Loudoun County Public Schools recognized its community and business partners on April 16 during the annual School Business Partnership Awards Recognition Breakfast. The event, hosted by the School Business Partnership Executive Council in partnership with the Loudoun Education Foundation, highlighted organizations and individuals who support student learning across the division.
The recognition breakfast underscored the importance of collaboration between schools and businesses in providing students with career-connected learning, workforce development, wellness supports, mentorships, family resources, and enrichment opportunities. These partnerships are seen as vital to strengthening educational outcomes for students.
More than 800 people attended this year’s celebration themed “Elevate Loudoun: Partnerships and Pathways.” Student-designed posters and centerpieces contributed to the event’s atmosphere. According to Loudoun County Public Schools, registered community partners have nearly doubled over two years from 1,000 in 2024 to 1,958 in 2026.
Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence addressed attendees during opening remarks. “The future workforce of Loudoun County is sitting in our classrooms today,” said Dr. Spence. “When our schools and business community work in alignment, we create meaningful opportunities for students to see, prepare for, and step confidently into their imagined futures. These partnerships are not symbolic; they are essential. They help ensure our students graduate not only with strong academic foundations but with the skills, experiences, and confidence to thrive in college, career, and life. I am grateful to the leaders in this room for investing in our students and helping strengthen the future of our entire community.”
Several awards were presented at the event: Ferri Riar of Orblynx Academy received the Make a Difference Award for contributions to STEM education; Northrop Grumman was honored with a Legacy Award recognizing more than 25 years of partnership; Dr. William Hazel received an award named after J. Hamilton Lambert for leadership at Claude Moore Opportunities supporting health sciences education pathways.
Susan Mitchell, SBPEC Chair said: “This day is the true highlight of the SBPEC’s work celebrating how our community shapes the future of education and creates learning experiences that matter to students future employers and Loudoun leaders… every minute and every commitment makes a real difference for all students.”
Loudoun County Public Schools currently educates over 80,000 students across more than 100 schools employing about 13,500 staff members.
