Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) has been invited by the National Attendance and Engagement Meta Network to join a select group of school divisions recognized for their leadership in reducing chronic absenteeism.
According to a PWCS press release, the division marked Attendance Awareness Month by highlighting its efforts to improve student engagement and reduce chronic absenteeism. From 2021 to 2025, PWCS lowered its chronic absenteeism rate by 6.7%, including a 5.7% decrease in the 2023–24 school year, earning national recognition for its effective strategies.
As part of the National Attendance and Engagement Meta Network, PWCS will collaborate with other school districts, share data and strategies, and refine approaches to support students’ academic, emotional, and physical needs. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing 10% or more of the school year and affects nearly 15 million students nationwide. PWCS aims to strengthen attendance and student outcomes through this partnership.
“We are honored to receive this invitation, and this opportunity aligns with our strategic vision, ensuring every student feels supported and inspired to attend and thrive every day,” said Dr. Kala Goodwine, director of student health and wellness. Goodwine further said that “the invitation to join the Meta Network is a powerful affirmation of the strides PWCS has made” and confirms that their strategies are working. It also signals that the school division is ready to help shape the national conversation on student engagement and absenteeism.
PWCS is the second largest school division in Virginia and the 32nd largest in the nation, serving over 90,000 students across various educational programs. The division offers academic specialty programs, two Governor’s Schools, dual enrollment opportunities, Advanced Placement courses, Cambridge Programme, International Baccalaureate courses, career and technology certifications, robotics programs, and instruction in ten world languages. Emphasizing sustainability and family engagement with support for 174 languages, PWCS also partners with businesses and community organizations. Led by Superintendent Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, PWCS reports a 94.3% on-time graduation rate with over $123 million in scholarships for the class of 2024.
