FCPS CARES - July/August 2024

By Department of Human Resources
FCPS Cares
July 01, 2024

To recognize an employee with an FCPS Cares, please visit our submission page.

To view past submissions, please visit our previous submissions page.

FCPS CARES of the Month Recipients

Central Office

Matt Bowler, Puthea Chhean, Buck Griffith & Scott Withee, Herndon Support Center

herndon support center fcps cares summer 2024

"Scott Withee and his team are lifesavers! When the HVAC system broke on a Friday at one of our ESY sites, which serves students with a range of disabilities and medical needs, Scott and his team went above and beyond to have it fixed over the weekend so that our students with disabilities wouldn't lose a day of support. He had to call distribution centers all over the DMV and was able to get someone to drive to Columbia, MD, at 3 p.m. on a Friday to get the part. Then, he and some other amazing people got together to install it on a Saturday so students could return on Monday. It would have been so easy to say that it wouldn't be able to be fixed until Tuesday, but Scott did the impossible and made it happen. Thank you, Scott and your team, for supporting our students with disabilities. You are truly a miracle worker, and we appreciate you more than you know!"

-Brittany Vigil, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Region 1

Joanne Lyons, Herndon ES - View the Celebration!

"Mrs. Lyons works as an IA in the library at Herndon ES. She truly exemplifies what it means to CARE about her students! Each day, she greets all with loving smiles and hugs. Her face lights up at the sight of our Herndon Bees. When a student needs a little extra TLC - she's there to comfort and encourage with love. Mrs. Lyons has also been known to supply students with what they need to start the year off right, with shiny new backpacks and shoes included. She spends many weekends cheering students on at soccer games when parents can't make it due to work obligations. Her selfless and supportive nature is so wonderful, and I, among many others, feel she deserves recognition! Herndon ES is so lucky to have her. We love you, Mrs. Lyons!"

-Anonymous

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Region 2

Lyzbeth Monard & Mary Kathryn Thompson, Bailey's Upper ES

"I want to take a moment to express my deep admiration and gratitude for two staff members from Bailey's Upper ES, Lyzbeth Monard and Mary Kathryn Thompson, who consistently nurture and support our school community. This weekend, however, they truly went above and beyond for a fellow staff member. We recently welcomed a Participate Learning Teacher who arrived from her home country just a few weeks ago. Our Participate Learning Teachers are incredibly brave to leave their homes, families, and cultures to learn and grow with us. However, asking for help can still be daunting. When this teacher reached out to me with specific needs, I contacted Lyzbeth and Mary Kathryn. This was on a Friday night. By Saturday, Lyzbeth had already used her extensive network to find furniture and other essentials, and she asked for the teacher's phone number to arrange for same-day delivery. With the help of Mary Kathryn, their friends, and their families, they rented a U-Haul and delivered a full apartment's worth of furniture within 24 hours. They brought over an impressive collection of items, including a bed (with frame), nightstand, TV, couch, chairs, desk, kitchen table with chairs, coffee table, pots, pans, and various kitchen utensils. When I had the chance to Facetime with the teacher on Sunday, she showed me her new furnishings and expressed her heartfelt gratitude for being able to work at a proper table. We were both moved (a little teary-eyed) by the kindness of these two incredible individuals. On a moment's notice, they selflessly gave up their Saturday to ensure someone thousands of miles from home felt welcomed and cared for. People like Lyzbeth and Mary Kathryn are truly the heartbeat and essence of FCPS. We are fortunate to have them at our school. While they would never seek recognition, they absolutely deserve acknowledgment for their selfless generosity. Thank you, Lyzbeth, and Mary Kathryn."

-Elizabeth Crowley, Bailey's Upper ES

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Region 3

Iris Stubblefield, Bryant HS - View the Celebration!

"Iris Stubblefield is an incredible educator who joined Bryant this summer to support our 5th quarter credit recovery program. Iris has gone above and beyond to connect with our students, motivate them, and help them achieve their goals. She has been instrumental in helping students complete their courses, improve their English skills, and prepare for necessary SOL testing. Iris works closely with each student, providing personalized support and guidance. Ms. Stubblefield has been an exceptional addition to our team. She has gone out of her way to connect with both students and staff, making their jobs easier by calling, texting, and even waking up students to ensure they attend school. Despite recently having knee surgery, Iris remained dedicated, coming in to tutor students and seeking out additional resources to help them prepare for state tests. She constantly applauded their efforts, becoming their loudest cheerleader and always encouraging them. There is no area where Iris doesn't shine. She is an incredibly hard worker, and with Iris on the team, I am confident the job will get done. I cannot sing her praises loud enough! Thank you, Iris, for your unwavering dedication and for going the extra mile for Bryant students and teachers."

-Florence Harrison, Bryant HS

Region 4

Mary DeKanter, Tam Tran, Basilio Carranza, Kk Yeboah, Armando Ramos, Kwabena Asare, Van Trieu, Maria Ortega, Doris Ntriwaa, Dinh Tuong Nguyen, Agnes Mensah, Maria Melara Melara, Edder Lopez Pabon, Rosalina Cruz, Esther Boafoh, Lucy Agyekum, Evelyn Lizama, South County HS

"To support the Equitable Access to Literacy Plan, the division hosted Summer Literacy Institutes across the county. South County High School was used for seven weeks. The custodial staff was extremely responsive and supported our needs during this time. The custodial staff would drop what they were doing to help us open a room, turn on the AC, fill paper towels and toilet paper, set up tables, and help us find different rooms for participants when there was a leak in the ceiling. The custodial staff cleaned up extra trash from our institutes and rearranged their classroom cleaning schedule so we could access the building this summer for training. Our requests (and there were a lot!) were fulfilled with a smile. On top of everything else the custodial staff needed to do this summer, they made us feel like we were a priority and helped to ensure that the institutes went smoothly. Without the custodial staff's attention and willingness to help, we're not sure that the institutes would have been as successful as they were at South County High School."

-Jean Wyche, Willow Oaks

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Region 5 (Pictured)

Sandra Gonzales, Rosa Lozano, Bang Nghieu & Deysi Ayala Rosa ,Oak Hill ES - View the Celebration!

"Oak Hill Elementary School has the BEST custodial team! Rosa, Sandra, Deysi, and Bang are a tremendous asset to the Oak Hill community. They are always willing to help with whatever is needed and do so with a smile! In the evening on August 15th, there was a massive leak in the building, and several areas were flooded. Rosa, Sandra, Deysi, and Bang worked tirelessly into the night to ensure that the building would be ready for staff on Friday morning and continued to devote additional time, energy, and effort so that the entire building was ready for students to start school on Monday. The school could not function without them; we are fortunate to have them!"

-Anonymous

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Region 6

Jewad Abdulhadi & Bryan Harris, Annandale HS - View the Celebration!

