Children
- Hollymead Elementary Principal Resigns Following Staff Member’s Arrest on Felony Charges
Albemarle County Public Schools has accepted the resignation of Hollymead Elementary School Principal Joe McCauley amid a sexual abuse scandal involving a former staff member. The announcement came recently as the district addresses the fallout from criminal charges against Michael Swiney. McCauley had previously been placed on administrative leave during an internal review. Michael Swiney, […]
- Rep. Suhas Subramanyam Votes Against KIDS Act Despite Having Children of His Own
As a parent in Loudoun County, Virginia, few issues hit closer to home than the safety of our children online. In an era where smartphones are ubiquitous and social media platforms dominate young lives, protecting minors from harmful sexual content, predatory interactions, and addictive algorithms should be a non-negotiable priority. Yet, on June 29, 2026, […]
- Virginia nonprofit launches mobile tech education bus for underserved students
Two retired military cybersecurity experts in Virginia recently launched a bus service in Hampton Roads to raise awareness and educate students about technology, after receiving an unexpected state budget appropriation of $200,000. The cyber education bus is the latest way the nonprofit organization RFK Outreach will fulfill its goal to help children and teens learn […]
- Loudoun County School Board Examines Classroom Evacuation Alerts
During a Loudoun County School Board meeting, members engaged in discussion regarding policies for notifying parents when classrooms are evacuated due to student dysregulation. The session focused on identifying inconsistencies in how such incidents are communicated to families. Officials explored options for improving transparency while maintaining appropriate confidentiality standards. Details o
- Virginia Lawmakers Enact Reforms to School Board Grievance Procedures
The Virginia General Assembly passed House Bill 116 during the 2026 regular session, a measure that amends the Code of Virginia to require specific timelines for resolving disputes in school board employee grievance procedures. The bill was approved by the Governor on April 6, 2026, and becomes effective on July 1, 2026, as Chapter 67 […]
- Study Examines Radiation Absorption Differences Between Children and Adults Near Cell Towers
Theodora Scarato has drawn attention to research indicating that children absorb more radiation from cell towers than adults. The difference stems from thinner skulls and developing brains that allow greater penetration of radiofrequency signals. A 2023 study by Lee and Choi analyzed downlink electromagnetic field exposure in mobile communication networks. The work included computer simulations […
- Physician Addresses Prince William County School Board on Screen Time in Elementary Education
A physician delivered remarks to the Prince William County School Board regarding the use of iPads in elementary classrooms. She described how these devices affect young students by limiting access to other forms of learning. The speaker noted that children develop visually and cognitively through a variety of methods. Her presentation outlined reasons for reconsidering […]
- Virginia Senate Examines Juvenile Abuse Cases and Interview Protocols
The Virginia Senate is conducting an examination of juvenile abuse cases throughout the state. This review focuses on the handling of disclosures made by children who have experienced abuse. The process involves assessing how initial responses influence subsequent outcomes for victims. Investigators play a key role in shaping the direction of these sensitive matters. Effective […]
- Child Advocacy Centers Show Impact in Virginia Abuse Cases
Virginia Department of Social Services has presented information on how child advocacy centers improve responses to child abuse disclosures. The centers facilitate one forensic interview by a trained professional using established protocols. This method contrasts with multiple interviews that can occur without coordination. Cases without a child advocacy center often involve poor question structur
- Mother Speaks to Prince William County School Board on Autistic Students
A mother presented her concerns during a recent meeting of the Prince William County School Board regarding the experiences of autistic children in local schools. She described the tendency of these students to mask their difficulties, resulting in issues that remain hidden from view. The presentation focused on the need for greater attention to these […]
- White House Promotes Trump Accounts for Child Investment
The White House recently shared information about Trump Accounts, a new savings and investment option for American children. The announcement directs families to the official app for starting the process of building financial resources for the next generation. This development follows the program’s official rollout in mid-2026. Details of the Trump Accounts Initiative Trump Accounts […]
- High-potency marijuana fuels state debates over psychosis and addiction risks
When her son was a teenager, Connecticut mom Amy Wadsworth said, he was the type of kid parents rarely worry about. He played sports, cared about his health and stayed away from drugs. In 2018, when he left West Hartford to start his freshman year at American University in Washington, D.C., she expected his biggest […]
- Fairfax County Advances ‘Wait Until 8th’ Initiative to Address Smartphone Impacts on Youth
Research indicates that smartphone ownership at younger ages predicts poorer adult outcomes, including reduced self-worth, lower motivation, diminished resilience, and increased sadness, anxiety, and aggression—effects more pronounced in girls. A study of over 27,000 people supports delaying devices until high school. Separately, data from more than 100,000 young adults shows children with phones
- Virginia’s romance with data centers has cooled, but nobody benefits if there’s a full breakup
