FCPS CARES - November 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
Kenyetta McNeil, Lawrence Randolph & Noelle Titus, Willow Oaks Admin Center
Kenyetta McNeil and Dr. Lawrence Randolph embody the spirit of collaboration. Since 2023, they have built innovative middle school resources that have helped MS ELA teachers reimagine teaching and learning through the Parallel Curriculum Model. Most recently, Kenyetta, Lawrence, and Noelle Titus, MS ELA Resource teacher, have collaborated on a total curriculum redesign for MS ELA, including explicit instruction that helps educators respond to skill-diverse learners. The units they have developed are grounded in evidence-based literacy instruction and honors teachers and learners at all levels of expertise. These central office professionals have also seen evidence of impact. Most recently, all 8th-grade students and teachers at Key MS used hexagonal thinking to make connections to text and one another. Key MS department chair Leigh Faust shared, "The 8th grade English team at Key MS tried a new spin on our cross-class collaboration for book discussions. In the past, different classes came together to use the affinity grouping structure to generate theme statements across books in the Jason Reynolds track series. This year, we incorporated hexagonal thinking, a process introduced in an ELA Honors framework PD, to facilitate discussion and collaborative learning. Each teacher selected a different book to assign to their students and generated a list of characters, concepts, and themes to write on hexagons. After reading, teachers gathered in the Lecture Hall with their classes across levels, from Gen Ed to team-taught SpEd and ML to Honors, to form heterogeneous table groups, with each book represented at each table. Kids manipulated the hexagons to create connection maps. They concluded with a reflection sheet where they explained their thinking, commented on another group after a gallery walk, and generated a new theme statement that could apply across the texts. It was the first time for all of us (teachers and students) to try hexagonal thinking maps, and we were thrilled with the students' discussions and reflections. The structure helped students think creatively about connections and themes while encouraging academic language use and promoting rigor in all classes. "Chris Mullins, a former NBA player, talks about collaboration. He states, "If you're going to preach dedication, work ethic, teamwork, unselfishness, and being part of a team to accomplish a common goal, you have to live it—you can't just talk about it." Kenyetta, Lawrence, and Noelle embody this quote, and I am so proud to have witnessed their work."
-Natasha Saunders, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Region 1
Kerrie Turner, Thoreau MS
"Kerrie Turner, a school counselor at Thoreau Middle School, embodies the spirit of FCPS Cares. Her relentless dedication to supporting students is truly inspiring. Kerrie is an exceptional communicator who builds strong relationships with students, teachers, and families. She goes above and beyond to ensure students have their basic needs met, enabling them to fully engage in their education. Her recent act of kindness, personally picking up and delivering a rent support check to ensure it arrived on time for a family in need, exemplifies her selflessness and commitment. Kerrie's unwavering support and compassionate actions make her an invaluable asset to the Thoreau community. She is a shining example of what it means to care and is most deserving of an FCPS CARES."
-Gabi Ritchey, Thoreau MS
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Region 2
Michael Secchi, Woodburn ES
"Mr. Secchi is a kind-hearted teacher who strives to instill a love of musical learning in his band students. My son, who practices trombone at home, was offered a chance to learn and play the tuba at school. He's been struggling a bit with it and feeling very down, so Mr. Secchi offered an extra before-school, one-on-one jam session to make sure my son not only was able to get back on track with playing the tuba but also to find his joy in music again. Kudos to Mr. Secchi for his help!"
-a Woodburn ES parent
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Region 3
Samantha Vivian-Beck, Twain MS
"Mrs. Vivian-Beck is the CRT for our school and CSS Program. Much of her job is de-escalating behaviors and providing a safe place for students who are dysregulated and need a calming influence or just a place to cool down. Her intuitive abilities often result in her knowing just what a student needs. Sometimes, it's as simple as a snack. Other times, relieving frustration or anxiety by taking a walk or doing a little garden work. She is also there for the teachers, listening to their needs and perhaps taking a difficult student out of the class and working with them to allow the teacher to continue teaching the remaining students who need the teacher's attention. However, while these things require her attention every moment of the day, they do not end here. Her inspiring and boundless energy to support our students goes beyond the school day. Mrs. V-B, as she is called, leads and directs our student mentoring program, Rise, planning and organizing monthly events and matching students with staff and faculty to provide an additional trusted adult in their lives. Her love and concern for our students also led her to create and instruct a life skills class tailored to our middle school students with emotional disabilities, teaching them management and service skills by creating the Hype Cafe, a student-run business that sells hot beverages and baked goods to staff and faculty twice weekly. She realizes that if these students are taught responsibility and the importance of appropriate communication, they will be able to achieve concrete results and experience success. This provides a great motivator for examining their behaviors and choices and realizing their capabilities when they make good choices. It is her love and care for all students and the extra love and care for those who have not yet experienced success that makes her a top candidate for FCPS CARES this month and every month."