"The MTSS Team would like to extend the deepest gratitude to the Assistant Director of Student Activities (Bryan Harris), office staff (especially Jewad Abdulhadi), custodians, and tech team at Annandale HS. The AHS team supported us through the planning and implementation of the MTSS Summit for all FCPS schools. Bryan was incredibly proactive and attentive when setting up the space before, on the morning of, and during the Summit. Jewad's friendly and responsive solutions ensured that the Summit ran smoothly. Bryan and Jewad quickly jumped into action to help direct traffic when the nearby roads were under construction. We appreciate AHS's proactive solutions, quick responses, generous resources, and flexibility while sharing their space with us."

-Katie Baxter-Gagen, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Other FCPS CARES Submissions

Kelsey McGlynn, West Potomac HS

"I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Kelsey McGlynn, a dedicated Team teacher at West Potomac High School, for the FCPS Cares Award. Kelsey's commitment to equity and inclusion has made a significant impact on our school community, particularly in her role as a Team teacher in a Multi-Language Learner classroom. Kelsey has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to ensuring that all students feel valued and supported in their educational journey. Her approach to teaching is rooted in a deep understanding of each student's unique needs and challenges, and she consistently goes above and beyond to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. Whether it's through differentiated instruction, culturally responsive teaching, or simply taking the time to listen to and advocate for her students, Kelsey ensures that equity is at the heart of her work. Her collaboration with her fellow Team teacher has also been exemplary. Kelsey fosters a strong sense of teamwork and shared responsibility, thus ensuring the best possible support for our students. This collaborative spirit has been instrumental in our school's success, particularly in our recent achievement of being removed from Project Momentum for English—a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, with Kelsey playing a key role for our multi-lingual students. It has been a pleasure working alongside Kelsey, and I am continually inspired by her passion, dedication, and commitment to our students. Her contributions to our school are truly deserving of recognition through the FCPS Cares Award. Thank you for considering this nomination."

-Iris Stubblefield, Bryant HS

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Ty Augustin, Bryan Song, Michelle Wesley, Hercules Loyde, Washington Wilkerson, Ryan Paisley, Courie Pulley, Amy Skidmore, Madison Bradley, Sarina Moses, Melinda Wilkerson, Vania Espichan, Oshin Wilson & Claire Majors, Sandburg MS

"I would like to nominate both the Health and PE team and the Counseling team for the FCPS CARES Award in recognition of their exceptional dedication and hard work during the recent laptop distribution at our school. Their combined efforts were instrumental in ensuring that this important task was carried out smoothly and efficiently, demonstrating a level of teamwork and commitment that truly deserves recognition. From the beginning, the HPE displayed remarkable organizational skills and a proactive approach, which were essential in managing a complex process that involved many moving parts. The Health and PE team worked collaboratively to address challenges, keep everything on track, and ensure that every student received the technology they needed. Their dedication extended beyond just passing out laptops; from password changes to logging in for the first time, and their willingness to go above and beyond was evident throughout the entire process. The Counseling team also played a vital role during the days of distribution in supporting students and ensuring that their needs were met during this time! It was truly an all hands on deck approach. The combined efforts of the Health and PE team and the Counseling team not only made a significant impact on the laptop distribution process but also highlighted the power of collaboration and the positive outcomes that result from working together towards a common goal. Their hard work, positive attitude, and dedication to excellence is what Sandburg is all about! Panthers in Pursuit of Excellence!"

-Brianna Lucas, Sandburg MS

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Briana Trone, Wakefield Forest ES

"Every student matters and she works to provide the best care in AND outside the classroom for her students AND families. She is such a role model for the entire school."

-Anonymous

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Jennifer Crump Strawderman, Mountain View HS

"During the first week of school I reached out to Ms. Crump Strawderman with a question about my son and from the moment she picked up the phone she exuded warmth and a friendly approach. She recognized my work phone number and answered by saying, "Hello, and said my name!" which made a huge smile spread across my face because I knew she knew me, my son, and welcomed the unexpected phone call. This has consistently been how I have felt in all interactions with Ms. Crump Strawderman. Thank you to her for extending such a kind and positive vibe. It absolutely does not go unnoticed."

-a Mountain View HS parent

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Joe Suarez, Wilton Woods Center

"Joe went above and beyond for us when he came to repair our copier. He spent extra time making sure all of our needs were met and even helped with some other issues we were having."

-Mat Campet, Deer Park ES

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Bryn Varhol, Churchill Road ES

"My very young kindergartener started school this year. I was apprehensive and nervous about his transition due to his quiet and reserved nature. The PE teacher went above and beyond to ease him into his classroom and make him feel welcomed. He took small steps to scaffold his participation during their PE activities and continues to support his growth and encourage his involvement during class."

-a Churchill Road ES parent

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Amy Boyle & Jill Stratton, Willow Oaks Admin Center

"Amy and Jill support the PT OT Department by managing the equipment used within our school system. This equipment helps children sit, stand and walk and to maximize their participation in their school day. The first 2 weeks are especially busy as our children need updated equipment, or equipment breaks, or they have to locate it as it has moved between schools. I have sent them at least 8 requests in the last 2 weeks that fall into this category. They work hard to get my students what they need quickly. Without them, my job would be so much less efficient and harder. I am so thankful for all of their efforts to support the students that I work with in my schools."

-Connie Johnson, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Stefanie Ramos, Morgan Barnard, & Krissy Schnebel, Woodson HS

"During the week of August 12 the Woodson cheer and dance teams hosted a kid camp for our local elementary and middle school students. This is a program my child loves attending year after year. During camp one day there was activity in the surrounding area that caused the school to go into lockdown. As a parent, your biggest concern is your child’s safety. During this lockdown the coaches and high school cheerleaders and dancers acted quickly and kept the kid campers safe and calm. While picking up my daughter that day I expected her to feel scared and tell me all about the lockdown. The first thing she said to me was how much fun she had and what she learned that day. She didn’t seem worried about the lockdown. The coaches, cheerleaders, and dancers deserve to be recognized for their actions during this lockdown event. They kept the children safe and calm. Thank you for taking care of our children and keeping them calm!"

-a Woodson HS parent

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Chrissy McLaughlin, Navy ES

"Chrissy McLaughlin, the SBTS at Navy Elementary School, is the hardest working staff member in our building. Starting and ending everyday with a smile, Chrissy works tirelessly to support teachers, staff, and administration with technology needs. She has endless patience when it comes to having to repeat instructions on how to use Performance Matters, Schoology, and other programs. Chrissy creates beautiful and creative social media posts to show the community the wonderful things that teachers are doing with their classes at Navy. In addition to her regular job tasks, Chrissy teaches a POG class to primary students at Navy. Chrissy always makes herself available to help and she is an invaluable member of our school. Thank you to Chrissy for all you do for us!"

-Maryn Simon, Navy ES

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Laura Cespedes Mora, Nikki Fulton & Beth Hayes, Herndon Learning Center

"This summer, the IAS offices moved from Willow Oaks to Herndon Learning Center, and our office staff were the rocks that made the move happen. Laura, Nikki & Beth organized, packed, unpacked, and set up many offices for the admin team. Laura started with IAS right in the middle of the move and jumped right in to help, not knowing many people. Nikki & Beth are so welcoming and ensure that we have a great team to support our teachers!"

