reception and recognition ceremony · crafted lessons and extends to crafted moments with everyone...

1FCPS HONORS

Wednesday, June 12, 2019George Mason University

Center for the Arts

RECEPTION

AND

RECOGNITION

CEREMONY

3FCPS HONORS2 FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Schedule of Events | Wednesday, June 12, 2019

Reception 6 p.m.

Music Gypsy Jazz Combo West Springfield High School Keith Owens, Director

Awards Ceremony 7 p.m. Opening Woodson High School Vocal Ensemble Amy Moir, Director

Welcome Helen Nixon Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Recognition of the Foundation for Scott Brabrand Fairfax County Public Schools Division Superintendent

Employee Award Introductions Helen Nixon

Employee Award Presentations Scott Brabrand and Fairfax County School Board and Leadership Team Members

Outstanding Elementary New Teacher

Outstanding Secondary New Teacher

Outstanding New Principal

Outstanding School-Based Hourly Employee

Outstanding Nonschool-Based Hourly Employee

Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee

Outstanding Nonschool-Based Operational Employee

Student Performance Eric Tysarczyk Vocalist, Woodson High School, Senior

Employee Award Presentations Continue

Outstanding School-Based Leader

Outstanding Nonschool-Based Leader

Outstanding Elementary Teacher

Outstanding Secondary Teacher

Outstanding Principal

Closing Remarks Helen Nixon


Outstanding New Teacher

The Outstanding New Teacher Award recognizes both an elementary and secondary teacher who are within their first three years of teaching and demonstrate outstanding performance and superior instructional skills. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate new teachers for this award.

Elementary Finalists

Ashley Abrams, Fifth Grade Teacher, Union Mill Elementary School, Region 4Walking into her fifth grade classroom, it is evident that engagement is crucial to Ashley’s daily instruction. She partners with her students in the learning process and understands that teaching goes beyond well-crafted lessons and extends to crafted moments with everyone in her class. Ashley seizes every second of the day, finding spare time to reteach key concepts, provide individual support, or cheer someone up. To demonstrate that they are valued inside and outside of the classroom, she attends music performances and sporting events to strengthen her relationships. Ashley sees her job as a grand adventure for which she has planned and prepared and shows she is more than ready to take on the challenges of each new day.

Jacqueline Breslin, Sixth Grade Teacher, Little Run Elementary School, Region 5Jacqueline’s impact throughout the Little Run community has been impressive. Her core values of building relationships, connecting to our community, and creating meaningful opportunities for students to learn is what makes Jacqueline a vital community member. “Miss Breslin’s greatest strength,” a colleague said, “is her ability to build positive relationships and make meaningful connections with her students.” Not only is she academically available for her students inside and outside of school, she is always available emotionally. She spends many lunches and weekends spending time with students and families. Colleagues commend her positive, collaborative attitude and willingness to help. A parent expressed: “We are so thankful and grateful for Miss Breslin’s teaching style, dedication, and commitment to help her students.”

Megan Gardner, Gifted Education Center Teacher, Churchill Road Elementary School, Region 1Megan warmly greets each student daily with a smile and the promise of an engaging day. Colleagues note she, “has a unique understanding of every student, allowing her to reach them in life changing ways”, and “skillfully provides instruction that is tailored to each child,” connecting content to their lives. They reflect that her level of instruction is more typical of a highly experienced teacher. She’s often found in the cafeteria or with her classroom “lunch bunch” strengthening her understanding of who her students are, how they learn, and what motivates them. Parents appreciate her insightful, comprehensive collaboration. Students embrace challenges because she inspires the confidence to keep trying for that “aha” moment when their eyes light up with accomplishment.

Madelyn King, Fifth Grade Teacher, Chesterbrook Elementary School, Region 2There is no doubt that Madelyn is a gifted educator who touches her students’ lives. Madelyn makes learning come alive with a multi-sensory approach to teaching. She is known for writing original raps to help students review material and for sharing stories about herself to build her caring classroom culture. Madelyn has the biggest heart and would do anything to help her students succeed. She goes above and beyond to create an inclusive setting where differences are celebrated. She believes that every student has something to offer and she helps her students to believe it too. “Maddy has a way of being so genuine,” said a parent, “parents always leave her classroom knowing that their students are well cared for.”

Hanna Nguyen, Fifth Grade Teacher, Garfield Elementary School, Region 3Hanna radiates positivity and greets her students with a huge smile every morning. She is there for them whenever they need a laugh on a tough day or a motivational talk to remind them to keep trying. Her students have transformed into everything from environmentalists to poets in her classroom. She has the ability to come up with innovative ways to teach content, while getting the kids to dance, rap, compete, or even let their creativity fly through a project. She has taught a hip hop dance club after school and is currently part of a science club that meets before school. Her passion and love for her students shines through her commitment in helping them see their own true potential.

Signature Sponsor

Highest Honors Sponsor

Event Sponsors

The Foundation for Fairfax County Public Schools is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of FCPS employees through the annual FCPS Honors event.

Our Mission

We energize the power of the community to invest in educational excellence and prepare students for the future.

Our Vision

Every FCPS student has a path to success.

Our Initiatives

State of Education Luncheon, December 4, 2019, Fairview Park Marriott

Innovative Classroom Grants Program, In 2019-20, 44 school-based educators will receive grants to support work-based learning.

Workforce Development: STEM training programs including CyberPatriot clubs in middle schools, and VA STAR clubs in middle and high schools.

Kids in Need Fund: erase school lunch debt, provide school supplies, gift cards and other essentials, and fill gap needs for the 55,000+ FCPS students living in poverty.

Employee Recognition Programs: FCPS Honors event and monthly FCPS Cares employee celebrations.

Elizabeth Murphy Executive Director [email protected] 571-423-1031

@fcpsfoundation

www.facebook.com/FCPSFoundation

To learn more about how you may make a donation to one of our programs or your favorite FCPS school, please visit: www.fcpsfoundation.org

Business

Honors Sponsors

The Community Bank of the Nation’s Capital

Individual Sponsor

Dwight Yamada

FCPS Honors Sponsors

@fcpsfoundation


School Recipients

Annandale High School McClain Herman, English Teacher *

Annandale Terrace Elementary School Yanneli Cortez, Kindergarten Teacher

Bailey's Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences

Munazzah Ghazanfar, First Grade Teacher

Bailey's Upper Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences

Elizabeth Armitage, Third Grade Teacher

Beech Tree Elementary School Lyly Lieu, Second Grade Teacher

Bonnie Brae Elementary School Jade Payne, Kindergarten Teacher

Braddock Elementary School Emily Gross, First Grade Teacher *

Bren Mar Park Elementary School Aberdeen Bowman, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Bull Run Elementary School Kate Fraser, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Burke School V.J. Hyde, Music Therapist

Bush Hill Elementary School Ambler Goddin, Second Grade Teacher

Camelot Elementary school Taylor Woller, Enhanced Autism Teacher

Canterbury Woods Elementary School Amanda Wajert, Third Grade Teacher

Centre Ridge Elementary School Emily Dohse, Music Teacher

Centreville Elementary School Collin Cogan, Fifth Grade Teacher

Chantilly High School Keenan Goldsby, History & Social Studies Teacher

Chesterbrook Elementary School Madelyn King, Fifth Grade Teacher *

Churchill Road Elementary School Megan Gardner, Third Grade Advanced Academics Program Teacher *

Cooper Middle School Sarah Hartman, Science Teacher

Cunningham Park Elementary School Mackenzie Kowal, Third Grade Teacher

Deer Park Elementary School Matthew Taylor, Multiple Disabilites Teacher

Dranesville Elementary School Abbey Knoll, Preschool Teacher *

Eagle View Elementary School Kelsey Martin, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Edison High School Levi Barber, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Fairfax High School Jessica Pullis, English Teacher *

Fairfax Villa Elementary School Madison Romano, Kindergarten Teacher

Fairhill Elementary School Daniela Pastor, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Falls Church High School Paul Naanou, Mathematics Teacher *

Flint Hill Elementary School Brittany McClellan, Kindergarten Teacher *

Floris Elementary School Madison Elliott, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Forestdale Elementary School Kathy Taylor, Third Grade Teacher

Fort Belvoir Primary School Bhendari Moore, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Fort Belvoir Upper School Emily McGovern, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Franconia Elementary School Claire Branson, Kindergarten Teacher

Franklin Sherman Elementary School Jessica Pisani, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Freedom Hill Elementary School Linda Oh, Fifth Grade Teacher

Garfield Elementary School Hanna Nguyen, Fifth Grade Teacher *

Glasgow Middle School Nicole Bevenour, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Great Falls Elementary School Devon Walker, Third Grade teacher

Greenbriar West Elementary School Mackenzie Roth, First Grade Teacher

Secondary Finalists

Andrew Dilworth, History & Social Studies Teacher, Rocky Run Middle School, Region 5Andrew is the epitome of kindness, which is reflected in his multitude of leadership roles, as well as his strong relationships with students and staff alike. He is always positive, relaxed, and willing to jump in at a moment’s notice, without expecting anything in return. He builds strong relationships by connecting current events to students’ lives and encouraging students at extracurricular activities, even when they get to high school. In addition to connecting with students through hobbies, he is conscientious of helping students build relationships with each other and the world around them, helping them understand what role they want to play in their world, and the power that they have to influence it.

Tyler Fabian, Geosystems Teacher, West Potomac High School, Region 3Tyler is an energetic and passionate educator. He embraces the diversity of his students and makes them feel welcome with a special sense of belonging in his classroom. As CT Lead for Geosystems and Assistant Coach for Winter and Spring Track, Tyler displays a commitment to the success of his students both inside and outside of the classroom. He incorporates Project-Based Learning into his classroom in order to engage students in creative, hands-on activities. As sponsor of the Ecology Club, he helped establish the Get2Green program to increase student participation in school-wide recycling.Tyler serves his students and community with a strong work ethic and encourages them, leading by example, to become the best version of themselves.

Andrew Reid, Speech and Drama Teacher, Thomas Jefferson HS for Science and Technology, Region 2Stepping into the classroom with an eccentric bow tie and colorful socks, Andrew has brought a new energy to the theater arts program. His aim in the classroom is to create an environment in which his students feel safe, unburdened and free to express themselves. In a world where students feel enormous pressure, Andrew offers a time and place where there isn’t a need to worry. Even outside the classroom, he has been praised on the two shows he directed in which parents were elated to see the genuine happiness in the performance. Andrew is always aiming to go beyond furthering his students’ knowledge of the arts by also creating a community of compassionate young adults.

Aanand Vasudevan, Mathematics Teacher, South Lakes High School, Region 1A colleague praises Aanand by saying, “he is quite simply the confident agent of change that we need in FCPS mathematics instruction to bring equity to the forefront of our work.” Each day Aanand brings his belief in the potential of each and every mathematics learner to his classroom. He has built an innovative secondary mathematics workshop model, and he exemplifies all that we understand about promoting equity and access. “Every time I walk by his door there are students who are interacting with him and with one another in a safe setting with the highest expectations of learning,” says a colleague. Another colleague says that “his potential for innovation and leadership is limitless.”

Craig Whitesell, Mathematics Teacher, Lake Braddock Secondary School, Region 4Since starting at Lake Braddock Secondary School three years ago, Craig has brought innovative ideas and enthusiasm helping his students view math in new and unique ways. Whether it is Algebra II students completing the Math Journey project, thinking deeply about their relationship with Math and creating a graphical representation of this relationship, or AP Statistics students manipulating census data in excel comparing minority populations across cities, Craig works tirelessly to make sure his students see the patterns and math in the world around them. He continues to promote efficacy through his caring, patient nature which has caught the eye of both colleagues and administrators. One teacher describes him as “consistently encouraging and hopeful” both in the classroom and out.


