Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS), in collaboration with George Mason University and the Virginia Department of Education, hosted the Student Ambassador Convening aimed at inspiring leadership and empowering high school students to effect positive change.
According to a news release by PWCS, the event took place at George Mason University’s Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, gathering over 100 high school student ambassadors from PWCS. The objective was to strengthen student-led communities where all students feel supported and connected. The day commenced with a keynote address by nationally recognized storyteller Joseph Green, followed by breakout sessions led by experts, including professors from George Mason University. These sessions focused on leadership, decision-making, time management, focus, and well-being.
Throughout the convening, students utilized a “3-2-1” reflection framework to capture insights, plan initiatives for their schools, and identify questions for further growth. Originally part of the Virginia Department of Education’s Purple Star School peer-support requirement, the program has expanded to benefit all students within PWCS schools. The event underscored that the Student Ambassador program is a long-term commitment to fostering community, leadership, and student engagement beyond traditional volunteer or club roles.
Dr. Jennifer Drake Patrick, an associate professor of education at George Mason University, said: “I think the importance we see in an opportunity like this is to develop relationships with school divisions in our region.” She added that it is “a great opportunity to impact how these school divisions meet the needs of their students.”
PWCS is noted as the second-largest school division in Virginia and ranks 32nd nationwide. It serves over 90,000 students across various educational levels and offers diverse academic programs including dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses. Led by Superintendent Dr. LaTanya D. McDade, PWCS reports a 94.3% on-time graduation rate and over $123 million in scholarships for the class of 2024.
