Prince William County Schools, Virginia Recognizes DeAngelo as Advocate, Author, and Champion for Students

Marc DeAngelo was recognized by the Prince William County Schools as this year’s recipient of their Champions for Children Award at the student health and wellness symposium.

Dr. Latanya D. McDade, Ed. D. superintendent of schools with Deangelo for as he is recognized for his dedication to children.

DeAngelo’s dedication to the students of Prince William County Schools goes far beyond his twenty-five years of service as a high school social worker. Currently supporting Forest Park High School, Marc is celebrated for his compassionate approach, tireless advocacy, and innovative initiatives that support the most vulnerable students.

One area where Marc’s work has been called out is his clinical expertise in addressing self-harming and suicidal behaviors among students. Every year, he leads a group based on behavior change theory, designed to equip students with distress tolerance skills, reduce self-harming behaviors, and improve school attendance. His efforts have led to measurable, life-changing outcomes for countless students.

However, Marc recognized that many of these students, despite their remarkable personal growth and resilience, rarely receive formal recognition for their achievements. To address this, he proposed to school administrators that these students be honored with a special pin at graduation. He even designed the pin himself, crafting a symbol of strength, perseverance, and collaboration that acknowledges their journey and inspires future success.

Beyond his role as a school social worker, Marc is also a published author of Wesley and the River Run. This young adult novel is a poignant allegory reflecting his personal experiences and professional insights. The story follows Wesley, a young boy facing overwhelming challenges, as he embarks on a river race with no paddle or boat. Through perseverance and friendship, Wesley learns lessons of self-acceptance and resilience. Marc’s writing beautifully mirrors the struggles faced by many of the students he supports, offering a message of hope and empowerment.

Marc’s dual impact as an advocate and author highlights his unwavering commitment to fostering resilience and growth in young people. Prince William County Schools are privileged to have such a dedicated professional on their team, and his work continues to inspire students, colleagues, and readers alike.

To learn more about Marc’s writing and advocacy, visit Wesley and the River Run.