šāØ Explore. Create. Discover
The Washington County Career & Technical Education Center (WCCTEC) is excited to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 Exploring Pathways Summer Camp!
This hands-on camp is open to current 4th-, 5th-, 6th-, and 7th-grade students and gives campers the chance to explore exciting career pathways, build new skills, and have a whole lot of fun along the way.
ā° Spots are limited and fill quickly!
š Application deadline: May 1, 2026
š Apply today by visiting:
š https://wcctec.wcs.k12.va.us/o/wcctec
Donāt miss this opportunity to spark curiosity and explore future possibilities this summer!
The Washington County Career & Technical Education Center (WCCTEC) is excited to announce that registration is NOW OPEN for the 2026 Exploring Pathways Summer Camp!
This hands-on camp is open to current 4th-, 5th-, 6th-, and 7th-grade students and gives campers the chance to explore exciting career pathways, build new skills, and have a whole lot of fun along the way.
ā° Spots are limited and fill quickly!
š Application deadline: May 1, 2026
š Apply today by visiting:
š https://wcctec.wcs.k12.va.us/o/wcctec
Donāt miss this opportunity to spark curiosity and explore future possibilities this summer!
š¦š
Making Waves in Adaptive Aquatics
Students from Patrick Henry High School recently made a splash during an Adaptive Aquatics event hosted at Tennessee High School -- and what a fantastic day it was!
Events included the 25-meter and 50-meter freestyle and backstroke races, along with a crowd-favorite āBiggest Splashā competition. A special congratulations to Aiden J., who earned the silver medal in the Big Splash event!
From friendly competition to lots of smiles, these Rebels showed enthusiasm, teamwork, and great sportsmanship throughout the day. Experiences like this highlight the joy of participation and the power of inclusive opportunities for all students.
Students from Patrick Henry High School recently made a splash during an Adaptive Aquatics event hosted at Tennessee High School -- and what a fantastic day it was!
Events included the 25-meter and 50-meter freestyle and backstroke races, along with a crowd-favorite āBiggest Splashā competition. A special congratulations to Aiden J., who earned the silver medal in the Big Splash event!
From friendly competition to lots of smiles, these Rebels showed enthusiasm, teamwork, and great sportsmanship throughout the day. Experiences like this highlight the joy of participation and the power of inclusive opportunities for all students.
āØ Opening Doors to Future Possibilities
Fifth-grade students from Valley Institute Elementary recently had an unforgettable learning experience during a visit to the campus of Virginia Tech -- and what a day it was!
Thanks to the Pathway to Possibilities at Virginia Tech program, students explored the 4-H Mobile Lab, completed a campus scavenger hunt, participated in hands-on classroom activities, and even enjoyed lunch in the university cafeteria. Throughout the day, students learned all about the brain and human body through engaging, interactive lessons -- from matching organs to practicing āstarfish breathing.ā
Best of all, many students left inspired, sharing that they canāt wait to attend Virginia Tech someday. Experiences like this help students imagine whatās possible and begin seeing their futures in new and exciting ways.
Fifth-grade students from Valley Institute Elementary recently had an unforgettable learning experience during a visit to the campus of Virginia Tech -- and what a day it was!
Thanks to the Pathway to Possibilities at Virginia Tech program, students explored the 4-H Mobile Lab, completed a campus scavenger hunt, participated in hands-on classroom activities, and even enjoyed lunch in the university cafeteria. Throughout the day, students learned all about the brain and human body through engaging, interactive lessons -- from matching organs to practicing āstarfish breathing.ā
Best of all, many students left inspired, sharing that they canāt wait to attend Virginia Tech someday. Experiences like this help students imagine whatās possible and begin seeing their futures in new and exciting ways.
š½ļøāØ Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students from Wallace Middle School recently took part in their third annual etiquette class and luncheon at the historic Martha Washington Inn.
Gifted and Beta Club members enjoyed a delicious meal while learning proper dining etiquette and table manners -- skills that will serve them well far beyond middle school. Following lunch, students were treated to a brief tour of the facility, where they learned about the innās rich history and unique character.
