š¢š Calling All Washington County High School Students
Ready to get a taste of college life this summer -- for just $50?!
Campus Connections at Appalachian State University is now accepting applications, and this is an experience you donāt want to miss!
š Where: Appalachian State University
š When: June 22ā26
š Who: Rising 9thā12th graders in Washington County
From exploring the outdoors to staying on a beautiful college campus, this is your chance to build new friendships, gain independence, and experience what college life is all about!
šØ Spots are limited -- donāt wait!
š Apply now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFsUWW-KmNFpZa4bL4XkDMEtfSVHHs90xvYM-ZQ5KGZNePoQ/viewform
Ready to get a taste of college life this summer -- for just $50?!
Campus Connections at Appalachian State University is now accepting applications, and this is an experience you donāt want to miss!
š Where: Appalachian State University
š When: June 22ā26
š Who: Rising 9thā12th graders in Washington County
From exploring the outdoors to staying on a beautiful college campus, this is your chance to build new friendships, gain independence, and experience what college life is all about!
šØ Spots are limited -- donāt wait!
š Apply now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfFsUWW-KmNFpZa4bL4XkDMEtfSVHHs90xvYM-ZQ5KGZNePoQ/viewform
š Pathways to Independence: Postsecondary Transition for Individuals on the Spectrum
Washington County families are invited to join us for an evening focused on planning for life after high school. This event is designed to support families of students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum, as they explore postsecondary education, employment, independent living, and community support options.
In collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Blue Mountain Therapy, this session will provide valuable information, resources, and practical strategies to help guide future planning and transition readiness.
š Date: April 20
š Time: 5:30ā7:30 PM
š Location: Blue Mountain Therapy
Families are encouraged to pre-register using the link below:
šhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCC08e_4pGln7hTErU9iK8WoIarqDGLdZgXGy7-au5Fkf-hg/viewform
Washington County families are invited to join us for an evening focused on planning for life after high school. This event is designed to support families of students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum, as they explore postsecondary education, employment, independent living, and community support options.
In collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Blue Mountain Therapy, this session will provide valuable information, resources, and practical strategies to help guide future planning and transition readiness.
š Date: April 20
š Time: 5:30ā7:30 PM
š Location: Blue Mountain Therapy
Families are encouraged to pre-register using the link below:
šhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdCC08e_4pGln7hTErU9iK8WoIarqDGLdZgXGy7-au5Fkf-hg/viewform
š¾š Serving with Heart
Students in the Paws for a Cause club at Watauga Elementary School recently had a meaningful opportunity to turn kindness into action. After collecting donations at school, students delivered them to the Isaiah 117 House, where they learned more about the mission of supporting children entering foster care.
During their visit, students toured the home and gained a deeper understanding of the heart behind the name āIsaiah 117ā -- a powerful reminder to care for children in times of need.
They didnāt just learn -- they served. Students spent time:
š Writing encouraging notes for children
š± Helping create a rock garden
š§¹ Assisting with cleaning projects around the house
These experiences help students see that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Weāre so proud of these students for their compassion and willingness to serve others!
Students in the Paws for a Cause club at Watauga Elementary School recently had a meaningful opportunity to turn kindness into action. After collecting donations at school, students delivered them to the Isaiah 117 House, where they learned more about the mission of supporting children entering foster care.
During their visit, students toured the home and gained a deeper understanding of the heart behind the name āIsaiah 117ā -- a powerful reminder to care for children in times of need.
They didnāt just learn -- they served. Students spent time:
š Writing encouraging notes for children
š± Helping create a rock garden
š§¹ Assisting with cleaning projects around the house
These experiences help students see that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Weāre so proud of these students for their compassion and willingness to serve others!
ā¤ļøšWashington County Public Schools is proud to share that we are the second school division in Virginia to have all schools designated through Project ADAM!
Project ADAM is a nationally recognized program focused on cardiac emergency preparedness in schools, helping ensure that staff are trained and ready to respond quickly in the event of a sudden cardiac emergency.
Thanks to the dedication of our school nurses, staff, and community partners, every school in our division has implemented comprehensive cardiac emergency response plans to support the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors.
Recently, each school received a Project ADAM banner, recognizing this important achievement and commitment to preparedness.
This milestone reflects the incredible teamwork across our division and our continued commitment to creating safe learning environments for all.
We are proud of this accomplishment and the people who made it possible!
Project ADAM is a nationally recognized program focused on cardiac emergency preparedness in schools, helping ensure that staff are trained and ready to respond quickly in the event of a sudden cardiac emergency.