-Michael Salaita, Herndon Learning Center

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Karyssa Larson & Megan Counts, Laurel Ridge ES

"I want to give an enormous shoutout to my daughter's kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Larson, and her principal, Mrs. Counts. The last of four daughters is entering kindergarten this year and is experiencing some difficulty (emotion) about going to school. This is our only daughter to go through this and also the last one we would've guessed, so it's been tumultuous to say the least. Our daughter has ranged from hysterical fits to leg-locked strangle holds to stay with my wife and I during drop off and Kiss and Ride. Mrs. Counts has stepped in and expertly helped get our daughter to class in a firm but loving way; exactly what my daughter needs. Once she has been arriving at class, Mrs. Larson has been using a variety of strategies to help our daughter calm down and have a productive day. We have gotten updates from both Mrs. Counts and Mrs. Larson during the day which has put my wife and I at ease, as well as given us continued confidence that Laurel Ridge ES is an amazing place. We could not imagine a more supportive and productive environment for our kindergartner (as well as our 2nd grader), and find ourselves fortunate again to be enrolled in FCPS with such high quality staff."

-a Laurel Ridge ES parent

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Kevin Navia, Stonecroft Transportation

"I want to express my sincere gratitude for the incredible support and positivity you bring to our team. Your willingness to go above and beyond whether training new drivers and supervisors on our EV buses, assisting with parking lot restructuring, or tackling the mirror demo construction has made a tremendous impact. Your ability to jump in at a moment’s notice, learn quickly, and deliver excellent results is truly commendable. Even when faced with tasks you haven’t done before, you approach them with enthusiasm and a can-do spirit, inspiring everyone around you. Beyond your technical skills, it’s your positive attitude, kindness, and ability to uplift those around you that truly make you stand out. You’ve contributed to an environment at Stonecroft where everyone feels supported and valued, and for that, we are incredibly grateful. Thank you, Kevin, for all that you do. Stonecroft is a better place because of you, and we’re lucky to have you on our team."

-Jeremy Doxer, Stonecroft Transportation

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Lourdes Suarez, Fort Hunt ES

"I will forever be grateful for the kindness, generosity and amazing positivity shown to me by Lourdes Suarez from Day 1. We met to discuss the new teacher orientation on a cloudy morning in July, and everything was immediately sunny because of her energy. Thank you Lourdes for being such a support for our newest staff members here at Fort Hunt. You make people feel seen and supported.

-Tracy Hutchison, Fort Hunt ES

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John Tayamen, Stonecroft Transportation

"I would like to recognize Mr. Tayamen, a bus driver supervisor, for his exceptional dedication and thoughtfulness during an unexpected situation last Thursday. When Rt 29 was shut down due to a gas leak during our dismissal time, one of our buses returned to Eagle View Elementary School with a bus full of students. As we worked to contact parents to pick up their children, Mr. Tayamen recognized that some families could not make it to the school at 5 PM. Demonstrating his commitment to our students and their safety, Mr. Tayamen came to Eagle View at 6 PM to check on the status of student pick-ups. He even offered to drive the remaining students home by detouring around the blocked road, ensuring their safe arrival. Although our last four students were picked up by their caregivers by 6:15 PM, Mr. Tayamen’s willingness to go above and beyond in this challenging situation showed how much he cares for our students and families. His thoughtful and proactive approach is truly commendable and greatly appreciated. Thank you, Mr. Tayamen, for your unwavering dedication to our school community!"

-KJ An, Eagle View ES

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Deena Moore, Lees Corner ES

"As an adult, I remember the couple of teachers that will always have a special place in my heart because of how much they did for me. Ms. Moore at Lees Corner will be that teacher for my daughter. To find a teacher, in the current situation of teacher shortages and other challenges, that loves your child as much as you do is a priceless gift. Ms. Moore first had our daughter in third grade, and at that time she had come off a year where her teacher left and she had subs for months, so things weren't great. My husband and I knew in our hearts that she also had some learning issues, but hadn't been able to get her the support she needed (no one's fault - COVID and teachers leaving were out of everyone's control). Ms. Moore immediately recognized that our daughter had learning difficulties and went way above and beyond with extra help and small groups to make sure she was learning. Our daughter grew in leaps and bounds last year, and we credit Ms. Moore and her ability to connect with our daughter, and find creative ways for her to learn. We did have her tested and learning issues were found, but with the help and love from Ms. Moore our child thrived - and even passed the SOLS! When we found out that Ms. Moore was moving to fourth grade this year and our daughter would have her again, I can't explain what that did for our whole family. Our daughter couldn't stop smiling and I shed a tear or two of joy. I have no doubt our daughter will thrive again this year, and because Ms. Moore is also amazing with us parents, we will continue the wonderful communication to ensure we are supporting her at home. Ms. Moore is the epitome of what a teacher can be, and to be blessed enough to have her twice is so much more than we could ask for."

-a Lees Corner ES parent

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Toan, Vu, Claudia Asifuina, Adela Acevedo & Yasmin Ramirez, Sideburn Support Center

"A huge thank you to our amazing Custodians, and Supervisors for their incredible work and support in getting our school TV ready and our campus looking beautiful for the first day of school! Their immediate response and unwavering support were invaluable. We’re so grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they've made on our community."

-Francoise Casablanca, Crestwood ES

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Andrew Reinoso & Juan Meza, Woodson Complex

"A huge thank you to our amazing Grounds Team for their incredible work in getting our school TV ready and our campus looking beautiful for the first day of school! Mr. Andrew Reinoso and Mr. Juan Meza you are amazing! Their immediate response and unwavering support were invaluable. We’re so grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they've made on our community. Also a very special shout out to everyone who came together to support our school: Grounds crew: Nokia Semper, Jose Martinez, Kevin Perry, Eschelle Brown, Stephen Dunn, Andrew Marful, Luu Vuu, George Appiah, Carlos Rios. You rock!!! GRACIAS!"

-Francoise Casablanca, Crestwood ES

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Karen Molloy, Chantilly HS

"A recent graduate of Chantilly High School faced transportation challenges in reaching their college. Karen generously offered her time and vehicle to ensure the student could get to her college. She provided invaluable assistance by transporting the student to their campus, aiding in the move-in process, and offering guidance for social and academic success."

