The Outstanding Secondary New Teacher Award recognizes secondary 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.
Symone Keolani JenkinsSymone has a passion for igniting every classroom she enters. With boundless enthusiasm, she cultivates an environment where her students thrive, not only academically but also socially and personally. Symone’s teaching philosophy is rooted in diversity and inclusion, recognizing the richness that different perspectives bring to learning. She fosters a safe space where every voice is valued, empowering her students to embrace their unique identities. Through genuine care and innovative teaching methods, Symone sparks a love for literature and writing in her students, as she nurtures their growth and confidence. Her hope is that her impact extends beyond the classroom; instilling empathy and understanding to prepare her students to navigate through our world with grace and respect.
Olivia AdamsOlivia is a compassionate and dedicated seventh-grade English teacher. With two years of experience under her belt, she extends her influence beyond the classroom, doubling as the debate coach, and recently taking on the opportunity of coaching cross country and track and field. Olivia strives to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and respected. Infused with her background in communication studies, acting, and debate coaching, Olivia crafts engaging lessons that cater to diverse learning styles while fostering critical thinking and effective communication skills. Students echo praises of her positive energy and genuine investment in their growth. Olivia remains inspired by the boundless potential of her students and the camaraderie of her colleagues, reaffirming her love for teaching each day.
Michael J. HigginbothamMike transitioned to teaching after a career as a United States Army officer and several years in government contracting. His journey honed his worldview and left in him a deep appreciation of people and their cultures. Mike intends to carry his experiences into the classroom to build and mentor our future leaders. He believes that as much as content matters, the true purpose of teaching is to build relationships that create an environment where students are comfortable making and learning from mistakes. Mike believes teachers are an entrusted part of the family team whose purpose is to support students on their path to becoming kind, respectable, and confident adults, invested in their community and prepared to face tomorrow’s challenges.
Nicole F. MatthewsNicole brought two truths with her to Katherine Johnson Middle School - “You can’t cook if you don’t like people” and “without communication, you have nothing.” She didn’t worry about liking people - that is innate to her. It was the communication piece she wondered about. How do you get students to really communicate? This is what is central to every lab and activity she crafts; creating opportunities to get students excited so that they are more likely to connect and communicate. Asking young adults to communicate can put them outside their comfort zone, but Nicole shows that cooking is one of many modes of communication and what kids create is a catalyst for sharing thoughts and opinions.
Katherine Elizabeth SafianAs a second-year teacher, Katherine strives to build relationships with students and make math fun. Katherine starts her classes with number sense routines like “Which one doesn’t belong?” to get students excited for the lesson. Katherine also connects learning to student interests. For example, during the consumer applications unit, students worked collaboratively to make their own problems about tax, tip, or discount. Posters about Starbucks and Nike covered the classroom and hallway walls. Additionally, Katherine strives to meet all students’ needs through math workshop stations. Students spend the class learning in small groups, practicing independently, and problem-solving with peers. Katherine also leads the MathLab with her colleague to help support all mathematics students at Longfellow.
Katie ShawKatie teaches Pathways to Accessing Community Environments (PACE), which serves students ages 18-22. She prioritizes students’ independence in life and job skills to ensure a seamless transition from high school to adulthood. Committed to equity and inclusion, she strives to enhance independence and autonomy for all students. Under her leadership, growth is fostered through interactive lessons and student-led jobs. Her achievements include launching a ‘PACE Pours’ coffee shop and 'The Cleaning Crew,' with the focus on developing students' communication, financial literacy, and occupational skills. In her first year of teaching, Katie is actively engaged in Atom Nation by volunteering in various school activities including serving as a Special Olympics coach. Katie continues to promote inclusion, equity, and community partnerships within her teachings.
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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.
