United Way promotes Smart 2 Start application for Pre-K learning Gene Marrano January 31, 2020 1 minute read Virginia’s Secretary of Education called Smart 2 Start a “unique program” in the Commonwealth, when United Way of Roanoke Valley unveiled a new wrinkle to its Smart Beginnings at a Roanoke City school this morning. More from WFIR’s Gene Marrano: Share: Post navigation Previous: Empire Bakery in Rocky Mount expandingNext: Democratic establishment may not like first caucus outcome Monday Related Stories Mill Mountain Zoo welcomes pair of Patagonian maras Web Staff June 19, 2026 Dr. Verletta White, Superintendent of Roanoke City Schools, to step down in one more year Gene Marrano June 18, 2026 Fire chief presents plan to replace 75-year-old Roanoke Fire Station No. 2 Ian Price June 18, 2026