The 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 award

2024 Outstanding Principal 

Jamie Gadley

Dranesville Elementary School, Region 1

Jamie is an educator and leader fueled by a passion for creating a vibrant learning community where connection, care, and joy are evident. She believes that every student and staff member deserves the opportunity to flourish in a safe and supportive learning environment. Her leadership has played a pivotal role in aligning the school's vision and goals with the broader objectives of the school district, resulting in the Virginia Department of Education 2023 Continuous Improvement Exemplar Award and the reduction of chronic absenteeism. Her dedication extends beyond the school walls, fostering partnerships within the community to elevate connection, access, relationships, excellence, and stakeholder engagement. DranesvilleCARES, indeed, and Jamie is a champion for the mission and the members of the Dranesville community. 2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

Shawn DeRose

Annandale High School, Region 6

“You can judge the quality of a school by how well it meets the needs of its most vulnerable students.” This quote by Pedro Noguera, drives Shawn’s work as leader of Annandale High School. As principal, he has built strong systems to support all students and ensure their academic, wellness, and behavior needs are met. However, Shawn would be the first to tell you that this work is not done alone. He takes time to get to know staff, students, and families by name, and prioritizes collaborating to live the vision that Annandale High School is a community that finds strength in diversity, fosters belonging, and inspires lifelong learning.

2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

Rebecca Forgy

Parklawn Elementary School, Region 2

“We are Family. We are Learners. We are Parklawn." Rebecca consistently demonstrates an unwavering commitment to student and staff success and has fostered a community built on strong communication and meaningful relationships. This belief is evident in the everyday practices at Parklawn, whether it be for academic instruction, social-emotional well-being, or with family/school/community partnerships. She believes in building capacity in the staff; serving with an approach that cultivates leadership and professional learning. Rebecca’s dedication to putting students first is evident in every decision and initiative she undertakes. As one staff member shared, “Her tireless dedication to students, commitment to professional development, and ability to foster a positive work environment make her an invaluable asset to FCPS.

2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

Jeff Litz

Marshall High School, Region 5

In his ten years as principal, Jeff has brought transformative leadership to Marshall while making it Virginia's top International Baccalaureate (IB) school, with over 90% of seniors taking at least one IB course. Jeff's commitment to equity is evident in his advocacy for consistent instructional and grading practices. His innovative thinking and collaborative leadership make Marshall a leader in the Professional Learning Communities model. He fosters a culture of trust as he prioritizes relationships within the community, and his legacy is one of improving academic and student wellness outcomes. A student stated, "Mr. Litz works tirelessly to make Marshall a safe and welcoming place where students are encouraged to explore new pursuits and be their authentic selves, which is rare in high schools these days."

2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

LaRonda Peterson

Riverside Elementary School, Region 3

LaRonda is an enthusiastic educator with a dedication that spans over 25 years and is deeply committed to preparing students for success. Central to her leadership style is the cultivation of relationships and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. A staff member notes, "LaRonda’s presence throughout the building is known, and students get excited to see her everywhere, every day.” She has fostered an environment centered on learning and results, empowering students, staff, and stakeholders to realize and achieve their utmost potential. She skillfully leads a highly diverse school with a personal touch, working alongside staff to make magic happen for students. LaRonda’s ultimate desire is for students to walk away with memories from their elementary school experience that last a lifetime.

2024 Outstanding Principal Finalist

Tracey Phillips

Robinson Secondary School, Region 5

As an alumna of Robinson herself, Tracey embodies unparalleled school pride and fosters a deep connection to the school’s climate. Her commitment to attending school events and consistent acknowledgment of student achievements underscores her genuine dedication to the collective success of the school. Tracey sets a standard for educational leadership that is both proactive and solution-oriented. Her transparent and composed demeanor fosters trust among parents, students, and staff, facilitating an environment conducive to collaborative problem-solving and innovation. Amidst the challenges faced by educators, she injects joy and appreciation into the school environment, revitalizing staff morale with heartfelt expressions of gratitude and fostering an atmosphere of positivity and support throughout the academic year.

2024 Outstanding New Principal - School Recipients

• Annandale High School
  • Shawn DeRose
• Bush Hill Elementary School
  • Mary Duffy
• Cameron Elementary School
  • Eric Johnson
• Centre Ridge Elementary School
  • Jennifer Hertzberg
• Centreville Elementary School
  • Joshua Douds
• Chantilly High School
  • Amy Goodloe
• Chesterbrook Elementary School
  • Stacy Kirkpatrick
• Colin Powell Elementary School
  • Jamie Luerssen
• Daniels Run Elementary School
  • Christopher Smith
• Dranesville Elementary School
  • Jamie Gadley
• Fairfax High School
  • Georgina Aye
• Falls Church High School
  • Ben Nowak
• Glasgow Middle School
  • Victor Powell
• Greenbriar West Elementary School
  • Andrew Blount
• Haycock Elementary School
  • Liz Beaty
• Hayfield Secondary School
  • Darin Thompson
• Hutchison Elementary School
  • Sarah Aiello
• Justice High School
  • Tiffany Narcisse
• Kent Gardens Elementary School
  • Holly McGuigan
• Kings Park Elementary School
  • Dotty Lin
• Lake Anne Elementary School
  • Jill Stewart
• Langston Hughes Middle School
  • Herman Mizell
• Laurel Hill Elementary School
  • Janice Dalton
• Longfellow Middle School
  • Jim Patrick
• Lorton Station Elementary School
  • Francis Legagneur
• Louise Archer Elementary School
  • Michelle Makrigiorgos
• Marshall High School
  • Jeffrey Litz
• Parklawn Elementary School
  • Rebecca Forgy
• Poplar Tree Elementary School
  • Susan Andujar
• Ravensworth Elementary School
  • Erika Aspuria
• Riverside Elementary School
  • LaRonda Peterson
• Robinson Secondary School
  • Tracey Phillips
• Sangster Elementary School
  • Allison Jankovich
• Shrevewood Elementary School
  • Joshua DeSmyter
• Waples Mill Elementary School
  • Meishe Thirus
• Westgate Elementary School
  • Hallie Demetriades