Washington County Public Schools

WCPS Alumni Spotlight: Ethan Mayo ~ John S. Battle High School ~ Class of 2020. We are thrilled to highlight Mr. Ethan Mayo, a proud John S. Battle High School graduate! Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community. Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community? Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8

Free Summer Meals REMINDER: Washington County Public Schools is helping students stay nourished this summer with free meals for all children and teens 18 and under! Grab-and-Go Meals: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and suppers at various locations – no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia – Forms will be available at each pick-up site, scan the QR Code in the attached flyer, or click here to enroll online: https://shorturl.at/uPys5 You may only enroll for ONE site during the summer. Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.

We hope everyone is soaking up the sun and enjoying a well-deserved break! Whether you're relaxing at home, traveling with family, or exploring new places, we want to hear all about it! Share your summer memories with us! Send your photos to our School Outreach Specialist, Ashley Hoak, at ahoak@wcs.k12.va.us *Please Note: Submitted photos may be posted to WCPS social media platforms.

We're thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new Parent Resource Center (PRC), designed to support, empower, and educate families of students with disabilities! At the PRC, families will find: *Guidance and tools to navigate special education *Connections to valuable community resources But that's not all! The PRC will also host events, workshops, and trainings throughout the year—covering everything from understanding IEPs to community and resource connections. Whether you're looking for information, support, or a sense of community, the PRC is here for YOU. Stay tuned for the upcoming kickoff event in the fall! Be sure to check out and follow Washington County Virginia Schools - Parent Resource Center to stay up to date on upcoming events, resources, and helpful tips for families: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532

Virginia SUN Bucks Reminder: The Virginia Department of Social Services will issue a one-time $120 food benefit through Virginia SUN Bucks beginning July 2025 to children who qualify. Children qualify and are automatically enrolled in Virginia SUN Bucks if they receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or an income-based Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). If you are not enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you can apply and potentially qualify for Virginia SUN Bucks by visiting virginiasunbucks.com/ and mailing the application to Virginia SUN Bucks, c/o VDSS, 5600 Cox Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060. Beginning July 1 through August 30, you can apply by calling the Virginia SUN Bucks Call Center at 866-513-1414. The application for SUN Bucks will require you to enter your child’s “Local Student ID Number.” This is your child’s Lunch Number they use at school. If you qualify, SUN Bucks benefits will be issued starting July 2025 on a rolling basis and will be loaded onto your current SNAP EBT Card or a Virginia SUN Bucks Card which will be mailed to the address on file with your school. Please click this link for additional information and resources: https://www.wcs.k12.va.us/documents/summer-ebt-information---2025/803643

Spotlight on Creativity For the past four incredible years, Washington County Public Schools has teamed up with the amazing Emory & Henry Theatre and Dance Department to bring the magic of the stage to life! Theatre Arts Camp isn't just about painting sets, singing songs, dancing, acting, and lighting up the stage -- it's about building confidence, discovering new talents, and making friendships that last a lifetime. A big thank you to our talented friends at E&H for helping our WCPS students shine on and off the stage! Photos Courtesy: Emory & Henry Theatre Department

Back to School 2025–2026 Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush! *Beat the back-to-school wait times *No out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines *Vaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department See the attached flyer from the Virginia Department of Health for details on required immunizations and where to go.

Please join us in congratulating Henry Pillion, a recent graduate of Abingdon High School, on his prestigious appointment to the United States Naval Academy, nominated by Congressman Morgan Griffith and Senator Mark Warner. Henry's path to this incredible honor speaks volumes about his dedication and leadership. With a GPA over 4.0, he excelled academically while leading by example as Senior Class President, a National Honor Society member, and a committed athlete. Beyond the classroom, Henry balanced work, service, and entrepreneurship. Henry embodies the values of service, discipline, and determination. We're proud to see him take this next step and know he'll represent Washington County Public Schools and our community with honor at the Naval Academy and beyond.

WCPS Alumni Spotlight: Peyton Barker ~ Abingdon High School ~ Class of 2018. We are thrilled to highlight Ms. Peyton Barker, a proud Abingdon High School graduate! Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community. Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community? Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8

Free Summer Meals REMINDER: Washington County Public Schools is helping students stay nourished this summer with free meals for all children and teens 18 and under! Grab-and-Go Meals in June and July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and suppers at various locations – no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia – Forms will be available at each pick-up site, scan the QR Code in the attached flyer, or click here to enroll online: https://shorturl.at/uPys5 You may only enroll for ONE site during the summer. Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.

Today, we recognize Juneteenth -- a day of reflection, celebration, and continued learning. On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free. Juneteenth marks the official end of slavery in the United States. At Washington County Public Schools, we honor the significance of this day and remain committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, understanding, and respect for all.

Yesterday was a tail-waggin' Tuesday at Watauga Elementary's Summer School! A huge thank you to Mr. and Mrs. Cassell for stopping by with their sweet pups and sharing some four-legged joy! Students had a blast seeing the dogs learn new tricks and soaked up plenty of snuggles and smiles. It's safe to say the furry visitors were the paw-fect addition to the day!

