š£ Parent Resource Center Family Event
Washington County families are invited to a free community event on Thursday, October 8, from 4ā7 p.m. at Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church!
Families can connect with a variety of free resources, including:
*VDHās mobile health bus
*Clothing closet
*Dental services through Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Clinic
*Haircuts
*Free food
The event is open to all families, and preregistration is encouraged! Registering ahead of time helps our community partners plan for staffing and supplies.
Pre-register here: https://forms.gle/95AigMsrZ8pHXEQ47
This event is hosted by the Washington County Schools Parent Resource Center in collaboration with Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church, VDH, and Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Clinic
Washington County families are invited to a free community event on Thursday, October 8, from 4ā7 p.m. at Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church!
Families can connect with a variety of free resources, including:
*VDHās mobile health bus
*Clothing closet
*Dental services through Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Clinic
*Haircuts
*Free food
The event is open to all families, and preregistration is encouraged! Registering ahead of time helps our community partners plan for staffing and supplies.
Pre-register here: https://forms.gle/95AigMsrZ8pHXEQ47
This event is hosted by the Washington County Schools Parent Resource Center in collaboration with Sinking Springs Presbyterian Church, VDH, and Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Clinic
ššš Learning from Our Community Helpers
Watauga Elementary kindergarten students had some very special visitors last week as they learned about the important work of our local first responders.
Students had the opportunity to meet law enforcement officers, firefighters and paramedics, ask questions and learn more about the many ways these community helpers work to keep people safe.
A special thank-you to:
*Deputy Tilson and K9 Kala
*Green Springs Fire Department
*Officer Jack Thurston, Damascus Police Department
*Richardson Ambulance Service paramedics Katie and Josh Mattox
*Lt. Gemmell and Detective Lane from the Washington County Sheriff's Office S.E.R.T. Team
*Officer Matt Watson, Watauga Elementary's School Resource Officer
We are grateful to all of the first responders who serve our schools and communities each day -- and to those who take the time to help our students learn about their important work!
Watauga Elementary kindergarten students had some very special visitors last week as they learned about the important work of our local first responders.
Students had the opportunity to meet law enforcement officers, firefighters and paramedics, ask questions and learn more about the many ways these community helpers work to keep people safe.
A special thank-you to:
*Deputy Tilson and K9 Kala
*Green Springs Fire Department
*Officer Jack Thurston, Damascus Police Department
*Richardson Ambulance Service paramedics Katie and Josh Mattox
*Lt. Gemmell and Detective Lane from the Washington County Sheriff's Office S.E.R.T. Team
*Officer Matt Watson, Watauga Elementary's School Resource Officer
We are grateful to all of the first responders who serve our schools and communities each day -- and to those who take the time to help our students learn about their important work!
āØ Wallace Middle School Student Recognitions
The Washington County School Board recognized two Wallace Middle School students during tonightās meeting for their outstanding actions and accomplishments.
*Meila Leonard was recognized for her quick thinking and courageous actions to help keep a fellow student safe.
*Zoe Mason was recognized for achieving perfect scores on her 2025ā2026 SOL assessments -- an incredible academic accomplishment!
Congratulations, Mila and Zoe! Weāre proud to celebrate you both!
š½š„¬ Happy Virginia Farm to School Week
This week, weāre celebrating some of the local partners who help bring fresh food to WCPS cafeterias -- and highlighting the connection between agriculture, our schools and the meals we serve to students.
*Whitesides Sweet Corn -- providing fresh, locally grown sweet corn
*Anderson & Sons Meat Processing -- providing locally processed sausage
*Holston High School Horticulture -- growing fresh lettuce right here in our own school greenhouse
Weāre grateful for the farmers, producers and students who help bring local food from the farm -- and the greenhouse -- to our school cafeterias!
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight
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
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
On behalf of Washington County Public Schools and Abingdon High School, we want to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who responded and cared for our students and staff following Friday eveningās bus accident in Johnson County.
We are grateful to Johnson County Public Schools for the care and support they provided to our students and staff during an incredibly difficult situation. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Johnson County Sheriffās Office, emergency medical personnel, first responders and the many others who came to the aid of our students and staff. Their compassion, professionalism and willingness to help meant more than we can adequately express.
Our students and staff were surrounded by people who cared for them, comforted them and helped ensure they made it safely home to their families. The offers of support and assistance from others were immeasurable. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who played a part in that effort.
