Superintendent’s Corner
Superintendent’s Update
Dear Students, Parents, Staff, and Community Members,
As we step into February, I am reminded of the rich history that surrounds us here in Virginia Our Commonwealth is often called the “Birthplace of Presidents,” as it has produced eight U S presidents more than any other state! This month, as we celebrate Presidents' Day, I encourage everyone to take a moment to reflect on the impact of Virginia’s leaders, from George Washington and Thomas Jefferson to Woodrow Wilson
Virginia’s Connection to American History and Montgomery County’s Role
Virginia has played a vital role in shaping the history of the United States, and we are fortunate to live in a state so deeply connected to the foundations of our nation As the home of the first permanent English settlement in America, Jamestown, Virginia, set the stage for the development of the country Colonial Williamsburg allows us to step back in time and experience daily life as it was in the 18th century, while sites like Monticello, Thomas Jefferson’s home, and Mount Vernon, George Washington’s estate, give us personal insight into the lives of our early leaders.
Additionally, Virginia was central to both the American Revolution and the Civil War. The decisive Battle of Yorktown in 1781 marked the end of the Revolutionary War, leading to American independence. Later, during the Civil War, places like Appomattox Court House witnessed history once again as General Robert E. Lee surrendered to Ulysses S. Grant in 1865, effectively bringing the war to a close.
Right here in Montgomery County, we have our own unique historical legacy. Established in 1776, our county is named after General Richard Montgomery, a hero of the Revolutionary War. The area played a key role in westward expansion and was home to some of the earliest frontier settlements in Virginia. One of the most well-known historical landmarks in our region is Smithfield Plantation, built in the 1770s, which was home to the Preston family and served as a crucial hub of early Virginia politics and military leadership
Montgomery County was also deeply affected by the Civil War, with significant troop movements and local contributions to both the Union and Confederate causes The Yellow Sulphur Springs, once a famous resort in the 19th century, served as a Confederate hospital during the war, treating wounded soldiers in what was considered a healing environment due to the natural mineral springs
Another key part of our county’s history is its connection to education and innovation Virginia Tech, founded as the Virginia Agricultural and Mechanical College in 1872, has grown into one of the nation’s premier research universities Its presence has shaped Montgomery County’s identity and economy, fostering a strong connection between education, technology, and the future
Superintendent’s Update
This February, I encourage students and families to explore our local history whether through visiting historical sites, reading about Virginia’s past, or discussing how our region has contributed to the broader American story.
Celebrating Presidents’ Day in Our Schools
Our classrooms will be engaging students in learning about the presidency, democracy, and the leadership qualities that make a great president. Some activities planned across our schools include:
Historical Role-Playing: Students will step into the shoes of past presidents and present speeches based on their leadership
Virginia Presidents Research Projects: Students will explore the lives of Washington, Jefferson, Madison, and others, discussing their impact on our nation
Presidential Trivia Challenges: Schools will host fun competitions where students can test their knowledge of American leaders
Looking Ahead
February is also a time of continued academic progress as we move into the second half of the school year I encourage parents and guardians to stay engaged with your child’s education whether by reviewing assignments, reading together, or discussing what they are learning in school Additionally, I want to express my appreciation for our dedicated teachers and staff, whose hard work ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that includes not just math and reading, but also the history and civic lessons that make informed citizens
Thank you for your continued support of our schools and students Let’s make this a month of learning, reflection, and inspiration!
Sincerely,
Bernard F Bragen, Jr , Ed D
Bus Patrol
BusPatrol is live! To help keep our students safe we’ve partnered with the MCSO and BusPatrol. New AI technology on MCPS buses will record illegal bus passings. The MCSO will validate each offense and issue a summons.
https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=9RNffnTeeLo
All District Choir
100 MCPS middle and high school students represented MCPS in the VCDA District VI concert. Schools from all around the region were represented.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-VUtbNre_vI
Curriculum & Instruction Update
Career & Technical Education: Pathways to Success in Montgomery County Public Schools
Dear Students, Families, Staff, and Community Members,
At Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS), we are committed to preparing students for success beyond the classroom, whether they choose to enter the workforce, pursue higher education, or explore technical careers. Our Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs offer hands-on, real-world learning experiences that equip students with the skills, certifications, and knowledge needed for high-demand careers.
CTE Opportunities in Middle & High School
Students in middle school can begin exploring CTE through introductory courses that build foundational skills in various career fields. These early experiences help students discover their interests and make informed choices about high school coursework.
At the high school level, MCPS offers a wide range of career pathways designed to prepare students for college and career opportunities. Whether a student is interested in healthcare, engineering, business, skilled trades, or technology, there is a pathway to match their aspirations. Many of our programs also provide industry-recognized certifications, work-based learning experiences, and dual enrollment options for college credit.