Rocky Run Middle School Andrew Dilworth, History & Social Studies Teacher *

Rolling Valley Elementary School Michael Klucker, Strings Teacher

Rose Hill Elementary School Edward Windhausen, Preschool Teacher

Sandburg Middle School Emma Tourtellote, English Teacher

Sangster Elementary School Brittany Liberatore, First Grade Teacher

Saratoga Elementary School Christina Hanafin, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Shrevewood Elementary School Shelby Aleksejczyk, Fourth Grade Teacher *

Silverbrook Elementary School Jaclyn Fishler, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Gabriel Segal, Physical Education Teacher *

South County Middle School Andrea Stanton, Biology Teacher *

South Lakes High School Aanand Vasudevan, Mathematics Teacher *

Springfield Estates Elementary School Christina Miller, First Grade Teacher

Stone Middle School Ruby Brown, Mathematics Teacher *

Sunrise Valley Elementary School Alison Donahue, Second Grade Teacher

Terra Centre Elementary School Katie Hardy, Second Grade Teacher

Terraset Elementary School Elise Bender, Kindergarten Teacher *

Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology

Andrew Reid, Speech & Drama Teacher *

Twain Middle School Alexandra Lomeo, History & Social Studies Teacher *

Union Mill Elementary School Ashley Abrams, Fifth Grade Teacher *

Wakefield Forest Elementary School Jessica Clark, Fifth Grade Teacher

Walt Whitman Middle School Kevin Lackie, Music Teacher *

Waples Mill Elementary School Jordyn Jelstrom, Third Grade Teacher

West Potomac High School Tyler Fabian, Geosystems Teacher *

West Springfield High School Victoria Schnoor, History & Social Studies Teacher *

Westbriar Elementary School Caitlin Welch, Second Grade Teacher

Westfield High School Mary Deskins, Learning Disabilities Teacher and Rebecca Darr, Chemistry Teacher

Westgate Elementary School Sally Sommers, Kindergarten Teacher

Westlawn Elementary School Kashif Bhatti, Sixth Grade Teacher

Weyanoke Elementary School Christy Spear, First Grade Teacher

White Oaks Elementary School Katherine Gilmore, First Grade Teacher *

Willow Springs Elementary School Alison Willison, Kindergarten Teacher *

Woodson High School Sara Dragan, Chemistry Teacher *

Halley Elementary School Sylvia Song, Kindergarten Teacher *

Haycock Elementary School Caitlin Baker, Second Grade Teacher

Hayfield Secondary School Mary Lynn J. Rynkiewicz, English Teacher *

Herndon High School Lauren Spector, Family and Consumer Science Teacher *

Hollin Meadows Elementary School Angie Palma, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Holmes Middle School Kali Lewis, Sixth Grade Science Teacher

Hunters Woods Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences

Courtney Kim, Fifth Grade Teacher

Island Creek Elementary School Charlene Belanger, Third Grade Teacher

Keene Mill Elementary School Rowan Shartel, Gifted Education Center Teacher *

Kent Gardens Elementary School Ted Frederick, Band Teacher

Kilmer Center Fran Johnson, Severe Disabilities Teacher *

Kings Glen Elementary School Jennifer Houck, ESOL Teacher

Kings Park Elementary School Chelsea Koryak, Second Grade Teacher

Lake Braddock Secondary School Craig Whitesell, High School Mathematics Teacher *

Lane Elementary School Taylor Neuhart, Fourth Grade Teacher *

Lanier Middle School Lisa Wiswell, History & Social Studies Teacher

Laurel Ridge Elementary School Christine Connor, Music Teacher

Lee High School Margaret Clark, Mathematics Teacher *

Lees Corner Elementary School Jeanette Peterson, Kindergarten Teacher

Liberty Middle School Meagan Riley, Seventh Grade English Teacher *

Little Run Elementary School Jacqueline Breslin, Sixth Grade Teacher *

London Towne Elementary School Molly Haas, Fifth Grade Teacher

Luther Jackson Middle School Jennifer Lauren Carle, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Madison High School Vince Rodriguez, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Mantua Elementary School Kathleen Irwin, First Grade Teacher

Marshall High School Luke Konopka, Biology Teacher

McLean High School Allison Barnes, Mathematics Teacher *

McNair Elementary School Pamela Gehle, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Mosby Woods Elementary School Jane Eur, First Grade Teacher *

Mount Eagle Elementary School Megan McGregor, Fourth Grade Teacher *

Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School Michael Abouraad, Sixth Grade Teacher

Navy Elementary School Kelli Taranto, First Grade Teacher

North Springfield Elementary School Meghan Lynn, Third Grade Teacher

Oak Hill Elementary School Katie Blandon, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Oak View Elementary School Kelly Hurry, First Grade Teacher *

Oakton High School Erin McGartland, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Parklawn Elementary School Erin Stewart, Preschool Teacher, Autism

Pine Spring Elementary School Kayla Cruz, First Grade Teacher *

Poe Middle School Julie Butz, Intellectual Disabilities Teacher

Poplar Tree Elementary School Katrina Hutzell, Third Grade Teacher

Providence Elementary School Kaylee Homyk, First Grade Teacher

Quander Road School Alexandra Dooling, Emotional Disabilities Teacher

Riverside Elementary School Amy Eckardt, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Robinson Secondary School Binh Tran, History & Social Studies Teacher *

*Pyramid-Level Recipient


Outstanding New Principal

The Outstanding New Principal Award recognizes a distinguished educator and extraordinary leader who is within their first three years as principal. The recipient is an innovative and exceptional manager whose vision inspires and guides staff, students, and the community to help lead the school to excellence. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate a principal for the Outstanding New Principal Award.

Finalists

April Cage, Principal, Bonnie Brae Elementary School, Region 4April leads with a learner’s lens. In three years, she and the school community developed a strategic plan that enhances climate and teacher growth and development. She created “tights” around this work which provided clarity and purpose to the plan. Her leadership allowed Bonnie Brae to establish the “why” and its direct impact on teacher retention and student performance. This established a high level of trust while increasing teacher efficacy. Teachers believe they can do the work and families trust them do so. If you’ve ever had the opportunity to work alongside of her, you know that April’s bottom line is “people first.” Because her passion is about serving people, she will always be on the right side of the work.

Mary Duffy, Principal, Bush Hill Elementary School, Region 3Mary has been a champion of Bush Hill Elementary from the moment she walked in the door. An advocate for the special education program, Mary increased inclusive practices and supported the start of the Special Olympics Unified Team. She worked to create strong relationships and make herself accessible to the entire community, fostering parent involvement in the school. Mary is an instructional leader and committed learner. She models for staff the types of things that she expects and has created an environment where staff feel comfortable taking risks. One staff member says, “Mary has the heart to have inspired a devoted staff who want to work alongside her to achieve the vision we have collaboratively developed under her leadership.”

Teresa Fennessy, Principal, Herndon Elementary School, Region 1 Teresa believes that Title I teachers and staff are the Navy Seals of education! She has created a sense of synergy at Herndon Elementary. Herndon has become “a learning school” where adults and students are engaged in a collaborative effort to be the best they can possibly be. Her positivity, combined with her dedication to working with parents, students, staff, and the community, has made Herndon Elementary a great place to learn! Teresa believes strongly in teacher leadership and she provides many opportunities that spark creativity. During her tenure, Herndon has improved academic achievement, established a strong Responsive Classroom culture, and enhanced the relationship between the school and the community.

Monica Mohr, Principal, Little Run Elementary School, Region 5Since Monica has been at Little Run Elementary, she has worked diligently to build staff capacity, forge meaningful relationships, and instill the importance of kindness and hard work in students. Monica encourages and supports staff to always do what is best for student learning—whether it is having students engage in Academic Conversations, introducing Project Based Learning, or initiating a new format for kindergarten class placement. Monica strives to make Little Run the place where parents, staff, and students are proud to call home. “Her commitment to staff and families is inspiring,” shared one teacher, “Monica seems to be able to take anything thrown her way and create success.”

Ben Nowak, Principal, Falls Church High School, Region 2Ben is a culture-builder. He listens with careful reflection to students, parents, and teachers and in doing so has created a community that trusts the direction he sets. From the very first day, Ben’s focus has been student learning. After being at Falls Church for a short time, he noticed a chronic tardiness problem that was regularly interrupting instruction. He assembled a team of teacher leaders, empowered them to seek potential solutions, and then implemented our successful “Jaguar Start On Time” program. He has a singular, unwavering focus on revitalizing our Professional Learning Community, using the precious resources of time and money to build teacher leaders across our school. According to one teacher, “He has brought a new hope and enthusiasm for the future of our school.”

School Recipients

Bonnie Brae Elementary School April Cage

Bush Hill Elementary School Mary Duffy

Centreville Elementary School Joshua Douds

Dranesville Elementary School Rae Mitchell

Fairhill Elementary School Candace Hunstad

Falls Church High School Ben Nowak

Flint Hill Elementary School Jennifer Hertzberg

Franconia Elementary School Andrew Smith

Herndon Elementary School Teresa Fennessy

Lemon Road Elementary School Ashley Castillo

Little Run Elementary School Monica Mohr

London Towne Elementary School Wiatta Padmore

Oak View Elementary School Sarah Brooker

Sandburg Middle School Darwin Barker

Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Eric Johnson

Weyanoke Elementary School Felicia Usher


Outstanding Hourly Employee

The Outstanding Hourly Employee award celebrates non-contracted employees who have made a unique and exceptional contribution to FCPS through their work. The recipients, one school-based and one nonschool-based, demonstrate commitment and leadership in their work and foster cooperative relationships with colleagues and the community. To be eligible, employees must have completed at least one year of hourly employment at the same worksite and have worked a minimum of hours during that period. Any FCPS employee or community member can nominate an employee for the Outstanding Hourly Employee Award.

School-Based Finalists

Kristin Stumpf, Dining Room Assistant, Louise Archer Elementary School, Region 1For the eight years that Kristin Stumpf has worked at Louise Archer Elementary school she is always ready for whatever comes her way and is told by teachers and parents “I don’t know how you do it!?” She is known by everyone as a hard-working, friendly employee who takes great pride in her work. Always providing for the kids in her care with a smile on her face and ensuring that they get what is needed. Kristin enjoys the work that she does on a daily basis and gives a 110% while doing so. In addition, she gets along with her co-workers and teachers, and enjoys her time here at Louise Archer. She can’t imagine herself anywhere else!

Ellen Terrill, Hourly Administrative Finance Technician, Robinson Secondary School, Region 4Ellen has earned the title of Commandant of the Robinson Marching Rams. Working with directors, parents, and vendors, she manages financial operations and personnel support for high school bands. Feeding 130+ hungry marchers within a 30 minute window, sometimes twice in one week, is only one of many challenges she faces during marching season. Overseeing our cherished Tiny Tots concert program, Ellen helps introduce musical instruments to community preschools and kindergartens. This spring 116 band students traveled to Disney World to march through Main Street USA. Ellen and 22 parent volunteers carefully planned and executed this once in a lifetime band experience. One chaperone commented, “What a blessing to see my senior march on Main Street. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!”

Morgan Thomas, Hourly After School Assistant, Rocky Run Middle School, Region 5This is Morgan’s third year at Rocky Run and she has come to understand the school’s culture and has perfected the invaluable work that she does with the students. Morgan started out as the sports coordinator for the after-school program, then while the program manager was out on maternity leave, she took over the entire program for a few months. In that short period of time Morgan started 4 new clubs, mentored 3 students, coached the boys and girls basketball and volleyball teams and brought both teams to the championships and won! She has worked beyond her regular work schedule to spend extra time with students who struggle academically, which has helped them raise their grades and gain confidence in themselves.