-Donna Mooney, Twain MS
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Region 4
Lisa Fields, Susan Kane, Sheila Bartley, Barbara Fleck, Justin Quincy, Susan Waring, Caitlin Schifter, Natalie Schmid, Megan Counts, Gretchen O'Donnell, Mariama Diallo & Cathy Wood, Laurel Ridge ES
"I have two elementary students at Laurel Ridge Elementary School. I am writing to let you know what a phenomenal school Laurel Ridge is and how they have cared for my children and our family for the last six years, especially over the last several months. My 5th-grade daughter was born with a genetic mutation that resulted in a serious heart arrhythmia condition called Long QT Syndrome. It causes sudden cardiac arrests. At 11 days old, she received her first surgery when she received a pacemaker. Due to her size, there were many complications, and we were in the hospital for almost half of her first year of life. When you have a child who could have a cardiac arrest and potentially die or suffer oxygen deprivation at any second, your stress level is high. I don’t know how we lucked out on moving into the Laurel Ridge community, but we are so thankful that we did. The staff at Laurel Ridge began meeting with us before she ever entered Kindergarten. They were quick to set up a 504 and a healthcare plan. They worked with me so that I could prep all her teachers and made accommodations regarding supervision to make sure that there was always someone with her who was well acquainted with her condition. Mrs. Fineskos and Mrs. O’Bryan, her kindergarten teachers, carried her AED bag everywhere with them that first year because it was too heavy for my daughter. They still joke that they miss the workout. Year after year, this continued, even during the pandemic. We regularly had people checking in on us and ensuring she had everything she needed to learn, be comfortable, and be safe. This is especially true in the last several months as my daughter had another surgery for her condition. This was her first major procedure since she was six months old. After all the complications from her first surgeries, my husband and I were fearful that history would repeat itself. Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan. We had originally scheduled for the surgery to occur over the summer, but she got a respiratory infection. This meant we would have to have the surgery at the very beginning of the school year. That included several weeks of missed school, and when she returned, it meant a month of physical restrictions and safety needs. Even my 2nd-grade son missed the first week of school while we were quarantining before the surgery. I would not be able to list all the people at Laurel Ridge who reached out to us to see what we needed and were quick to offer support at school after her surgery. I am going to have a list at the end of this letter, but please know it is more than that. They treated my daughter like she was the most precious cargo due to her physical restrictions of a new device that was implanted. That meant hallway, PE, recess, lunch, arrival, and dismissal precautions. They were better than the Secret Service, especially her teacher, Natalie Schmid. I think what stood out more than anything else was just the emotional support from the school administration. As a working mom, I have a tendency of wondering if I am really doing everything, I am doing justice, especially the parenting part. The team at Laurel Ridge should give national trainings about how to communicate and partner with families positively. They helped us be better parents, if that makes sense. For example, on back-to-school night I saw Principal Counts, and she let me know that there were forms for me in my daughter’s classroom. I began to apologize for not getting them in more promptly. She looked me in the eyes and said, “You do not need to worry about that, we have got it.” She probably doesn’t remember that, but as a parent who was really stressed and generally has a guilt complex, that meant the world to me. I cannot leave Mrs. Wood out. She is so good at her job. She is so smart. I don’t know how else to describe her. In every meeting where we were going over planning and logistics for my child, she was able to see the whole issue or situation. She asked questions and made suggestions, making me feel extraordinarily confident in her education and care at Laurel Ridge. Laurel Ridge is a gem among schools. I am so grateful to them and FCPS."
-a Laurel Ridge ES parent
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Region 5
Christina Bruch & Courtney Cottrell, Deer Park ES
"I am so grateful for the incredible efforts of Mrs. Bruch, my child's Special Education case manager, and Mrs. Cottrell, the school counselor. Both of these amazing educators have gone above and beyond to support my child, who has been experiencing significant school-based anxiety and has had significant challenges in the last month. Mrs. Bruch has worked tirelessly to provide individualized support for my child, demonstrating exceptional patience and care. Her dedication is evident in the thoughtful strategies she has implemented to help my child navigate her anxiety about the school day, as well as in her ongoing efforts to make sure my child feels understood and supported. She's worked diligently to set up alternative schedules and create a reward system to encourage my child's return to the classroom. Her creativity and attention to detail have given my child the motivation and structure she needs to progress. Mrs. Cottrell has been equally instrumental, focusing on helping my child transition smoothly from Kiss and Ride into her classroom each morning. She has also thoughtfully modified her own schedule to allow my child to accompany her to counseling lessons with other grades, giving her a sense of purpose and belonging. These efforts have been key in making my child feel more comfortable and confident at school. Together, Mrs. Bruch and Mrs. Cottrell have collaborated with us as a family, taking the time to meet with us regularly to discuss Kayla’s progress and provide updates. Their open communication, genuine care, and commitment to my child’s success have made a profound difference not only for Kayla but also for our entire family. I am so grateful for the compassion and support that Mrs. Bruch and Mrs. Cottrell have shown, especially given that they have large caseloads and other students to attend to."
-a Deer Park ES parent
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Region 6
Alex Winiewicz, Braddock ES
"I have been at Braddock Elementary School for 2 years and have been an educator for 21 years. I have never come across an educator who not only knows all the students and staff but also goes above and beyond to connect with the students and staff. Mr. W (Alex Winiewicz), as we all call him, is visible, takes time to make everyone feel seen and valued, and goes the extra mile to support him not just in his role as the P.E. teacher but also in other situations that arise. I personally have witnessed Mr. W greeting students in the morning during my AM duty. Students are greeted with respect and love and are also so eager to see him every morning. He makes every student feel like they are special by knowing them by name and need and goes out of his way to know unique things about each student. He is definitely a trusted adult and makes students feel the sense of belonging that we all strive to achieve both in FCPS and simply as educators. On any given day/time, if Mr. W. is in the hallway, you will hear students say, "Hi, Mr. W." You will also hear Mr. W. respond in a very personal way as well as at times in that student’s home language. If all the above wasn't enough to recognize Mr. W. as an exceptional educator and an asset at Braddock, I witnessed a specific moment that drove me to write up this FCPS Cares. As mentioned earlier, Mr. W. not only covers his role as the P.E. teacher, but he also supports with so many other things throughout the day at Braddock. The one specific moment that made me realize that he was exceptional was a moment when one of our students was having an extremely hard day. Mr. W. didn't make the student feel like he was less than others, that he was in fear of that student, or that he didn't respect that student for what he had done. Mr. W. continued to be his caring self, and not only did he not take it personally when the student was acting out, but he continued speaking to him respectfully and calmly. At one point during the conversation, the student asked Mr. W. to leave the classroom, to which Mr. W. replied, "This is my classroom, the school is my classroom, you know why? Because I care about all of the students at Braddock." This is just a small snapshot of how wonderful Mr. W. is. He is someone the entire school relies on and turns to in many different situations. Thank you, Mr. W., for all that you do!"
