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Potomac Middle School - Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions specific to Potomac Middle School (PTMS). Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) FAQ can be found on by clicking on the link below: 

If your question, specific to PTMS is NOT listed, please email us at: ptms-helpdesk@pwcs.edu and we will return your email promptly. 

When is the first day of school? The first day of school for ALL students is Monday, August 23, 2021. All students will attend classes 5 days a week.

Will the school year be virtual, in-person, or a combination of both? This year approximately 97% of students will be returning to learn IN PERSON this year with a very small percentage staying virtual. 

Will masks be required for this school year? YES. Masks will be required during the school day except while eating/drinking with few exceptions. The PWCS Mask Mandate can be found here.

What will the schedule look like for Potomac Middle School during this year? We will return to a traditional 7 period a day bell schedule.

What online platforms or learning management system will PTMS be using for the virtual learning? PTMS will be using Zoom for live lessons for our virtual students. PWCS purchased a secure license for Zoom. We will also be utilizing the Canvas Platform to integrate and and assist with virtual learning. 

When will my student receive their schedule for the 2020-2021 school year? Schedules will be released in StudentVUEon Friday, August 20, 2021.

How will my student know which Zoom session to sign into for each class if my student is virtual? Students will follow their schedule that will be assigned in Student VUE. They should work with their teachers as well as within the Canvas platform to sign into the appropriate Zoom class at the correct time. For example, if a student has 3rd period Language Arts, they would sign into their Language Arts class every time 3rd period class time is on the schedule. 

Should I buy school supplies for my student? Yes. The best way to decide what supplies to purchase is to either check your student's teacher websites on the Potomac Middle School webpage (if they are listed), contact your student's teachers when you receive their schedule, or wait until the first week of school when supplies are discussed in class. 

Can I borrow a laptop device from PTMS to assist with distance learning? All students will have a PWCS laptop issued from the school. Returning students should have their laptops from last year. Rising 6th graders or new students to the district or our school will receive a laptop from PTMS. 

Will I have to create a breakfast/lunch account for my student? No, for the 2021-2022 school year, all breakfast and lunches will be free of charge to ALL students!