On Sunday, January 31, the Catholic Diocese of Arlington begins celebrating National Catholic Schools Week (January 31–February 6).
The annual celebration, sponsored by the National Catholic Educational Association, is meant to highlight the unique role of Catholic schools in providing exceptional instruction rooted in the Catholic Faith.
This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Faith. Excellence. Service.” See photo of third graders at St. Mark Catholic School in Vienna.
“Our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Arlington are characterized by their strong Catholic identity and commitment to excellence in education. Each school is unique and inspiring in its own way, and I am proud to say that each is a thriving community of faith,” said Bishop Michael F. Burbidge, Catholic Diocese of Arlington. “We know this year has been particularly challenging for our teachers, administrators, parents and students. Together with the pastors of our diocese, I thank everyone associated with our Catholic schools for their ongoing, steadfast commitment to the students during these difficult times. I also express appreciation to our pastors who continue to be strong spiritual guides and leaders of our schools. Our school communities are full of faithful servants, helping children to grow in faith and the love of God, while encouraging them to use their gifts to glorify the Lord and serve our brothers and sisters in most need. Through their efforts, we have seen the light of Christ shine through the darkness.”
During Catholic Schools Week, Catholic schools across the Diocese take the opportunity to undertake special initiatives for the community. A number of schools, including Holy Cross Academy (grades K-8) in Fredericksburg, and Holy Spirit Catholic School (grades K-8) in Annandale, are showing their appreciation for community first responders (police, fire, EMT, medical professionals, and, at Holy Spirit, military personnel) through videos, cards and care packages.
“This year, we celebrate Catholic Schools Week at a unique time. Catholic Schools in the Diocese have demonstrated incredible flexibility and creativity over the past year, ensuring our ability to continue offering in-person instruction in a variety of models across the Diocese. And, with the announcement of St. Isidore fully virtual school, we were also able to ensure the needs of families preferring fully virtual learning were met,” said Dr. Joseph Vorbach III, Superintendent of Catholic Schools. “I thank all in our school communities for their commitment to Catholic education, and I look forward to celebrating our schools and the rich opportunities to grow in faith and knowledge that exist in Catholic education.”
More than 70 percent of Catholic schools in the Diocese have been recognized as Blue Ribbon Schools of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education. Standardized test scores demonstrate that students in Catholic schools within the Diocese score well above national averages. This year, all 41 brick-and-mortar Catholic schools in the Diocese, which serve 17,000 students, reopened in the fall for either safe-distance full-time in-person instruction or a hybrid of in-person instruction and e-Learning.
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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]
Do you have an event you’d like to share with the community? Submitting your event to Potomac Local News is FREE and easy! Just fill out our form using this link: Submit Your Event.
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.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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:
