The Prince William County School Board adopted the 2021-22 school calendar at its meeting on November 4.
The approved calendar will include two full weeks for winter break and incorporates additional holidays that reflect the diversity of the PWCS community. The first day of school will be Monday, August 23, 2021, and the last day of school will be Wednesday, June 15, 2022.
Schools will be closed for the winter break from Monday, December 20, 2021, through Friday, December 31, 2021. Schools will reopen on Monday, January 3, 2022.
In October, the School Division developed a poll requesting parents and community members to provide feedback regarding preferences for the 2021-22 school calendar. The poll included two calendar options in response to decisions made by the School Board for the 2021-22 school calendar and feedback on previous calendars. One option was similar to the calendar originally approved for 2020-21, and the other incorporated additional holidays. Both options started and ended on the same dates, but there were differences within the calendars relative to winter break and the Monday after spring break.
The two calendar options and poll results were presented to the School Board at the October 21 meeting, where the School Board requested the now-approved third option encompassing a full two weeks for winter break and the additional holidays. To account for the additional days, the 2021-22 school year was extended from June 10 to June 15.
Please keep in mind that the official calendar approved by the School Board will not denote any religious holidays by name. Once the 2021-22 school calendar is published, it will simply list School Division holidays as “School Holiday – Schools and Offices Closed.”
The “Annual School Guide and Calendar,” which includes student artwork, general School Division information, and dates of several School Division events, lists many religious holidays (some that are school holidays, and others that are not).
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
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.