-Nafeesah Nimer, Braddock ES
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Other FCPS CARES Submission
Willa McGrath, Floris ES
"I want to take a moment to recognize Willa McGrath for her exceptional leadership and dedication to Floris Elementary School. As our School-Based Technology Specialist, Willa has consistently gone above and beyond to support both staff and students. Her strong communication skills and deep instructional knowledge make her a go-to resource for our entire school community. Teachers are drawn to her because of her expertise and her ability to provide thoughtful, actionable guidance. Willa has played a key role on several leadership teams, including the Guiding Coalition, CLT data dialogue conversations, Team Leaders, and Admin meetings. She is always seeking ways to enhance our school culture and improve instruction for our students. This year, Willa created a detailed data dialogue protocol for each grade level team. This carefully crafted protocol supports our teams in analyzing data across subject areas, guiding them through questioning and reflection. The protocol has been invaluable in supporting our intervention groups and differentiating instruction throughout the building. Willa’s contributions are immeasurable, and we are so fortunate to have her as a leader at Floris. Above all, she is a deeply valued member of our school community. Thank you, Willa, for all that you do to make Floris a better place for everyone!"
-Joshua DeSmyter, Floris ES
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Wafika Albani, Dunn Loring Center
"I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to your wonderful program, which allows us to express our gratitude to individuals who go above and beyond to support the community. Today, I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for Mrs. Wafika Albani, who has been a remarkable example of dedication and support to our family. As a new family in the United States, we had limited knowledge about the educational system and the required processes. However, Mrs. Wafika Albani, made this transition significantly easier for us by providing continuous support and precise guidance. • She assisted us with registering our children for school and provided clear and detailed information about every step of the process. • She was always quick to respond to our questions and inquiries and ensured we were supported at every stage. • She guided us through the requirements for our children’s vaccinations and helped coordinate with the school. • She went above and beyond by offering detailed advice, contacting the school directly when needed, and staying with us throughout the process to ensure that all our issues were resolved. Additionally, Mrs. Wafika Albani, has been an essential source of support in our daily life. She guided us to English language programs and other initiatives to improve our life skills, such as learning to use computers and accessing various online platforms. This support has not only helped us as parents but has also positively impacted our children. We are incredibly grateful to Mrs. Wafika Albani, for her dedication and continuous assistance. Thank you for providing this opportunity to share our appreciation for her."
-a FCPS parent
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Kathleen Winston, South County HS
"The subschools 1 and 2. A special place where students can come in and be greeted by one of the most amazing people in the world; Ms. Winston. Overall, she shows great empathy to most students, wishing complete success and happiness towards them. Pushing them to complete their work. Helping them find the support they need, or sometimes, even giving the support, herself. A person worth talking about, is Ms. Winston. First of all, Ms. Winston has a great amount of empathy towards the students. Whenever a student comes in with a problem, she always begins with kindness. If a student is upset, Ms. Winston is definitely the person to go to. If she can’t give you a solution, then she can certainly find you one. “I try to be kind to most people, even if I didn’t sleep well.” This quote, can directly tell us that Ms. Winston is always trying her best to show empathy, even if she's not in the best mood herself. Another reason why Ms. Winston is one of the most amazing people in the world, is her dedication to push the students in the right direction. “I want you to succeed.” A quote that truly tells us what she wants for all students. Ms. Winston wants us to succeed, and she expresses that through pushing us to do any work we have. Even if it doesn’t even need to be done, she’ll always encourage us to be proactive and have a good work ethic. Practically a motivational speaker. Finally, we have support, one of Ms. Winston’s greatest qualities. Students that are comfortable with her, have no problem communicating their problems. They know that Ms. Winston will give them her undivided attention, and make time for her beloved students. This quote tells us just that; “I’m always here for you, just come find me.” She constantly reassures her students that she will always be there for them and give them the support they need. And the students know that. After all that, is Ms. Winston truly worth an entire essay? Absolutely. Empathy, pushing students towards success, and ultimate support. All these wonderful qualities are what makes her the true legend of subschool 1 and 2. Not only that, but one of the most amazing people in the world. A truly wonderful young lady!
-a South County HS student
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Mary Amenyah, Rose Hill ES
"Mary Amenyah is an amazing early childhood special education teacher. On November 25th, Mary participated in a curriculum training for new early childhood special education teachers. She brought her knowledge and shared her experience while facilitating small group work to develop differentiated plans for preschool students. Thank you, Mary!"
-Erin Snell, Bull Run Early Childhood Center
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Melissa Antonucci, Mason Crest ES
"Melissa Antonucci is an amazing early childhood special education teacher. On November 25th, Melissa participated in a curriculum training for new early childhood special education teachers. She brought her knowledge and shared her experience while facilitating small group work to develop differentiated plans for preschool students. Thank you, Melissa!"
-Erin Snell, Bull Run Early Childhood Center
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Crystal Giddens & Alexis Sawaya, Haycock ES
"My son is a kindergarten student. He didn’t get used to the new environment at the beginning. In September, he got pneumonia and stayed at the hospital for treatment. Mrs. Giddens and Mrs. Sawaya sent their love, care and support to him. They organized the students to make a very lovely card full of warm message to my son. The card is very pretty and made my son feel he was loved. This helped him a lot. After he recovered and returned school, he now loves to go to school everyday, and full of joys and achievements."
-a Haycock ES parent
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Jesse Peverall, Sideburn Support Center
"Bravo to Jesse Peverall for his common sense approach to solving a significant problem! Oakton ES was without heat on11/22 and 11/25. The problem was the broken couplers connected to an old for water pumping system and an old motor. The temperature in the building was 59-65 degrees in most areas. Jesse began contacting supply houses to find the couplers. No luck. He was going to purchase parts and try to fabricate the couplers. In his quest to be helpful, Jesse used the "best sense" anybody's grand mother has emphasized. He used common sense! Jesse went back over to the school and decided to check the cold water pumping system for the air conditioning system. Sure enough, the couplers on this old system mimicked the hot water couplers. Within an hour Jesse had the heating system up and running. Jesse's dedication to being an excellent problem solver and his quest to performing his duties at an optimum level enabled students and staff to teach/learn in a comfortable setting. Three cheers for Jesse Peverall!"
