Opinion
On September 3, I had the opportunity to attend the Roundtable Discussion at Brooke Point High School with Governor Terry McAuliffe and Secretary of Education, Anne Holton. The event took place in the brand new library – a high-tech learning space to foster collaboration and innovation among students. The takeaway from the discussion with 20+ parents that morning was that investing in teachers, reducing classroom size, and bringing innovation back into our schools will build a more prosperous Virginia for us all.
These parents made it abundantly clear that we must reform the SOLs. As one parent mentioned, previous generations sent a man to the moon and they never took a single SOL test. We need to empower teachers to be creative and innovative in the classroom again.
Parents described the negative experiences of their children when they are stuck in overcrowded classrooms. Fewer students in the classroom enable greater conversation and better exchange of ideas.
Several parents recounted how difficult it is for parents to be involved in their children’s schools, when they spend so much time fighting traffic to and from work everyday.
These parents also explained the importance of teachers having ongoing support through professional mentoring, skills training, and the chance to learn from one another.
Based on what these parents said, investing our schools must be our top priority.
Public education has seen a 17% reduction in state funding since 2008, while our student population continues to grow. Virginia is the 9th wealthiest state, yet our teacher salary ranks 37th in the nation – $7,456 below the national average. When I served as the Aquia District Supervisor in Stafford County, I always fought for public schools. When Richmond told us they weren’t going to fully fund the Standards of Quality (SOQs), which covers the basics in our schools, I staged a bi-partisan protest outside the Stafford Administration Building because we deserve better for our kids.
I ask for your vote on November 3rd because elections matter. I want to go to Richmond and champion public education. Our ability to build a more prosperous Virginia in the future depends on the quality of public education today.
*Kandy Hilliard is a former member of the Stafford Board of Supervisors and is currently running for the 28th District seat in the Virginia House of Delegates.
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Join us on Friday, January 10, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m., with a special Ribbon Cutting at 2 p.m. Be inspired by keynote speaker Rita McClenny, President & CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation while enjoying a light reception featuring classic Fredericksburg favorites.
Location: 601 Caroline Street, 1st Floor, Fredericksburg
For event inquiries, contact: 540-372-1216 | [email protected]
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Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.
The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.
The Stafford location features state-of-the-art equipment, including strength machines, free weights, a dedicated area for high-intensity interval training (HIIT), and a functional training room with turf for agility exercises. Members can also access amenities such as fully equipped locker rooms with showers, a mobility and stretching space, and free WiFi.
A highlight of the facility is the Black Card Spa, available to those who pay for a higher membership tier. The spa includes Hydro Massage Loungers, massage chairs, recovery loungers, and salon-grade tanning beds, offering members an opportunity to relax and recover post-workout.
Called to Jail
A 44-year-old man found himself back at Rappahannock Regional Jail after making a false report and harassing a jail officer with obscene phone calls. Initially, deputies responded to a call about a death and gunshot outside the jail, which turned out to be false. The suspect, located at a local motel, was arrested and charged with using obscene language and filing a false report.
Assault
– Marion Manor Nursing Home: A staff member assaulted another during a disagreement. The suspect was charged with assault and battery and held without bond.
– Shasta Place: A male suspect bit the victim during a verbal altercation. He was charged with assault and battery but released on personal recognizance.
DUI
Deputies discovered a car in a ditch on Courthouse Road. The driver admitted to drinking beer, with three empty cans found in her vehicle. She was charged with DUI, drinking while driving, and refusal, and held on a $3,000 bond.
Hit and Run
A vehicle struck a VDOT sign and two unoccupied trucks at EZ Auto Sales before the driver fled. Deputies identified the suspect using evidence left in the vehicle, and warrants for hit and run and property destruction were issued.
Several schools in our region have announced closures and delays for Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions and inclement weather. Here is the latest list of updates:
Spotsylvania County Public Schools
Spotsylvania County Public Schools are closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to icy road conditions.
Code 2: 12-month employees report two hours late as safety permits.
Essential personnel will report at specified times.
All school-sponsored activities and student externships are canceled.
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King George County Public Schools
King George County Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to adverse road conditions and inclement weather.
Code 2: 12-month employees report at 10 a.m.
Liberal leave will be in effect.
We’ll update this post with additional school closures and delays as they are announced.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
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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.
Featuring:
