Powhatan County Public Schools (PCPS) is proud to announce that its Meaningful Watershed Educational Experience (MWEE) has been named a 2025 Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) Achievement Award winner. This award recognizes innovative programs that make a lasting impact in communities across the Commonwealth.
Since 2018, the MWEE program has engaged all fourth-grade students – about 350 each year – in a two-day outdoor learning experience at Fighting Creek Park. The annual MWEE event for the 2025-2026 school year will occur this fall. What makes this initiative unique is its peer-led model: Powhatan High School students from AP Environmental Science and Ecology classes serve as instructors. Through hands-on science stations, fourth graders explore watershed health, human impacts on ecosystems, and environmental stewardship, while their high school mentors develop leadership, confidence, and communication skills.
This impactful experience is made possible through strong partnerships with the Powhatan Extension Office, Monacan Soil and Water Conservation District, James River Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, and the Virginia Department of Forestry. PCPS extends a special thank-you to Mrs. Stump and Mrs. DeHart for preparing high school students to lead this award-winning program.
PCPS is proud that the MWEE program reflects the division’s Strategic Plan by advancing Academic Excellence through authentic, hands-on learning and strengthening Family and Community Engagement through meaningful partnerships.