Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) has announced that it will observe October as Virginia Disability History and Awareness Month. This initiative aims to highlight inclusive education and recognize the achievements of students with disabilities.
According to a news release by PWCS, Virginia’s Youth Leadership Forum (YLF), established in 1997 and first held at Longwood University in 2000, continues its mission today at Virginia Commonwealth University. The forum provides high school students with disabilities a leadership-focused program that emphasizes their abilities as strengths. October was officially designated Disability History and Awareness Month in 2009, following advocacy by YLF alumni.
PWCS’ Special Education Department collaborates with families, educators, and the community to provide support and resources for students with disabilities. Programs such as Project SEARCH and Explore help approximately three out of four students secure employment after graduation, while the I’m Determined Project guides students in self-determination. The Special Education Advisory Committee works with division leadership to assess needs, develop strategies, and provide recommendations to the School Board.
“This month provides an opportunity for schools to be intentional with showcasing the strengths of their students with disabilities. We encourage schools to look at ALL students, including those with disabilities, through the lens of name, strength, and need,” said Dr. Ashley Reyher, associate superintendent for special education and early intervention. “Schools may wish to highlight the many school-based enterprises that students with disabilities lead in our schools, such as coffee carts, print shops, cafes, etc., in a way that recognizes their contributions to the greater school community.”
PWCS is noted as the second largest school division in Virginia and the 32nd largest in the nation. It serves over 90,000 students across various educational levels including elementary, middle, high school, preschool, and specialty programs. PWCS offers academic specialty programs such as two Governor’s Schools, dual enrollment opportunities, Advanced Placement courses, Cambridge Programme options, International Baccalaureate courses, career and technology certifications, robotics instruction, and classes in ten world languages. It emphasizes sustainability efforts along with family engagement by supporting 174 languages spoken within its community. 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.