School Recipients

Burke School Grace Shin, Hourly Administrative Support

Holmes Middle School Berta Stamp, Hourly Office Assistant

Hughes Middle School Greg Stewart, Hourly Security and Student Support

Louise Archer Elementary School Kristin Stumpf, Dining Room Assistant *

Oak Hill Elementary School Wendy Parry DeVight, Dining Room Assistant

Robinson Secondary School Ellen Terrill, Hourly Administrative Finance Technician *

Rocky Run Middle School Morgan Thomas, Hourly After School Assistant *

Rolling Valley Elementary School Katie Rucker, Hourly Library Assistant

Timber Lane Elementary School Susan L. Culpepper, Hourly STEM Teacher


Outstanding Hourly Employee

Nonschool-Based Finalists

Karen Bolt, Hourly Photographer, Gatehouse Administration Center, Chiefs OfficesKaren captures the essence of Caring Culture through her photography — students learning, laughing, and engaging with their work. Her images show teachers and staff making connections with their students, inspiring and rejoicing in Student Success. She is on hand to capture celebrations of retirees, honored employees, and graduates of cohorts, institutes, seminars, and programs, showcasing our Premier Workforce. While on shoots, she projects harmony, teamwork and enthusiasm, so all feel comfortable and at ease as they are photographed. She participates fully in seeking out not only what needs to be photographed, but the message that needs to be communicated through the lens. Always well prepared with an excellent vision of where she would like to go with each and every shot.

Lin Fetterman, Hourly Administrative Assistant, Wilton Woods Center, Information TechnologyLin has the amazing and daunting task of overseeing the collection, analyzing, processing and filing of almost 188,000 forms for the Federal Impact Aid project. Her superior attention to detail is critical for the $3,000,000 FCPS receives annually from the U.S. Department of Education. An outstanding proofreader, she is frequently sought outside of her department to formulate and edit important documents. Lin’s work ethic contributes to the Fairfax County Public Schools mission on a daily basis. Building and fostering cooperative relationships among staff and her above and beyond caring nature exemplify her character. “Lin’s work with FCPS has made it a better place to be,” say many of her co-workers.

Nikki Fulton, Hourly Administrative Assistant, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Special Services Nikki is treasured by all in the Interagency Alternative Schools program as the one to go to if you have a question or need almost anything. Nikki’s energy, fun personality and positive outlook draws her IAS family to her. You can hear her Boston accent come out when she gets overly excited – which happens pretty often. Nikki supports IAS with the zeal and determination she learned from over 23 years of being a military spouse. Nikki’s time management and “get it done” mentality keeps IAS functioning while her caring and “just ask mom” mentality enhances all of IAS. Although IAS is spread over 23 different Fairfax County locations, Nikki is only an email or phone call away to get questions answered and problems solved.

Sally Smallwood, Hourly Safe Routes to School Coordinator, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Instructional Services Sally is a dedicated and committed leader of the Safe Routes to School program (SRTS). As the grant coordinator, she continually learns, adapts, improvises, and reinvents SRTS to meet the needs of students, schools, and communities. Her guidance has helped thousands of students gain pedestrian and bicycling skills enabling them to travel to and from school safely. To meet diverse needs of our school division, Sally has incorporated balance bikes, trikes, and hand-pedal bikes to the program ensuring all students can participate. She has nearly a 100 percent success rate in helping schoolchildren learn to ride a bike. Sally is passionate about the health and well-being of our students and the community.


Outstanding Operational Employee

The Outstanding Operational Employee Award recognizes operational employees who have made unique and exceptional contributions to FCPS. Recipients, both school-based and nonschool-based, demonstrate commitment and foster cooperative relationships with colleagues and in the community. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate an operational employee that is a Schedule A, Schedule H, or Classroom Instructional Support Scale Employee and has held their position for at least one full year for the Outstanding Operational Employee Award.


Jayme Harris, Instructional Assistant, Glasgow Middle School, Region 2Jayme is known to most of the students at Glasgow Middle School. She is present every day, greeting students with a smile and offering encouragement. She has shared her story of her education difficulties and lets them know that like her, they can achieve their goals. She is the assistant in the after school program and is always active with the students, be it working on homework or her favorite pick-up basketball games. Throughout the after school day, “Miss Jayme, Miss Jayme,” can be heard. The students gravitate to her and each one leaves feeling more secure and confident. Jayme is the best instructional assistant one could hope for. Both the students and teachers know and appreciate it!

Edward Kear, Building Supervisor, Laurel Hill Elementary School, Region 4Edward is a hardworking, kind, and caring individual. During lunchtime, Edward makes it a point to connect with the students by walking around the cafeteria and encouraging them to finish their food so they aren’t hungry later. Edward takes pride in maintaining a clean, beautiful, and safe school environment that welcomes the faculty, students, parents, and community who enter the building. His number one goal is to make sure Laurel Hill Elementary School is a great school for the kids in Fairfax County. He cares deeply about the students, teachers, and administrators at Laurel Hill and it shows every day in his work.

Julio Ramirez Rivera, Custodian, Herndon High School, Region 1Dedicated, enthusiastic, and goal-oriented are just some of the words used to describe Julio. In his short time at Herndon High School, Julio has impressed the faculty and staff with his hard work ethic and positive demeanor. As a Herndon High School graduate, Julio constantly strives to give back to the school that once gave him so much. Julio meets all work requests with a smile on his face and eagerness to help others. He is constantly going above and beyond the task at hand and is the first person to offer his assistance. His colleagues are excited to see what the future has in store for such a motivated and assiduous member of Fairfax County Public Schools.

Celine Sinclair-Peebles, Instructional Assistant, Transition Support Resource Center Fairfax, Non-RegionEvery morning as students enter TSRC Fairfax, they are greeted with a warm smile from Celine Sinclair-Peebles. “The students cannot help but smile when they see the positivity radiating from her,” stated one of her TSRC-Fairfax colleagues. Some students have emotional withdrawals, probation officers, and most come from unstable homes. Celine deposits sage life advice, a shoulder to cry on, and establishes relationships. She builds resumes, brings in motivational speakers and job recruiters. Celine gives students a sense of belonging and an opportunity to achieve. She manages students in classrooms enrolled in up to five different courses, including ESOL, at one time. Celine is dedicated to student achievement, the Kids at Hope and Spirit Committees, and planning student celebrations like Thanksgiving and Creative Arts.

Phyllis Wheeler, Office Assistant, Willow Springs Elementary School, Region 5 Phyllis is one of those special people who gets things done. Coupled with her unparalleled contributions, she builds strong relationships that have a profound and lasting impact on students and her school community. Phyllis consistently supports teachers to make their jobs easier. To benefit students, she led a complete remodel of the school library and her Local Screening organization and Special Education records have set a benchmark in FCPS. A coworker recently stated, “There isn’t an area of our school that hasn’t improved when Phyllis takes it upon herself to add her personal touch. If I could make up a title that more accurately describes what Phyllis does, it would be School Ambassador Extraordinaire or CESO (Chief Everything School Officer).”

School Recipients

Annandale High School Delvern Davey, Custodian

Annandale Terrace Elementary School Angela Aldave, Parent Liaison *


Elias Markez, Instructional Assistant

Bonnie Brae Elementary School Aura Ortiz, Custodian *

Bren Mar Park Elementary School Alice Lim, Instructional Assistant

Brookfield Elementary School Ana Delossantos, Kindergarten Instructional Assistant

Bryant High School Veronica Gonzales, Administrative Assistant

Bull Run Elementary School Mary Obarowski, Office Assistant

Burke School Arthur Williams, Instructional Assistant *

Bush Hill Elementary School Elizabeth DePalma, Student Information Assistant

Camelot Elementary school Lisa Higdon, Instructional Assistant

Canterbury Woods Elementary School Becca Smith, Kindergarten Assistant

Centre Ridge Elementary School Cecelia Belyea, Instructional Assistant

Centreville Elementary School Jean Dellinger, Instructional Assistant *

Centreville High School Tina Ranslem, Office Assistant

Cherry Run Elementary School Vicky Williams, Student Information Assistant

Chesterbrook Elementary School Dave Troskey, Student Information Assistant *

Churchill Road Elementary School Kim Moran, Office Assistant

Clermont Elementary School Katherine Simmons, Student Information Assistant

Cooper Middle School Annie Eisman, Student Services Assistant

Crossfield Elementary School Marco Talotta, Public Health Training Assistant

Davis Career Center Rhonda Campbell, Public Health Training Assistant

Deer Park Elementary School Laurie Holmberg, Instructional Assistant *

Dogwood Elementary School Evie Rodriguez, Office Assistant *

Dranesville Elementary School Mariela Bradley, Administrative Assistant

Eagle View Elementary School Jill Boddie, Office Assistant

Fairfax High School Laura Beatty, Administrative Assistant

Fairfax Villa Elementary School Karen Wells, Office Assistant

Fairhill Elementary School Terri Lynn Damon, Administrative Assistant

Fairview Elementary School Janice Brooks, Administrative Assistant

Falls Church High School Carolina Dotel, Parent Liaison

Flint Hill Elementary School Shirley Eason, Student Information Assistant *

Floris Elementary School Dee Dee Grannum, Office Assistant

Forest Edge Elementary School Monique Berkeley, Administrative Assistant

Forestdale Elementary School Hanae Coutrier, Kindergarten Assistant

Princessa Williamson, Instructional Assistant, Quander Road School, Region 3Princessa is dedicated and committed to uplifting her school community by identifying gaps and innovatively creating solutions through building relationships between students and staff. She feels that when students are engaged in the community, their overall school experience is overwhelmingly positive and yields positive academic progress. In 2013, when she founded the Blossoming Beauties, a student group that engages in team-building activities as well as school and community projects, she saw a need in her school and the community. The Blossoming Beauties program empowers female students to learn social/emotional skills while giving back to their communities and teaches girls about how important it is to give back even when their situations aren’t the best.



Fort Belvoir Primary School Solibel Rose, Administrative Assistant

Fort Hunt Elementary School Izza McDonald, Instructional Assistant

Fox Mill Elementary School Maria Siles, Building Supervisor

Franconia Elementary School Carol Daniels, Instructional Assistant

Franklin Middle School Cecilia Goldstein, Parent Liaison

Freedom Hill Elementary School Carolina Guzman, Special Education Instructional Assistant

Glasgow Middle School Jayme Harris, Instructional Assistant *

Graham Road Elementary School Ellen Jenkins, Administrative Assistant

Great Falls Elementary School Felicito Arana, Building Supervisor *

Greenbriar West Elementary School Rita Updike, Special Education Instructional Assistant *

Groveton Elementary School Esperanza Ruiz, Parent Liaison

Gunston Elementary School Lynn Warner, Office Assistant

Halley Elementary School Linette Bryant, Instructional Assistant

Haycock Elementary School Cathy Fitzner, Instructional Assistant

Hayfield Elementary School Shannon Erickson, Instructional Assistant

Hayfield Secondary School Patricia Bohlin, Finance Technician *

Herndon Elementary School Molly Laverty, Instructional Assistant

Herndon High School Julio Ramirez Rivera, Custodian *

Hollin Meadows Elementary School Orlando Diaz, Building Supervisor

Holmes Middle School Thomas Banks, Safety and Security Assistant

Hunt Valley Elementary School Nolvia Chiquillo, Public Health Training Assistant *

Interagency Alternative Schools Celine Sinclair-Peebles, Instructional Assistant *

Island Creek Elementary School Julia Mosher, Instructional Assistant

Key Center Nora Brosnan, Public Health Training Assistant *

Key Middle School Blanca Reyes Chicas, Public Health Training Assistant

Kilmer Center Maria Sanchez De Funes, Public Health Attendant

Kings Glen Elementary School Peter Henry, ABA Instructional Assistant

Kings Park Elementary School Nancy Sawicki, Student Information Assistant

Lake Anne Elementary School Melinda Rivas, Student Information Assistant

Lane Elementary School April Scherer, Instructional Assistant

Langley High School Ronnie Morrow-Drummond, Student Information Assistant

Lanier Middle School Kara Payne, Office Assistant

Laurel Hill Elementary School Edward Kear, Building Supervisor *

Lees Corner Elementary School Meg Curry, Office Assistant

Lemon Road Elementary School Julia Vargas, Instructional Assistant *

Liberty Middle School Veronica Shields, Instructional Assistant

Longfellow Middle School Frank Stevens, Safety and Security Assistant

Lorton Station Elementary School Lisa O'Dell Boettinger, Administrative Assistant II

Louise Archer Elementary School Jin Lee, Instructional Assistant

Luther Jackson Middle School Monica Iskander, Administrative Assistant *

Lynbrook Elementary School Maggie Perez-Rives, Parent Resource Center Coordinator

Madison High School Lori Grossmann, Administrative Assistant

Mantua Elementary School Lynette Curran, Kindergarten Instructional Assistant *

Marshall High School Shernette Dixon-Dalhouse, Instructional Assistant

Marshall Road Elementary School Jason Duston, Custodian


Mount Eagle Elementary School Renae Polovchik, Public Health Training Assistant

Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School Carmen Jeannette Little, Parent Liaison

Mountain View High School Maria Lopez, Custodian

Newington Forest Elementary School Robin Anstice, Kindergarten Instructional Assistant

Oak Hill Elementary School Baljeet Kaur, Instructional Assistant

Oak View Elementary School Kelly Van Parys, Instructional Assistant

Oakton Elementary School Erin Doyle, Office Assistant *

Oakton High School David Slabaugh, Building Engineer

Olde Creek Elementary School Ann Platenkamp, Administrative Assistant

Poplar Tree Elementary School Nhu Nguyen, Public Health Training Assistant

Providence Elementary School Matthew Barber, ABA Instructional Assistant

Quander Road School Princessa Williamson, Instructional Assistant *

Ravensworth Elementary School Pam Miller, Instructional Assistant

Riverside Elementary School Amy Dodson, Instructional Assistant *

Robinson Secondary School Maria Skold Mukai, Administrative Assistant

Rocky Run Middle School Claudia Dougherty, Instructional Assistant

Rolling Valley Elementary School Laura Adames, Kindergarten Assistant

Rose Hill Elementary School Juanita Rogers, Office Assistant

Sangster Elementary School Jane Huh, Building Supervisor

Saratoga Elementary School Alex Diawuo, Custodian

Shrevewood Elementary School Phuntsok Tsering, Instructional Assistant

Silverbrook Elementary School Jennifer McCord, Office Assistant

Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Yenis Rivera Araujo, Building Supervisor

South County High School KK Yeboah, Custodian

South County Middle School Maria Perry, Administrative Assistant

South Lakes High School Traci Waller, Safety & Security Assistant

Springfield Estates Elementary School Kim Wilson, Library Office Assistant

Stone Middle School Charissa Payne, Instructional Assistant

Terra Centre Elementary School Sandi Smith, Kindergarten Assistant


Kathy Young, Administrative Assistant *

Union Mill Elementary School Kathy Frongello, Instructional Assistant

Wakefield Forest Elementary School Karen Holmes, Student Information Assistant

Walt Whitman Middle School Luisa Ramirez, Custodian

Waynewood Elementary School Leslie Edgar, Kindergarten Assistant

West Springfield High School Kristin Salvato, Administrative Assistant

Westbriar Elementary School Kathryn Cargill, Office Assistant

Westfield High School Denise Bushnell, Instructional Assistant

Westgate Elementary School Teresa Machado, Assistant Building Supervisor

Weyanoke Elementary School Tabinda Anwar, Instructional Assistant

Willow Springs Elementary School Phyllis Wheeler, Office Assistant *

Woodburn School for the Fine and Communicative Arts

Sarah Villegas, Food Services Kitchen Manager

Woodlawn Elementary School Asma Nimer, Instructional Assistant

Woodson High School Alexa Pugnetti, Administrative Assistant



Douglas Anderson, Building Resources Technician, Gatehouse Administration Center, Facilities ServicesDoug is the consummate building resources technician professional. “If he can’t fix it, it ain’t broke!”, said one of his coworkers. He has reconfigured over 100 workstations at the Gatehouse Administration Center, saving FCPS tens of thousands of dollars from not having to outsource the work. His design and build of these workstations provided a staff work environment that was conducive to efficient and effective business operations in support of schools. He provides “5-Star” service after every project, following up with the customer to ensure everything is to their satisfaction. In this and all his undertakings, Doug leads by example, inspires others to give their very best and unhesitatingly gives of his time to get the job done.

Steven Campbell, Document Services Technician, Instructional Programs Support Center, Instructional ServicesWhat separates man from the machines at the ISD Print Shop? Not speed, not efficiency, and certainly not charm; it’s a mindset. Machines don’t breathe compassion, kindness, or service. They just are. Employees like Steven Campbell bridge the gap between heartless machines and the hardworking staff of FCPS. Compassion, kindness, heart, and of course service comprise the parts of a man dedicated to serving others with the efficiency of a machine, but a heart big enough for several men. Whether it’s serving local charities, being a single dad to his two kids, or rushing a print shop order through for the students and faculty of FCPS...Steven Campbell shines.

Yuris Guzman, Business Operations Assistant, Gatehouse Administration Center, Human Resources

Yuris’ short time with FCPS has made a big impact not only on her daily Business Operation Assistant duties but also on the development and implementation of strategic initiatives. For example, Yuris has led the management of logistics supporting the principal pool and maintaining the records related to the process. She prides herself on her behind-the-scenes work, going beyond typical duties, and a passion to help others. As her supervisor notes, “Yuris is kind, committed, compassionate, friendly, flexible, dedicated, patient, and knowledgeable.” She is “unfailingly positive, responsive, and professional. She handles every request with understanding, care, empathy and excellence” said a coworker. What sets Yuris apart is the humility in her accomplishments and quick to acknowledge the contribution of others.

Ahmed Hillman,Transportation Attendant, Stonecroft Transportation Center, Transportation When you meet Ahmed for the first time you can’t help but notice his warm, contagious smile. As part of FCPS transportation for the past 4 years, he prides himself on making life long impacts on his students. In his current role as a special education bus attendant, he goes the extra mile to make the students’ short time on the bus something magical. From creating silly jingles for the students to sing along with, to helping a student improve her reading level, Ahmed truly does it all. He has never seen his role as a “job,” but simply an opportunity to make lasting memories that the students will look back on and cherish forever.

Quang Nguyen, Field Services Senior Technician, Woodson Annex – IT, Information TechnologyQuang, who the field services team refers to as John, has been an admired leader in Field Services during his twelve years of service with FCPS. John is highly recognized and appreciated by his supervisors, customers, and colleagues alike for his technical and customer services skills. In the past year, John has not hesitated to go above and beyond to research a hardware or software issue for our customers. John often spends his free time working to understand the root cause of a hardware issue and quickly provides a workable solution which has drastically reduced downtime for his customers. This has proven to be a big payoff as he has single-handedly saved FCPS tens of thousands of dollars by preventing potential hardware repairs that were unnecessary.

Frances Robles-Kopecky, Administrative Assistant I, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Special ServicesAs the administrative assistant to an office that handles interventions for crisis situations, substance abuse, gang involvement, cyberbullying, and chronic absenteeism, Frances is in the eye of a storm of emergencies. But whether she is troubleshooting a failing database, registering students for a drug seminar, or taking calls from concerned staff and community members, she makes everyone she interacts with feel that they are her top priority. Her practical approach to problem-solving and deep well of technical knowledge, coupled with her cheerful demeanor, are valued by her staff and colleagues. “She’s our hub,” says her coordinator, “everything in this office runs through her, and she keeps us connected to each other and grounded in our mission to serve our kids.”

Margery Sabolsky, Administrative Assistant III, Gatehouse Administration Center, Financial Services

Margery Sabolsky joined FCPS in 2017 after fifteen years of experience as an administrative assistant. In order to better achieve the Office of Payroll’s caring culture strategic goals, Margery was hired as an integral part of improving customer service to FCPS employees. Margery quickly took the office’s vision and combined her finely honed organizational and interpersonal skills to reshape the visitor experience. Two years later the Office of Payroll is pleased to say that because of Margery, our vision for improved customer service has far exceeded our expectations. In the words of one of our customers “I wish more public servants would be like her.”

Sandy Vigen, Administrative Assistant III, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Chiefs Offices

Since Sandy started in the Office of School Support, it has more than doubled in size and Sandy has effectively maintained a positive, inclusive, and productive office environment. “No job is too small” is Sandy’s mantra. From managing the budget to supporting staff who work in Project Momentum schools, Sandy effectively juggles her many responsibilities with positivity and professionalism. One colleague commented, “Sandy supports a staff of 50+ people with such ease. Whether it’s a professional development we are planning for, questions we need an answer to, materials needing prepped, and undoubtedly all the behind the scene pieces, most of us will never know about, Sandy makes sure we have what we need.”

21FCPS HONORS20 FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS *Pyramid-Level Recipient

Outstanding Leader

Two Outstanding Leader Awards are given, one for a school-based leader and one for a nonschool-based leader, to those who have made a significant impact on students and FCPS through leadership in their field. Recipients demonstrate outstanding leadership and strengthen and improve the learning environment through their work. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate an employee who is a Schedule B or Schedule C employee that has held the position for at least one full year for the Outstanding Leader Award.


Alexandra Bryan, After School Specialist, Lake Braddock Secondary School, Region 4When Alexandra became the After-School Specialist and Building Use Coordinator at Lake Braddock SS, she brought with her her sense of compassion and creativity. She has implemented many long-lasting programs in her short time. All these programs; Stress Less Laugh More Week, After-School Program Kickoff Party and LBMS v SCMS Basketball Fundraiser, have left a positive impact on the student body, faculty and community. If you were to walk the halls or soccer fields, you would see the outstanding rapport she has with students and athletes, always smiling and laughing. What drives her is her “give all” mentality in wanting to create the best experiences for students and staff.

Mathieu Campet, School Based Technology Specialist, Wolftrap Elementary School, Region 1 “We learn more from our failures than we learn from our successes!” Mat energetically shares this message with students every day. Through dedicated research and creative thinking, he created a first-of-its-kind Innovation STEAM Lab at Wolftrap Elementary that has become a model for other schools in FCPS. Mat infuses Portrait of a Graduate skills into the academic curriculum by enabling all students to create meaning through engaging hands-on activities. His dedication to promoting risk taking and exploration is inspiring to students, teachers and parents. As a colleague stated, “Mat is such a positive force with a fantastic attitude and he makes me want to step up and do more for our kids and our school every day!”

Kemba Ephraim, School Counselor, Gunston Elementary School, Region 3Kemba leads with her heart and radiates passion in order for each child to reach their fullest potential. To ensure that students and families have what they need to succeed, she puts into effect her can-do attitude and positive spirit which helps to create programs like “YES-You’re Extra Special” to empower girls and provide them with positive role models. She also partners with community organizations to attain supplies and provide programming for students, particularly those who don’t have access to extracurricular activities. The Gunston staff and families praise her for teaching the entire school community how to solve problems and treat each other with kindness. A student noted, “She has a special way of getting straight to the solution of any problem.”