Thanks to the dedication of our school nurses, staff, and community partners, every school in our division has implemented comprehensive cardiac emergency response plans to support the safety and well-being of students, staff, and visitors.
Recently, each school received a Project ADAM banner, recognizing this important achievement and commitment to preparedness.
This milestone reflects the incredible teamwork across our division and our continued commitment to creating safe learning environments for all.
We are proud of this accomplishment and the people who made it possible!
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight: Tiffany Porter ~ Holston High School ~ Class of 2011.
We are thrilled to highlight Tiffany Porter, a proud Holston 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 Tiffany Porter, a proud Holston 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
š¾ā¤ļø Reminder: PAWS-itively Making a Difference ā Now Underway!
The 19th Annual PAWS Campaign (Providing Animals With Support) is underway through March 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 underway through March 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.
āØ Sweet Learning in Action
Students in Ms. Collinsā class at Rhea Valley Elementary School recently took part in a hands-on math adventure -- using marshmallows, Fruit Loops, and Lucky Charms to explore patterns and sequencing!
By sorting colors, shapes, and sizes, students created repeating patterns and practiced predicting what comes next -- all while having a lot of fun along the way. Activities like this help build important early math skills, including observation, problem-solving, and logical thinking.
Students in Ms. Collinsā class at Rhea Valley Elementary School recently took part in a hands-on math adventure -- using marshmallows, Fruit Loops, and Lucky Charms to explore patterns and sequencing!
By sorting colors, shapes, and sizes, students created repeating patterns and practiced predicting what comes next -- all while having a lot of fun along the way. Activities like this help build important early math skills, including observation, problem-solving, and logical thinking.
š Beat the Back-to-School Rush!
The Mount Rogers Health Department will be offering school-based immunization clinics for students who will be entering 7th and 12th grade for the upcoming school year.
Clinics will be held on the following dates:
š April 10
*Wallace Middle School
*Abingdon High School
*Patrick Henry High School
*Damascus Middle School
š April 15
*John S. Battle High School
*E.B. Stanley Middle School
*Glade Spring Middle School
*Holston High School
These clinics will provide required immunizations, including Tdap and MenACWY, to help students be ready for the start of the school year.
Students who still need these immunizations have been given a consent form. To participate in the clinic, completed forms must be returned no later than March 27.
If you did not receive a consent form or need another copy, please contact your childās school nurse.
Scheduling your childās immunizations now is a great way to avoid the back-to-school rush and ensure they are ready for the first day of school!
The Mount Rogers Health Department will be offering school-based immunization clinics for students who will be entering 7th and 12th grade for the upcoming school year.
Clinics will be held on the following dates:
š April 10
*Wallace Middle School
*Abingdon High School
*Patrick Henry High School
*Damascus Middle School
š April 15
*John S. Battle High School
*E.B. Stanley Middle School
*Glade Spring Middle School
*Holston High School
These clinics will provide required immunizations, including Tdap and MenACWY, to help students be ready for the start of the school year.
Students who still need these immunizations have been given a consent form. To participate in the clinic, completed forms must be returned no later than March 27.
If you did not receive a consent form or need another copy, please contact your childās school nurse.
Scheduling your childās immunizations now is a great way to avoid the back-to-school rush and ensure they are ready for the first day of school!
š WCPS Educators Leading the Way
Weāre proud to share that Mrs. Odum and Ms. Melton of Wallace Middle School, along with Mrs. Smith, recently presented at the Virginia Middle School Association Conference held at James Madison University.
The Virginia Middle School Association hosts the Commonwealthās only conference dedicated exclusively to middle school educators -- bringing together teachers, administrators, and advocates from across Virginia for engaging workshops, inspiring keynote sessions, and meaningful collaboration focused on supporting young adolescents.
We are incredibly proud of these educators for representing Washington County Public Schools and sharing their expertise on a statewide stage. Their leadership and commitment to middle school students make a lasting impact both in and beyond the classroom.
Weāre proud to share that Mrs. Odum and Ms. Melton of Wallace Middle School, along with Mrs. Smith, recently presented at the Virginia Middle School Association Conference held at James Madison University.
The Virginia Middle School Association hosts the Commonwealthās only conference dedicated exclusively to middle school educators -- bringing together teachers, administrators, and advocates from across Virginia for engaging workshops, inspiring keynote sessions, and meaningful collaboration focused on supporting young adolescents.