-Jennie Lee, Chantilly HS

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Michael Cifci, Gary Bailey, Lisa Davis & Chuck Stebbins, Stonecroft Transportation

"Our family is so thankful for Lisa, Michael, Gary and Chuck. Yesterday was our daughter’s first day riding the school bus. Lisa and Gary both called prior to let us know what to expect and to make us feel comfortable with the bus process. Both Lisa and Gary took a moment to answer quick questions that we had in the moment before pulling away. When Lisa pulled up at the bus stop, she was cheerful and had so much excitement to greet our daughter and welcomed her to the bus. Mr. Mike was friendly and helped our daughter with getting on the bus, getting her settled, and buckling her in. They both were so excited and were waving goodbye as they drove away, making the experience fun and didn’t give our daughter a chance to think about leaving us. Our daughter was excited to tell us that “Mr. Mike chatted with me on the bus ride to school”. In the afternoon Gary and Chuck were waving as they came to the stop and made the afternoon drop off an exciting experience as well. They both reminded our daughter to take her time on the stairs and to have a wonderful afternoon. We are so lucky to have amazing staff working in our transportation department. Thank you for taking such good care of our daughter as she goes to and from school."

-an Eagle View ES parent

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Carrie Kausch, Laura Potocki & Johan Durish, Falls Church HS

"When Falls Church High School librarians Ms. Kausch and Ms. Potocki needed a new way to account for the hundreds of students who access the library each day, they turned to the library's tech-savvy clerical assistant, Mr. Johan Durish. A graduate of FCPS, Mr. Durish collaborated with the librarians to come up with a new system that is easy to use, accurate, and that meets FCPS IT safety and security standards. Ms. Kausch and Ms. Potocki shared the success of this program with librarian colleagues from other schools, and Mr. Durish has now collaborated with 8 other FCPS middle and high schools to support the implementation of this system. Kudos to this team for collaborating, implementing, and sharing this system that contributes to student safety and engagement in their school library!"

-Natalie Lorenzi, Willow Oaks

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Carla Tricoli-Rodriguez, Fort Hunt ES

"Carla Tricoli has been doing a fantastic job supporting her brand-new first grade team. She has been juggling between her duties as a teacher but also as a colleague mentor. Her kindness and willingness to help others has not gone unnoticed. Thank you to Carla for making sure the new team members in 1st grade feel welcomed and for helping them understand the grade level procedures, routines, and expectations. ¡Gracias de todo corazón!"

-Tracy Hutchison, Fort Hunt ES

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Lori Thomas, Wakefield Forest ES

"Lori Thomas is a part time ESOL teacher and works with students in K-2nd grade at Wakefield Forest Elementary School. She is devoted to her students and their families and goes above and beyond to make sure her students succeed and are challenged. Her consistent communication with families and staff ensures all stakeholders have the most accurate information regarding family situations and student progress. Ms. Thomas attends CLTs and data discussions with teams to advocate for her students and to celebrate them. When presented with a challenge, she approaches it with a creative, can-do approach. Additionally, she provides meaningful resources and often mentors new teachers so they can be successful with their multilingual learners. Ms. Thomas advocates for her students to be sure they are getting the instruction they need while also challenging them. She goes out of her way to collaborate with classroom teachers, counselors, and administrators to assure her students and their families understand the importance of attending school and being available to learn. She uses energetic and creative ways to actively engage her students throughout her lessons including the transition time from the general education classroom to her classroom. Recently, while walking students to class, she was asking them to spot letters in the hallway and say a word that begins with that sound. She provides an inclusive and supportive learning environment by displaying student work in the hallway that highlights their home language, country, and culture. Ms. Thomas’ students feel seen, cared for, and appreciated. She consistently strives to ensure all her students are included in classroom activities, such as the valentine exchange on Valentine's Day. In February, when she found out her students didn't have valentines for a classroom exchange, she went to three different stores to find some. It was essential to her that her students felt included. During the winter holidays we were short of donations of clothes, gifts, and food for our families who are struggling. Ms. Thomas went out of her way and used her own resources to provide these items for the families she serves. When one of her students was complaining about his shoes being too tight, she brought shoes for him to wear so he would be comfortable. Additionally, when a student was having medical concerns during the day, she proactively brought together the classroom teacher, family liaison and the family to problem solve so the child was able to focus and engage in class. For our recent cultural night, she encouraged students and parents to not only attend, but to create displays and share food and clothes from their countries. Because of her intentional effort, many of Ms. Thomas’ students and families participated and were delighted to share their food and culture at the evening celebration. Although Ms. Thomas is a part-time employee, she takes every opportunity to grow as an educator. She committed to taking LETRS and UFLI training on her own time because she knew it would benefit her students. She implemented the information she gained as quickly as she received it and has motivated others to take these trainings. These programs have enhanced her instruction as evidenced by the growth her students have made with their English Language Development. In conclusion, Mrs. Thomas goes above and beyond every day to provide love, support and unending encouragement to make a difference in her students’ lives. She is one of the most enthusiastic teachers I have had the privilege to work with and is an inspiration to all the people she comes in contact with."

-Mary Muratore, Wakefield Forest ES

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Stephanie Keller, Stonecroft Transportation

"Mrs. Stephanie Keller and her team calmed my anxieties about my 1st grader riding the bus this year. We are military and new to the area. Day one our bus stop was incorrect about my child doing before and after school care. Stephanie and her team gave me a time line as to when it would be corrected and followed up when it was completed. They made me feel like they cared even though I am sure they deal with 100s of these requests. I appreciated that. New schools are stressful especially when your putting your kid in the hands of other people. They were great."

-Anonymous

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FNU Bharti, Colin Powell ES

"Bharti was welcomed back to her Powell Puma Family last school year and has not missed a beat! She greets everyone with a warm smile and is always ready to provide support in any way she can. Bharti supports in so many ways that range from helping setting up classrooms and bulletin board for the start of the new school year, helping out in the cafeteria during lunch time or periods of "all hands on deck," or tapping into her background knowledge to support coverage in enhanced autism classrooms and more. Even though I have known Bharti for a few years I still found myself in awe watching her graciously providing support and extending kindness & friendship to one of our newest staff members, an ambassador teacher from the Participate Learning Global Teacher Exchange Program. Not only did Bharti support the teacher in the classroom for part of the day, she returned to help escort the students to their specials classes on the first day of school then she remained with the students in specials. A simple thank you does not seem to be enough. Colin Powell ES is grateful for Bharti's return to the puma family!"

-Nichole Lansdowne, Colin Powell ES

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Grace Oh, Colin Powell ES

"Grace Oh is one of our amazing instructional assistants. She is always happy to help whenever and wherever needed. In part due to her knack for bringing order and organization to a situation, Grace goes above and beyond expectations when presented with a task. When we all have so much to do the week before school starts, she kept checking in with me asking if I needed help with anything else. Grace helped assemble folders for our Behavior-Wellness Team, she worked with one of our other instructional assistants Bharti to put paper and borders on bulletin boards in my classroom and other staff members' classrooms all while managing her own tasks that week. Grace is also very creative and assembles amazing bulletin board displays for our school's main lobby area. We are blessed to have Grace as a member of our Puma Family."

-Nichole Lansdowne, Colin Powell ES

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Chad Messick, Woodson-IT

"Chad has been so very helpful and patient with me whenever help is needed. He has patiently explained the parts that didn't make sense in and some cases made it easier. Thank you, Chad!"