Experiences like this provide meaningful, real-world learning opportunities and help students build confidence in professional and social settings.
Students from Wallace Middle School recently took part in their third annual etiquette class and luncheon at the historic Martha Washington Inn.
Gifted and Beta Club members enjoyed a delicious meal while learning proper dining etiquette and table manners -- skills that will serve them well far beyond middle school. Following lunch, students were treated to a brief tour of the facility, where they learned about the innās rich history and unique character.
Experiences like this provide meaningful, real-world learning opportunities and help students build confidence in professional and social settings.
š¾š Paws, Pages, and Smiles
Sweet therapy dogs Willa and Finley recently made a special visit to the library at Watauga Elementary School, and letās just sayā¦ tails were wagging and smiles were everywhere!
As students checked out new books, they also got the chance to spend a few moments with these furry friends -- proving that the best reading buddies sometimes come with four legs.
Sweet therapy dogs Willa and Finley recently made a special visit to the library at Watauga Elementary School, and letās just sayā¦ tails were wagging and smiles were everywhere!
As students checked out new books, they also got the chance to spend a few moments with these furry friends -- proving that the best reading buddies sometimes come with four legs.
š¾ā¤ļø PAWS-itively Making a Difference
The 19th Annual PAWS Campaign (Providing Animals With Support) is back! From March 1āMarch 31, 2026, Washington County Public Schools is proud to support the Washington County Animal Shelter through this annual community drive.
Weāre collecting much-needed items to help care for animals in our community, including:
š¶š± Cat & dog food
š§¹ Cleaning supplies (bleach & dish detergent)
š¾ Kitty litter
Donations can be dropped off at ANY Washington County school.
The 19th Annual PAWS Campaign (Providing Animals With Support) is back! From March 1āMarch 31, 2026, Washington County Public Schools is proud to support the Washington County Animal Shelter through this annual community drive.
Weāre collecting much-needed items to help care for animals in our community, including:
š¶š± Cat & dog food
š§¹ Cleaning supplies (bleach & dish detergent)
š¾ Kitty litter
Donations can be dropped off at ANY Washington County school.
šā Be a Bean Recognition -- Greendale Elementary School -- Hometown Heroes
Principal Michael Colston, Tammy Boyd (Food Service), and Tracey Lester (secretary) were recently recognized by School Board Members for their compassion and teamwork. When a family from another school in Washington County was experiencing hardship and needed access to warm food, the Greendale team worked together to help ensure the family received a hot meal.
Their response was thoughtful, coordinated, and centered on the care for our children and families.
Principal Michael Colston, Tammy Boyd (Food Service), and Tracey Lester (secretary) were recently recognized by School Board Members for their compassion and teamwork. When a family from another school in Washington County was experiencing hardship and needed access to warm food, the Greendale team worked together to help ensure the family received a hot meal.
Their response was thoughtful, coordinated, and centered on the care for our children and families.
š¢SCHEDULE UPDATE: Washington County Public Schools will implement a Remote Learning Day for Tuesday, February 24, 2026. No childcare will be provided.
Because of the Remote Learning Day, the WCPS Nutrition Department will offer breakfast and lunch meals for students at four locations. Meals will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Abingdon High School, John S. Battle High School, Patrick Henry High School, and Holston High School. Any child 18 years of age or younger is eligible to receive meals and may choose one of the four listed locations for meal pick-up. Students do not need to be present for families to pick up meals.
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight: Amanda Barker ~ John S. Battle High School ~ Class of 2009.
We are thrilled to highlight Amanda Barker, 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
We are thrilled to highlight Amanda Barker, 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
š¢ SCHEDULE UPDATE: Washington County Public Schools will be closed today, Monday, February 23, 2026. Several roads across the county remain snow-covered and slick, and additional bursts of snow are expected. Childcare will be provided at elementary schools (for elementary-aged students only) for working families who need it, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Please watch for additional information from your childās school.