Melissa Miller, Assistant Principal, Deer Park Elementary School, Region 5 Melissa is an encouraging leader with the reputation of being a “superwoman.” By making the needs of others her top priority, Melissa has created an atmosphere of trust and caring which supports others to excel. As a leader, she is gifted at always making others feel appreciated as she creates a caring culture; empowering and enabling people to see beyond themselves. She has initiated family coaching calls, open library nights, math and literacy nights to engage and empower our families to support student learning. “With her continued focus on relationships, instruction, and family engagement,” said a colleague, “Melissa is committed to creating a school that is not only built for student success, but is a place where staff love to work.”

Buddy Sekely, Safety and Security Specialist, McLean High School, Region 2For the past twenty-one years Buddy Sekely has alleviated stressful situations at McLean High School and has built a reputation based on trust and respect. During lunches, you’ll find him in the cafeteria, surrounded by students, chatting about sports, grades or just life in general. Occasionally you’ll find him walking a struggling student around the grounds to calm them, sitting with a lonely student at lunch or grilling burgers for a faculty luncheon. Most evenings and weekends, you’ll find Buddy cheering on our students at extracurricular events. Some schools have a “buddy bench”; McLean has Buddy Sekely. Day in and day out, Buddy quietly but surely protects McLean High School.

School Recipients

Annandale High School John Ellenberger, Director of Student Activities

Annandale Terrace Elementary School Lauren Blackburn, Instructional Coach


Sara Quesenbery, School-Based Technology Specialist *


Nicole Scesney, Instructional Coach

Braddock Elementary School Mattie Fallen, Assistant Principal *

Bren Mar Park Elementary School Jess Russell, School-Based Technology Specialist

Brookfield Elementary School Jennifer Hutchinson, Assistant Principal

Bryant High School Florence Harrison, School Counselor

Bucknell Elementary School Erica Beckett, Math Resource Teacher

Bull Run Elementary School Rachael Blanchard, Assistant Principal

Burke School Sherri Miller, School-Based Technology Specialist

Bush Hill Elementary School Denise Goate, Literacy Coach

Centre Ridge Elementary School Alexander Hunter, School Counselor

Centreville Elementary School Allison Warren, School Counselor

Centreville High School Diana De Jesus-Brent, School Counselor *

Chantilly High School Jason Franks, Technology Support Specialist

Cherry Run Elementary School Erin Hurley, School Counselor

Churchill Road Elementary School Jamie Meyers, School Counselor

Colin Powell Elementary School Jason Decroo, Technology Support Specialist

Crossfield Elementary School Barbara Fant, Assistant Principal

Deer Park Elementary School Melissa Miller, Assistant Principal *

Dogwood Elementary School Jamie Gadley, Assistant Principal *

Dranesville Elementary School Carolyn Cashwell, School-Based Technology Specialist

Eagle View Elementary School Nicole Sharpes, Gifted Education Teacher

Edison High School Mark Nocera, Assistant Principal

Fairfax High School Ashley Curl, Social Worker *

Fairhill Elementary School Stephen Giese, School-Based Technology Specialist

Fairview Elementary School Pam Moser, Gifted Education Teacher

Falls Church High School Jessica Grenfell, Director of Student Services *

Forest Edge Elementary School Jillian Zuber, Assistant Principal

Fort Belvoir Primary School Teresa Chapman, School Counselor

Fort Belvoir Upper School Carla Prossner, Reading Teacher

Franklin Middle School Tami Stubblefield, Director of Student Services

Franklin Sherman Elementary School Rebecca Kaufman, Speech Language Pathologist

Freedom Hill Elementary School Tim Scesney, School-Based Technology Specialist

Garfield Elementary School Alicia Ogrodny, Title I Science Resource Teacher *

Graham Road Elementary School Julie Tillman, Instructional Coach

Gunston Elementary School Kemba Ephraim, School Counselor *

Halley Elementary School Tamela Anderson, Reading Resource Specialist

Haycock Elementary School Loren Brower, Advanced Academics Resource Teacher

Hayfield Secondary School Tabitha Reber, School-Based Technology Specialist


Ravensworth Elementary School William Austin, School Counselor

Riverside Elementary School Anna Macedonia, Assistant Principal

Robinson Secondary School Jenna Jablonski, School Counselor

Rocky Run Middle School Gretta Orazen, Resource Teacher

Rolling Valley Elementary School Keith London, School-Based Technology Specialist

Sandburg Middle School Stephen Kewer, Dean of Students

Saratoga Elementary School Devon Parks, School-Based Technology Specialist

Shrevewood Elementary School Dina Berhan, School Counselor

Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Tatyana Cottle, School Counselor

South County High School Marci Norem, Director of Student Services *

South Lakes High School Joshua Kefer, Psychologist

Springfield Estates Elementary School Allison Donnelly, Advanced Academics Resource Teacher

Stone Middle School Nick Anderson, After-School Specialist

Terraset Elementary School Benjamin Chiet, Assistant Principal


Heather Murphy, Certified Athletic Trainer *

Twain Middle School Melissa Montgomery, Assistant Principal

Vienna Elementary School Darlene Doley, Reading Teacher

Wakefield Forest Elementary School Nancy Garcia-Henderson, School Counselor

Walt Whitman Middle School Colleen Hooper, School Counselor

Waynewood Elementary School Lindsay Victor, Speech Language Pathologist

West Potomac High School Kevin McMahon, Director of Student Services

West Springfield High School Kimberly Nelson, Assessment Coach

Westbriar Elementary School Katie Poland, Reading Specialist

Westfield High School Susan Fox, Assessment Coach

Westgate Elementary School Kelly VanTassel, School Counselor

Westlawn Elementary School Michelle Doyle, Assistant Principal

Weyanoke Elementary School Shannon E. Merriweather, Instructional Coach

Willow Springs Elementary School Tamela Shelton, School Counselor

Wolftrap Elementary School Mathieu Campet, School-Based Technology Specialist *


Ramona Gavin, Assistant Principal

Woodlawn Elementary School Joanna Newton, Reading Resource Teacher

Woodson High School Amanda Burke, Assistant Principal

Herndon Elementary School Jaime Graham, Title I Resource Teacher *

Herndon High School Michelle Campiglia, Assistant Principal

Hollin Meadows Elementary School Julia Buckingham, Math Resource Teacher *

Holmes Middle School Torey Diggs, School-Based Technology Specialist

Hughes Middle School Beth Panicucci, School-Based Technology Specialist

Hunt Valley Elementary School Maura Donahue, Assistant Principal *

Irving Middle School Steve Snow, Technology Support Specialist

Kent Gardens Elementary School Tyisha Williamson, School Counselor

Key Middle School Amy Samudre, School Counselor

Kilmer Center Jennifer Pasinetti-Fuller, Instructional Coach *

Kilmer Middle School Michelle Lyttle, Assistant Principal

Kings Glen Elementary School Christine Ritter, Assistant Principal

Kings Park Elementary School Corri Shusterman, School Counselor

Lake Anne Elementary School Lee Roberts, School Counselor

Lake Braddock Secondary School Alexandra Bryan, Middle School After-School Specialist *

Lane Elementary School Rachel Waters, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Langley High School Donna Barnsley, Social Worker

Lanier Middle School Kathryn Teague, Director of Student Services

Laurel Ridge Elementary School Kim Pryor, Assistant Principal *

Lee High School Jen Curry, Assistant Principal

Lemon Road Elementary School Matt Heffron, School-Based Technology Specialist

Liberty Middle School Natalie Lissy, Assistant Principal

London Towne Elementary School Jordan Cook, Assistant Principal

Longfellow Middle School Caitlin Ivey, School Counselor

Lorton Station Elementary School Shannon Hailer, Psychologist

Luther Jackson Middle School Brian Reed Tickle, School Counselor

Lynbrook Elementary School Jessica Duvel, Math Instructional Coach

Madison High School Brandy Buckley, School Counselor

Mantua Elementary School Richard Hang, School Counselor

Marshall High School Danielle Schoolcraft, Assistant Principal

Marshall Road Elementary School Matthew Chapman, Assistant Principal

McLean High School Buddy Sekely, Safety and Security Specialist *

McNair Elementary School Michael Astudillo, Assistant Principal

Mosby Woods Elementary School Ashley Dwyer, School Counselor

Mount Eagle Elementary School Shannon Dickenson, Reading Resource Teacher *

Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School Debra Wines, Assistant Principal *

Mountain View High School Jackie Gaston, Career & Transition Teacher

Navy Elementary School Molly Booe, Assistant Principal

Oak Hill Elementary School Mary Beth Anderson, Reading Specialist

Oak View Elementary School Terri Newman, School Based Technology Specialist

Oakton Elementary School Shana Schnaue, School Counselor *

Olde Creek Elementary School Kelly Durso, Assistant Principal *

Poe Middle School Patrick Rosas, After-School Specialist

Poplar Tree Elementary School Katrina MacWhorter, School Counselor *

Pulley Career Center Heather Padgett, Career & Transition Department Chair




Sara Cooner, Manager, Behavioral Management, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Special ServicesSara is committed to quality and individualized behavioral services for 200 FCPS schools supporting general and special education students. She is widely recognized for her dedication to student success, and timeliness resolving staff and administrator needs. She attributes much of her success to focused, proactive collaboration with FCPS schools and departments to model effective evidenced-based strategies to resolve problems before they become crises. Sara leads by example, ensuring her 20 central office behavior support staff use high-leverage practices that enhance division-wide behavioral programming for Pre-K-12. Sara’s work with Organization for Autism Research and Children’s National Health System shaped a nationally recognized intervention curriculum promoting successful outcomes for students on the autism spectrum.

Lisa Diapoulis, Food Services Operations Specialist, Energy Zone Food Service Center, Financial ServicesLisa provides a unique and exceptional contribution through her selfless dedication to FCPS. Lisa has demonstrated commitment and leadership through her hard work and perseverance. She is caring, responsive, and effective in her work and naturally supports the four ignite goals. “Having Lisa on the FNS team raises the bar in terms of performance and professionalism in our office and has heightened our credibility with our staff who are out working in the field,” says her supervisor. “Lisa has played an instrumental role from Breakfast in the Classroom to the Summer FEEDS Barbeque to the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Lisa’s steadfast leadership cannot be taken for granted in providing healthy foods year-round to our school community,” says a Principal.

Terry Kellogg, Coordinator, Benefits Services, Gatehouse Administration Center, Human ResourcesTerry’s team manages the medical, dental, and tax-favored accounts available to FCPS employees and retirees, covering over 60,000 plan participants. In addition to managing contracts and programs, her team assists employees across their ‘benefits lifespan’ – from newly hired employees to retirees who are covered under the FCPS plans. While vendor and program management are a large part of her job, first and foremost her team ensures that FCPS provides quality, market relevant and cost-effective benefit programs that attract and retain employees. She prides herself in delivering programs that meet the goals of the FCPS Strategic Plan, providing excellent customer service, and continually exploring opportunities for process improvement in order to meet the needs of our participants.

Ann Long, Coordinator, Career and Transition Special Education, Willow Oaks Administrative Center, Instructional ServicesAnn’s commitment to student success is evident. She has expanded programming to ensure equity and has partnered with state and local organizations and businesses to provide relevant learning opportunities and supports that meet student needs. Each year, approximately 1200 students with disabilities are matched with over 300 business partners in work-based learning experiences. One model has been replicated in several states. Her supervisor writes that she is “focused on the best opportunities for students to achieve the Portrait of a Graduate.” Ann is a leader who consistently produces positive outcomes for students by elevating the importance of relationships with students, staff and the community. One colleague noted that she “tirelessly strives to improve the lives of all students with disabilities.”

