individual excellence award winner

Excellence Awards - Individual Winners

Recognizing Employees Committed to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity

2024 Individual Winners

Collaboration and Partnerships

  • Develops influential partnerships with parents, businesses, and community organizations; fosters collaboration across schools, offices, and/or departments; utilizes internal and external resources and expertise to bolster student learning and promote the success of students and staff.

Magaly Becerra

Family Liaison, Chief Experience & Engagement Office
Magaly Becerra

Magaly consistently goes above and beyond to improve services for students. She has built deep and meaningful relationships with families, partnered with liaisons at other schools to coordinate support for siblings, and established a community outreach committee that hosts evening information sessions for families. Magaly also created a Family Market, providing essentials to families in need, and supported an annual charity event for the community. Additionally, she organized school open houses, inviting professionals from across FCPS to contribute to student success. 

Kimberly S. Harrison

Director of Student Services, Lewis High School
Kimberly S. Harrison

Kim is an exceptional leader who is respected, trusted, and admired by colleagues across all departments and levels. Her ability to unite and inspire others toward the common goal of student success is unmatched. Whether focused on academic achievement, emotional well-being, or student safety, Kim’s actions consistently reflect her commitment to their growth. From engaging with students and supporting teachers to building strong community relationships and creating effective school structures, everything she does is driven by her dedication to student success. 

Stephanie M. Stewart

Marketing Education Teacher, Herndon High School
Stephanie Stewart

Stephanie is an incredible teacher and department chair who collaborates and forms partnerships with professionals in the community to enhance educational and career opportunities for Herndon High School students. These opportunities include apprenticeships, mentoring, career fairs, and school-wide lessons. Additionally, she has partnered with a local church to provide staff with treats and encouragement throughout the year. Stephanie and her students also manage a clothing closet for those in need. She serves as a vital link between the school and the surrounding community. 

Tracy Pounder

Senior Manager I, Early Childhood Identification and Services, Special Services
Tracy Pounder

Tracy empowers teachers to become stronger, more knowledgeable educators. Her ability to encourage teachers through feedback sessions have transformed how data is collected and analyzed. She plays a crucial role in implementing inclusion opportunities for special education and collaborates with Pre-K classes to develop diverse learning goals for preschoolers. A blend of empathy, resilience, and integrity, Tracy fosters a culture of perseverance and collaboration. She builds strong relationships, makes ethical decisions, and always emphasizes that our success comes from working together as a team.
 

Equity and Cultural Responsiveness

  • Demonstrates cultural responsiveness in building relationships and leverages impact to address systemic equity challenges; engages in reflection to craft culturally responsive solutions that eliminate barriers; promotes equity and inclusivity for those in marginalized or underrepresented groups.

Kelly M. Cosgrove

Assistant Principal, Carson Middle School
kelly cosgrove

Kelly has been a valued member of the Carson Middle School community for two years, where she has seamlessly integrated her strong professional presence. She adeptly finds solutions to existing problems and anticipates upcoming challenges. As an outstanding communicator, mediator, and leader, Kelly models the importance of building relationships with all stakeholders. She shares her expertise with staff willingly and passionately, making her an integral part of the fabric of Carson Middle School.

Aida Joranko

Family Liaison, Chief Experience & Engagement Office
Aida Joranko

For over 18 years, Aida has exemplified the FCPS values of equity and cultural responsiveness. In her role as family liaison, she has proactively organized monthly family engagement meetings, helping families connect with vital school and community resources—such as insurance registration, applying for the Advanced Academic Program, taking English classes, and accessing the special education department's diverse offerings. Aida's commitment ensures that families at Glen Forest are equipped to succeed independently in our community, both now and in the future.

 

Innovation and Improvement

  • Exhibits a commitment to innovation and transformation; effectively implements new initiatives that have a broad impact on FCPS students, staff, and/or the community.

Allison Satterwhite Barker

Educational Specialist, Accountability Programs, Chief Academic Office

Allison began her career as a high school math teacher and department chair at West Potomac, later serving as a secondary math resource teacher and data specialist in School Support. She now works as an educational specialist for accreditation programs in the Office of Assessment and Reporting. Known for her commitment to improving the educational experience for both students and staff, Allison consistently seeks innovative solutions. Her efforts have significantly influenced FCPS, leading to the development of tools like the SOL Performance-SDBQ and iReady Analysis Workbooks, and driving processes that promote a culture of continuous improvement

kelly brady

Kelly K. Brady

Senior Manager I, Out-of-School Support, Chief of Schools Office

In her two years as the manager for Out-of-School Support (OSS), Kelly has worked tirelessly to enhance and streamline all aspects of OSS procedures and processes. Her implementation of innovative ideas have benefited school teams, families, homebound teachers, and students alike. By using technology creatively, she has improved the referral process, enabling prompt instructional services to be put in place for students. Additionally, her efforts to recruit and retain high-quality teachers have been crucial in providing excellent instruction for FCPS students.In her two years as the manager for Out-of-School Support (OSS), Kelly has worked tirelessly to enhance and streamline all aspects of OSS procedures and processes. Her implementation of innovative ideas have benefited school teams, families, homebound teachers, and students alike. By using technology creatively, she has improved the referral process, enabling prompt instructional services to be put in place for students. Additionally, her efforts to recruit and retain high-quality teachers have been crucial in providing excellent instruction for FCPS students.

