The Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee Award recognizes school-based operational employees who have made unique and exceptional contributions to FCPS. Recipients demonstrate commitment and foster cooperative relationships with colleagues and the community. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate an operational employee who is a Schedule A, Schedule H, or Classroom Instructional Support Scale Employee and has held their position for at least one full year for this award.
Thelma R. Pemberton-AbbottThelma was told on her first day in FCPS 25 years ago that her job was to "fill in the blanks." Each morning she stands at the door, gives each student a multiplication fact, and checks in with them as to how they are doing. At dismissal, she stands at the door, high-fives each student and tells them "be awesome" and now the students are telling her “be awesome” right back! She is known for being a pillar of support at Mount Vernon Woods, constantly asking other staff members how she can help lighten their load. She continues to fill in the blanks daily, and with a smile!
Laura Cespedes MoraSince her first day at the Adult High School, Laura has made immediate connections with all staff and students. Her natural leadership and personality made Laura the main point of contact for everybody at the school. She is committed to building a caring and supportive culture and believes that treating and recognizing people individually will promote great results. She always finds a way to make a difference in everything, putting her heart in all she does and as she always says, “adding her own spice.” Students and staff members recognize Laura as a problem-solver, always happy to help others, constantly supporting ideas, and being flexible. Laura shared that working with and for families is her biggest passion.
Miki Okada FryerMiki lives by the maxim "It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop." While Miki was working at a children's hospital as a physical therapist supporting children who had both physical and intellectual disabilities, she realized how meaningful and fulfilling working with children could be. Supporting children in the enhanced autism class at Kings Park Elementary School and helping them develop is the meaningful and rewarding experience she hoped she’d have. The students demonstrate to Miki their determination and love each day, which inspires her and motivates her to do her best for them. This is constantly reinforcing her resolve to live by that maxim.
Ji-Eun KastnerJi-Eun is Oakton Elementary School’s very own superhero. She transfers her power to each student as they enter school each day making them brave and willing to take on their educational challenges. One of her powers includes the ability to build strong connections between the student’s home and the school, helping new families adjust as they enter the Oakton Elementary School family. She leaps over cultural differences to build a supportive and welcoming environment and ensures that every family feels valued and empowered to actively participate in their child's educational journey. Ji-Eun works hard every day to ensure a successful future for the school, the community, and the students.
Lan OngLan is the point of contact for any situation at Chesterbrook, and she is so instinctual in her job that many things get done before they become an issue. When staff call on her to resolve a problem, she is already in the process of completing the job or putting in a work order. She builds positive relationships with students by getting to know them during lunch and teaching younger students where to put trash, recycling, and compost. Lan goes the extra mile often, such as applying her prior professional experience as a tailor to mend the school’s mascot costume and hem reusable towels. Her unwavering dedication to students and staff makes Chesterbrook a safe and welcoming place to learn.
Magaly Perez-RivesAs the founder of the Lynbrook Family Learning Center, Maggie fosters programs that encourage positive parent engagement and is the glue that binds all groups together. She plays a pivotal role in forming genuine and meaningful connections with families, students, staff, and community organizations. Serving as a human Rolodex about the school, families and teachers approach Maggie for anything from exploring resources to weekend snack bags. As the school’s interpreter, she is the bridge between parents and teachers. More than just translating language, her loving and down-to-earth manner puts any parent at ease. Through her service, advocacy and compassion, Maggie engages and empowers parents to be involved partners in their children's education.
Amy YohamAt Brookfield, the staff takes great pride in working to bring out the best in their students. Amy strongly believes that one of the most effective ways to foster strong student connections is by making families feel like they are a part of the school community. Amy makes an extra effort to establish a positive tone when working with families. Her goal is to always hear and understand what they are saying, and to make sure that their needs are met and issues are resolved. Amy says one of the best parts of her day is walking the younger students to class. Their stories are precious and honest and Amy considers those conversations to be valuable to them both.
*Denotes pyramid winner