Bill Muster, Network Engineering Supervisor, Wilton Woods Center, Information Technology

“The delivery truck is here.” “The interns just arrived.” “The vendor wants to know if this Thursday is a good time to meet.” The two ubiquitous replies echoing through Trailer 1 at Wilton Woods Center are: “He’s on it” or “He’s on his way.” Since Bill has taken over the position of Network Engineering Supervisor, he has been non-stop at making sure things get done the right way the first time. He is always guiding the process forward with a smile. Sometimes jokingly referred to as the “Morale Officer”, his co-workers happily enjoy the yearly events he organizes: Pot Luck Day, the Chili Contest and the annual Fish Fry. Technical advisor, trouble-shooting guru, and coffee connoisseur, Bill makes working hard at FCPS fun.

Linda Sperling, TJHSST Admissions Specialist, Gatehouse Administration Center, Chiefs OfficesLinda is committed to providing responsive, caring, and accurate information to every customer (student, parent, counselor and teacher) she communicates with daily. The 200+ counselors that she deals with praise her for the collaborative effort she exerts to include them in the communications between TJ Admissions, students and families. When the office was understaffed due to transitions, she took on additional responsibilities to assure that her customers were not impacted by temporary staffing limitations. “When you have 3000 students and families expecting perfection in the process, Linda will do whatever it takes to maintain that level of excellence”, a coworker said. She never takes her eye off of the goal: student success.

Pamela Rose Walter, Manager, Transportation Operations, Stonecroft Transportation Center, TransportationPamela has created a professional development program for the Office of Transportation Services known as the Transportation Academy. During this program, the participants spend five weeks gaining knowledge and confidence as she leads them through writing and computer skills, leadership training, communications and presentation skills, team building, and customer service training. She feels her greatest career achievement is demonstrating leadership by developing others seeking leadership positions or career advancement within FCPS. She believes everyone deserves constructive feedback and support to achieve their career goals. Because of her belief and dedication to the caring culture and premier workforce of FCPS, supervisors look to Pamela for advice and guidance. Pamela is committed to engaging, inspiring, and empowering all to thrive.


Outstanding Teacher

The Outstanding Teacher Award recognizes both an elementary and secondary teacher who demonstrate dedication, commitment, and the ability to propel students to high levels of success. The recipients meet the individual needs of students, foster talent, instill a desire to learn, and nurture cooperative relationships among colleagues and in the community. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate teachers with at least three full years of experience for this prestigious award.

Elementary Finalists

April Done, First and Second Grade Multiage Teacher, Shrevewood Elementary School, Region 2 April makes it her mission to provide students with a multitude of rigorous learning opportunities. In April’s classroom, observers will find students engaging in meaningful mathematical tasks, utilizing critical and creative thinking strategies, or participating in differentiated activities that meet the needs of diverse learners. April is a relentless believer in high expectations for students regardless of their diverse needs. As her school’s math lead, April implemented a parent session on productive struggle, coordinated the organization of resources, and collaborated with colleagues to provide needs-based professional learning. One colleague noted, “April is always willing to help out when needed whether it is serving on a committee, playing in the staff basketball game, or opening her home for staff celebrations.”

Allison Omohundro, Third Grade Teacher, Deer Park Elementary School, Region 5 Allison has that magical and perfect balance where people, both kids and adults, want to be around her. She is fun and engaging and impacts the world beyond her classroom. She instills a desire to learn as each of her third grade students is given responsibility and autonomy for their own learning. Allison’s students know exactly what is expected of them, and are provided with the tools, guidance, and empowerment to achieve great learning. Just one example, Allison often posts multiple learning targets derived from exit tickets or conferences, and students select the one they will be working on during the lesson. This differentiation allows each student to own success. She works to encourage student talent and grow self esteem.

Michelle Pierce, Multiple Disabilities Teacher, Great Falls Elementary School, Region 1In her short time at Great Falls Elementary School, Michelle has led the way to making the multiple disabilities program, a safe and happy classroom of eight students. She has a big heart for her students and always reminds them that they are special to her and that they are loved for who they are. Michelle says that it’s the little things that her students say or do that keep her coming back to the classroom every year! Michelle also cares about her teacher assistants. She often reminds them that she could not do her job without them and gives them credit for the many activities they develop and the support they give to all the students!

Lisa Rode, Sixth Grade Teacher, Kings Glen Elementary School, Region 4Lisa’s contagious enthusiasm for learning, dedication to innovative lessons, and commitment to each student’s success drives her instruction. In her risk-free classroom community, students truly believe that they can achieve at high levels. Lisa has found ways to integrate programming, robotics, and engineering into core curriculum within an inclusive sixth grade classroom to include programming robots to demonstrate integer operations; designing rovers to simulate planetary exploration; and participating in “Skype a Scientist” to interface with scientists from around the country. “Through her extensive interest in and passion for STEM, her total devotion to student engagement, and her dedication to fostering communication and creative thinking skills,” said a teammate, “Lisa transforms how both students and staff at Kings Glen learn.”

Valentino Taguding, Physical Education Teacher, Island Creek Elementary School, Region 3Valentino Taguding possesses a rare ability to captivate and inspire children. His infectious smile, seeds of encouragement, and positive energy help to motivate students while having fun. He makes learning an adventure as he integrates singing, magic, dance, balloon animals, creative activities, and team-building into his lessons to enhance the learning experience. He is a “Lifelong Wellness Teacher,” enlightening students to establish healthy lifetime habits, develop an enduring appreciation of physical activity, be knowledgeable nutritionists, and enjoy life. He believes that children will learn if you show that you care and encourage them to succeed. His favorite saying is “Believe in yourself and take good care of your body, because if you don’t, then where else will you live?” Principal LaRonda Peterson agrees. “The ideas and resources he has brought to our teachers and families,” she says, “have made a lifelong impact.”

Secondary Finalists

Heather Brueggen, English Teacher, Edison High School, Region 3Heather Brueggen has been teaching English for twelve years, and she takes enormous pride in her role as an educator. Rather than shying away from a challenge, she routinely asks to work with remedial students, making every effort to build their confidence and help them succeed. Her high expectations for all students are clear, which consistently creates a safe, personable, positive, and supportive learning environment in the classroom. Ms. Brueggen does not see teaching as merely a job, but as an innate desire to serve society. Furthermore, she is an expert in content delivery and possesses a knack for communicating and conceptualizing significant ideas to every type of learner.

Brandon Clarke, ESOL Teacher, Franklin Middle School, Region 5 “Brandon is creative about providing students authentic learning experiences, so they can share their voice,” said a colleague. Through the Capstone Portfolio, his English Learners integrate Project Based Learning with Portrait of a Graduate skills. In their final presentation of learning, students showcase their academic language in the roles of engineer, researcher, advocate, and diplomat. He is encouraging in class, “He always reminds us to never give up!” reflected one student, and he writes individual notes of encouragement before exams. As Equity Lead and ESOL Department Chair, he collaborates with colleagues to build a community that supports and rigorously engages all English Learners. Always seeking to grow as a teacher, he looks for new strategies to increase students’ thoughtful engagement.

Amanda Herlihy, Multiple Disabilities Teacher, Thoreau Middle School, Region 1Amanda demonstrates patience and love and promotes inclusivity and fun. In her six years as a Thoreau teacher, she has helped to develop the school’s program for students with low incidence disabilities. Her innovation, creativity, and passion has facilitated the creation of new and exciting educational, pre-vocational, and inclusion opportunities for her students. Amanda’s goal is to foster independence and push her students past their academic potentials. At Thoreau, she has succeeded in meeting this goal. A firm believer that “inclusion should be the expectation, not the exception,” she has helped to make her program a vital part of the Thoreau community and provided her students with a vibrant middle school experience.

Diane Hughart, Alternative School English Teacher, Transition Support Resource Center Vienna, Non-RegionOne of the first Nationally Board-Certified teachers in the country, Diane inspires students to become not just enthusiastic readers and writers, but better versions of themselves. Diane encourages students who have been unsuccessful in traditional settings to develop unique voices and enjoy learning. Colleagues rely on her advice in dealing with the most challenging students in a thoughtful and supportive way. A student recently wrote to Diane: “I just wanted to let you know that the kindness and patience you showed me when I was an angsty fourteen-year-old has inspired me to pursue a career in teaching high school English. I pray one day I can make one kid as happy as you make everyone every second of every day.”

Jessica Ittayem, STEAM Teacher, Poe Middle School, Region 2 Jessica is a devoted STEAM teacher that delivers real world experiences to her students every year. By making it her mission to bring a vast array of opportunities to Poe Middle; Jessica gives her students the opportunity to engage and to understand how important a piece they can be to solving many real-world issues. Jessica’s passion extends out of the classroom and into supporting many humanitarian organizations. Her after school club has been recognized by Fairfax county board of supervisors for helping raise awareness about human trafficking during Human Trafficking Awareness Month. “The experiences that our students are receiving from Jessica and her commitment are phenomenal”, said a colleague.

Katie Munive, ESOL Teacher, Mountain View High School, Region 4 Katie knows it is a privilege and great responsibility to be an educator. Her patient, kind, and caring personality fosters self-efficacy and resilience in a supportive environment that nurtures students’ development, engagement in tasks, and the importance of becoming a life-long learner. Listening to students, she adjusts instructional methods, modifies assessments, and uses technology to develop their intelligence. She cautions, though the world may appear punitive and unrelenting, it doesn’t need to be so. Empowering oneself to see challenges as opportunities to incorporate a Growth Mindset and using critical thinking skills, solutions can be found. Katie hopes her students will always operate under Jung’s adage,“ I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become.”


School Recipients

Annandale High School Stephanie Hanson, English Teacher

Annandale Terrace Elementary School Morrisa Demery, Reading Specialist


Mari Dean, First Grade Teacher


Mary Medeiros, Fifth Grade Special Education Teacher *

Beech Tree Elementary School Heather Walnock, First Grade Teacher

Bonnie Brae Elementary School Sarah Sorenson, Fourth Grade teacher

Braddock Elementary School Desiree Delgado, Fourth Grade Spanish Teacher

Bren Mar Park Elementary School Kim Asselin, Kindergarten Teacher

Brookfield Elementary School Bethany Morris, Third Grade Teacher

Bryant High School Ron Virts, History & Social Studies Teacher

Bucknell Elementary School Gabrielle Wolosik, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Bull Run Elementary School Lauren Ortiz, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Burke School Kathleen Montavon, Alternative School Teacher

Bush Hill Elementary School Heather Sable, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Camelot Elementary School Tiffany Hayden, Kindergarten Teacher

Canterbury Woods Elementary School Karen Helmer, Gifted Education Center Teacher

Cardinal Forest Elementary School Brian Shields, Fourth Grade Teacher *

Carson Middle School Amy Allen, English Teacher

Centre Ridge Elementary School Tasha Climo, ESOL Teacher

Centreville Elementary School Michelle Yang, Third Grade Teacher

Centreville High School Oliver Small, AP Computer Science and STEM Engineering Teacher

Chantilly High School Joseph Clement, History & Social Studies Teacher

Cherry Run Elementary School Cindy Ko, Second Grade Teacher

Chesterbrook Elementary School Deanna Sivik, Fifth Grade Teacher *

Churchill Road Elementary School Rachael Dierman, Third Grade Advanced Academics Program Teacher

Clermont Elementary School Shey Gift, Chinese FLES Teacher

Coates Elementary School James Olsen, Sixth Grade Teacher

Colin Powell Elementary School MaryBeth Hill, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Cooper Middle School Lisa Walsh, Mathematics Teacher

