The Outstanding Elementary New Teacher Award recognizes elementary school teachers 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.
Mary Ann CassellMary Ann has dedicated her life to improving the lives of students with autism, which led her to teaching. She deeply believes that all students are capable of great success. As a special education teacher, Mary Ann develops a positive, supportive, and nurturing rapport that creates a safe environment where students learn, grow developmentally, and have fun in the process. Mary Ann values compassion and service and strives to enrich the school community by sharing her experience and collaborating with colleagues to help her students and all others succeed. Her favorite part of teaching is celebrating the growth of her students which allows them to participate fully in their family, school, and community.
Ariana Gallahan-ZarateIn Ariana’s enhanced autism classroom, she works on building relationships with the students and families, which she shared has been the best part of her first year of teaching. After she built those relationships with each student, their personalities really began to shine. She works closely with parents and collaborates with other teachers to make sure the needs of each of her students are being met. Working with a variety of learning needs has helped her think outside of the box when it comes to presenting information to students. Her belief is that every student is capable of learning, and when they are struggling, she reflects on her approach and makes adjustments to help them achieve their academic and behavioral goals.
Ellie JamborskyEllie’s passion and enthusiasm make her an exemplary educator and advocate for young learners. Her love for teaching is evident in her interactions with students, whether it be in the classroom or at their sports games and recitals. Her patience and knack for fun are qualities that contribute to a well-constructed learning environment where children feel nurtured, heard, and loved. Ellie’s positive attitude and calm demeanor allow her to meet each student where they are emotionally, socially, and academically. Kindergarten is the foundation of students’ lifelong journey of learning. This fact is not lost on Ellie, as she is steadfast in ensuring success for her students academically and in life.
Kylee MarcielloAs a product of FCPS herself, Kylee was thrilled to begin her career as a teacher working for the county that shaped her into the innovative educator that she is today. In her first year of teaching in a multi-grade non-categorical classroom, she has learned that teaching isn’t just about following a curriculum, it’s about creating a nurturing and inspiring place for students to learn how to care for themselves and the greater community. As a result, her students have flourished in an inclusive and engaging environment that is empathetic, understanding, and patient. Actively collaborating with parents, staff, and the community is an integral part of her work and Kylee is grateful to be part of a wonderful team.
Gunjan Agrawal Sapkota“Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” – Anonymous. Gunjan possesses a unique and charismatic ability to create a nurturing and inclusive learning environment, tailored specifically to meet the diverse needs of students with autism. She believes in building relationships and demonstrates patience, empathy, and adaptability while creating a safe space where students feel valued, understood, and capable. Her innovative teaching methods promote social and emotional development. Gunjan has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to her profession, starting as an instructional assistant many years ago. She employs a variety of teaching strategies tailored to meet the diverse needs of her students, ensuring that each child receives a personalized and effective learning experience.
Angela Ah Ryoung SungAngela believes that every child possesses innate artistic potential waiting to be unlocked. Her warm and engaging approach creates a vibrant and inclusive classroom environment where every child feels empowered to explore their unique creativity. Angela demonstrates superior instructional skills by planning creative and engaging art lessons that cater to all styles of learners, fostering a fun and enriching learning environment that effectively teaches art appreciation and self-expression. She encourages students to experiment, take risks, and embrace their creative process. Angela guides artists rather than shaping them through their artistic journey. Nothing fulfills her more than motivating the next generation of creatives by sharing her passion with young learners in the classroom.
*Denotes pyramid winner
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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.