Data centers. Can’t live with them. Can’t live without them. But we could do with data centers slowing their jackrabbit pace of reproduction in congested suburbs and, instead, building where they could fill a need and do more economic good. Our romance with data centers has cooled in Virginia, home to the world’s greatest concentration […]
- Farmers, retailers worry as state and federal regs for hemp, marijuana shift
A legal cannabis market is set to take effect in Virginia next summer pending a final state budget, but Mannassas-based Barbara Biddle has already given notice to her landlord to shut down one of her two hemp stores. As a purveyor of hemp-infused products, her District Hemp Botanicals shops sell creams, bath salts, infused drinks […]
- Virginia measles cases surge past 70, concentrated in Central Virginia
Virginia’s measles count has jumped by more than 30 cases in recent weeks, with most of the infections centered in Central Virginia around Buckingham County. Data from the Virginia Department of Health shows that there have been 77 cases this year, most involving unvaccinated people. The bulk of the cases are babies and children younger […]
- Another year, another Virginia retail marijuana market veto leaves businesses, the public with few options
By Yiqing Wang and Toby Cox/WHRO Throughout her bid for governor, Gov. Abigail Spanberger said she would support a bill to set up a legal, adult-use cannabis market — which is why her veto on May 19 caught many rooting for such a market by surprise. “I thought it was a joke, honestly,” said Julian […]
- Virginia Universities Draw Attention for Handling of Parent Record Requests
Public universities in Virginia have been noted for practices that limit or complicate parents’ access to records concerning their children’s academic and campus experiences. These institutions reportedly require additional steps and documentation that extend the time needed to fulfill information requests. Such approaches affect families who support higher education through various contributions.
- Virginia braces for dangerous heat wave ahead of Fourth of July weekend
Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Wednesday urged Virginians to prepare for dangerous heat and humidity expected to blanket much of the commonwealth through the Fourth of July weekend, with forecasters warning heat index values could reach as high as 115 degrees in some areas. The National Weather Service said Virginia is expected to face a prolonged […]
- Fairfax School Bus Camera Program Documents Thousands of Violations in Fairfax County
Fairfax County has installed cameras on school buses to catch stop-arm violators. The results include more than 58,000 incidents captured in just months. This data collection effort aims to address traffic safety concerns involving stopped school buses. The camera system records instances where drivers fail to stop for extended stop arms on school buses. Such […]
- Loudoun County Parent Highlights Limitations of SOL Tests for Dyslexic Student
A parent residing in Loudoun County has shared observations about the Standards of Learning tests used in Virginia schools. She states that these assessments primarily evaluate test-taking skills instead of reflecting students’ actual learning and knowledge acquisition. The comments arise in the context of her attempts to address the educational needs of her daughter who […]
- Virginia faces mental health provider shortages as Hampton Roads residents struggle to navigate care
By Yiqing Wang/WHRO A new national report found Virginia is facing “catastrophic” shortages in community mental health. Providers in Norfolk say many patients still struggle to know where to turn during a mental health crisis. The report from mental health policy group Inseparable found Virginians go out of network for mental health care six and a half […]
- Fairfax County Considers Affordable Housing Near Gas Stations Amid Health Discussions
Plans for affordable housing development in Fairfax County have drawn attention to the site’s location next to five gas stations. Community members have raised questions regarding possible health implications tied to emissions from these facilities. The discussion centers on benzene and other compounds associated with petroleum operations in the area. Visual materials include a map […]
- Testimony Presented to Prince William County School Board on Coach Conduct Allegations
Prince William County, VA — During a recent Prince William County School Board meeting, parent Mr. McDade delivered public testimony regarding his son’s treatment by a high school basketball coach. McDade stated that the coach has engaged in ongoing retaliation against his son over a period of several months. He told the board that despite […]
- Fairfax County Counselor Addresses Concerns Over Excessive Screen Time for Young Children
Specifically, the counselor recounted experiences on a bus ride from the airport, while waiting in airport locations, and on planes, where every such child appeared to have a tablet in hand. ‘Stop handing tablets to kids everywhere,’ she urged, framing this as evidence of an unintended trend toward screen dependency from an early age. The […]
- Franklin City Parent Alleges Systemic Special Ed Safety Lapses at School Board Meeting
Key allegations included a failure to properly investigate incidents, a lack of transparency, and instances where parents were not informed about occurrences involving their disabled children. The parent emphasized that these concerns extend beyond verbal issues or education matters to core child protection failures. She noted that incidents with developmentally disabled students are not always […
- Concerns Mount Over Mold and HVAC Issues in Virginia Public Schools
A notable case cited involves schools in Chesterfield County’s Douglas District. There, significant delays in HVAC maintenance reportedly resulted in the release of Legionella bacteria, the causative agent of Legionnaires’ disease, a potentially deadly pneumonia. Legionella proliferates in water droplets from cooling towers and ventilation systems when not regularly cleaned and disinfected. This i