We are incredibly proud of these educators for representing Washington County Public Schools and sharing their expertise on a statewide stage. Their leadership and commitment to middle school students make a lasting impact both in and beyond the classroom.
š¤ First Season, Strong Finish
This year marked the first season of robotics competition at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center, as students came together as Fourge Robotics -- four schools united as one team.
In their debut season competing in the VEX Robotics Competition, the team participated in eight events across two states and earned a spot at the Virginia VEX Robotics State Championship. They finished 28th out of 56 teams, an impressive accomplishment for a first-year program!
Throughout the season, these students showed resilience, determination, and growth -- and weāre proud of what theyāve achieved.
This year marked the first season of robotics competition at the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center, as students came together as Fourge Robotics -- four schools united as one team.
In their debut season competing in the VEX Robotics Competition, the team participated in eight events across two states and earned a spot at the Virginia VEX Robotics State Championship. They finished 28th out of 56 teams, an impressive accomplishment for a first-year program!
Throughout the season, these students showed resilience, determination, and growth -- and weāre proud of what theyāve achieved.
š£ļøš Debate Teams Headed to State
Students from Abingdon High School and Patrick Henry High School delivered impressive performances at the VHSL Debate Super Regionals in Yorktown this past weekend!
In their first-year competing, Abingdon High Schoolās debate team placed:
š„ 1st Place -- Public Forum Debate
š„ 2nd Place -- Policy Debate
The Falcons also finished 2nd out of 8 schools in the Super Regional sweepstakes, qualifying for the VHSL State Debate Championship at Randolph-Macon College on April 18.
Congratulations to Coach Christie Lawson and debaters Milo Leidig, Liam Lawson, Seanna Gilbert, and Savana Johnson, who will represent Abingdon High at the state competition!
Also headed to state is Carter Withers from Patrick Henry High School, who placed 1st out of eight debaters in the Lincoln-Douglas Forum. Congratulations to Coach John Walker and Carter on this outstanding accomplishment!
We wish all of our debaters the best of luck at State!
Students from Abingdon High School and Patrick Henry High School delivered impressive performances at the VHSL Debate Super Regionals in Yorktown this past weekend!
In their first-year competing, Abingdon High Schoolās debate team placed:
š„ 1st Place -- Public Forum Debate
š„ 2nd Place -- Policy Debate
The Falcons also finished 2nd out of 8 schools in the Super Regional sweepstakes, qualifying for the VHSL State Debate Championship at Randolph-Macon College on April 18.
Congratulations to Coach Christie Lawson and debaters Milo Leidig, Liam Lawson, Seanna Gilbert, and Savana Johnson, who will represent Abingdon High at the state competition!
Also headed to state is Carter Withers from Patrick Henry High School, who placed 1st out of eight debaters in the Lincoln-Douglas Forum. Congratulations to Coach John Walker and Carter on this outstanding accomplishment!
We wish all of our debaters the best of luck at State!
š±š¬ Young Scientists at Work
Students at Meadowview Elementary School have been digging into plant science with a colorful hands-on experiment!
Second graders recently explored how plants move water and nutrients by placing celery stalks in cups of water mixed with food coloring. Over several days, students watched as the celery pulled the colored water up through its stem -- just like real plants move water from their roots to their leaves and flowers.
Along the way, these young scientists made daily observations and recorded the changes they saw as the color traveled through the celery and into the leaves.
Hands-on learning like this helps bring science to life and shows just how amazing plants can be!
Students at Meadowview Elementary School have been digging into plant science with a colorful hands-on experiment!
Second graders recently explored how plants move water and nutrients by placing celery stalks in cups of water mixed with food coloring. Over several days, students watched as the celery pulled the colored water up through its stem -- just like real plants move water from their roots to their leaves and flowers.
Along the way, these young scientists made daily observations and recorded the changes they saw as the color traveled through the celery and into the leaves.
Hands-on learning like this helps bring science to life and shows just how amazing plants can be!
š¢ SCHEDULE CHANGE: Many roads across the county have developed ice patches overnight. As a result, today, Tuesday, March 17, 2026, will be a Remote Learning Day. 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.
š¢ SCHEDULE CHANGE: Due to winter weather conditions, WCPS will operate on a 2-Hour Delayed Schedule on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
Childcare for elementary students will be provided at elementary schools (for elementary-aged students only) for working families who need it. Please watch for additional information from your childās elementary school.
If additional changes need to be made, we will shift to a remote learning day by 7:30 a.m. Childcare will not be provided if the division transitions to remote learning.