-Douglas Tyson, Gatehouse Admin Center
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Kristen Bosley, Riverside ES
"Kristen Bosley is an amazing early childhood special education teachers. On November 25th, Kristen participated in a curriculum training for new early childhood special education teachers. During this training, she provided examples of lessons, ideas and facilitated small group work. Thank you so much for helping our new teachers learn and thrive."
-Erin Snell, Bull Run Early Childhood Center
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Kimberly Byrd, Dranvesville ES
"Kim Byrd is an amazing early childhood special education teacher. On November 25th, Kim participated in a curriculum training for new early childhood special education teachers. During this training, she provided examples of lessons, ideas and facilitated small group work. Thank you so much for helping our new teachers learn and thrive."
-Erin Snell, Bull Run Early Childhood Center
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Lauren Geres & Kate Kozeliski, Belvedere ES
"Lauren and Kate are amazing early childhood special education teachers. On November 25th, Lauren & Kate participated in a curriculum training for new early childhood special education teachers. During this training, they provided examples of lessons, ideas and facilitated small group work. Thank you so much for helping our new teachers learn and thrive."
-Erin Snell, Bull Run Early Childhood Center
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Ramon Lee, Bryant HS
"Mr. Lee has gone above and beyond to cultivate a strong sense of community and pride at Bryant High School. Bryant High School does not have a PTSA or funding for staff and student spirit gear. At the start of the school year, he personally branded over 200 Bryant Bears staff shirts, ensuring that every member of the Bryant team—including teachers, administrators, security, and support staff—felt included and valued. Each staff member received two shirts, a thoughtful gesture that exemplifies Mr. Lee's commitment to fostering unity and school spirit. One of Mr. Lee's standout initiatives is the On-Time Team, a program designed to address tardiness in a positive and innovative way. Instead of focusing on punishment, students who arrive to class on time are rewarded with a snack, creating a culture of punctuality and motivation. This program reflects Mr. Lee’s dedication to supporting students through encouragement rather than discipline. He also introduced a creative alternative to the traditional school bell by replacing it with music. By taking requests from both students and staff, Mr. Lee creates a weekly playlist with carefully curated, school-appropriate songs. Students who can correctly name five songs from the playlist each week have the chance to win a pair of Beats headphones, adding an exciting element of engagement to the school day. Additionally, Mr. Lee developed Activity Day, held once a month, to combat chronic absenteeism and strengthen the bonds between students and staff. On this day, staff members host engaging activities throughout the school, providing students an opportunity to connect with peers and mentors in fun and meaningful ways. A favorite feature of these events is the Noodle Bar, where students eagerly line up to enjoy delicious noodles before participating in their chosen activities. The November Activity Day also includes a special “Wear Your Crocs Day,” where every student will receive a custom-designed Bear-themed Jibbitz to showcase their school spirit. This year, Bryant High School is celebrating its first-ever Spirit Week, and Mr. Lee has been instrumental in its success. He played a key role in procuring two different styles of sweatshirts, giving students a choice in spirit wear and school swag. Mr. Lee has personally stamped over 200 sweatshirts, which will be distributed to students before Winter Break. This effort is especially meaningful, as it ensures that some students, who may have never owned spirit wear before, have the opportunity to receive it at no cost. Additionally, he is teaching four students how to brand shirts and hats, equipping them with valuable skills and inspiring future entrepreneurship. Through his vision, hard work, and care for every member of the Bryant community, Mr. Lee has made a lasting impact. His initiatives promote school spirit, inclusivity, and positivity, creating an environment where students and staff feel supported and valued. Thank you, Mr. Lee, for your extraordinary dedication to Bryant High School!
-Iris Stubblefield, Bryant HS
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Sarah Schurman, Justice HS
"Sarah first introduced herself to me at the school in 2021 in search of ways to better respond to parent disagreements for inclusionary texts in English. Since then, I have seen her model outstanding advocacy through her use of classroom materials, providing students with diverse perspectives and hopefully reflections of themselves, especially those of minority populations. She is always in constant contact with parents, and she is a shining light of positivity at Justice. I am constantly impressed by her boundless amount of energy and time that she dedicates to her students. I have spoken with many students who have joined the National English Honor Society (in which she is the sponsor) and were welcomed with open arms due to her ability to welcome others. As an English CT Lead, Sarah is able to gather diverse groups of people together with camaraderie and humor. Sarah's kindness shows by how much both students, parents, and other co-workers are able to open up to her, and we are very lucky to have her at Justice High School!"