Crossfield Elementary School Beth DeSimone, First Grade Teacher

Cunningham Park Elementary School Meg Brinkhuis, Librarian

Davis Career Center Dale Fila, Career & Transition Teacher

Deer Park Elementary School Allison Omohundro, Third Grade Teacher *

Dogwood Elementary School Dawn Maida, Sixth Grade Teacher

Dranesville Elementary School Noel Fleming, Adapted Physical Education Teacher *

Eagle View Elementary School Lindsey Hansen, Kindergarten Teacher

Edison High School Heather Brueggen, English Teacher *

Fairfax High School Ronnetta Lyons, Biology Teacher *

Fairfax Villa Elementary School Alexis Rivera, First Grade Teacher

Fairhill Elementary School Catherine Fernandez Martell, Fourth Grade Teacher

Fairview Elementary School Fred Pechin, Physical Education Teacher

Falls Church High School Ryan Michael Healy, Health & Physical Education Teacher *

Flint Hill Elementary School Lauren Rodriguez-Gregg, Fifth Grade Teacher

Floris Elementary School Lise Greenfield, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Forest Edge Elementary School Whitney Landry, Sixth Grade Teacher

Forestdale Elementary School Sanela Balic, Preschool Teacher

Fort Belvoir Primary School Susan Freewalt, Kindergarten Teacher

Fort Belvoir Upper School Alexandrea Neitert, Fourth Grade Teacher

Fort Hunt Elementary School Diane Miller, Fifth Grade Teacher

Franconia Elementary School Kristen Stump, Third Grade Teacher

Franklin Middle School Brandon Clarke, ESOL Teacher *

Franklin Sherman Elementary School Joanna Maslov, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Freedom Hill Elementary School Sheila Brosnan, Sixth Grade Teacher

Frost Middle School Matthew Bower, History & Social Studies Teacher

Graham Road Elementary School Sean Youngberg, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Great Falls Elementary School Michelle Pierce, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Greenbriar West Elementary School Laura Howard, Second Grade Teacher

Groveton Elementary School Alfonso Lopez-Marrero, Kindergarten Teacher

Gunston Elementary School Karen Booth, Fourth Grade Teacher

Haycock Elementary School Jill Shull, Sixth Grade Teacher

Hayfield Elementary School Nicole Johnson, Second Grade Teacher

Hayfield Secondary School Maggie LeGendre, AP World History Teacher *

Herndon High School Yasmin Petras, History & Social Studies Teacher *

Hollin Meadows Elementary School Deb Drembus, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Holmes Middle School Bridget Cheatham, Health and Physical Education Teacher

Hughes Middle School Hannah Converse, English Teacher

Hunt Valley Elementary School Tara Tamargo, ESOL Teacher

Hunters Woods Elementary School for the Arts and Sciences

Brian Smith, Strings Teacher *

Interagency Alternative Schools Diane Hughart, Alternative School Teacher *

Irving Middle School Emily Geary, History & Social Studies Teacher

Island Creek Elementary School Valentino Taguding, Physical Education Teacher *

Justice High School Tad Rauluk, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Keene Mill Elementary School Nicole Ingegneri, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Kent Gardens Elementary School Christine Ammirati, Kindergarten Teacher

Key Center Sarah Bracken Payne, Severe Disabilities Teacher *

Key Middle School Nancy Batchelder, ESOL Teacher

Kilmer Middle School Margaret Dean, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Kings Glen Elementary School Lisa Rode, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Kings Park Elementary School Emily Gill, Kindergarten Teacher

Lake Anne Elementary School Dana Issa, Third Grade Teacher

Lake Braddock Secondary School Andrea Harmon, High School Music Teacher *

Lane Elementary School Hanifa Sori, ESOL Teacher

Langley High School Christina Mitro, English Teacher

Lanier Middle School Laura Bieryla, History & Social Studies Teacher

Laurel Hill Elementary School William Brady Jr., Physical Education Teacher *

Laurel Ridge Elementary School Veronica Bonaccorsy, Physical Education Teacher

Lee High School Elizabeth Evans, History & Social Studies Teacher *



South Lakes High School Evan Millar, Mathematics Teacher *

Springfield Estates Elementary School Richard Dexter, Physical Education Teacher

Stone Middle School Sandy Rogers, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Sunrise Valley Elementary School Pat Irwin, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Terra Centre Elementary School Dorothy Klieber, Reading Specialist *


Michael Auerbach, Mathematics Teacher *

Thoreau Middle School Amanda Herlihy, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Timber Lane Elementary School Ashley Davis, Fourth Grade Teacher

Twain Middle School Kelly Draeger, Mathematics Teacher

Union Mill Elementary School Erin Price, Fifth Grade Teacher *

Vienna Elementary School Elizabeth Gutowski, First Grade Teacher

Wakefield Forest Elementary School Diana Grossman, Fourth Grade Teacher *

Walt Whitman Middle School Freda Woods-Lawrence, Mathematics Teacher *

Waples Mill Elementary School Laura Cohen, Reading Teacher

Waynewood Elementary School Pam Jay, Second Grade Teacher

West Potomac High School Eileen Bell, ESOL Teacher

West Springfield High School Sam Donnelly Jonsson, Marketing Education Teacher *

Westbriar Elementary School Rachel Petri, Fourth Grade Teacher

Westfield High School Glenn Rife, German Language Teacher

Westgate Elementary School Emma O'Grady, Art Teacher

Weyanoke Elementary School Amanda Kerns, Learning Disabilities Teacher *

Willow Springs Elementary School Kristin Creek, Second Grade Teacher *

Wolftrap Elementary School Susan Robb, Multiple Disabilities Teacher


LaTonya Floyd, Fifth Grade Teacher

Woodlawn Elementary School Jocelyn Buck, Second Grade Teacher

Woodley Hills Elementary School Anthony Pikul, Kindergarten Teacher *

Woodson High School Karla Eaton, English Teacher *

Lees Corner Elementary School Christina Penton, Second Grade Teacher

Lemon Road Elementary School Max Rzodkiewicz, Sixth Grade Teacher

Liberty Middle School Jessica Chun, Seventh Grade History Teacher

London Towne Elementary School Lucy Zamora, Gifted Education Teacher

Longfellow Middle School Bomin Collins, Orchestra Director *

Lorton Station Elementary School Ella Flowers, Second Grade Teacher

Louise Archer Elementary School Amy Stohs, Sixth Grade Teacher

Luther Jackson Middle School Taylor Johnson, Physical Education Teacher

Lynbrook Elementary School Daryl Yarmolovich, Fourth Grade Teacher

Madison High School Marissa Petty, History & Social Studies Teacher

Mantua Elementary School Hannah Hong, Gifted Education Center Teacher

Marshall High School Rebecca Crawford, History & Social Studies Teacher

Marshall Road Elementary School Sarah Burrowbridge, Sixth Grade Teacher *

McLean High School Linda Martin, Music Teacher

McNair Elementary School Caitlin Ferraro, Fourth Grade Teacher

Mosby Woods Elementary School Carrie Levis, Sixth Grade Teacher *

Mount Eagle Elementary School Beth Reidy, ESOL Teacher

Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School Deanna Evans, ESOL Teacher

Mountain View High School Katie Munive, ESOL Teacher *

Navy Elementary School Rebecca Schnabel, Second Grade Teacher

Newington Forest Elementary School Michelle Miller, Second Grade Teacher

North Springfield Elementary School Kathleen Nealon, Kindergarten Teacher

Oak Hill Elementary School Heidi Bowers, First Grade Teacher

Oak View Elementary School Jeanne Lowe, Fourth Grade Teacher

Oakton High School Meg Moran, English Teacher *

Olde Creek Elementary School Patty Smalley, Librarian

Orange Hunt Elementary School Katherine Bohn, Third Grade Teacher

Parklawn Elementary School Amery Stapleton, Multiple Disabilties Teacher

Poe Middle School Jessica Ittayem, STEAM teacher * and Beau Fay, Seventh Grade History Teacher

Poplar Tree Elementary School Stefanie Riddile, Librarian *

Providence Elementary School Allieh Kheradmand, First Grade Teacher

Ravensworth Elementary School Maggie Stem, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Riverside Elementary School Arielle Banal, ESOL Teacher

Robinson Secondary School Kevin Crenshaw, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Rocky Run Middle School Julie Tiss, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Rolling Valley Elementary School Rachel Forte, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Rose Hill Elementary School Jennifer Dragonetti, Multiple Disabilities Teacher *

Sandburg Middle School Shanae Hill, History & Social Studies Teacher *

Sangster Elementary School Ann Pritz, Fourth Grade Teacher

Saratoga Elementary School Samantha Nadeau, Third Grade Teacher

Shrevewood Elementary School April Done, First and Second Grade Multiage Teacher *

Silverbrook Elementary School Kathryn Desmond, First Grade Teacher

Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Stephanie Clowes, Fourth Grade Teacher

South County High School Ann Baylor, Mathematics Teacher

South County Middle School Christina Pybus, Health & Physical Education Teacher *



Outstanding PrincipalThe Outstanding Principal Award recognizes an extraordinary principal who demonstrates superior leadership qualities and creates an exceptional educational environment. The recipient of this award is an innovative and highly effective administrator. They are a committed, knowledgeable educator whose vision inspires and guides staff, students, and the community to help lead their school to excellence. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate principals with at least three full years of experience for this prestigious award.

Finalists

Maureen Boland, Principal, Rolling Valley Elementary School, Region 4Maureen has literally spent a lifetime in Fairfax County Public Schools, having started as a student at Hunt Valley Elementary to now being principal at Rolling Valley. Her love for all things FCPS reflects in the care she gives students, teachers and parents at RVES. She exemplifies leadership; involving teachers, staff, parents, students, and the community in creating and fostering a shared vision for Rolling Valley. She believes her staff should have every opportunity to continue learning about the field of education by providing professional development and mentorship. Most of all, she enjoys being the head “Rockin’ Robin” and her current PTA president describes her as a “cheerleader for the teachers and students.”

Shawn DeRose, Principal, Glasgow Middle School, Region 2From the moment he started at Glasgow Middle School, it was clear that Shawn was committed to making high-quality classroom instruction the core of his leadership. Each year, he focuses on providing high-quality Tier 1 instruction by emphasizing learning targets, high level academic tasks, scaffolds and evidence of student learning. He also embodies Glasgow’s commitment to lifelong learning. He reflects on and models his own growth for his staff. As one community member shared, “he is an honest leader, sharing concerns, as well as successes, with parents. He has the confidence to ask for the community’s feedback, and he appreciates receiving it, telling us it is the best way for the school and for him to continuously improve.”

Jennifer Heiges, Principal, Marshall Road Elementary School, Region 1Jen has been extremely fortunate to have spent 17 years as a member of the Marshall Road Community. Her background as a special educator has driven her to create an inclusive environment where all learners are celebrated. She has brought many encouraging programs to the school such as Responsive Classroom, The Positivity Project and Yoga4Classrooms. She models optimism by developing genuine relationships with all and by consistently having a smile on her face. Jen is a mentor to students, teachers and colleagues. She believes that teaching the whole child is the key to success. Marshall Road embraces well-rounded students and very enthusiastic teachers thanks to Jen’s leadership for all these years.

Jesse Kraft, Principal, Coates Elementary School, Region 5Jesse works with a passion that inspires the great educators around him. Thanks to his leadership, Coates has realized significant, measurable improvements in student performance across grade levels and subgroups while improving staff working conditions. Teachers feel that their instructional skills have improved and they’re committed to ongoing professional growth to realize the Coates mission for students. Jesse empowers staff and students and is a constant model, designing and leading trainings for teachers, creating the “Talk Like a Boss” workshop series for students, boosting learning opportunities for parents, revising PBIS practices, building a teacher leadership cohort, collaborating with parents to achieve a PTA membership increase that garnered state recognition, and systematically working to nurture a school culture that cares and gets results.