High School CTE Programs
Our high schools offer diverse CTE programs, including:
�� Agricultural Education– Horticulture, Small Animal Care, Veterinary Science, Fisheries & Wildlife Management
�� Business & Information Technology – Accounting, Business Law, Computer Information Systems, Programming, Cybersecurity
Curriculum & Instruction Update
�� Family & Consumer Sciences – Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Education
�� Health & Medical Sciences – Nurse Aide, Medical Terminology, Pharmacy Technician
�� Marketing – Marketing Management, Advertising Design, Graphics Imaging, Fashion Marketing, & Sports & Entertainment Marketing
�� Technology & Engineering Education – Engineering Design, Civil Engineering, Technical Drawing & Design, Introduction to Drones
�� Trade & Industrial Education– Welding, Manufacturing Systems, Carpentry, Auto Technology, Precision Machining, Cosmetology
Why Choose CTE?
✅ Hands-on learning with state-of-the-art equipment
✅ Industry-recognized certifications and credentials
✅ Internships, apprenticeships, and real-world experience
✅ Pathways to college credit and career success
MCPS is proud to offer these valuable programs that empower students to explore careers, gain practical skills, and build bright futures. We encourage families to explore the opportunities available and work with school counselors to help students find the best fit for their interests and goals.
For more information about our CTE programs, please visit our Middle School or High School Program of Studies, or contact your student’s counselor.
Sincerely,
Barbara M. Wickha, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction
Since Metallica is visiting Blacksburg in a few months, the Kipps Three O’Clock Band is queuing up Enter Sandman! Check out the band’s awesome sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
v=24Z5PsERjXE
Auburn Middle School recently celebrated its 10th year in its current building. The entire community was invited to tour the building, see AMS memorabilia and even play in the alumni basketball game.
https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=dkImu eId6k
February
Equity Update
is Black History Month
Trailblazers in Black Labor and Civil Rights: A Philip Randolph, Addie Wyatt, and Mary McLeod Bethune
As we celebrate Black History Month 2025 and the theme “African Americans and Labor,” we recognize the extraordinary contributions of Black leaders who fought for workers’ rights, education, and economic justice Among them, A Philip Randolph, Addie Wyatt, and Mary McLeod Bethune played key roles in shaping labor movements, advocating for fair wages, and expanding opportunities for African Americans
A Philip Randolph: Champion of Black Labor Unions
A Philip Randolph (1889–1979) was a pioneering labor organizer and civil rights leader who fought for economic justice In 1925, he founded the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters (BSCP), the first Black-led labor union to receive national recognition His leadership led to improved wages and working conditions for Black porters, many of whom were formerly enslaved or descendants of enslaved workers.
Randolph’s activism extended beyond labor rights. In 1941, he organized the March on Washington Movement, pushing President Franklin D. Roosevelt to issue Executive Order 8802, which banned racial discrimination in war-related industries. He later helped plan the 1963 March on Washington, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Through his relentless advocacy, Randolph ensured that Black workers had a place in both the labor movement and the fight for civil rights.
Addie Wyatt: Fighting for Workers and Women’s Rights
Addie Wyatt (1924–2012) was a trailblazing labor leader and civil rights activist, dedicated to securing fair wages, job security, and gender equality. She began her career in Chicago’s meatpacking industry, where she quickly became a union leader, advocating for fair pay and safer working conditions
As a co-founder of the Coalition of Labor Union Women (CLUW), Wyatt championed the rights of Black women workers, ensuring they had a voice in the labor movement She worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr in the Poor People’s Campaign and the March on Washington, connecting the labor rights movement with the broader fight for racial and economic justice Wyatt’s leadership helped pave the way for future generations of Black women in labor unions and political activism
Equity Update
Mary McLeod Bethune: Educator and Advocate for Economic Empowerment
Mary McLeod Bethune (1875–1955) was a visionary educator and civil rights leader who believed education was the key to Black economic and social progress. In 1904, she founded BethuneCookman University, providing Black students especially young women with vocational and academic training
Bethune’s influence extended into government, where she became the highest-ranking Black woman in Franklin D Roosevelt’s administration As a key member of Roosevelt’s Black Cabinet, she fought for policies that advanced African American workers and desegregated the military In 1935, she founded the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW) to unite Black women’s organizations and advocate for social justice Her legacy continues today through her contributions to education, labor rights, and civil rights
A Legacy of Labor and Justice
The contributions of Randolph, Wyatt, and Bethune remind us that Black labor has always been a driving force for progress from fighting for fair wages and workplace protections to ensuring equal access to education and economic opportunities Their leadership shaped not only the labor movement but also the broader civil rights struggle, paving the way for a more just and equitable society
As we honor Black History Month 2025, let us reflect on their legacies and continue the work they started fighting for workers' rights, equality, and justice for all
Resources:
NEA
Black History Month
ASALH The Founders of Black History Month
National Museum of African American History and Culture
AMPS Cohort Completes Coursework
The most recent AMPS cohort has completed all the required coursework to earn their teaching license. The MCPS AMPS program provides the training and classwork required for anyone interested in teaching to earn their teaching license. This program is open to anyone with a bachelor’s degree and allows people to teach in MCPS with their provisional license while working on the required coursework.
February Seniors of the Month
Congratulations to our Seniors of the Month. These students were recognized for their hard work at a recent school board meeting.
Auburn High School – Isabelle Price
Blacksburg High School – Max Bibeau
Christiansburg High School - Alexandria Swenson
Eastern Montgomery High School – Olivia Wilbon