Virginia SUN Bucks Reminder: The Virginia Department of Social Services will issue a one-time $120 food benefit through Virginia SUN Bucks beginning July 2025 to children who qualify. Children qualify and are automatically enrolled in Virginia SUN Bucks if they receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or an income-based Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid). If you are not enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid, you can apply and potentially qualify for Virginia SUN Bucks by visiting virginiasunbucks.com/ and mailing the application to Virginia SUN Bucks, c/o VDSS, 5600 Cox Road, Glen Allen, VA 23060. Beginning July 1 through August 30, you can apply by calling the Virginia SUN Bucks Call Center at 866-513-1414. The application for SUN Bucks will require you to enter your child’s “Local Student ID Number.” This is your child’s Lunch Number they use at school. If you qualify, SUN Bucks benefits will be issued starting July 2025 on a rolling basis and will be loaded onto your current SNAP EBT Card or a Virginia SUN Bucks Card which will be mailed to the address on file with your schools. Please click this link for additional information and resources: https://www.wcs.k12.va.us/.../summer-ebt.../803643

Back to School 2025–2026 Make sure your child is ready for the first day of school -- get their vaccines now and avoid the last-minute rush! *Beat the back-to-school wait times *No out-of-pocket cost for required vaccines *Vaccines available through your local healthcare provider or health department See the attached flyer from the Virginia Department of Health for details on required immunizations and where to go.

For Your Information: The VDOE is asking for your assistance in promoting the completion of the survey by each of your families who have a child with a disability and receive special education services through an IEP. Families with more than one child receiving special education services through IEPs in Virginia’s public schools should submit one survey for each child. A security feature within the survey submission process requires a different internet browser or device when multiple online surveys are submitted. This year’s timeline for completion and submission of survey responses, in any modality, is set at December 12, 2025. Thank you for your ongoing commitment toward ensuring that we engage all families in their child’s special education program. If you have questions or need assistance concerning this survey process, please contact Dr. Marie Stanley, Supervisor of Special Services at 276-739-3041 or mstanley@wcs.k12.va.us Click here for more: https://virginiadoe.gov1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6opHcg0Cu3xcYYK

WCPS Alumni Spotlight: Christina Hayden ~ Patrick Henry High School ~ Class of 1994. We are thrilled to highlight Ms. Christina Hayden, a proud Patrick Henry High School graduate! Are you a graduate of Washington County Public Schools? If so, we'd love to hear from you! We're excited to learn about your accomplishments and share your story and advice with our current students, families, and community. Please click here, to fill out a submission form: https://forms.gle/7qzqxJCpCjryVsfW8 OR Do you know a graduate from Washington County Public Schools who has made a positive impact in their community? Nominate them to be featured in our Alumni Spotlight Series! Click here, to nominate a WCPS graduate: https://forms.gle/LFV1PwdpHnLfYRhn8

☀️ Free Summer Meals REMINDER: Washington County Public Schools is excited about two great meal programs this summer for all children and teens 18 and under! On-Site Meals in June: Stop by one of four WCPS locations for free breakfast and lunch – no sign-up needed. Just come and enjoy your meal, and fuel up for summer fun. No application required. Please note: Meals must be eaten on-site. Grab-and-Go Meals in June and July: Thanks to our partnership with Feeding Southwest Virginia, families have the opportunity to pick up multiple Grab-and-Go breakfasts and suppers at various locations – no need to stay onsite and eat! Children do NOT need to be present for meal pick-up. Enrollment is required through Feeding Southwest Virginia – Forms will be available at each pick-up site, scan the QR Code in the attached flyer, or click here to enroll online: https://shorturl.at/uPys5 You may only enroll for ONE site during the summer. 📅 Check out our full schedule for locations, dates, and times in the graphics below.

Patrick Henry High School Class of '98 grad, Delegate Israel O'Quinn presented a Virginia Capitol Commendation to recent Patrick Henry grad, Tyler Barrett, the 2025 Gene "Pappy" Thompson Award Winner and Georgetown University commit. The prestigious award, named after legendary Bristol Herald Courier sports editor Gene Thompson, honors student-athletes who shine in athletics, academics, and community service -- and Tyler does it all with pride! Since 2018, Patrick Henry High School has produced 3 award winners and 5 finalists.

Exploring Pathways Summer Camp is in full swing at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center! Our campers are diving into hands-on adventures that spark creativity, fuel curiosity, and ignite future careers. Some of the fun includes: *The Wonders of Hair Color in Cosmetology *Put a Spin on Learning with Auto Body *Spark Some Learning with Welding *Stir Up Some Fun with Culinary *Start Your Engines with Auto Servicing *Healthcare Heroes in Nursing *Imagineering with Engineering ... and so much more! We love seeing our students exploring their passions and discovering new possibilities!

Own a Piece of Washington County History! As part of exciting auditorium renovations at Holston High School and John S. Battle High school, the auditorium chairs have been removed -- and now you have the chance to take one (or more) home! Whether you're a proud alum, local supporter, or just love a little nostalgia, this is your opportunity to grab a seat in history. To learn more: *Visit: https://www.publicsurplus.com *Select a Region: Virginia *Select an Agency: Washington County Public Schools (VA)