ACPS Working to Improve Racial Equity — “Students and teachers in Alexandria still face racial bias, and now school officials are working with social justice advocates to expand training sessions and restorative justice practices. That’s some of the aftermath of an alarming racial equity survey conducted this year to prevent race and socioeconomic status from being predictors of academic success or opportunity.” [Gazette Packet]

Tim Carman Visits Smoking Kow — “Several readers (and the owner of the place himself) asked why Smoking Kow BBQ didn’t crack my top 10. I assure you there’s a very good reason for its omission: Until recently, I had never set foot in the original Alexandria location, nor its second shop in Arlington (2910 N. Sycamore St.)… Consider this column a mea culpa.” [Washington Post]

Reasons to Celebrate for T.C. Band, Teams — “In October, the T.C. Williams High School Marching Band earned the highest superior rating at the Virginia Marching Band Performance Assessment. This is the first time the band has reached this level since 1988, 31 years ago… In sports, the T.C. Williams varsity girls volleyball team, cheerleading team, and field hockey team have all captured district championships.” [ACPS]