-Kirsten Salonga, Justice HS
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Patrice Gotsch & Alaise Rudder, Bryant HS
"I would like to take a moment to recognize the exceptional efforts of Mrs. Rudder and Mrs. Gotsch in organizing the Lunch Bunch for students from Africa. These two dedicated teachers recognized a unique need within our school community and took the initiative to create a space where students, especially those who may feel isolated, could come together, and connect. For students who recently moved to our school from Benin and is the only French speaker, the Lunch Bunch was not just a meal or a social gathering—it was an opportunity to feel seen, heard, and understood. This time together provided students with a sense of belonging and an invaluable chance to interact with peers in a supportive, small group setting. The impact of these lunches extended far beyond just one student. It created an atmosphere where all participants were able to build new friendships, strengthen existing bonds, and foster a deeper sense of community. The sense of connection that Mrs. Rudder and Mrs. Gotsch cultivated helped these students feel more integrated into the fabric of our school, and it reminded them that they are not alone. Thank you, Mrs. Rudder and Mrs. Gotsch, for your unwavering commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where all students can thrive. Your thoughtful efforts have made a lasting impact on the students you serve, and we are incredibly grateful for your dedication"
-Iris Stubblefield, Bryant HS
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Catherine Matthews, Karina Lizano-Blanco, Beverly McNairy, MacKenzie Frakes & Orland Henry, Groveton ES
"Several of the fifth-grade teachers at Groveton and other new staff have been amazing this year and deserve recognition from FCPS Cares. Ms. Catherine Matthews just organized a very successful trip to the National Air & Space Museum in Washington, DC for the entire grade and some EAC students. Ms. Matthews taught fourth grade last year and organized the fourth-grade trip to Gunston Hall. Ms. Karina Lizano-Blanco organized a Hispanic Heritage performance by all of the Spanish Immersion students at Groveton. Both Ms. Lizano-Blanco and Ms. MacKenzie Frakes are the teachers in charge of new free after-school clubs at Groveton with Ms. Lizano-Blanco running the Science Olympiad (with another teacher) and Ms. Frakes organizing the Book Club. Both of these clubs are new this year under the leadership of our new Dean of Students Mr. Orland Henry. There are over 50 students participating (and likely more). My son says there are 50 students in the Chess Club organized by one of the new guidance counselors at the school Ms. Beverly McNairy. Other Groveton teachers are also stepping up and helping with these clubs, but I don't know the names of all of them to include here. All of them are doing more than they need to do and the children of Groveton are the ones who will benefit from this increased teacher and staff involvement in providing opportunities for kids in a Title I school with a significant percentage of lower-income and non-English speaking students. I realize that organizing a few events might not sound like much, but the fifth-grade students at Groveton and other FCPS schools have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 crisis and had many fewer opportunities to participate in field trips and after-school activities as children in other grades since they started school in August of 2019. This is particularly exacerbated by the lack of wealth in our portion of Fairfax County. Recognition of their efforts will hopefully encourage other Groveton teachers to increase their involvement and Groveton families to do the same."
-Anonymous
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Michael Elion, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"hank you to Michael for developing the new ticket service for the Office of Assessment & Reporting! I worked with Michael for approximately 5 months on the details of this ticket service. He demonstrated kindness and patience with my many requests and modifications. He completed these requests and modifications promptly. I am thrilled with the final results! I am excited for our office to implement the ticket service with FCPS school staff to streamline our processes for loading out-of-county assessment scores and verified credits. Thank you, Michael!"
-Alisa Shreve, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Taylor Thomas, Westlawn ES
"Mrs. Thomas is a caring and experienced first grade teacher. She knows all of her students very well and goes above and beyond by using talking points to communicate to families and staying after school to help out with PTA events. Her creativity and heart are always on full display in service of her students. It is clear she gives her all and is a great asset to the children and learning community of Westlawn Elementary School.
-Ryan Healy, Falls Church HS
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Syeda Abdullah, Graham Road Community Center
"Mrs. Abdullah is an amazing IA and Coworker. Mrs. Abdullah has numerous responsibilities and does them efficiently and with great care. Even with all her responsibilities she takes time to build positive relationships with all the students here at Graham Road (They love her!!). She is a delight to work with and makes coming to work something to look forward to."
-Anonymous
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Jen Cortesi, Lake Braddock Secondary
"Jen Cortesi campaigned for and now leads an informal open gym for middle school students to play basketball 2-3 times per week before school. Jen recognized a need for students to get out some extra energy before the school day and made it happen!"
-Mark Donovan, Lake Braddock Secondary
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Kevin Barrett, Michael Lind, Jesse Peverall & Daniel Raymor, Sideburn Support Center
"On Tuesday afternoon, Oak View ES sprung a leak in our library. We learned it was the pipes for our HVAC system. Since we have a 2-pipe system, this meant that our heat had to be shut off. The Sideburn crew came over immediately and started working on the issue. As any repair goes in an older school, usually you uncover more damage as you try to fix the original issue. With a heating system as ours, once the repairs are completed, it takes 2 days for the system to be up and running again. The crew from Sideburn not only took the time to explain the situation, but they also worked diligently and timely to help us get our heat back up and running. This was imperative because a cold front came in and the last two days have been in the 30s and 40s. Facilities always comes through for us, whether it is leaking pipes, broken HVAC’s, plumbing, and even bees on the playground. Oak View ES would like to thank Michael Lind, Daniel Raynor, Jesse Peverall, Kevin Barrett, and the rest of the crew who worked so quickly to make sure our students could focus on learning and not on the chilly temperatures inside our building. With thanksgiving right around the corner, we are super thankful for Sideburn Support and all their support. An extra special shout out to Daniel Raynor who was able to put the situation in layman terms so that I could communicate with the region and my staff."
-Lora Adams, Oak View ES
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Lisa Rode, Kings Glen ES
"This year, Kings Park wanted to deepen the impact of our Young Scholars program. I reached out to the Advanced Academics Resource Teacher, Lisa Rode, at Kings Glen Elementary school, our sister school, to see if we could plan a trip to their garden. Lisa has created and maintained a beautiful garden where she enlists the help of Young Scholars to offer learning opportunities. I simply asked Lisa if we could visit their garden before we began a gardening STEM project. I said maybe we could see what they have planted and talk about the tools. Lisa took my simple request and created an experience these students will never forget. I took 30 students in grades 1 - 3 and as we walked down, we were greeted by Lisa and her 6th grade Young Scholars. The students were immediately at ease and interested to see what our project would be. As we gathered around the garden beds, they were able to share their understanding and build confidence about our upcoming activity. Then, Lisa told the kids they would be doing an experiment inside the building. Even though many students have been to Kings Glen, or have siblings in the program, the switch from our primary school (grades k - 3) to the upper school (grades 4-6) can be very stressful. Getting a chance to explore the building and see Mrs. Rode's classroom was a fantastic opportunity for these kids to feel like leaders in their grade level. Mrs. Rode and the kids had hands on materials ready to explore and then we began a cyanotype photography experiment using special photo paper, dried leaves, and sunshine. We walked trays into the sun and watched as the leaves we placed on the paper created prints. After chatting with the 6th graders, we brought our projects upstairs to the art room where Jennifer Fitzgerald, the art teacher, helped the kids wash their paper which stopped the exposure process. Lisa, Jennifer, and the 6th graders had kids lined up, sinks running, and papers on the drying rack with such a swiftness that I barely set my bag down. I am so grateful that one phone call inspired Lisa to provide such a meaningful experience for our students. They were thanking me all day, but I take no credit. I am so glad to be in Lisa's orbit and continue to collaborate on all things Young Scholars!"