š¢For Your Information: We are watching forecasts closely. Current data for Washington County shows that we should be able to go to school tomorrow, Monday, February 23, 2026, on a regular schedule. If a change is needed, we will make a decision by 5:30 a.m. For everyoneās planning purposes, if conditions deteriorate overnight, Remote Learning will not be considered as an option tomorrow.
š¶šLooking for preschool or child care for the 2026ā2027 school year?
Join us for the Washington County Preschool & Child Care Enrollment Fair -- a one-stop event to connect families with high-quality early childhood programs available in Washington County!
š Monday, March 2
ā° 11:00 a.m. ā 6:00 p.m.
š EO Building | Abingdon, VA
Whether youāre planning ahead or exploring options, this event is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and find the right fit for your child.
Save the date and share with families who may be interested!
Join us for the Washington County Preschool & Child Care Enrollment Fair -- a one-stop event to connect families with high-quality early childhood programs available in Washington County!
š Monday, March 2
ā° 11:00 a.m. ā 6:00 p.m.
š EO Building | Abingdon, VA
Whether youāre planning ahead or exploring options, this event is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and find the right fit for your child.
Save the date and share with families who may be interested!
āØ Future Educators in Action at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center
Students in the Early Childhood Education program at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center are putting their creativity and planning skills to work by designing and building their own classroom models.
Through collaboration and thoughtful design, students created miniature learning environments that reflect developmentally appropriate practices and engaging spaces for young learners. From reading corners to hands-on learning centers, each model shows how intentional classroom design supports curiosity, creativity, and learning.
Students in the Early Childhood Education program at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center are putting their creativity and planning skills to work by designing and building their own classroom models.
Through collaboration and thoughtful design, students created miniature learning environments that reflect developmentally appropriate practices and engaging spaces for young learners. From reading corners to hands-on learning centers, each model shows how intentional classroom design supports curiosity, creativity, and learning.
šš¾During FFA Week, members of the Patrick Henry High School Future Farmers of America visited third- and fourth-grade students at Meadowview Elementary School to lead an engaging lesson on animal by-products.
Students had a great time participating in the activity while learning interesting, real-world facts about agriculture and how it connects to everyday life. Experiences like this highlight the power of cross-school collaboration and hands-on learning!
Students had a great time participating in the activity while learning interesting, real-world facts about agriculture and how it connects to everyday life. Experiences like this highlight the power of cross-school collaboration and hands-on learning!
š»šWCPS Students Shine Through Appalachian Music Partnership
Two talented students from Washington County Public Schools are gaining recognition for their musical abilities and dedication to preserving Appalachian music traditions.
Eamon Russell, an eighth grader at E. B. Stanley Middle School, and Easton Compton, a tenth grader at John S. Battle High School, both participate in the Junior Appalachian Musicians program at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Through the program, the students formed a band called The Boys From Bristol, which began during a summer camp and has continued to grow through regular performances and mentorship.
Eamon and Easton have also performed at notable events, including the Virginia School Boards Association Convention during Jenny Nicholsā induction ceremony, and have shared the stage with groups such as Ralph Stanley II and The Clinch Mountain Boys as well as The Kody Norris Show.
Their story highlights the impact of community partnerships and extracurricular opportunities that allow students to explore their interests, build confidence, and represent WCPS on regional and statewide stages.
Two talented students from Washington County Public Schools are gaining recognition for their musical abilities and dedication to preserving Appalachian music traditions.
Eamon Russell, an eighth grader at E. B. Stanley Middle School, and Easton Compton, a tenth grader at John S. Battle High School, both participate in the Junior Appalachian Musicians program at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Through the program, the students formed a band called The Boys From Bristol, which began during a summer camp and has continued to grow through regular performances and mentorship.
Eamon and Easton have also performed at notable events, including the Virginia School Boards Association Convention during Jenny Nicholsā induction ceremony, and have shared the stage with groups such as Ralph Stanley II and The Clinch Mountain Boys as well as The Kody Norris Show.
Their story highlights the impact of community partnerships and extracurricular opportunities that allow students to explore their interests, build confidence, and represent WCPS on regional and statewide stages.
