a deficit on 3rd grade History SOLs, Ancient China artifact boxes will be used in 2nd grade classes at each elementary school in the District . Students will use the artifacts to develop an understanding for the process by which evaluating primary sources requires.
Special Education Case Managers will be getting some needed help with the Assistive Technology/Alternative Augmentative Communication Program (AT/AAC). Due to motor, cognitive, or communication issues, these students often struggle to demonstrate what they have learned or to communicate basic information. This program will provide tools, resources, and training sessions that will help the instructional team to tailor communication systems to student’s individual needs and abilities.
Lego StoryStarter will be utilized school-wide at Haydon Elementary. StoryStarter is a hands-on tool that is designed to motivate students to write. Using specially selected LEGO bricks and minifigures, students can work collaboratively or individually to create a scene or story that they then put into writing. “This tool will provide the motivation that many students need to express themselves and their ideas” said Diana Hahn, Reading Interventionist.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) funding comprises the majority of the Education Foundation grants. Together, Micron Technology Foundation and Lockheed Martin generously contributed more than $56,000 to the MCPS Education Foundation to be used specifically for STEM initiatives such as FIRST LEGO League at Elementary Schools, VEX Robotics at Mayfield Intermediate, Robotics Programs at Metz Middle School and Osbourn High School, as well as Summer Engineering Camps.
The Foundation awarded a total of 18 grants including support for a Mathletes program at Jennie Dean Elementary, Saturday Learning Seminars, Backpack Attack Program of Manassas, Brain Games Cart at Baldwin Elementary, Youth Salute Leadership Council, and other Literacy and Physical Fitness programs.
The MCPS Education Foundation is preparing to assess scholarship applications for graduating Osbourn High School Seniors . Scholarship applications are due by April 7, 2015. Additionally, up to sixteen $250 Summer enrichment scholarships will be available this year and these applications are due by May 15. For applications and more information about the MCPS Education Foundation, visit www.mcpsedfoundation.org
Recent Stories
Osbourn Park High School has received the Virginia School Breakfast Award from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for its success in expanding breakfast access, maintaining nutritional integrity, and serving more scratch-cooked meals. The school is one of three recipients this year.
Cafeteria manager Nidia Bruno expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the team’s dedication to feeding students. Andrea Early, director of Food and Nutrition, noted that breakfast participation at Osbourn Park has increased by 30% and praised the cafeteria team for efficiently managing the expanded program. The school benefits from the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students.
(FXBG Advance) – Local delegates Joshua Cole, a Democrat, and Hillary Pugh Kent, a Republican, have been appointed to an emergency committee that will monitor the impact to Virginia of the…
Nothing Bundt Cakes has officially opened its doors just outside Manassas, bringing its signature, handcrafted bundt cakes to the community. The Prince William Chamber of Commerce celebrated the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new bakery at 9825 Liberia Avenue, Suite 101.
The popular national bakery chain, known for its rich, moist cakes and signature cream cheese frosting, offers a variety of flavors and sizes, from bite-sized Bundtinis to 10-inch Bundt cakes perfect for special occasions. The store aims to be a go-to destination for birthdays, anniversaries, and everyday celebrations.
“We are ecstatic to have them join the thriving business community in Prince William County,” said a representative from the Chamber. “Their presence adds to the diverse selection of locally owned and franchised businesses that make this area a great place to shop and dine.”
Federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of Virginia recently secured convictions in multiple high-profile cases. A Maryland man was convicted of trafficking cocaine and fentanyl to Fredericksburg, while a Stafford man was found guilty of assaulting a deaf passenger during a flight. A Honduran national was sentenced for illegally reentering the U.S. and failing to register as a sex offender, and a Dumfries man pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 relief funds. Each case underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to hold criminals accountable. Read on for case details and links to full press releases.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
