In a highly competitive process, the state of Virginia has recognized some elementary schools in Prince William County VA for meeting state and federal benchmarks.

First-graders at Cedar Point .Elementary School in Bristow take their passports and "visit" other countries. Shown here are Cedar Point's first-grade teachers: Andrea Morgan, Bridget Kiernan, Beth Fredette, Nancy Kulak and Chrissy Johnson

T. Clay Wood Elementary School, which opened in September, held its first literacy night on Dec. 13 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The nightwas considered a success by Principal Andrew Buchheit, shown here with Dr. Seuss’ Grinch and Norman Bridwell’s Clifford the Big Red Dog.

Courtesy photo. More than 300 people attended the Nadanalaalya Dance School’s third annual performance at Glenkirk Elementary School, featuring classical and traditional Indian costumes and choreography. The event was coordinated by Beverly Byer, Glenkirk Elementary teacher, and directed by Vasunthra Saravanapavan, dance school founder and teacher.

The Patriot High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) is making a pioneering effort. PTSA committees started forming last spring and met through the summer to be ready in time for the Nokesville’s school opening in September 2011.

Students and staff at J.W. Alvey Elementary School in Haymarket hold an annual fundraiser to help others locally, nationally and internationally. Here, Principal Candy Rotruck sits with current students in front of a mural of nonprofit Traditional Housing Barn, one of the many charities students have helped.

Jim Brock and the American Legion provide flags for first-graders throughout Prince William County public schools.

. Stability balls help Gainesville Middle School teachers improve posture and burn calories during the school day. More than half of the staff members are using the balls instead of chairs.