From an internal standpoint, our WCPS team stepped up and performed exceptionally in an unthinkable situation. Our bus drivers responded extraordinarily well and protected our students above all else. Our coaching staff managed the scene with precision and compassion. Parents at the scene provided invaluable assistance. Our WCPS athletic trainers, AHS Counseling staff and Highlands Community Services provided care and support to our students during and following the incident. Central Services and AHS administrators, along with School Board members, provided on-site and behind-the-scenes support to assist those on the front lines. Despite cellular challenges, our Communications Director provided information to families in a timely manner. Our football squad did exactly what you would expect from a team: they rallied and took care of one another in a heartwarming display of brotherhood.
We understand that the tragedy could have been much worse, and we know that our Falcon community was blessed and protected last night. We also recognize that this was a tragic accident that affected more than our school community. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.
Dr. Keith Perrigan
Superintendent, Washington County Public Schools
Leslie Cumbow
Principal, Abingdon High School
Garrett Amburgey
Head Football Coach, Abingdon High School
Andrew Hockett
Transportation Supervisor, Washington County Public Schools
Washington County School Board
We are grateful to Johnson County Public Schools for the care and support they provided to our students and staff during an incredibly difficult situation. We also extend our deepest appreciation to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the Johnson County Sheriffās Office, emergency medical personnel, first responders and the many others who came to the aid of our students and staff. Their compassion, professionalism and willingness to help meant more than we can adequately express.
Our students and staff were surrounded by people who cared for them, comforted them and helped ensure they made it safely home to their families. The offers of support and assistance from others were immeasurable. We are incredibly thankful to everyone who played a part in that effort.
From an internal standpoint, our WCPS team stepped up and performed exceptionally in an unthinkable situation. Our bus drivers responded extraordinarily well and protected our students above all else. Our coaching staff managed the scene with precision and compassion. Parents at the scene provided invaluable assistance. Our WCPS athletic trainers, AHS Counseling staff and Highlands Community Services provided care and support to our students during and following the incident. Central Services and AHS administrators, along with School Board members, provided on-site and behind-the-scenes support to assist those on the front lines. Despite cellular challenges, our Communications Director provided information to families in a timely manner. Our football squad did exactly what you would expect from a team: they rallied and took care of one another in a heartwarming display of brotherhood.
We understand that the tragedy could have been much worse, and we know that our Falcon community was blessed and protected last night. We also recognize that this was a tragic accident that affected more than our school community. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.
Dr. Keith Perrigan
Superintendent, Washington County Public Schools
Leslie Cumbow
Principal, Abingdon High School
Garrett Amburgey
Head Football Coach, Abingdon High School
Andrew Hockett
Transportation Supervisor, Washington County Public Schools
Washington County School Board
š§¹ Happy National Custodian Day
Washington County Public Schools is celebrating the incredible custodians who work behind the scenes each day to keep our schools clean, safe and welcoming for students and staff.
From early mornings to after-school activities, our custodians do so much to help our schools run smoothly -- and weāre grateful for all they do!
Thank you to all of our WCPS custodians!
Washington County Public Schools is celebrating the incredible custodians who work behind the scenes each day to keep our schools clean, safe and welcoming for students and staff.
From early mornings to after-school activities, our custodians do so much to help our schools run smoothly -- and weāre grateful for all they do!
Thank you to all of our WCPS custodians!
š Career Exploration at Patrick Henry
Patrick Henry High School students recently had the opportunity to explore different career paths and connect with local professionals during a career fair.
Thank you to all of the community partners who took the time to share their expertise, experiences and insights with students. Opportunities like these help students make connections and learn more about the possibilities that await them after high school.
We appreciate our community partners for investing in the future of WCPS students!
Patrick Henry High School students recently had the opportunity to explore different career paths and connect with local professionals during a career fair.
Thank you to all of the community partners who took the time to share their expertise, experiences and insights with students. Opportunities like these help students make connections and learn more about the possibilities that await them after high school.
We appreciate our community partners for investing in the future of WCPS students!
š Homecoming starts with math
As Holston High School gets ready for Friday nightās Homecoming game, Holston FFA students have been putting their ag skills to work -- and it takes a lot more than paint to get the football field ready.
Before the lettering and logos take shape, students measure, square corners, plot coordinates and lay out every detail by hand using tape measures, string and plenty of geometry. Every line and curve is carefully measured before the first drop of paint hits the grass.
It takes teamwork, precision and problem-solving to bring the field to life -- skills these students are putting into practice right here on their own football field.
Weāre looking forward to seeing the finished product under the lights Friday night!
