Funds Approved For Manassas Schools Administrative Building Purchase

MANASSAS, VA — Manassas City Public Schools can now own the administrative building it has leased after approval of funds by Manassas City Council on Monday. The city council also approved use of a fund balance to support a pilot alternative education program at the school division.

The $10.75 million purchase of administrative headquarters at 8700 Centreville Road comes from the existing MCPS capital reserve balance. The school board had chosen to pursue the purchase of the leased building in June. MCPS says the school board's purchase of the building will allow it to become a permanent home for its central office.

In addition to the building purchase, Manassas City Council also approved $2 million from a fund balance for the alternative education program. The new program will serve students who do not succeed in traditional educational settings in grades 5 to 12.

City council meeting documents cited 20 percent of recent dropouts from MCPS having been suspended or expelled. An estimated 25 percent or more of dropouts participated in an alternative education program outside of MCPS. The pilot program will be hosted at the 8700 Centreville Road office and will launch in the 2025-2026 school year.

"The approval of both the building purchase and the launch of the alternative education program demonstrates a shared commitment to investing in our students and ensuring every learner has access to the resources they need to succeed," said MCPS Superintendent Kevin Newman.

"I’m proud of how the School Board and City Council have worked collaboratively to prioritize student achievement," added Manassas City School Board Chair Suzanne Seaberg. "This action reflects the strength of our governance partnership and our joint dedication to creating a stronger future for all Manassas students."