Podcast: Play in new window | Download (11.3MB)
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS | More
New Podcast Episode: Honoring the Legacy of Jenny Dean and the Future of Manassas City Public Schools
Our latest Potomac Local News Podcast episode features an inspiring conversation with Almeta Radford, spokeswoman for Manassas City Public Schools. We dive into the details of the $47 million groundbreaking project for the new Jennie Dean Elementary School, set to open in 2026.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
1. The Significance of Jenny Dean’s Legacy
- Discover how Jennie Dean, born into slavery, became a trailblazer by founding the Manassas Industrial School for African American Children and how her contributions shaped the community.
2. A Community-Centered Design
- Hear how architects and community leaders worked together to design a building that honors Dean’s legacy while incorporating modern educational needs, including outdoor learning spaces, energy-efficient features, and state-of-the-art security.
3. Behind the Budget
- Learn how strategic timing and innovative procurement processes brought the project in under the $62 million budget originally estimated.
4. What’s Next for Manassas City Schools
- Get insight into future challenges and priorities for the school division as the city grows.
This episode captures the excitement and importance of a project that’s not just about a building but about celebrating history, serving the present, and shaping the future.
Tune in to hear Almeta’s reflections, the passion behind the project, and what this milestone means for the Manassas community.
Listen now and join us in celebrating this major step forward for our schools and students.
What are your thoughts on the new Jennie Dean Elementary School project? Please share them in the comments below.
Recent Stories

The New Dominion Choraliers
Have a Show-Stopping Concert in Store!
Join us on Saturday, May 3 or Sunday, May 4 as the New Dominion Choraliers put on a concert with fun and fabulous songs straight from your favorite Broadway shows and Big Screen musicals. Selections from Pixar, Disney, and Rodgers and Hammerstein offer familiar tunes across the generations, as well as selections from Wicked, Les Miserables, The Greatest Showman, and more!

Properly using a car seat can reduce the risk of injury or death in a car crash by a significant amount, with studies showing reductions of 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers.
Check your child safety seat with the Montgomery County Safe Kids Coalition on Thursday March 20, 2025 from 10am-12:30pm. No appointment necessary.
Fitzgerald GMC Rockville
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Cascade Landing Community Grand Opening
You’re invited to celebrate the Official Grand Opening of our newest community Cascade Landing in Dumfries, VA. Join us April 12th from 11 AM – 6 PM and fall for your new townhome!
Enjoy our grand opening celebration, complete with