As Holston High School gets ready for Friday nightās Homecoming game, Holston FFA students have been putting their ag skills to work -- and it takes a lot more than paint to get the football field ready.
Before the lettering and logos take shape, students measure, square corners, plot coordinates and lay out every detail by hand using tape measures, string and plenty of geometry. Every line and curve is carefully measured before the first drop of paint hits the grass.
It takes teamwork, precision and problem-solving to bring the field to life -- skills these students are putting into practice right here on their own football field.
Weāre looking forward to seeing the finished product under the lights Friday night!
š Battle in the Valley
Valley Institute Elementary School students had a special visit from some familiar faces Friday as members of the John S. Battle High School football team, cheerleaders and staff came back to take on the Bulldogs in a kickball tournament!
The September PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) incentive recognizes students for positive behavior and good choices, giving VIES students a chance to spend time with Battle students, enjoy temporary tattoos and cool off with a shaved ice station.
The day also featured a Battle spirit day as Valley students showed their support for the older students who once walked the same halls.
Valley Institute Elementary School students had a special visit from some familiar faces Friday as members of the John S. Battle High School football team, cheerleaders and staff came back to take on the Bulldogs in a kickball tournament!
The September PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) incentive recognizes students for positive behavior and good choices, giving VIES students a chance to spend time with Battle students, enjoy temporary tattoos and cool off with a shaved ice station.
The day also featured a Battle spirit day as Valley students showed their support for the older students who once walked the same halls.
š Civics Comes to Life at Wallace Middle School!
Mr. Stinsonās 7th grade civics students at Wallace Middle School recently took their learning beyond the classroom with two unique experiences in Abingdon!
Students attended The Adventures of Tom Sawyer at Barter Theatre, where they connected civics concepts such as rules, justice and the rights of the accused to the story unfolding on stage.
Students also explored the VA250 Mobile Museum, connecting what they have learned about Americaās founding to Virginiaās commemoration of the nationās 250th anniversary. The interactive museum brings Virginia and American history to communities across the state.
It was a great opportunity for students to see their classroom learning come to life through experiences right here in their community!
Mr. Stinsonās 7th grade civics students at Wallace Middle School recently took their learning beyond the classroom with two unique experiences in Abingdon!
Students attended The Adventures of Tom Sawyer at Barter Theatre, where they connected civics concepts such as rules, justice and the rights of the accused to the story unfolding on stage.
Students also explored the VA250 Mobile Museum, connecting what they have learned about Americaās founding to Virginiaās commemoration of the nationās 250th anniversary. The interactive museum brings Virginia and American history to communities across the state.
It was a great opportunity for students to see their classroom learning come to life through experiences right here in their community!
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight
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
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
š©ŗ CNA Students Build Hands-On Skills at WCCTEC
Washington County Career & Technical Education Center CNA students are building important patient-care skills and putting their classroom knowledge into practice.
Students have been learning and practicing proper patient positioning in bed, how to obtain accurate weights, catheter care, and safely donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE).
These hands-on experiences give students the opportunity to practice essential skills and prepare for the work they may one day do in the healthcare field.
Washington County Career & Technical Education Center CNA students are building important patient-care skills and putting their classroom knowledge into practice.
Students have been learning and practicing proper patient positioning in bed, how to obtain accurate weights, catheter care, and safely donning and doffing personal protective equipment (PPE).
These hands-on experiences give students the opportunity to practice essential skills and prepare for the work they may one day do in the healthcare field.
š“The Asian Cuisine Bar is back this Friday
Middle and high school students can enjoy the Asian Cuisine Bar during lunch on Friday, September 25.
Check out whatās on the menu and make plans to give it a try!
Middle and high school students can enjoy the Asian Cuisine Bar during lunch on Friday, September 25.
Check out whatās on the menu and make plans to give it a try!
š
Mark your calendars
The Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center is hosting its annual Kickoff to Connection! Resource Fair on Monday, September 28, and families are invited to join us!
*Monday, September 28, 2026
*SWVA Higher Education Center ā Abingdon
*5:00ā7:30 p.m.
More than 20 community partners will be on hand, including several new organizations this year. Families will have the opportunity to meet local organizations, learn about available resources and services, ask questions, and make connections that can support students and families throughout the school year.
Raffle prizes will also be given away throughout the evening!
We hope you'll join the Parent Resource Center for an evening of learning about the many resources and services available to WCPS families right here in our community.
