Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) will have a new leader starting in July.
LaTanya McDade was named the new Superintendent for the school system. Steve Walts, the current superintendent, is retiring.
McDade is going to be the first woman and African American to serve in this role, according to a release from PWCS.
She said in a press release that she looks forward to working with students, staff, families and communities to help all students achieve and close “opportunity gaps”.
“As a daughter of immigrants, I understand firsthand the importance of providing students with access to rich opportunities that affirm their identities, strengthen their unique skills and talents, and support their aspirations,” the educator added. “PWCS shares my fierce commitment to ensuring equity remains at the center of a world class education.”
Her appointment was approved by the Prince William County School Board at a meeting on Wednesday.
The board, according to Chair Babur Lateef, thinks McDade will be a strong leader who is focused on the school division’s mission.
“The Board was impressed with her record of committed collaboration, transparent communication, and sense of accountability,” Lateef said in a release. “Her extensive experience at all levels of education, and her commitment to equity and opportunity for all students, provide the foundation for boldly leading our School Division into this decade and beyond.”
For 23 years, McDade has served in Chicago Public Schools (CPS), where she is now the Chief Education Officer.
The new Superintendent is finishing her doctorate in educational leadership and supervision from Lewis University in Illinois. She earned her masters in leadership and administration through Loyola University and received her bachelor’s in elementary education from Chicago State University.