-Lisa Mason, Luther Jackson MS

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Jaime Austin, Hayfield Secondary

"Teachers during the first week of school are often so busy that the thought of doing anything else besides getting your classroom ready and meeting students would be too much for most. Jaime Austin has gone above and beyond the call of duty during the first week of school: We had a teacher who will be in and out during the school year for medical reasons. Jaime has selflessly given up her planning time to go into her colleagues courses to make sure they are set up for success. In particular, she basically taught her AP US History courses the first week, because they require that students get acclimated quickly to the way the class will run. Jaime is working hand in hand with the teacher to ensure they are both on the same page and that all students are taken care of. Jaime has provided her contact information to all of these students and encouraged them to come and see her for any help. She has calmed many of their nerves in taking this demanding course by being an extra point of contact if needed. Thank you, Jaime, for your commitment to the students at Hayfield!"

-Douglas Zywiol, Hayfield Secondary

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Janan Hawthorne, Bull Run ES

"Janan Hawthorne is the new special education chair at Bull Run Elementary School. She goes above and beyond each and every day for the students and staff. She responds to behavior crisis' within the building, supports teachers with scheduling, and more. What makes her efforts even more worthy of this recognition, is that she keeps a positive mindset, never seems to not enjoy what she is doing, and maintains a smile on her face through it all! Bull Run is lucky to have her!"

-Anonymous

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Christopher Moxness, Sideburn Support Center

"Many thanks to Christopher Moxness, who is an HVAC technician. We've had many questions about the HVAC system in our new building. Every time I ask a question or request support from Facilities Management, Chris takes the time to come to the school to seek me out and explain what is going on. This is so helpful, since it means that I can tell our admin team and staff the status of a repair or how a system is working. It is above and beyond customer service and is so appreciated by me and the Frost team!

-Susan Morningstar, Frost MS

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Grace Oh & Fnu Bharti, Colin Powell ES

"Grace and Fnu are wonderful Instructional Assistants that go above and beyond on a daily basis at Colin Powell Elementary. They helped sign into and set-up over 100 Ipads for our Kindergarten students during the first week of school. This was no easy task and I am very thankful for all their help!!"

-Jason Decroo, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

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Sara Kennedy, Union Mill ES

"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude and admiration for Ms. Kennedy and the incredible impact she has had on my daughter's growth and well-being over the years. Today, I had the pleasure of meeting with her, and it reminded me of just how fortunate we are to have her as part of my daughter's educational journey. As always, she was quick to respond to my questions and concerns, demonstrating the same attentiveness and dedication that have been a hallmark of her support since my daughter was first diagnosed with dyslexia in 3rd grade. When we received the diagnosis, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and uncertainty about how to best support my daughter. However, Ms. Kennedy has been a guiding light for both my daughter and me throughout this journey. From the beginning, she provided the reassurance and knowledge I needed to feel more at ease with her diagnosis, and Ms. Kennedy’s support has only deepened as the years have passed. Thanks to Ms. Kennedy I have witnessed remarkable improvements in my daughter’s confidence, reading abilities, and overall academic performance. What once seemed like insurmountable challenges have become opportunities for growth and learning, all due to the dedicated and compassionate guidance she has received. Ms. Kennedy equipped her with the tools and strategies she needed to navigate her dyslexia. The anxiety I initially felt about her diagnosis has significantly diminished. Ms. Kennedy has empowered me as a parent to feel confident in supporting my daughter’s educational journey, always making sure I had the resources, encouragement, and understanding to help her succeed. The peace of mind I now have is invaluable, and I owe so much of it to the unwavering support and expertise of Ms. Kennedy. Reflecting on our recent meeting and all that Ms. Kennedy has done for us, I can confidently say that she is an exceptional asset to your school. Her impact has been life-changing for my daughter, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have such an outstanding educator in her life. Thank you for fostering an environment where staff can thrive and make a difference in the lives of students and their families."

-A Union Mill ES parent

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Tim Hilkert, Gatehouse Admin Center

"With less than two weeks left before the start of the school year, we were notified of our hiring specialist leaving the county immediately and who our sub would be for our particular region. Of course, the panic set in. Then came along Tim Hilkert! He has been phenomenal. He has spent time with us over the phone ensuring that we were staffed for the school year. When I called him about an employee who wanted to leave the county because they were not fully 100% hired, Tim stepped in and eased my worry and worked behind the scenes. Within days, the employee had a full time job within the county and happy. Tim has been the ultimate professional answering our emails all throughout the day and even into some late nights. He has answered questions, explored options and guided us in the right direction. I am grateful for Tim and I am happy that we had the opportunity to work with him this year. He deserves a raise, acknowledgement and so much more for his efforts to ensure that everything runs smoothly in FCPS."

-Sonya Williams, Stone MS

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Iman Bahabib, Mt. Vernon HS

"Iman consistently demonstrates genuine care for both colleagues and students, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment. Her transparent approach in decision-making and communication has made a profound impact on students, the community, and ESOL department. Thank you for your leadership."

-Anonymous

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Jannell Haskins, Stonecroft Transportation

" Jannell, I want to personally commend you for your outstanding communication and leadership during the emergency situation on Sunrise Valley Road on Tuesday, August 20, 2024. Despite the challenging circumstances, you remained calm and focused while driving a fully loaded school bus, ensuring the safety of every student on board. Your quick thinking in flagging down a police officer and your ability to clearly receive and share directions played a crucial role in delivering our students safely to their homes. Thanks to your clear communication, many subsequent bus routes were able to stay on time and were less affected by the situation. Your professionalism and dedication truly made a difference, and we are incredibly grateful for your exceptional service. Thank you, Jannell, for all that you do!

-Jeremy Doxer, Stonecroft Transportation

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Rose-Ellen Eastman, Marshall HS

"I lost my cell phone at Marshall HS for a training session. After ransacking my car and searching the parking lot throughout the day, I was panicking when the school day was winding down; and I would be going home without my phone. I felt the angst of not having my phone that evening and a connection to my children and family, the following day. Because school was not in session yet, I arrived at the Marshall HS front office, elated to see the front office was open and staffed. Soaking wet, from searching in the rain, Rose-Ellen Eastman greeted me with a warm smile. She confirmed that my cell phone had not been turned in by anyone. Seeing my disappointment, Rose-Ellen took charge of the situation. She handed me her cell phone and walked me through the "help a friend" feature to locate my phone. She took the initiative to mark my phone as lost and put in the front office phone number to be contacted if found. Within seconds, the front office phone rang, and it was the person who found my phone! Rose-Ellen went beyond my expectations. I am incredibly grateful for Rose-Ellen’s kindness and support. Rose-Ellen made my day!"

-Sarah Vink, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Aziz Elhayani, Woodson -IT

"Aziz Elhayani came to my class to fix the box to the projector. Not only did he fix the box, he had me test to make sure everything work on my end, and arranged my cords to prevent someone falling over them. He was kind and courteous. I am thankful for all his help today."

