This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
What’s on the agenda?
- The post-cellphone era in schools: How the ban is reshaping classrooms and reducing behavioral issues.
- Big plans for 2025: Over $1 billion in capital improvements, exciting new extracurricular programs, and updates to the strategic plan.
- Teacher retention and compensation: Learn how Prince William County is setting new benchmarks for teacher salaries and competitiveness.
- Graduation rates and academic rigor: Discover how the school division is helping students achieve excellence and access unprecedented scholarship opportunities.
Dr. Lateef also shares insights into his campaign for Virginia Lieutenant Governor, touching on statewide education funding and key constitutional amendments.
Don’t miss this in-depth look at the policies and priorities shaping the future of education in our community. Subscribe to our channel now and hit the bell to get notified when the podcasts drop!
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS).
Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
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The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
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Stafford County Sheriff’s Office Incidents
McDUI in Fast Food Drive-Thru
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
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The Prince William County Circuit Court Clerk announced the continuation of the "Seals on Wheels" initiative for 2025. This mobile services program, led by Circuit Court Clerk Jacqueline C. Smith, brings essential court services directly to community members in Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park. Services include marriage licenses, name changes, notary oaths, and concealed handgun permits.
The program's 2025 schedule begins in March and will visit various community locations, including libraries and local events such as the Occoquan Riverfest and Haymarket Day. Residents can save time and money by accessing services at convenient locations. For updated schedules and information, follow the Circuit Court Clerk’s social media or visit their website.
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Upcoming road work in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and surrounding areas includes several projects to improve infrastructure and ensure safe travel for drivers. On Interstate 95 southbound, the Exit 126 off-ramp in Spotsylvania will have alternating single-lane closures from Sunday through Saturday, 7 p.m. to 10 a.m., as crews work to widen the ramp and add a right turn lane to Route 1 southbound.
In Fredericksburg, Wellford Street will see waterline work from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with flaggers alternating one-way traffic between Route 1 and Wallace Street.
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If you’re missing a furry friend, check out the photos below! These animals were turned into the Prince William County Animal Services Center as strays between January 21, 2025, and January 23, 2025. The shelter posts pictures of strays brought to their facility multiple times weekly to help reunite owners with their pets.
What to Do If You Recognize Your Pet: If you think one of the animals is yours, contact the Center directly:
- Phone: (703) 792-6465
- Email: [email protected]
- In-Person: Visit the shelter at 14807 Bristow Rd, Manassas, VA 20112.
Important Reminders:
- Proof of ownership is required to redeem your pet.
- Bring proof of your pet’s current rabies vaccination at the time of redemption.
Hours of Operation for Redemption:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday-Friday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
- Sunday: Noon – 4 p.m.
Lost pets can be redeemed daily starting at 8 a.m., even on days the Center is closed for business.
The photos shared are not all-inclusive. If your pet is missing, reach out to the Center immediately to check if they’ve been brought in.
Reunite with your best friend today—don’t wait!
Jeff Goettman, Yesli Vega, Meg Bryce and Ken Marcus were among the appointees blocked.
When these appointments made it to the full Senate floor Friday afternoon, the debate lasted hours.