-Jamie Mucciolo, Kings Park ES
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Marissa Bossard, Irving MS
"At Irving, we have an enrichment program where students choose an activity they would like to participate in or learn more about. This group meets once a week during 1st period and students choose a new enrichment activity each quarter. Our teachers have come up with some amazing activities for this to include everything from Dungeons and Dragons to Geography Bee to Strength in Running to Pop Up Art Grid to name a few. One teacher, Marissa Bossard, created a very popular option called Little Learners. The students in this enrichment group are ones who often have an interest in babysitting, coaching and possibly becoming a teacher. Ms. Bossard works with the students on these skills and the students come up with activities they would like to do with elementary students. Everything came together yesterday when the students visited one of our feeder schools, Cardinal Forest ES. When they first arrived, the middle school students joined the kindergartners in the cafeteria, looking for those who didn't have a parent/guardian to eat with them during the Thanksgiving lunch which allowed these kindergartners to also feel important. They then visited the students in two different kindergarten classes where they worked with the students on an autumn themed craft. The kindergartners were so excited to work with the older students and the middle schoolers had such patience and energy throughout the activity! When the middle school students were leaving, the kindergartners were giving hugs and high fives, and everyone had huge smiles on their faces. Along with the time put in to coordinate the trip, Ms. Bossard set the middle school students up for success through her coaching and is possibly creating the next generation of teachers!"
-Meg Gollinger, Irving MS
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Maria Filgueira, Deer Park ES
"I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Filgueira who has gone above and beyond to support my youngest daughter over the past two school years. Ms. Filgueira has created a safe and welcoming space for my child, providing a sense of comfort and security that has been transformative for her well-being. Not only has Ms. Filgueira set up engaging lunch bunches for my daughter and her friends—complete with dolls to make the experience fun and interactive—but she has also opened her office as a calming retreat on my daughter's most challenging days. These thoughtful actions have made a world of difference for my daughter, helping her to feel seen, supported, and cared for. Despite her demanding role and busy schedule as the Special Education Department Chair, Ms. Filgueira has taken the extra time to build a meaningful relationship with my child. She's gone above and beyond to learn about Kayla's interests and take the time to help walk her through her anxious moments. Her dedication and compassion have not only positively impacted my daughter but have also brought tremendous peace of mind to our family. We are incredibly grateful for her kindness, and I can’t thank her enough for the love and care she has shown. It truly takes a village to raise a child, and we're so glad Ms. Filgueira is part of our team."
-a Deer Park ES parent
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Tae Gyu Jun, Lorton Center
"We want to express our sincere gratitude for your exceptional dedication and professionalism during the recent field trip to DC. Your quick thinking and calm demeanor in handling the unexpected breakdown of the bus, ensuring the safety and well-being of the students, is truly commendable. We are particularly impressed by your commitment to going the extra mile to retrieve the student's belongings. By taking the time to return to the broken-down bus and retrieve the student's belongings, you demonstrated a level of care and responsibility that is truly admirable. Your actions have made a significant positive impact on the students and their families. Thank you again for your outstanding work."
-Christopher Lester Daniels, Lorton Center
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Mike Dougherty, Brennan Haggett & Paul Johnson, Lake Braddock Secondary
"Mike, Brennan, and Paul consistently show up in support of our students receiving special education services! Often these High School HPE teachers are the only general education teacher for a student and reevaluations, IEP, and eligibility meetings require their attendance. These three teachers are always willing to participate in the meetings we schedule, and at times they've attend multiple meetings on consecutive days, jumped into a meeting at the last minute when another gen ed teacher canceled, and attended back-to-back meetings in the same planning period. While we try our best to spread out which meeting they are asked to attend, sometimes "over scheduling" of one teacher cannot be avoided. The High School Special Education department appreciates their willingness to be an active team member and their partnership with our department. Thank you and Go Bruins! "
-Amy Haughton and Kristin Kelso, Lake Braddock Secondary
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Kathleen Miller, Gatehouse Admin Center
"Kathleen goes above and beyond with anything she does. I, along with our principal, have worked on a handful of different media items throughout the past 12 months and each time she is a joy to work with. She is communicative, thoughtful, and pays great attention to details. FCPS is lucky to have her as part of their media relations team! Thank you, Kathleen, for helping schools and our students get the recognition they deserve!"
-Alexa Pugnetti, Woodson HS
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Josie Rodriguez Wallhout, Lake Braddock Secondary
"Josie Rodriguez-Walhout is an outstanding leader and administrator. She is always willing to listen to her department's needs and concerns. Her office door is open and inviting for students and teachers to come in and speak with her. I greatly appreciate the support Josie gives her staff. Whether it is advice or simply being a safe place to speak, Josie is consistently there. We value all her hard work! Thanks, Josie!"
-Anonymous
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Mary Beth Vaughn, West Springfield HS
"The energy you feel in the main office at West Springfield High School is the result of Mary Beth Vaughn working tirelessly behind the scenes to create an inclusive and productive environment. Faced with any scenario she is willing to jump in and lend a hand. When I took on a new role this year she was more than willing to pause her "to do list" and share tips to help me find success in my new job duties. She is adept in handling any problem. She values families, students, and staff not just in her building but across the county. She always shows compassion and is willing to help others learn so they can find success."