-Charlene Meny, Chantilly HS

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Milagro Perez-Tobar, Lorton Center

"Milagro Perez-Tobar is the transportation supervisor supporting our school. She is driving buses to help with the shortage. Today, a student missed her bus and could not be picked up by a parent. Even though it wasn't part of her route, Milagro offered to take her home. Her kindness and benevolence embody the best parts of FCPS and I'm so glad she partners so closely with our community."

-Paul Naanou, Falls Church HS

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Stephen Jeffries, Lorton Center

"I have had the privilege of hearing outstanding things about Mr. Country (LBSS Bus 29 and Sangster Bus 6) for years as both a Mom and a teacher. I have been so impressed with the consistent care and compassion he shows his riders! He always makes a genuine effort to get to know each and every one of his kids, checks in with them frequently, and uses those personal connections to keep everyone safe and happy on the bus. Anyone that can tame a bus full of elementary, middle and high school students should qualify for super hero status! I have heard Sangster students squeal "I got Mr. Country!" when they talk about their bus rides, and their sentiment is usually met with "You are so lucky!" My own daughters feel cared for and protected on their bus ride. Just yesterday, Mr. Country stopped my girls and checked in with them because they do not ride the bus in the morning and asked them how they were doing - even remembering their summer jobs and specifically checking in on those! Mr. Country is an absolute gem, and a tremendous asset to FCPS. He makes a positive impact on students at all grade levels, every day."

-a FCPS parent

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Jae Lemeshewsky, Sandburg MS

"At Sandburg Middle School, we pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for both our students and staff. One individual who embodies this spirit is Jae Lemeshewsky, affectionately known as Ms. L. As an Instructional Assistant who has been with Sandburg for a decade, Ms. L has developed a unique tradition that beautifully symbolizes what it means to become a Sandburg Panther. Cultivating Growth and Nurturing Potential Each summer, Ms. L undertakes a special mission: welcoming new Sandburg staff members to our community with a meaningful gesture. New arrivals receive a plant along with a heartfelt card from Ms. L. To her, this isn’t just a welcoming gift—it’s a metaphor for the journey our students and staff undertake together. Ms. L believes that, much like plants, our students require love, attention, and patience to thrive. “Plants are like our students,” she explains. “They need care and nurturing to grow. By treating each other with kindness and respect, we set an example that helps our students flourish.” A Symbol of Patience and Care The tradition of gifting a plant carries deeper significance. Just as a plant needs a conducive environment to grow—sunlight, water, and care—so do our students need a supportive and encouraging atmosphere to reach their full potential. Ms. L’s approach highlights the importance of modeling these values, showing students that growth comes from a foundation of love and respect. This thoughtful gesture aligns perfectly with the Sandburg philosophy of nurturing not just academic success but personal development. By cultivating relationships with care and attention, we create a thriving community where everyone can succeed. A Touch of Good Luck Along with the plant, Ms. L includes a $2 bill in the gift package. This token is not merely a piece of currency but a symbol of good luck and prosperity. These $2 bills have become a cherished part of Sandburg’s culture, often spotted around the school and within FCPS, where former Sandburg Panthers now serve as leaders. The tradition reflects the ongoing impact of Ms. L’s influence and the far-reaching effects of the nurturing environment she promotes. Celebrating a Decade of Dedication For ten years, Ms. L has been a cornerstone of Sandburg, exemplifying the values we hold dear. Her dedication to cultivating growth and supporting new staff members has left a lasting imprint on our school community. As we continue to welcome new Panthers each year, we carry forward the lessons learned from Ms. L’s tradition: to grow together, support one another, and always nurture our potential with patience and care. In every plant given, every $2 bill shared, and every act of kindness, Ms. L reminds us of what it means to be part of the Sandburg family. It’s about fostering a culture where everyone—students, staff, and the entire community—can grow and thrive, just like the plants that Ms. L so lovingly tends. Welcome to Sandburg, where we grow together and support each other every step of the way."

-Brianna Lucas, Sandburg MS

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Aziz Elhayani, Woodson -IT

"Aziz was such a great helper today in our classroom. He immediately came out and swapped a projector all in time for class to start. He calibrated the projector perfectly so that it was far better aligned than the last one we had in the classroom. Service with a smile!"

-Daniel Miller, Fairfax HS

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Mejroda Ura, Rocky Run MS

"I wanted to take a moment to recognize and express my gratitude for a truly outstanding member of our staff—Mejroda. This first week of school she has been my angel. Mejroda has been an incredible mentor here at Rocky Run Middle School. Her guidance and support have been invaluable, particularly in helping me and the rest of the team navigate the complexities of school logistics and procedures. She has meticulously walked us through every detail and consistently offered extra support whenever needed. Mejroda's contributions go beyond just her professional role. She continually goes above and beyond for our team, always with a positive attitude. Her thoughtful gesture of bringing us welcoming snacks has brightened our days and truly exemplifies her commitment to fostering a supportive and friendly environment. Her dedication and kindness make a significant difference, and we are all incredibly fortunate to have her a chair of our team. I really enjoy working with her."

-Monica Tatis-Phan, Rocky Run MS

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Stephanie Godwin, Willow Oaks Admin Center

"Stephanie is always willing to lend a hand. She worked with multiple stakeholders to ensure a successful visit with a delegation from Taiwan. Stephanie helped our team with scheduling a Zoom conference room, and testing out how it worked, which was essential to the visit. Stephanie shared resources with our team and helped with all of the logistical details. She is always willing to go the extra mile to make sure everything runs smoothly!"

-Joann Hardy, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Elvia DeLeon, Carmen Perez, Carlina Cuenca, Elvia Guzman & Raymundo Mejia, Oak View ES

"We know all custodians across FCPS schools work tirelessly once the school year ends to prepare for the opening of the next school year. So many tasks need to be completed and schools are expected to shine and glow by the time staff and students return. This summer, Oak View's HVAC system was scheduled to be upgraded. All units in the building were shut down the day after school ended except the Office unit so that the crew could get to work. And so did the Oak View custodians. They charged forward, without air conditioning, to make sure all summer tasks could be completed for the preparation for this school year. They worked tirelessly, every day, without the comfort of air conditioning. And each and everyone of them did it with a smile and a "can do" attitude. The heat and humidity did not stop them from doing their best to make Oak View Elementary sparkle. This could not have been done without Elvia Guzman, Carlina Cuenca, Elvia Deleon, Carmen Perez, Raymundo Mejia, and all the field custodians who came to support. We are grateful that the weather does not stop their willingness to do their great work."

-Lora Adams, Oak View ES
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Rachel Clausen, Willow Oaks Admin Center

"The ISD Science team would like to express our sincere gratitude for your invaluable assistance in making our High School Inservice presentation on August 14th a success. Your expertise and willingness to help were instrumental in ensuring a smooth and informative session. We truly appreciate your contributions and support. We are better together!"