š
Congratulations, Mr. Bussey
Washington County Public Schools is proud to celebrate Mr. Bussey for receiving the Larry Johnson SMAC Award!
The award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to developing and implementing policies and programs that promote the health and safety of student-athletes.
Mr. Busseyās dedication to student safety can be seen every day -- from monitoring conditions during practices to supporting important initiatives like extreme heat safety protocols. His work helps ensure that our students can participate in athletics in a safe and healthy environment.
Washington County Public Schools is proud to celebrate Mr. Bussey for receiving the Larry Johnson SMAC Award!
The award recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to developing and implementing policies and programs that promote the health and safety of student-athletes.
Mr. Busseyās dedication to student safety can be seen every day -- from monitoring conditions during practices to supporting important initiatives like extreme heat safety protocols. His work helps ensure that our students can participate in athletics in a safe and healthy environment.
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight: Sydney Bailey Arnold ~ John S. Battle High School ~ Class of 2018.
We are thrilled to highlight Sydney Bailey Arnold, 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 Sydney Bailey Arnold, 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
šš State Champions
Congratulations to the Abingdon High School Lady Falcons on capturing the VHSL Class 3 Girls Basketball State Championship!
It was an incredible season, and weāre proud of the hard work, teamwork, and determination shown by these student-athletes and their coaches.
šø Photo courtesy: Virginia High School League
Congratulations to the Abingdon High School Lady Falcons on capturing the VHSL Class 3 Girls Basketball State Championship!
It was an incredible season, and weāre proud of the hard work, teamwork, and determination shown by these student-athletes and their coaches.
šø Photo courtesy: Virginia High School League
šØāØ Celebrating Youth Art Month
March is Youth Art Month, and weāre proud to showcase the incredible creativity of our students here at Washington County Public Schools!
Artwork from talented students across several of our schools is currently on display at the School Board Office, highlighting the imagination, skill, and hard work happening every day in our art classrooms. From colorful paintings to detailed drawings, each piece reflects the unique creativity of our young artists.
Take a look at some of the amazing artwork on display and help us celebrate the power of art in our schools!
March is Youth Art Month, and weāre proud to showcase the incredible creativity of our students here at Washington County Public Schools!
Artwork from talented students across several of our schools is currently on display at the School Board Office, highlighting the imagination, skill, and hard work happening every day in our art classrooms. From colorful paintings to detailed drawings, each piece reflects the unique creativity of our young artists.
Take a look at some of the amazing artwork on display and help us celebrate the power of art in our schools!
š¬āØ STEM Fun This Spring
Our friends at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center are inviting young learners to explore science, technology, engineering, and math during the 2026 Spring Kā5 STEM Academy!
This hands-on program gives elementary students the chance to experiment, build, and discover while learning alongside other curious minds.
š Tuesdays, April 7 ā May 5
ā° 6:00 ā 7:30 p.m. (Kindergarten dismisses at 7:15 p.m.)
š Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center ā One Partnership Circle, Abingdon
š² Cost: $35
Spots fill quickly, so families are encouraged to register soon!
š Learn more and register here:
https://www.swcenter.edu/k5stemacademy
Our friends at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center are inviting young learners to explore science, technology, engineering, and math during the 2026 Spring Kā5 STEM Academy!
This hands-on program gives elementary students the chance to experiment, build, and discover while learning alongside other curious minds.
š Tuesdays, April 7 ā May 5
ā° 6:00 ā 7:30 p.m. (Kindergarten dismisses at 7:15 p.m.)
š Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center ā One Partnership Circle, Abingdon
š² Cost: $35
Spots fill quickly, so families are encouraged to register soon!
š Learn more and register here:
https://www.swcenter.edu/k5stemacademy
ā A Sweet Way to Learn
Students at High Point Elementary School celebrated an early Pi Day with a delicious math lesson! Second graders explored fractions using pie, helping them visually identify equal parts while practicing fraction vocabulary.
After learning how pies can be divided into halves, fourths, and more, students got to enjoy the tasty treat as well! Hands-on learning (and a little pie!) made this math lesson extra memorable.
Students at High Point Elementary School celebrated an early Pi Day with a delicious math lesson! Second graders explored fractions using pie, helping them visually identify equal parts while practicing fraction vocabulary.
After learning how pies can be divided into halves, fourths, and more, students got to enjoy the tasty treat as well! Hands-on learning (and a little pie!) made this math lesson extra memorable.
