There are some days that remind you why it is so meaningful to help tell the story of public education.
Today was one of those days.
I had the opportunity to help plan and participate in a visit to Arlington Public Schools’ new Grace Hopper Center for members of the Lead Virginia Class of 2026. The visit brought leaders from across the Commonwealth to Arlington to learn more about the center, meet students and staff and see firsthand the opportunities APS is creating for students.
What made the visit especially meaningful was that students helped tell the story themselves.
Students led our guests on tours of Grace Hopper Center, sharing their experiences and introducing them to the learning spaces, programs and opportunities available throughout the building. They did a wonderful job welcoming the group and giving visitors an authentic look at what learning at Grace Hopper Center is all about.
Following the tours, Margaret Chung, principal of Grace Hopper Center-Technical and Arlington Tech, Kimberly Jackson-Davis, principal of Grace Hopper Center Pathways, and Cristin Schulman joined students for a panel discussion. Together, they shared more about the vision for the center, the programs housed there and the different pathways APS provides to help students explore their interests and prepare for what comes next.
I was especially glad to be part of planning the visit. Much of my work happens behind the scenes, connecting people, shaping experiences and finding opportunities to showcase the remarkable work happening across our schools. Seeing the day come together, and watching our students and staff represent APS so well, made it particularly rewarding.
It was also wonderful to spend some time with Barbara Hunter, executive director of the National School Public Relations Association. I have the privilege of serving on the NSPRA Executive Board, and Barbara and I have worked together in that capacity. Getting to welcome her and the Lead Virginia group to APS made the day even more special.
It was a delightful afternoon and a great reminder of what can happen when education, communication and leadership come together around a shared commitment to students.