The newest middle school in Prince William County will serve to bridge the gap between in-person learners and those who excel at learning virtually at home.
Potomac Shores Middle School, at 17851 Woods View Drive near Dumfries, is the second new school to be built in the neighborhood that bears the same name. The three-story, nearly 200-square-foot, $65 million school building will open in September.
When finished, the school will house grades six through eight, and boast multiple labs, career and technical education rooms, a makers space, an 800-seat auditorium, stadium, and multiple sports fields, all sitting on 52 acres near the Potomac River.
“This whole building is structured around the idea that, in the 21st century, in a working world, we have to have these spaces where people are able to work together, communicate, collaborate, and have those projects that they need to do together,” said Justin Wilk, who represents the county’s Potomac Magisterial District on the School Board.
Many of the classrooms have an open design, much like a modern co-work space, that’s meant to encourage collaboration between students. It’s a “what’s old is new again” approach to school construction. Four county high schools — Gar-Field, Woodbridge, Osbourn Park, and Unity Reed (formerly Stonewall Jackson), all built in the 1970s –featured open classrooms meant to bring together students to share ideas.
Classroom walls were nothing more movable dividers that could be opened or closed depending upon the needs of the teacher and students. Over the years, noise and other distractions became an issue. Some of the classrooms, or pods as they were called, were enclosed to create a more traditional classroom setting.
“Yes, we’re going back to the mindset that we want to collaborate. But I think technology has advanced to a point,” said Wilk. “We want to have an open setting, we want kids to collaborate…I think a major difference that you have versus the 1960s and 70s when some of the older schools were built…but what is new now is 21st-century education and virtual instruction and support resources that these kids are going to have in this building, to really explore anything they want.”
Prince William County Public Schools led the way in the region this past year, pushing for the return of children to the classroom. Many students failed at virtual learning or just gave up due to a lack of interest or support.Â
But, as far as online learning is concerned, the cat is out of the bag and here to stay, said Wilk. “I want kids back [in class]. I think it’s important they’re back and we try to return to some type of normalcy. But the reality is, I think we’ve exposed families to the powers of virtual education,” said Wilk. “It’s not necessarily my primary mode of how I think instruction should be delivered but many kids were successful.”
Prince William County has the option for parents to keep their children learning from home in its fall learning plan. Those who didn’t complete the survey last month will be expected to show up in person on the first day of school on August, 23.
Going forward, children to opt to learn from home can still be able to come into the school building and take advantage of the labs, as well as the extracurricular activities, said Wilk.
The middle school opening follows the opening of Covington-Harper Elementary School in 2017, the first school to open in the Potomac Shores neighborhood. A second, yet-to-be-named elementary school is slated to open in Potomac Shores in 2023.
Also opening this fall in Prince William County is Gainesville High School, located behind Jiffy Lube Live in Gainesville. The $125 million school will house nearly 2,600 students.
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Fredericksburg Police have launched automated speed enforcement cameras in school zones at Hugh Mercer Elementary and James Monroe High School to curb speeding and improve safety. The move is part of a partnership formed in November 2024 between the Fredericksburg Police Department and the city, aiming to reduce speeding near schools and protect students, staff, and families.
To ease drivers into the new system, the city implemented a 30-day warning period following the installation of the cameras. During this period, violators received warnings instead of citations, a step the city said was designed to “educate drivers and encourage compliance with speed limits.”
Between December 12, 2024, and January 10, 2025, Fredericksburg Police issued 247 warnings for speeding violations. The highest recorded speed was 50 mph. At James Monroe High School, located on Washington Avenue, 66 warnings were given, 19 of which were for speeds at least 15 mph over the 15 mph school zone limit. The highest recorded speed at this location was 33 mph.
Cute and sweet Niffy has been at the shelter for four months, waiting patiently to find a family to call her own. This adorable girl is about four and has a gentle, loving nature. She gets along well with other dogs and loves going for long walks. Niffy is happiest when she’s curled up next to you for a cuddle session when she’s not out on an adventure.
Despite many visitors who promise to return for her, Niffy is still patiently waiting for the right family to take her home. This sweet girl deserves a loving home where she can feel safe, cherished, and adored.
If you’re interested in adopting Niffy, please don’t hesitate to ask for more information.
Looking for a fun and educational experience for kids? Check out Semillitas: Puerto Rican Bomba Kids. This event brings Puerto Rican bomba songs, dance, and music to Stafford every Sunday starting February 2, 2025, and running through June 1, 2025. Kids will enjoy learning rhythm, dance moves, and songs in an interactive environment.
The classes are designed for children up to 10, with a unique May 4 program featuring visiting artists from Puerto Rico!
Dates: Feb 2nd, Mar 2nd, Apr 6th, Jun 1st
Time: 1:30 pm – 2:15 pm
Location: Virtuous Dance Center, 31 Utah Place #101, Stafford.
Cost: $10 for the first child, $7 for additional children per class, $32 for all four classes for the first child, and $24 for each additional child.
It’s free to submit your events to Potomac Local! Simply visit this link: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the details, and we’ll feature your event!
Authorities have released additional details regarding the homicide of 61-year-old Charles Childress and 59-year-old Kimberly Newcomb, whose bodies were discovered on January 25, 2025, at a residence in the 10800 block of Heatherwood Drive.
The Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office initially responded to the home after a concerned friend discovered a deceased female and called 911. Upon arrival, deputies found both victims dead at the scene. Investigators have now confirmed that both victims died from multiple gunshot wounds.
Following the autopsy, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner confirmed the cause of death as gunshot wounds. Detectives with the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) continue their investigation and work around the clock to process evidence and interview potential witnesses. While the relationship between the victims remains under investigation, it has been confirmed that they were living together at the residence.
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.
