Schools
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The Stafford County Board of Supervisors is considering a zero-tax-increase budget for 2025, which has drawn community members’ support and concern. During the February 4, 2025, meeting, parents and education advocates urged the board to fund Stafford County Public Schools (SCPS) fully, emphasizing the need for higher teacher salaries, facility repairs, and student resources.
Parents Demand More Investment in Schools
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A debate over financial transparency and fiscal responsibility erupted during the Prince William Board of County Supervisors’ meeting as members weighed the transfer of $31.6 million to Prince William County Schools (PWCS). The funds, representing the school division’s share of the Fiscal Year 2024 general revenue surplus, were allocated under the county’s long-standing revenue-sharing agreement.
While the measure ultimately passed, some supervisors raised concerns that the county’s revenue-sharing model does not adequately oversee how the school system spends taxpayer money.
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Osbourn Park High School has received the Virginia School Breakfast Award from the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) for its success in expanding breakfast access, maintaining nutritional integrity, and serving more scratch-cooked meals. The school is one of three recipients this year.
Cafeteria manager Nidia Bruno expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasizing the team’s dedication to feeding students. Andrea Early, director of Food and Nutrition, noted that breakfast participation at Osbourn Park has increased by 30% and praised the cafeteria team for efficiently managing the expanded program. The school benefits from the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) Program, which provides free breakfast and lunch to all students.
The scholarship provides financial assistance to students attending Virginia colleges and universities who are majoring in criminal justice, excluding those pursuing a law degree or legal career. Applicants must obtain a letter of recommendation from their resident sheriff before applying.
Prince William County residents must contact the Sheriff’s Office by April 4, 2025, to schedule an appointment with Sheriff Hill for the recommendation. The deadline to submit the online application and required documents is May 1, 2025. More details and application materials are available on the VSI website.
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Stafford County Public Schools advise families and staff to practice good hygiene habits to reduce the spread of flu, colds, and other viruses as cases rise in the community.
Parents are encouraged to ensure children wash their hands frequently, avoid touching their faces, and cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing. The CDC and Virginia Department of Health recommend flu vaccinations for anyone six months and older.
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A significant component of this year’s budget is a $1.098 billion Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), aiming to address overcrowding, modernize aging facilities, and support long-term student enrollment shifts.
Major Investments in New Schools and Renovations
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The event is designed to introduce approximately 2,500 sixth-grade students to various career pathways through hands-on learning opportunities, interactive exhibits, and connections with local professionals and businesses. The expo aims to help students begin planning for high school and their future careers by exposing them to various industries.
Director of Career and Technical Education Stephanie Carter emphasized that Career GPS is more than just a field trip. It calls it an opportunity for students to explore possibilities, make informed decisions, and gain confidence in selecting pathways that align with their interests. The event will feature interactive exhibits showcasing different career fields, high school student ambassadors who will share insights into academic programs, and opportunities for students to engage with industry professionals.
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Fredericksburg City Public Schools (FCPS) students and staff were honored at the Virginia General Assembly for their work on the FCPS Youth Mental Health Taskforce. The delegation, invited by State Senator Tara Durant, spent the day in Richmond serving as legislators and meeting with state officials.
The students arrived at the Virginia General Assembly Building at 9:45 a.m. January 29, 2025, where they met with Senator Durant before touring the historic Capitol. They then participated in a Q&A session with legislators, discussing the importance of youth mental health initiatives.