Jay Nocco, Principal, Lynbrook Elementary School, Region 3“Is it good for our students?” is the guiding question Jay asks when decisions are made at Lynbrook. He has led the school in raising the rigor of core instruction with a focus on enduring understandings. Teachers now focus on how the learning today will help students in their future. Under his leadership, Lynbrook has piloted both a Trauma Informed Classroom course and a Schoolwide Literacy Lab site for the county. Jay hires reflective practitioners and provides them the support and resources to help all children succeed. He engages his staff by recognizing their strengths and inviting them to contribute in authentic ways. Jay is a coach, mentor, leader, cheerleader, supporter and friend who reminds his teachers that they work with him, not for him.

School Recipients

Bull Run Elementary School Jason Pensler

Burke School Frank Tranfa

Coates Elementary School Jesse Kraft

Cooper Middle School Arlene Randall

Cub Run Elementary School Jenni Coakley

Dogwood Elementary School Mie Devers

Franklin Middle School Sharon Eisenberg

Garfield Elementary School Christine Slattery

Glasgow Middle School Shawn DeRose

Greenbriar West Elementary School Patty Granada

Groveton Elementary School Jim Swoger

Herndon High School Liz Noto

Hunt Valley Elementary School Dave Fee

Kent Gardens Elementary School Holly McGuigan

Lake Anne Elementary School Jill Stewart

Lee High School Deirdre Lavery

Louise Archer Elementary School Michelle Makrigiorgos

Lynbrook Elementary School Jay Nocco

Marshall High School Jeff Litz

Marshall Road Elementary School Jennifer Heiges

Oakton Elementary School Chris Kelley

Rocky Run Middle School Amy Goodloe

Rolling Valley Elementary School Maureen Boland

Sangster Elementary School Lisa Reddel

Saratoga Elementary School Amy Miller

Springfield Estates Elementary School Mary Randolph

Terraset Elementary School Lindsay Trout

Union Mill Elementary School Kathy Case


Karen Corbett SandersChair Mount Vernon District

Ilryong MoonVice Chair Member-at-Large

Tamara Derenak KaufaxLee District

Sandy EvansMason District

Pat HynesHunter Mill District

Karen Keys-GamarraMember-at-Large

Ryan McElveenMember-at-Large

Megan McLaughlinBraddock District

Dalia PalchikProvidence District

Elizabeth Schultz Springfield District

Jane Strauss Dranesville District

Thomas Wilson Sully District

Benjamin TignorStudent Representative

Scott Brabrand Division Superintendent

Frances Ivey Deputy Superintendent

John Foster Division Counsel

Francisco Durán Chief Equity Officer

Marty Smith Chief Operating Officer

Leigh Burden Assistant Superintendent, Financial Services

Mark Greenfelder Executive Director, School Support

Teresa Johnson Assistant Superintendent, Special Services

Esther Ko Auditor General

Maribeth Luftglass Assistant Superintendent, Information Technology

Helen Nixon Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Jeffrey Platenberg Assistant Superintendent, Facilities & Transportation Services

Sloan Presidio Assistant Superintendent, Instructional Services

John Torre Interim Executive Director, Communication and Community Relations

Kathleen Walts Executive Director, Professional Learning and Family Engagement

Douglas Tyson Assistant Superintendent, Region 1

Fabio Zuluaga Assistant Superintendent, Region 2

Terry Dade Assistant Superintendent, Region 3

Jay Pearson Assistant Superintendent, Region 4

Rebecca Baenig Assistant Superintendent, Region 5

Leadership Team:

School Board:

Special Thanks

Annandale High School Bryan MolléAnnandale Terrace Elementary School Essel LintonBailey’s Elementary School for the Kathryn Rubish andArts and Sciences Ted CooperBailey’s Upper Elementary School Elizabeth Armitagefor the Arts and Sciences Beech Tree Elementary School Yolanda Adams* Bonnie Brae Elementary School Carlin Ferraro Braddock Elementary School Mattie Fallen *Bren Mar Park Elementary School Rebecca HarrisonBrookfield Elementary School Monica EvansBryant High School Jo Beth ElliottBucknell Elementary School Carleta Waytes Bull Run Elementary School Rachael BlanchardBurke School Erica LoeschBush Hill Elementary School Jen SpollenCamelot Elementary School Miriam Giotta Canterbury Woods Elementary School Linda Szabo Cardinal Forest Elementary School Joan Houston Carson Middle School Elaine ClubbCentre Ridge Elementary School Tiffanie WuCentreville Elementary School Kurt SoderstromCentreville High School Karen CliftonChantilly High School Jeanette SchutteCherry Run Elementary School Erin Hurley Chesterbrook Elementary School Holley RemerChurchill Road Elementary School Sara DeLuca Clermont Elementary School Lisa GibsonCoates Elementary School Amy Marney Colin Powell Elementary School Kathleen BachCooper Middle School Michael RathCrossfield Elementary School Kathy Theis*Cub Run Elementary School Jennifer CoakleyCunningham Park Elementary School Keri MinaDavis Career Center Alane Lewis Deer Park Elementary School Amy Croney Dux *Dogwood Elementary School Dawn MaidaDranesville Elementary School Shannon Blaisdell and Carrie HesterEagle View Elementary School Christina Perry Edison High School Eugena SmithFairfax High School Nancy Melnick Fairfax Villa Elementary School Barbara Schmidt *Fairhill Elementary School Amanda Arman Fairview Elementary School Beth SchiresFalls Church High School Day LearyFlint Hill Elementary School Laurie ArnoldFloris Elementary School Ellie LovettForest Edge Elementary School Courtney White Forestdale Elementary School Kolette De La CruzFort Belvoir Primary School Timothy Harris Fort Belvoir Upper School Jessica Ross Fort Hunt Elementary School Tracy Hutchison *Fox Mill Elementary School Stephanie Alger and Toni Welles

Franconia Elementary School Michelle GalvanFranklin Middle School Tami StubblefieldFranklin Sherman Elementary School Joanna Maslov Freedom Hill Elementary School Elizabeth WilliamsFrost Middle School Anthony HarrisGarfield Elementary School Janet Dougherty Glasgow Middle School Jillian Domenech Graham Road Elementary School Patty HibnerGreat Falls Elementary School Sara HarperGreenbriar East Elementary School Mary Thomson-MartinGreenbriar West Elementary School Kaitlyn StubblefieldGroveton Elementary School Kevin MorrisGunston Elementary School Diana McIntyre Halley Elementary School Mary Lou VillacrusisHaycock Elementary School Alyssa MyerHayfield Elementary School Kelly Parker Hayfield Secondary School Kathy Oktavec Herndon Elementary School Tiffany Bryant *Herndon High School Michael GillespieHollin Meadows Elementary School Catherine BowmanHolmes Middle School Karli Eddinger Hughes Middle School Drew Hamlin Hunt Valley Elementary School Rebecca LeddonHunters Woods Elementary School Laura King for the Arts and Sciences Interagency Alternative Schools David Penland Irving Middle School Victoria NelsonIsland Creek Elementary School Karen Baxter Justice High School Katie Vandawalker Keene Mill Elementary School Ellen ColterKent Gardens Elementary School Pier Stock McGrath Key Center Nicole Bracken* Key Middle School Jennifer Bauer Kilmer Center Jennifer Pasinetti- FullerKilmer Middle School Christopher MusgnugKings Glen Elementary School Cindy Agner * and Rebecca Canty Kings Park Elementary School Elizabeth BeaversLake Anne Elementary School Melinda RivasLake Braddock Secondary School Laura WatermanLane Elementary School Natasha Findley *Langley High School Wayne Biernesser *Lanier Middle School Lea ImLaurel Hill Elementary School Misty Clatterbuck Laurel Ridge Elementary School Martha DeVault Lee High School Stephanie Bilimoria Lees Corner Elementary School Kim Proppe Lemon Road Elementary School Emily Godenschwager Liberty Middle School Sharon Stemme Little Run Elementary School Marianne McLaughlinLondon Towne Elementary School Joseph FischhaberLongfellow Middle School Tara Fortune *Lorton Station Elementary School Lichele Carmichael

School Awards Liaisons (*denotes Pyramid Lead Liaison)

36 FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Wakefield Forest Elementary School Julia RuskinWalt Whitman Middle School Stacey Davis *Waples Mill Elementary School Carla Collins Waynewood Elementary School Tara SullivanWest Potomac High School Emily MilliansWest Springfield Elementary School Leah ConteWestbriar Elementary School Elise Brammer Westfield High School Sonya Williams Westgate Elementary School Michelle ScherbenskeWestlawn Elementary School Linda Ferguson *Weyanoke Elementary School Casey Crowe White Oaks Elementary School Patricia GrippinWillow Springs Elementary School Krystal Styles *Wolftrap Elementary School Laura MayWoodburn School for the Fine Susan Viniskyand Communicative Arts Woodlawn Elementary School Alison HenritzyWoodley Hills Elementary School Teresa PartonWoodson High School Demarco Brooks Central Office Department Awards Liaisons

Chiefs Offices Kim AmenabarFacilities Services Alan Deyarmin and Kristin ReeceFinancial Services Patti ParisiHuman Resources Michele CrossInformation Technology Julie YocumInstructional Services Jen Mattice and Karin WilliamsSpecial Services Cameron Hibshman Transportation Deanna Connelly and Kristina Delaney

Louise Archer Elementary School Jennifer CondraLuther Jackson Middle School James Bermudez Lynbrook Elementary School Karen Baxter Madison High School Claire Rowan *Mantua Elementary School Richard HangMarshall High School Danielle Koehler *Marshall Road Elementary School Jennifer Heflin McLean High School Tzeitel Barcus McNair Elementary School Betty DaillyMosby Woods Elementary School Carole LinehanMount Eagle Elementary School Chrissy GibbsMount Vernon Woods Elementary School Debra WinesMountain View High School Minh Steven TranNavy Elementary School Melanie Curto Newington Forest Elementary School Jennifer Min *North Springfield Elementary School Jennifer Mrowka Oak Hill Elementary School Catherine LahrOak View Elementary School Corey Spinosi Oakton Elementary School Tan Holsclaw Oakton High School Sal OlivoOlde Creek Elementary School Julie WilsonOrange Hunt Elementary School Dana VogelParklawn Elementary School Brooke AllportPine Spring Elementary School Sydney D’OrnellasPoe Middle School Michelle PetersPoplar Tree Elementary School Katrina MacWhorter *Providence Elementary School Sharon Hickey Pulley Career Center Deb RichQuander Road School George DeneaultRavensworth Elementary School Jennafer Hoff and Kelsey Green Riverside Elementary School Paul BasdekisRobinson Secondary School Christopher BirdRocky Run Middle School Christine SciabicaRolling Valley Elementary School Anne Walker *Rose Hill Elementary School Danny Adams * Sandburg Middle School Frances DeLeonSangster Elementary School Tom Rowader Saratoga Elementary School B. Starr Arnett Shrevewood Elementary School Romona WrightSilverbrook Elementary School Laura Patton Sleepy Hollow Elementary School Stephanie Clowes South County High School Cristina ProcaccinoSouth County Middle School Libby BriggsSouth Lakes High School Lisa GirdySpringfield Estates Elementary School Matthew HuppStone Middle School Carol Larsen Sunrise Valley Elementary School Roseanne Candell *Terra Centre Elementary School Angela Morgan *Terraset Elementary School Leslie Grumbach Thomas Jefferson High School for Mike Yohe Science and Technology Thoreau Middle School Tresa Krukowski Timber Lane Elementary School Dana NolandTwain Middle School Karen ArthurUnion Mill Elementary School Jamie Clinch *Vienna Elementary School Eben Montaquila

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