- Mount Vernon’s Revolutionary War Weekend Returns May 2-3: Step Into History as America’s 250th Anniversary Approaches
MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Just one week from now, George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate will once again come alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of the American Revolution. The popular Revolutionary War Weekend, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, 2026, promises an immersive two-day living-history experience that transports visitors back more […]
- Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax kills wife, then himself, police say
Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax presides over the state Senate during the 2020 General Assembly session in Richmond; police say he fatally shot his wife early Thursday morning before taking his own life. (Photo by Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) Former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax fatally shot his wife, Cerina Fairfax, before taking his own […]
- Ethiopian Orthodox Christians mark Easter in Washington with prayer and joyful family celebrations
This post was originally published on this site.WASHINGTON, D.C. (AP) – Dressed in all white, hundreds Ethiopian Orthodox Christians crowded into Washington, D.C.’s DSK Mariam Church, to sing hymns and pray in the ancient Ge’ez language, as well as to keep vigil during their Easter Sunday. Fasika, the celebration of Christ’s Resurrection, is celebrated a […]
- ‘Skill’ slot machines are a risky bet for Virginia
Skill games in a Richmond corner store. The games popped up in gas stations, convenience stores and bars around the state before they were outlawed. (Photo by Ned Oliver/Virginia Mercury) After 32 years in the United States Army and Virginia Army National Guard, I now spend my time managing my VFW Post’s charitable gaming activities. […]
- The Trump administration wants everyone to reapply for food stamps. What does that mean?
U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins’ call for a close reexamination of the 42 million people who receive federal food aid has befuddled advocates and lawmakers, coming mere days after recipients began to see benefits that had been stalled during the government shutdown.
- Danville City Council will consider three budget amendments relating to the regional airport
The city council of Danville will discuss three budget amendments at its regular meeting on Tuesday at 7 pm. These amendments are to be used to fund projects and programs at the Danville Regional Airport.
- Loudoun County neighbors fight proposed Dominion transmission lines for Data Center Alley
As the demand to pump power to energy-thirsty data centers concentrated in Northern Virginia swells, a debate about where to put towering high-powered transmission lines in populated areas has put one Loudoun County community on the defensive.
- Virginia AG candidate Jay Jones puts children in danger of sexual abuse
Jay Jones, the Virginia Democrat candidate for Attorney General, took a stand in public against protecting children who are vulnerable. Jones, as a Virginia Delegate for 2020, voted against some mandatory reporting laws pertaining to sex crimes committed against minors. Jones voted for House bill 257, which removed the requirement that school principals report misdemeanor crime to law enforcement.
- Open letter to Earle-Sears reflects Va. voters’ shifting sentiments on reproductive health care
As Virginia weighs whether or not to enshrine abortion, the act of killing babies in its constitution, the issue is playing a significant role in the upcoming elections for governor and motivating voters across party lines — including some who say it’s reshaping how they plan to vote this fall.
- Cybersecurity Pro Junaid Khan Jumps Into Virginia House Race, District 27
Laser‑Focused on Families, Economic Growth, Community Safety and Delivering Results‑Driven Governance.
- Virginia Bans Artificial Dyes from our Food, Governor Glenn Youngkin
Governor Glenn Youngkin participates in a bill signing ceremony at the Patrick Henry Building,
- Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office arrests Georgia Man in Ashburn for the Abduction of a 3 year old
Loudoun County, VA (March 10, 2025): The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) has arrested a suspect following a child abduction in Ashburn on Sunday
- A Plan to restrict social media for minors faces pushback and calls for tighter safeguards
As Virginia moves to limit social media access for minors under 16, a national child safety group is urging Gov. Glenn Youngkin to strengthen protections for families navigating the digital world. The Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI) is calling on the governor to make parental controls more accessible and user-friendly as he reviews recently passed […]
- It’s time for Virginia legislators to pay more than lip service to social media protections for kids
Last year, the U.S. Surgeon General released a bone-chilling warning on the impact of social media platforms on minors, calling on Congress to issue tobacco-like warning labels. This was followed in Virginia by an executive order from Gov. Glenn Youngkin directing health and education officials to establish guidance for a “phone-free education” in Virginia.
- Virginia Parents Protect their Children from Addictive Social Media
Reclaiming Childhood Task Force established to address youth mental health crisis RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin today issued
- Governor Glenn Youngkin Unveils Budget Amendments to Keep Delivering for Students and Families, Bringing Direct Aid to Education Commitment to More Than $22 Billion Over the Biennium
For Immediate Release: December 13, 2024 Contacts: Office of the Governor: Christian Martinez, Christian.