Osbourn High School

Manassas City Public Schools has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 Virginia School Boards Association (VSBA) Showcasing Innovation Award for its program, Building Stronger Families Through Adult English as a Second Language (ESL) Education.

The award, now in its second year, recognizes innovative programs and initiatives across the Commonwealth that demonstrate creativity, impact, and meaningful collaboration in supporting students and families. MCPS received the award in the school division category serving fewer than 10,000 students.

“Your program exemplifies the essence of this award – innovation, impact, and meaningful collaboration,” the VSBA wrote in its award notification to the division. “Among a competitive field of outstanding submissions from across the Commonwealth, your initiative stood out as a shining example of excellence.”

Launched in 2023, the MCPS Adult ESL program was created to strengthen family engagement and support student success by equipping adult learners with English language and life skills connected directly to their children’s educational experience. Since its launch, the program has expanded from a single class to nine classes serving more than 170 participants across four proficiency levels, from Basic through Level 3.

The program offers free morning and evening classes designed to reduce barriers for families while helping participants build confidence in communication, better understand school systems, and strengthen their ability to support their children academically. In addition to language instruction, participants engage in real-world learning experiences through visits to local resources and community sites.

During the March 10 regular School Board meeting, Curt Emmel, Director of Federal Programs and Family Engagement, presented an overview of the program and its impact. Adult ESL participants also shared personal testimonials about how the classes strengthened their confidence, communication skills, and connection to their children’s schools.

“What makes the MCPS Adult ESL program innovative is its intentional focus on connecting language acquisition directly to student success in school,” the division wrote in its award application. “This dual focus — language development and educational empowerment — creates a unique model that strengthens family capacity, deepens engagement, and directly supports student achievement through more informed and confident caregivers.”

The program was developed through collaboration among Manassas City Public Schools staff, Family Liaisons, community organizations, and local partners, including Grace United Methodist Church and Legacy Impact. Family Liaisons across the division continue to play an important role in outreach and support for participating families.

“The School Board is extremely proud of this program and the many individuals who have worked together to make it such a meaningful success for families in our community,” said School Board Chair Jill Spall. “This recognition reflects the dedication, collaboration, and commitment behind creating opportunities that truly make a difference for students and families.”

VSBA representatives formally presented the award to members of the School Board of the City of Manassas during the VSBA Northeastern Spring Regional Meeting on May 12 in Spotsylvania County. In addition, MCPS has been invited to present the program at the 2026 VSBA Annual Convention in Williamsburg this November.

The recognition highlights the division’s continued commitment to building strong partnerships with families and creating opportunities that support student success both inside and outside the classroom.