Pre-register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd81Lu62Dh_YGLMfZOs28b6bOYqp9sQrodDKorxi07Hco5upg/viewform
Be sure to follow the Washington County Virginia Schools - Parent Resource Center: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532
The Washington County Public Schools Parent Resource Center is hosting its annual Kickoff to Connection! Resource Fair on Monday, September 28, and families are invited to join us!
*Monday, September 28, 2026
*SWVA Higher Education Center ā Abingdon
*5:00ā7:30 p.m.
More than 20 community partners will be on hand, including several new organizations this year. Families will have the opportunity to meet local organizations, learn about available resources and services, ask questions, and make connections that can support students and families throughout the school year.
Raffle prizes will also be given away throughout the evening!
We hope you'll join the Parent Resource Center for an evening of learning about the many resources and services available to WCPS families right here in our community.
Pre-register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd81Lu62Dh_YGLMfZOs28b6bOYqp9sQrodDKorxi07Hco5upg/viewform
Be sure to follow the Washington County Virginia Schools - Parent Resource Center: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577049952532
š Exploring Culture Through Spanish Class
Students at Glade Spring Middle School recently explored Mexican culture in Spanish class by learning about and creating their own Ojo de Dios, a traditional Mexican craft.
Students learned about the cultural background of the colorful woven designs before using their creativity and hands-on skills to make their own unique creations.
The finished pieces will be displayed in the school hallway later this month, giving students and staff a chance to see their classmatesā work!
Students at Glade Spring Middle School recently explored Mexican culture in Spanish class by learning about and creating their own Ojo de Dios, a traditional Mexican craft.
Students learned about the cultural background of the colorful woven designs before using their creativity and hands-on skills to make their own unique creations.
The finished pieces will be displayed in the school hallway later this month, giving students and staff a chance to see their classmatesā work!
šš ļø Exploring New Possibilities at WCCTEC
The work is getting underway on an innovative programming model being explored for the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center!
A workgroup met this morning to begin planning and exploring what it could look like to integrate government, English and mathematics instruction with career and technical education at WCCTEC. The goal is to create a more connected learning experience where students can spend their full school day at WCCTEC while applying academic concepts to the career-focused work happening around them.
This planning is supported by an Innovation Grant awarded to Washington County Public Schools.
The work is getting underway on an innovative programming model being explored for the Washington County Career & Technical Education Center!
A workgroup met this morning to begin planning and exploring what it could look like to integrate government, English and mathematics instruction with career and technical education at WCCTEC. The goal is to create a more connected learning experience where students can spend their full school day at WCCTEC while applying academic concepts to the career-focused work happening around them.
This planning is supported by an Innovation Grant awarded to Washington County Public Schools.
š¦ Paleontologists at Work at Meadowview Elementary
Students at Meadowview Elementary recently stepped into the role of paleontologists as they explored science through observations, discoveries and experiments.
Using their science tools and five senses, students made salt dough fossils, built a T-Rex and even went on their own paleontologist dig!
Students at Meadowview Elementary recently stepped into the role of paleontologists as they explored science through observations, discoveries and experiments.
Using their science tools and five senses, students made salt dough fossils, built a T-Rex and even went on their own paleontologist dig!
š Trout in the Classroom at Patrick Henry High School
Patrick Henry High School students will have a unique opportunity to learn about coldwater conservation, water quality and Southwest Virginiaās aquatic ecosystems through Trout in the Classroom!
Mountain Empire Trout Unlimited recently delivered the equipment needed for the program, which will be led by Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Makayla Harrison. Students will raise trout from eggs, giving them a hands-on look at the life cycle of a trout and the environmental conditions needed to support healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Thank you to Mountain Empire Trout Unlimited for sponsoring the program and to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for providing the trout eggs!
Weāre excited to see what students learn as they take on this new classroom experience.
Patrick Henry High School students will have a unique opportunity to learn about coldwater conservation, water quality and Southwest Virginiaās aquatic ecosystems through Trout in the Classroom!
Mountain Empire Trout Unlimited recently delivered the equipment needed for the program, which will be led by Agriculture teacher and FFA advisor Makayla Harrison. Students will raise trout from eggs, giving them a hands-on look at the life cycle of a trout and the environmental conditions needed to support healthy aquatic ecosystems.
Thank you to Mountain Empire Trout Unlimited for sponsoring the program and to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for providing the trout eggs!
Weāre excited to see what students learn as they take on this new classroom experience.
šWCPS Alumni Spotlight
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
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
