Staying Ready for What’s Next: How Students Thrive at PWA
- Katherine Giovannone
- Jun 18
- 3 min read
The world is changing quickly. At Prince William Academy, we see that as an opportunity. Our job isn't just to prepare students for high school—it's to prepare them for life, with the skills and mindset to lead in an evolving world.
At our school in Woodbridge, Virginia, we combine traditional academics with a modern, global perspective to help students adapt, create, and thrive.
Teaching More Than What’s in the Textbook
Our students don’t just memorize facts. They learn how to think critically, ask good questions, and collaborate to find answers. Our curriculum goes beyond the basics:
Mandatory Robotics/STEM Program (JK–8): All students learn coding, robotics, and STEM thinking as core parts of their education, preparing them for a tech-driven world.
Entrepreneurship Curriculum: Middle schoolers develop, pitch, and sell their own products in our student-run marketplace—a real-world introduction to business and creativity.
Leadership Overnight Trip: Middle school students take part in an immersive experience focused on leadership, independence, and team building.
Monthly Character Assemblies: We highlight and celebrate 10 key traits throughout the year, encouraging values like honesty, responsibility, and empathy.
Global Readiness Starts Early
Through programs like International Month and Taste of Nations, students experience cultures beyond their own and gain global awareness from a young age. Our Global Music Exchange furthers that perspective by giving students the chance to connect with peers in countries like Costa Rica and Canada.
These programs aren’t just fun extras—they help develop empathy, open-mindedness, and curiosity.
Confidence Through Communication
Starting in Grade 3, our students participate in Speech Night, an annual event where they deliver public presentations in front of peers and parents. This gives them not just communication skills, but the confidence to lead and express ideas clearly—a critical life skill.
Creativity and Expression
The arts are a vibrant part of life at Prince William Academy. Students have access to:
Choir and orchestra
Instrumental music lessons
Theatre productions in middle school that allow for both on-stage and behind-the-scenes learning
International Art & Music festival where everyone participates and performs. Our little artists also auction their master pieces with all the proceeds contributing to a good cause of their choice!
Clubs That Build Passion and Purpose
With a wide variety of extracurricular clubs, students are encouraged to explore their interests. Options include:
Model UN
Art and pottery
Drama
Ping pong
Debate
And many others
These clubs help students discover talents, build confidence, and work with peers across grades.
Teamwork on the Field and Off
Sports teams at PWA do more than keep kids active. They teach teamwork, discipline, and how to win (and lose) with grace. Competing against neighboring schools, our athletes develop school spirit and pride.
Support That Stays With Them
What really sets us apart is the community behind the academics. Every teacher, staff member, and family contributes to a culture where students feel known and supported.
That support continues as students prepare for what’s next, whether it's high school, new leadership roles, or opportunities beyond the classroom.
Why PWA Works
By combining academic strength, global perspective, arts, leadership, and emotional development, we help students build a toolkit for success that’s adaptable, lasting, and real.
If you're searching for a private school in Prince William County that prepares students not only to succeed—but to lead—we invite you to discover Prince William Academy.
