The Outstanding School-Based Leader Award recognizes school-based leaders who demonstrate outstanding leadership and strengthen and improve the learning environment through their work. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate a Schedule C employee who has held the position for at least one full year for this award.
Danielle HornbeckerDanielle exemplifies the belief that if it benefits students, she will find a way to make it happen. She empowers educators to seek solutions and remove barriers for the benefit of the students. She proactively creates structures and supports that provide access and opportunity for all students resulting in an increase in enrollment in advanced coursework. Her commitment to involving stakeholders, analyzing data, and providing professional development builds collective efficacy among all staff members. By creating meaningful relationships, she ensures her teams value diverse perspectives and create safe spaces for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. Danielle is an instructional leader who consistently demonstrates integrity, professionalism, and collaboration in her work with students, staff, and the greater school community to champion student success.
Rachel ForteRachel believes when empowerment, collective efficacy, belonging, and joy coalesce, all students thrive. Rachel’s passion for instruction, equity, and a positive school climate are prominently evident. She led the implementation of a robust Multi-tiered System of Support program, established mindfulness labs, and maintained an unyielding partnership with George Mason University to empower future educators. Moreover, Rachel believes leadership is about consistency. It is not about one initiative or event – it is about showing up each day for every stakeholder and committing to capitalizing on every interaction. This belief system is exemplified through the words of a colleague: “Even on the hard days, I know I'll laugh, work hard, and strive to do better. It's inevitable with Rachel by your side.”
Christy Hanlon"True leadership isn't about dictating a path; it's about empowering and supporting others to find their own way." Christy isn't one to settle for the status quo. Student advocacy isn't just a part of her job description; it’s the fuel that ignites her passion and determination. An out-of-the-box thinker, Christy isn't afraid to challenge conventional methods and develop innovative solutions to ensure every student has the resources they need to thrive. Christy recognizes the importance of fostering connections. She intentionally builds rapport with staff, students, and families, creating a strong foundation for a positive school environment. One Justice student stated, “Ms. Hanlon spares no effort in providing valuable support, offering guidance, and endless encouragement so that students achieve success.”
Andrew OrensteinWhat makes Andrew’s leadership style so unique is that he is truly a collaborative partner with the staff and students in his school. From implementing new math programs to attending field trips, the staff, students, and families trust Andrew and share their struggles and successes with him. He is an advocate for every student who steps through the door and has an incredible passion for school culture and community. His booming voice, approachable demeanor, visibility, and growth mindset encourage his Twain Middle School community to feel included and heard. His students seek his guidance, support, humor, and more importantly their time with him in the cafeteria during his lunch duties.
Chris PowellChris believes that every student can achieve academic and personal success. His core beliefs define his leadership philosophy rooted in care for one another, providing students relevant learning opportunities, and having an unwavering commitment to teamwork and excellence. Under Chris’ guidance at Carson, he aligned the grading and reporting policy with equity-centered practices, introduced staff recognition programs that cultivated a community of acknowledgment, and designed school-wide Multi-tiered Systems of Support structures that focus on student interventions and success. Chris leads by example and is passionate about continuous improvement for the benefit of students, staff, and the greater school community. Above all, he works tirelessly to forge positive relationships to create a welcoming climate at Carson.
LaDonna TateLaDonna is an empathetic and devoted educational leader dedicated to student achievement and social-emotional well-being. She believes that students are at the center of all educational efforts, creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. LaDonna's leadership style is based on trust, collaboration, and accountability. She prioritizes the professional growth of all staff and works to create a safe space to build their efficacy. She approaches every situation with humility and a willingness to learn from others, working to maintain positive relationships with staff, students, and families. LaDonna's unwavering commitment to those she serves makes her an exceptional leader and an inspiration to others.
Greg ThomasGreg believes that collaboration is a leader’s superpower. As an assistant administrator at Fairfax County Adult High School, Greg faced low graduation rates, complex class schedules, and a student body with over 85% multilingual learners. The main obstacles to student success were the Virginia Department of Education end-of-course tests; failing them prevented students from earning necessary credits. Greg collaborated with the instructional team, implementing support structures for test preparation and garnering stakeholder support. As a result, student pass rates soared to record highs in every subject area. Greg champions teamwork, believing that collective success breeds repeat achievements. Collaboration is key, and Greg’s leadership exemplifies its transformative power.
*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.
