Nearly a thousand honor PWCS achievers at May 11 hoopla

“Come on, let’s hear it,” boomed emcee Hamish Brewer—and hear it they did—cheers, whistles, and applause, punctuated by a waving sea of pom-poms. It was an over-the-top salute from 900 families and friends in the bleachers to the more than 400 students and staff that filled the floor in the Colgan High School gymnasium last night. The School Board’s annual year-end recognition of outstanding students and staff in the arts, athletes, academics, and leadership was exciting, fun and funny, with Superintendent Steve Walts playing one note on an old tuba, and lip-syncing “Everything is Awesome.” Those honored have earned state, regional, national, and international recognition in their fields.

At times the event was deeply moving, too. Zella Brown, one of the “Courageous Four” black women who integrated the faculty of Prince William County’s white schools in 1965, was honored as an “Unsung Hero.” Even while Ms Brown was being introduced, the student honorees rose as one in respect, and were quickly followed by the entire audience. The “Sparkle Jacket” cheer leaders with special abilities from Osbourn Park took the floor several times, to enthusiastic applause.

Brewer, whose day job is serving as principal of Occoquan Elementary School, was joined by Carolyn Custard, director of student services. A former principal (Hylton High School), Custard’s experience in leading pep rallies kept the audience on its feet.

U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Comstock (10th District) saluted the honorees with a congratulatory letter.

Colgan High School’s vocal ensemble select choir opened the evening with the national anthem as the Gar-Field High School Marine Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Color Guard presented the Colors. The Woodbridge High School drumline closed out this spectacular celebration of accomplishments in our World-Class schools.