-Sarah McGowen, Plum Center for Lifelong Learning
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Elizabeth McCall, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"From the moment she joined the DSS-OSP team, Elizabeth has worked to create a sense of community across the team. She always provides a smiling face and a friendly hello. Through her modeling, I have noticed a shift across the team, and it has opened doors to get to know each other and collaborate more effectively. Thank you, Elizabeth, for bringing your cheerful friendly self to work every day and profoundly shifting the climate in such a brief period of time."
-Anonymous
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Kellie Rodriguez-Lee, Hayfield Secondary
"Ms. Rodriguez-Lee is a tireless, dedicated, and truly compassionate counselor for our high school students at Hayfield Secondary. Earlier this fall, she contacted me regarding one of our student athletes, and explained the difficulties that this student was having both within their classes, as well as other issues related to attending school. She and I discussed the problems, and we trouble-shot the variety of options available to us. When I suggested, that was outside the box, she thought about it, and then acted upon it immediately, consulting others to find out if our radical decision was viable. It turned out to be acceptable and she proceeded to put this unique option into play. Additionally, she repeatedly connected with the students' parents, and along with me, continued to meet to discuss other options, and contingency plans. While our process to help this student is still ongoing, Ms. Rodriguez-Lee's can-do mindset, is providing an opportunity for a young adult to make and learn from their mistakes, which embodies what our education system should include building capacity within a developing mind. Hayfield Secondary is truly lucky to have such a kind, considerate, and determined counselor on our staff."
-Jim Mercer, Hayfield Secondary
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Andrea Holmes, Johnson MS
"Andrea was both an inspiration and a partner for a task that I wanted to do but didn't know how to start. She modeled how the task was done, and when I contacted her out of the blue to ask questions, she gave immediate, complete support. I am grateful for her geniality and collaborative attitude in sharing her expertise. Johnson MS is fortunate to have such a kind employee supporting their community."
-Maria Cruz, Jefferson Tech HS
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Sara Wheeler, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"Sara is ALWAYS so incredibly helpful, but she has gone above and beyond to support admin and teachers as we wrap our heads around the new MAP assessment. She has been responsive and supportive with the many questions that have been generated around the testing process and interpretation of results. We know she has a LOT of other things to do, and she has shown incredible grace and kindness toward us as we are figuring this all out. Thank you, Sara!"
-Janet Babic, West Potomac HS
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Adam Bowen, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"Adam Bowen has been instrumental in keeping the FCPS Data Fabric imitative running seamlessly. Most recently he has been able to quickly grant some new folks elevated access to certain programs, which helps to keep things moving along. Adam has been extremely responsive and a delight to work with. Thank you Adam!"
-Shawn Heilemann, Wilton Woods Center
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Gretchen Hazlin & Rosanne Tempesta, Kilmer MS
"The librarians, Rosanne Tempesta and Gretchen Hazlin, are the most amazing and supportive team. They always let me bring my classes to the library and often have good lessons that support my teacher. Today for example, in the library, they used painter's tape to create large plot diagrams on the floor, and then worked with the kids using stories to understand each component of a plot. The kids ate it up, and it was a fantastic lesson. I can't say enough how impressed I am with these ladies."
-Rick Greenfield, Kilmer MS
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Lisa Dumond, Hunt Valley ES
"We had a parent that was having a medical issue after she dropped her children off at school. I called for Lisa Dumond, our Administrative Assistant to come out to help get some more information from the parent. Lisa is a fluent Spanish speaker and the parent felt more comfortable communicating with her in Spanish and was able to let Lisa know how she was feeling. Lisa found out what was going on and then went above and beyond by giving the parent a ride home and then checking in on her later that day to make sure that she was able to get the care that she needed. Lisa always takes the time to talk with parents and gets to know the families here at Hunt Valley. In that moment, I don't know what we would have done without Lisa!"
-Chrissy Gibbs, Hunt Valley ES
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Katie Matis, West Springfield HS
"Katie Matis in the main office at West Springfield HS goes above and beyond to welcome students and show she cares. Despite having her own children, she shows up to support students in the fine arts and students in athletics. Even with all the demands of the front office she greets students, she talks to them, and she encourages them. Katie is a strong cheerleader for all students. She demonstrates commitment and diligence. Katie is a wonderful example to all the students who come through the main office of hard work and compassion."
-Sarah McGowen, Plum Center for Lifelong Learning
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Angela Andress, Fort Belvoir Upper ES
"Mrs. Andress is an amazing teacher who goes above and beyond to not only connect with her students, but to engage parents and families as well. The growth my child has made so far this year is without a doubt due to the incredible support and care of a great teacher. I appreciate how deeply she cares for the well-being of each of her students. Mrs. Andress is someone that I know my child can count on, that myself as a parent can count on, and the teachers and staff that she works with can count on. I have always felt like my child has had great teachers, but Mrs. Andress is in a league of her own. I am so thankful that my child was placed into Mrs. Andress’ class."
-a Fort Belvoir Upper ES parent
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Debbie Richards, Bryant HS
"Mrs. Richards serves as the Finance Technician II at Bryant High School; however, she has graciously supported Bryant AIM and ALC when support is needed. Every time I have contacted Mrs. Richards with a financial question or concern, she readily responds and eagerly contacts the appropriate point of contact if unable to solve the problem. Today, I reached out with a re-organization concern and, although extremely busy, she readily assisted and helped the Bryant AIM / ALC team resolve the concern. Mrs. Richards' "can do" spirit, coupled with her incredible collaborative nature, patience and organizational knowledge make her an asset to the Bryant family. Today and every day, I am grateful for Mrs. Richards."