Hoang Le

Network Management Supervisor, Chief Information Technology Office

hoang le

In response to an emergency directive, Hoang Le and his Network Management Services team swiftly replaced the FCPS Ivanti enterprise VPN, which had been disabled. In the face of mounting challenges and ever-evolving technological landscapes, Hoang exhibited exceptional foresight and strategic planning, ensuring the new VPN was deployed swiftly and seamlessly within just a few days. His ability to navigate complexities and proactively address potential obstacles was instrumental in mitigating risks and ensuring the success of the project. 

Ariel Salazar

Functional Applications Specialist I, Chief Operating Office

Ariel Salazar

Ariel is dedicated to innovation and transformation, consistently launching initiatives that significantly benefit the organization. His technical skills were crucial in implementing systems that enhanced the user-friendliness and efficiency of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS). He developed a Google site to improve communication within FNS and designed the inaugural hub page for FNS employees. This inclusive and user-friendly page enables staff to navigate complex procedures with ease. Ariel's efforts are making a meaningful impact on both our operations and our employees.

Natasha R. Saunders

Senior Manager II, Language Arts 7-12, Instructional Services

Natasha R. Saunders

Natasha is a dynamic and inspiring leader who consistently shows a commitment to innovation and transformation, effectively implementing initiatives that profoundly impact FCPS students, staff, and the broader community. She leads with care and compassion, guiding our division through change with enthusiasm, perspective, equity, and kindness. Natasha has a keen sense of when to push forward and when to pause, turning challenges into opportunities and encouraging teachers who may be resistant to change. With her forward-thinking leadership, Natasha is shaping the future of education. 

Holli Selman

College & Career Specialist, Robinson Secondary School

Holli Selman

Holli is the dynamic leader of the RAMbassador program at Robinson Secondary School, wielding her passion to uplift students and community alike. Through this program she fosters mentorship, and assists military families, new students, and the community with unwavering support. The RAMbassador program has been transformational for our school culture and identity. Juggling responsibilities, Holli seamlessly transitions from guiding academic endeavors to coaching the girls' tennis team. She continues to graciously share her practices and strategies for fostering collaborative cultures that uplift student voice with educators across the division, spreading her impact and influence beyond Robinson Secondary School.

Eric W. Underhill

Principal, Sandburg Middle School

Eric Underhill

Eric’s transformative leadership and steadfast commitment have greatly enhanced the Sandburg community. Through meticulous research and the implementation of best practices, he has fostered continuous improvement and academic excellence. His visionary approach has resulted in a complete overhaul of school protocols, effectively managing staff and facilities logistics. Mr. Underhill's strategic initiatives have created a more favorable learning environment. He empowers teachers, fosters collaboration, and emphasizes empathy through innovative practices like Instructional Rounds and Shadow-a-Student. Eric’s dedication to excellence, equity, and inclusivity makes him an invaluable asset to FCPS.

 

Student Achievement and Success

  • Implements strategies to actively engage students in the learning process; creates opportunities of ownership in academic activities and discussions; promotes an inclusive and supportive learning environment where all students are valued and supported.

Sarah Clouse 

Family & Consumer Science Teacher, Lewis High School

Sarah Clouse

Sarah is not just an exemplary teacher at Lewis High School; she is a beacon of inclusivity, engagement, and dedication to her students' success. Over the past year, she has completely transformed her curriculum to better meet the needs of all students, including those who are multilingual. Her commitment to translating all materials from English to Spanish reflects her exceptional teaching philosophy and unwavering support for diverse learners, ensuring that every student can fully engage in the learning process.

Demilyn Diaz

Fourth Grade Teacher, Coates Elementary School

Demilyn Diaz

Demilyn ignites a love of learning by transforming her classroom into an engaging workshop where student passions shine. She creates an inclusive environment that allows every voice to thrive. By emphasizing Portrait of a Graduate (POG) skills and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, she significantly enhances student achievement. Empowering students to express themselves authentically, she nurtures essential, transferable skills that extend beyond the classroom. These skills enable students to navigate the world with confidence, becoming well-rounded individuals ready for lifelong success.

Charlotte Orlando

Kindergarten Teacher, Clearview Elementary School

Charlotte Orlando

As a dynamic and experienced kindergarten teacher at Clearview, a Title 1 school, Charlotte engages our youngest learners by connecting with each student, regardless of where they are on their academic journey. She sets high standards and provides the necessary support to help them achieve those goals. Charlotte genuinely believes that every child can succeed, and her students' significant gains in literacy skills are a testament to her dedication. She is fully committed to fostering her students' engagement and success in the classroom.

Crissie Ricketts

Mathematics Teacher, McLean High School

Crissie Ricketts

Over the past twenty-two years at McLean High School, Crissie has taught a variety of Advanced Placement math courses, including precalculus, calculus, statistics, and computer science principles. She is a gifted educator that is able to break down very difficult concepts.  As the math department chair and  Advanced Placement Academic Coordinator, Crissie has mentored many new math teachers over the years. She models empathy and respect for all and make everyone feel a sense of belonging not only in her classes, but in the school. 

Kirsten Lea Salonga

Biology Teacher, Justice High School

Kirsten Lea Salonga

Kirsten is dedicated to making education accessible for all students, fostering an environment that inspires others to do the same. She designs inventive and engaging experiments that encourage students to take ownership of their projects. Recently, she received a grant to acquire hydroponics machines, allowing students to choose the type of lettuce they wanted to grow. This initiative sparked excitement, as students eagerly came to class to check on the progress of their crops. Kirsten cultivates a wonderful and positive atmosphere for both students and staff at Justice High School.

Employees, Applicants, and Retirees

Submit questions or concerns, as well as upload forms and other documents through the FCPS StaffConnect portal. Human Resources representatives are also available for assistance Monday – Friday (8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) by calling 571-423-3000 or 1-800-831-4331.