š§š¬ Hands-On Learning in Action at Glade Spring Middle School
Eighth-grade Agriscience students at Glade Spring Middle School recently wrapped up their Food Science unit with a fun (and tasty!) cheese-making lab. Using just a gallon of milk, rennet, and citric acid, students made their own fresh mozzarella -- a soft cheese thatās simple and quick to create.
Along the way, students practiced reading recipes, measuring ingredients, using thermometers, and problem-solving when things didnāt go exactly as planned. Activities like this help build real-world skills while reinforcing science concepts in an engaging way.
Eighth-grade Agriscience students at Glade Spring Middle School recently wrapped up their Food Science unit with a fun (and tasty!) cheese-making lab. Using just a gallon of milk, rennet, and citric acid, students made their own fresh mozzarella -- a soft cheese thatās simple and quick to create.
Along the way, students practiced reading recipes, measuring ingredients, using thermometers, and problem-solving when things didnāt go exactly as planned. Activities like this help build real-world skills while reinforcing science concepts in an engaging way.
šāØ Honoring Student Achievement: The George Washington Research Paper Celebration
Fourth graders from Washington County Public Schools were celebrated yesterday during the annual George Washington Research Paper Contest and Celebration, one of our most meaningful academic traditions. Each year, students showcase their writing skills by researching and writing essays about the life and legacy of George Washington.
The top three essays from each elementary school were selected, and those students and their families were honored with a special brunch at the Martha Washington Inn. Students received certificates and a commemorative book written by George Washington, and division finalists had the opportunity to read their essays aloud -- creating memories to last a lifetime.
š Division Winners
*Third Place: Hadley D., Rhea Valley Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin and monetary award
*Second Place: Juliette F., Watauga Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin and monetary award
*First Place: Maycee S., Meadowview Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin, monetary award, and an all-expenses-paid trip to Mount Vernon for the student and family
š« School Winners
Abingdon Elementary School
*Third: Maren H.
*Second: Damien M.
*First: Basil H.
Greendale Elementary School
*Third: Demi L.
*Second: Konnor C.
*First: Hadassah M.
High Point Elementary School
*Third: Josie O.
*Second: Abree H.
*First: Hayden A.
Meadowview Elementary School
*Third: Maggie C.
*Second: Carson B.
*First: Maycee S.
Rhea Valley Elementary School
*Third: Arbor G.
*Second: Lucas F.
*First: Hadley D.
Valley Institute Elementary School
*Third: Bryleigh D.
*Second: Kohen G.
*First: Zane S.
Watauga Elementary School
*Third: Ellie E.
*Second: Hudson H.
*First: Juliette F.
Congratulations to all of our talented fourth graders! We are proud to celebrate their hard work, creativity, and growing passion for history and writing.
A special thank-you to Dr. Lentz, whose continued support and commitment make the George Washington Research Paper Contest and Celebration possible each year. His dedication to academic excellence and student achievement helps ensure meaningful opportunities like this remain a valued tradition for our students.
Fourth graders from Washington County Public Schools were celebrated yesterday during the annual George Washington Research Paper Contest and Celebration, one of our most meaningful academic traditions. Each year, students showcase their writing skills by researching and writing essays about the life and legacy of George Washington.
The top three essays from each elementary school were selected, and those students and their families were honored with a special brunch at the Martha Washington Inn. Students received certificates and a commemorative book written by George Washington, and division finalists had the opportunity to read their essays aloud -- creating memories to last a lifetime.
š Division Winners
*Third Place: Hadley D., Rhea Valley Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin and monetary award
*Second Place: Juliette F., Watauga Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin and monetary award
*First Place: Maycee S., Meadowview Elementary School ā George Washington commemorative coin, monetary award, and an all-expenses-paid trip to Mount Vernon for the student and family
š« School Winners
Abingdon Elementary School
*Third: Maren H.
*Second: Damien M.
*First: Basil H.
Greendale Elementary School
*Third: Demi L.
*Second: Konnor C.
*First: Hadassah M.
High Point Elementary School
*Third: Josie O.