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Michele Gates, Willow Oaks Admin Center

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Dana Griffith, Stonecroft Transportation

"Dana Griffith is the transportation supervisor for my childrens' schools. Luciana de Valentin is our long-time elementary and middle school bus driver. I am so grateful to the two of them for really listening to me and working tirelessly to ensure all three of my children (one each now in high school, middle school, and elementary school) have a permanent and safe location for their bus stop. I had met a great deal of resistance when seeking clarifying information about the location of our stop - we live in a neighborhood with no street lights, and since it's dark in the mornings much of the year, it's extremely unsafe. While I personally take them every morning I can, I have to do so in a car, because it's also unsafe for me. Dana stepped into the role and quickly resolved the issue, resulting in a safer experience for all involved. I know Luciana was an instrumental player in this as well. I'm so grateful for these women and their commitment to their jobs to get our students to and from school safely."

-a FCPS parent

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Chrissy Brownson, Willow Oaks Admin Center

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Torey Diggs, Willow Oaks Admin Center

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Tara Fortune, Gloria Merino & Lillian Rouly, Longfellow MS

"Tara Fortune, Gloria Merino, and Lillian Rouly, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your support during the August 14th professional development at Longfellow Middle School. Your efforts in ensuring the doors were open, technology was accessible, and handling last-minute requests with such grace made the day run smoothly. I truly appreciate your dedication and teamwork. Thank you again for making the event a success!"

-Diana Ree-Reeder, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Jeff Lonnett, Willow Oaks Admin Center

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Adam Fitzgerald, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

"Adam went above and beyond to support me this summer, having never met me before! I used Oakton as a home base for the High School Science Summer Curriculum Development. Adam got me set up with technology when I was struggling on the first day. Then later in the summer, when one of my writers computer had difficulties, he spent the day trying to resolve the issue while providing this writer with a loaner to get his work done, despite this person not working at Oakton!. Finally he went above and beyond to ensure that Great Beginnings went off without a hitch in August when we used Oakton for all secondary science sessions. This included working with two different outside vendors to ensure their computers were able to connect. I would have been lost without Adam's support this summer!"

-Michelle Gilligan, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Anita Mitchell, Hayfield Secondary

"Anita is such a pleasure to work with. She is super helpful, attentive and communicated with us diligently as we prepared to host the Fall 2024 Science In Service. She's a true asset to Hayfield and we are so lucky to work with her. Thank you for all that you do Anita! We appreciate you!"

-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Joanne Jackson, Gatehouse Admin Center

"Joanne Jackson is making such a positive impact on the instructional setting. She is hustling in overdrive to ensure substitutes are identified and processed. Last night I got an email from her that a sub we had been waiting for had been approved. The sub called me and said WOW Ms. Jackson called me at 8:30 on a Sunday to make sure I was ready and knew that I could report to work. Joanne is truly an asset to all the schools in FCPS positively impacting operations with an amazing energy"

-Karen Hertel, Bryant High

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Nelson Villalobos, Trans Supt Res Graham Rd Comm

"Nelson VIllalobos is the Safety and Security Specialist for Graham Road Community building and another 3 dozen IAS sites. He takes the time to meet with students individually and knows them by name. He always knows the most up-to-date regulations and takes it to heart that his mission is to keep students and staff safe. He is a natural problem-solver, making plans for procedures and he can even rattle off a response like "let's try x, then we can run y, if those don't work, I will submit a for XYZ543". Who knows that stuff by heart?!?! Nelson does. But make no mistake, he does not have his nose in the rule-book, he is always circulating to check on staff in their rooms, greet students as they come in and collaborate with other programs in the building. This year I moved across the county to Graham Road and was eager to get my classroom set up so it would be a welcoming place for new students and make me feel settled in my new role. Imagine my surprise unlocking my door on the Monday back and finding at least 25 pieces of heavy wood office desks, bookcases, file cabinets, closets, tables reception couch, and carts had been delivered mistakenly to my room! Nelson went above and beyond his job description to round up help to get the furniture into a corner so I could still set up my room, then over the next week got nearly all of it distributed to other locations so my students have a bright, organized room to greet them. Without Nelson, the kids would be climbing over and under stuff today. Thank You Nelson!"

-Jude Welling Barrows, ISAEP EAST - GRAHAM RD

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Jaime Villamarin Perdomo, Stonecroft Transportation

"Jaime A. Villamarin Perdomo has been the transportation supervisor for our daughter who has special needs. He has made sure that each year the bus drivers and attendants are trained for her individual needs. He has also made sure that each time she transitions to ESY that new team and trained and supports her - and us! He’s also extremely responsive on email and made the communication to alleviate our worries and support her safety the top priority! Thank you, Jaime!!!"

-a FCPS parent

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Jen Roberts, Great Falls ES

"Jen Roberts is the unsung hero of our school! She works tirelessly to make sure all staff and students are well prepared, addressing even the smallest technology needs. I literally could not do my job without her. She never makes me feel silly or unprepared when I come to her with questions. I am so very thankful for her!"

-Ava Walter, Great Falls ES

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Lisa Barrow, Cooper MS

"Principal Lisa Barrow hosted an incredible open house at Cooper Middle School yesterday! She was professional yet warm and greeted every student with a smile. She even welcomed several by name. Middle school can be such a harrowing experience for these impressionable adolescents, but my son left feeling confident and very secure. I credit her leadership and professionalism for his positive outlook. So many parents share my sentiment. Very excited for the school year!"

-a Cooper MS parent

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Rosa Lozano, Sandra Gonzalez, Deysi Ayala Rosa & Bang Nghieu, Oak Hill ES

"The custodial team at Oak Hill ES went above and beyond this week. Last night, we had a massive water situation. 17 rooms across the 1st and 2nd floors were flooded. Our custodial team, two of whom had already gone home for the night, rallied and worked tirelessly over the next two days to get the building ready for the first day of school. They are true heroes."

-Kelly Durso, Oak Hill ES

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Derek Knizner, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

"Derek deserves recognition for recently assisting and handling a particularly challenging situation for a family. He volunteered his time and expertise with little background on what was needed, but did so professionalism and grace while still assisting those in Tech Support Desk. His ability to assist those with challenging circumstances demonstrates his dedication to providing exceptional customer support as he has for many years. Great job Derek!"

-Gregory Edwards, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

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Nicholas See, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

"Nick deserves recognition for recently handling a particularly challenging situation with exceptional poise and effectiveness while maintaining his regular beginning of the year workload, which is already quite heavy. His ability to remain professional while prioritizing and managing these numerous tasks and uncomfortable situations is highly commendable and illustrates the hard work and high standards he has provided for many years. Well done Nick!"

-Gregory Edwards, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

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Jodi Denne, Nancy Sprague Technology Center

"Jodi Denne facilitated two excellent trainings for new Transcript Assistants and College & Career Specialists on August 15th. Jodi's presentation was clear, informative, and well received by attendees. Thanks to Jodi and the entire IT Fasteam for all their continued support with Naviance and other software applications!"

