MANASSAS, Va. — Manassas City Public Schools is expanding access to advanced academic opportunities, giving more students the opportunity to challenge themselves through rigorous coursework while preparing for success in college, careers, and beyond.

Since the 2022-23 school year, MCPS has expanded advanced learning opportunities across all grade levels by increasing access to honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual enrollment, Governor's School participation, career and technical education pathways, and elementary enrichment experiences. These efforts reflect the division's commitment to ensuring every student has access to challenging, engaging learning experiences that support academic success and future readiness.

Students are responding to these expanded opportunities with strong academic achievement. Advanced Placement participation has increased by 61 percent, while the percentage of MCPS students earning a qualifying score of 3 or higher on AP exams has grown from 35 percent to more than 53 percent in just three years.

The division has also strengthened dual enrollment partnerships, increased participation in advanced mathematics, and continued to invest in initiatives that help students succeed, including covering AP exam costs, providing PSAT and SAT testing opportunities, supporting teacher professional learning, and using student achievement data to identify students who are ready for advanced coursework.

The School Board of the City of Manassas received an update on the division’s advanced academic programs during its July 28 meeting, highlighting the continued progress of these initiatives and their positive impact on students throughout the division.

"Our goal is to ensure every student has access to challenging, engaging learning opportunities that help them discover their strengths and prepare for their future," said Dr. Kevin Newman, superintendent of schools. "We are proud of the progress our schools have made in expanding opportunities while maintaining high expectations and providing the support students need to succeed."