*Second: Abree H.
*First: Hayden A.
Meadowview Elementary School
*Third: Maggie C.
*Second: Carson B.
*First: Maycee S.
Rhea Valley Elementary School
*Third: Arbor G.
*Second: Lucas F.
*First: Hadley D.
Valley Institute Elementary School
*Third: Bryleigh D.
*Second: Kohen G.
*First: Zane S.
Watauga Elementary School
*Third: Ellie E.
*Second: Hudson H.
*First: Juliette F.
Congratulations to all of our talented fourth graders! We are proud to celebrate their hard work, creativity, and growing passion for history and writing.
A special thank-you to Dr. Lentz, whose continued support and commitment make the George Washington Research Paper Contest and Celebration possible each year. His dedication to academic excellence and student achievement helps ensure meaningful opportunities like this remain a valued tradition for our students.
šSchool Board Appreciation Month Recognition
On Monday, Washington County Public Schools proudly recognized our School Board members in celebration of Virginia School Boards Association School Board Appreciation Month. We are grateful for their leadership, service, and commitment to our students and community.
We also recognized our Student School Board Representatives, who bring an important student voice to the table:
*Hannah Lee ā Abingdon High School
*Savannah Davis ā John S. Battle High School
*Hayden Roark ā Patrick Henry High School
*Kasey Ball ā Holston High School
*Lillian Early ā Washington County Career and Technical Education Center
We appreciate all of our Student School Board Representatives for their leadership and service.
On Monday, Washington County Public Schools proudly recognized our School Board members in celebration of Virginia School Boards Association School Board Appreciation Month. We are grateful for their leadership, service, and commitment to our students and community.
We also recognized our Student School Board Representatives, who bring an important student voice to the table:
*Hannah Lee ā Abingdon High School
*Savannah Davis ā John S. Battle High School
*Hayden Roark ā Patrick Henry High School
*Kasey Ball ā Holston High School
*Lillian Early ā Washington County Career and Technical Education Center
We appreciate all of our Student School Board Representatives for their leadership and service.
š
š¢School Calendar Update
At last night's School Board meeting, the Board decided to remove the two-hour early dismissal on Wednesday, March 11 and make it a regular school day. The Board also decided we would be in session on Thursday, March 12 as a make-up day due to the number of days we have missed this year for inclement weather. Schools will be closed on Friday, March 13 as planned.
With this change, we will adjust the last day of the third nine-week grading period to Thursday, March 12. The fourth grading period will start on Monday, March 16.
At last night's School Board meeting, the Board decided to remove the two-hour early dismissal on Wednesday, March 11 and make it a regular school day. The Board also decided we would be in session on Thursday, March 12 as a make-up day due to the number of days we have missed this year for inclement weather. Schools will be closed on Friday, March 13 as planned.
With this change, we will adjust the last day of the third nine-week grading period to Thursday, March 12. The fourth grading period will start on Monday, March 16.
šā Be a Bean Recognition -- Wallace Middle School -- Above and Beyond the Call of Duty
Last night, School Board members recognized Ms. Childress from Wallace Middle School! Since stepping into her role, Ms. Childress has brought exceptional professionalism, quickly organizing and streamlining the schoolās bookkeeping and financial processes. Her work has had a positive impact across the entire building.
Beyond her technical skills, Ms. Childress is known for her warm, approachable, and supportive nature. Staff members know they can come to her with questions and requests and will always be met with kindness and help.
Weāre proud to celebrate Ms. Childress and grateful for the difference she makes every day at Wallace Middle School!
Last night, School Board members recognized Ms. Childress from Wallace Middle School! Since stepping into her role, Ms. Childress has brought exceptional professionalism, quickly organizing and streamlining the schoolās bookkeeping and financial processes. Her work has had a positive impact across the entire building.
Beyond her technical skills, Ms. Childress is known for her warm, approachable, and supportive nature. Staff members know they can come to her with questions and requests and will always be met with kindness and help.
Weāre proud to celebrate Ms. Childress and grateful for the difference she makes every day at Wallace Middle School!