-Steven Myers, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Kristin Eddy & Nicole Jacobs, Willow Oaks Admin Center

"Kristin Eddy and Nicole Jacobs are incredible leaders for Therapy Services. Their leadership is direct, competent and supportive of the staff that provide physical and occupational therapy services. It is clear, from our return to school this year, that they spent an incredible amount of time being thoughtful, intentional to set up our entire department for success. My team is so excited to tackle projects to support UDL that will support FCPS students county wide. Some people just do their jobs and some people do their jobs intentionally that really does prepare all of us for excellence."

-Connie Johnson, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Terri Washington, Gatehouse Admin Center

"I would like to recognize Terri Washington, Business Operations Assistant, with the Office of Benefit Services. Terri helped me with a concern over healthcare coverage for my husband. She was able to problem solve and complete a form that we needed to submit to SSA. She communicated with me to make sure that I received the form and then she was also able to get information back to another person in HR to complete the process. I appreciate her willingness to go that extra step to make sure that my husband didn't have a lapse in coverage. Navigating FCPS as a retiree is very challenging and Terri made it easier. FCPS is very fortunate to have Terri as part of their team."

-Tina Johnson, Stone MS

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Molly Sullivan, Union Mill ES

"I wanted to express our sincere appreciation for Mrs. Sullivan and the incredible impact she has on her students, especially our son last school year. Mrs. Sullivan consistently goes above and beyond in her role, demonstrating a genuine care for each student’s well-being and success. Her dedication extends beyond academic growth; she also deeply cares for her students' social and emotional development, which is especially important to us. She was so kind and caring when our son had some challenges with friends and anxiety about coming to class. She did so much to support and reassure him and I am truly thankful for her. She is an outstanding educator and every child would be lucky to have her as their teacher. Thank you for having such a remarkable teacher and compassionate individual on your team."

-a Union Mill ES parent

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Jason Kain, Columbia ES

"Dear Jason, I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for your planning and facilitation of the POG POL session for the Health and PE teachers at the August in-service. Your leadership and passion for spreading POG practices throughout FCPS is truly inspiring! Your willingness to share your knowledge and expertise with your colleagues is invaluable. The session was informative, engaging, and provided participants with practical strategies to implement POG with their students. It was so wonderful to see so many of your colleagues writing down ideas and your contact information to continue collaboration beyond the session. Your dedication to creating meaningful and intentional learning experiences for your students is evident in your work. I’m confident that your students are benefiting greatly from the intentional planning and care you put into your planning and teaching. In fact, I would love to be a student in your class myself! I was impressed with the planning you have put into all of your units, even before the beginning of the school year. Thank you again for your hard work, commitment, and willingness to grow as an educator! I am grateful to learn both from and with you!"

-Abbey Miller, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Kristin Webster, Robinson Secondary

"Kristin and Robinson Team, The POG POL Team wants to express our sincere gratitude for your incredibly generous donation of your staff’s POG magnets for other FCPS employees to use. Your willingness to collect and share these resources is so thoughtful and will help make this work visible across the division. Thank you for not only collecting previously used POG magnets, but for purchasing new IB magnets for Robinson staff as well! This is a testament to the growth and success your school is experiencing and we’re thrilled to hear about the positive impact of ATL practices at Robinson. Thank you for your willingness to always collaborate and share both ideas and resources related to the intersection of IB and POG. Thank you again for your kindness and support!"

-Abbey Miller, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Aidan Vigil, Longfellow MS

"Aidan, thank you so much for your incredible support with the August 14th professional development activities. Your responsiveness and positive attitude, especially when asked to help as soon as you walked in the building, were truly appreciated. I’m grateful for your willingness to jump in and contribute so seamlessly. Your quick action helped us to share our learning with others in a timely manner."

-Diana Ree-Reeder, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Ammar Attar, Wilton Woods Center

"Ammar responded to a request I had about losing access to a data service to which I previously had access. Then he went a step further and tested the data from the data service itself. He discovered a larger issue, reached out to notify my office, and began addressing the issue right away. Thank you, Ammar, for being an excellent database engineer and solving the problems we ask about and the ones we don't yet know about!"

-Jessica Hernandez, Forte Center

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George Saad, Lorton Center

"George Saad is the project liaison for OTS. As we prepared for the 24/25 school year, George has supported our operations in so many ways. His contributions with our route selection(s), shuttles/middays, parking changes, course support in Schoology, bus/van assignments, equipment distribution, and so much more. On behalf of OTS, I want to express my gratitude to George for his unwavering support, willingness to go above and beyond to help OTS and ensure our success. George is approachable, helpful, provides extraordinary customer service and his knowledge is truly remarkable. Your support is invaluable, and we couldn’t have done it without you."

-Carlton Ellis, Lorton Center

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Thomas O'Keefe, Lorton Center

"Tom O'Keefe is a transportation routing supervisor for OTS. As we prepared for the 24/25 school year, we recognized the need to create a number of back to school videos for our In-Service meeting(s). Tom assisted with recording and editing several videos; the videos were creative, had a smooth transition and great audio quality. Our amazing transportation staff enjoyed the videos for both their information as well as humor. I want to express my gratitude to Tom for his unwavering support preparing for our In-Service meeting(s). Your willingness to go above and beyond to help OTS and ensure our success has been truly remarkable. Your support is invaluable, and we couldn’t have done it without you."

-anonymous

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Christina Kim, Stonecroft Transportation

"Christina Kim is the resource bus driver supervisor for the Stonecroft region (area's 3 and 4). As OTS prepared for the 24/25 school year, we recognized the need to create a number of back to school videos for training purposes. Christina assisted with recording and editing while maintaining her primary job function. The videos were creative, had a smooth transition and great audio quality. I want to express my gratitude to Christina for her unwavering support preparing for our In-Service meetings. Your willingness to go above and beyond to help OTS and ensure its success has been truly remarkable. Your support is invaluable, and we couldn’t have done it without you."

-anonymous

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Brittany Martinez, Gatehouse Admin Center

"Brittany's innovative and creative approach to data collection and management has transformed how we operate, making her an invaluable asset to the MentorWorks program this summer. Through her tireless efforts, she has streamlined our processes and significantly improved the experience of the 400+ school-based staff who provide data for me, ultimately making their daily tasks easier. I cannot overstate her impact on the success of the MentorWorks program. Her patience and dedication are truly exceptional."

-Martha Macdonald, Willow Oaks Admin Center

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Dustin Lee, Burke Alternative Learning Center

"Thank you for dedicating your time and expertise to create a Performance Matters Practitioner Stories video in support of Performance Matters use within FCPS. Your perspective as a practitioner is invaluable, and we are grateful you chose to share your experiences. Teachers and staff across FCPS will benefit greatly from your presentations. Your willingness to contribute this content is greatly appreciated."