-Kimberly Watts, Bryant HS
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Marcela Hernandez Vega, Ravensworth ES
"I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for the outstanding support Marcela provides in the classroom. Her dedication and unwavering commitment to our students are truly remarkable. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student is supported in the best possible way. Marcela has the ability to build strong, trusting relationships with each student, while stepping in wherever needed with such subtlety. There is never a moment when she is not fully engaged, always prioritizing the well-being and progress of the students. She also keeps me informed with timely updates, ensuring that I am always aware of anything new that may impact our students' experiences. I genuinely feel fortunate and incredibly grateful to have Marcela as a partner in the classroom. Her presence and contributions make a profound difference, and I truly could not ask for a better person by my side."
-Ana Salvador, Ravensworth ES
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Nicole Sharpes, Eagle View ES
"As I was reflecting on Thanksgiving and gratitude recently, I realized that I had not been disclosing much of my appreciation for the amazing support we’ve received for my twice exceptional 5th grader over the years at Eagle View. Eagle View has gathered many of the best human beings I have ever met and there are a few that are overdue for a call out for their passion for education, concern for their students, professionalism, and effectiveness as a teacher. One of those is Ms. Sharpes, Eagle View’s AAP Specialist. She is an absolutely radiant person and a remarkable professional. She radiates warmth and I admire the charismatic way she interacts with students, parents, and her fellow staff members. I am so grateful for that kind of upbeat influence in my son’s life. She’s become a safe adult he now trusts with his thoughts and frequently turbulent feelings – which is not a designation he easily awards anyone. About a year ago, I attended a briefing for parents of AAP students and was struck by her confidence, solid understanding of the program, her ability to convey the information we needed, and capacity to relate to parental concerns and answer our questions. She also created an activity for our students not just to occupy them during the presentation, but to introduce them to more advanced STEM concepts. They came back so excited and proud to show off their creative solutions to an interesting pursuit. Beyond this meeting, I’ve been impressed with the AAP curriculum and its implementation. My child is thriving. He is challenged but not stressed, and still thirsty for knowledge. Along with AAP, I often seeing her assisting all over the school, showing up where she’s needed, and as always, bringing the sunshine. Thank you, Ms. Sharpes, for what you’ve brought into my son’s life and the thousands of lives you’ve touched in your career. You deserve all of the awards."
-an Eagle View ES parent
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Rodrigo Aviles, Kendra Dyer, Claire Percoco, Sam Ramatowski & Jill Tucker, Dunn Loring Center
"On Wednesday, November 13th, I attended Welcome Center Wednesday, hosted jointly by the FCPS Offices of Student Registration, ESOL Entry Assessment and Family and School Partnerships. Their mission is "to ensure a welcoming, culturally responsive environment, where families and students successfully navigate the registration and assessment process and are connected to essential resources." Far from being words on a page, these words leap into action at the Welcome Centers every day for each of the students and families who are there. Many of the families served are multilingual families coping with complex stressors and trauma and courageously carrying hopes and dreams for their children in FCPS. I am beyond impressed by the daily humanity, compassion, technical expertise, coordination, resourcing, and advocacy of team members to ensure that our families and students have the best and most appropriate school placement in FCPS and access to time-sensitive school health requirements. I had no idea of the immensity of their mission and NOW I bring additional insight to the link between positive attendance and engagement practices and the vital role of our FCPS Welcome Centers. Building trust, supporting warm hand-offs, and modeling a family-centered lens are essential ingredients of creating and supporting a strong foundation for student learning and engagement. Your work is truly transformational and positively impacts generations to come! I would like to especially recognize Jill Tucker, Manager, Multilingual Services; Claire Percoco, Multilingual Services Specialist; Kendra Dyer, Senior Manager, ESOL Assessment; Sam Ramatowski, EL Family Partnership Specialist; Rodrigo Aviles, Community Liaison and the other team members of Family & School Partnerships."
-Laura Thieman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Michael Hardy, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"Mike Hardy has consistently demonstrated an exceptional level of dedication to their colleagues and an unwavering willingness to help others. Mike is always ready to lend a listening ear and provide much-needed technology support, often stopping what he is doing to assist someone in need. His patience, expertise, and problem-solving skills have been invaluable to our school. Mike's commitment to his work and his colleagues has had a positive impact on our school."
-Anonymous
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Carrington Beasley, Bryant HS
"I would like to recognize Carrington Beasley for making my days so much easier. She is incredibly proficient and efficient, and I can rely on her to tackle any question or challenge and find a way to get the job done. Carrington has assisted me with countless tasks, including e-notify messages that needed to go out urgently, creating Google documents, designing in Canva, and most recently, organizing the Youth Survey. This was the first time the survey was offered at Bryant, and it went off without a hitch thanks to Carrington’s willingness to help, preparedness, and problem-solving approach. I still remember something from her interview that really impressed me: she shared that if she could make someone’s day lighter or less stressful through her work with technology, she considered it a good day. That philosophy shines through in everything she does. She is an integral part of our MTSS team, consistently bringing fresh ideas and creating super creative slides that enhance our meetings. Carrington has the calmest demeanor and a “yes, I can help” attitude that is both reassuring and inspiring. I honestly couldn’t do my job without Carrington—she is a lifesaver and an invaluable member of our team."
-Florence Harrison, Bryant HS
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Joann Kim, Fort Belvoir Primary ES
"Mrs. Kim strikes an extraordinary balance between kindness and firmness. She fosters a supportive, nurturing environment that allows students to feel safe and valued while maintaining clear expectations. She handles essential matters like encouraging students to keep their hands to themselves, staying on task, and respecting classroom norms with firm but caring authority that resonates with children. Additionally, Mrs. Kim works incredibly well with students who may have behavioral challenges. Her patience, empathy, and tailored strategies ensure these children feel supported, while also reinforcing a positive and structured classroom dynamic for all. This is no small feat, and it reflects her deep understanding of both educational best practices and her students’ individual needs. Teachers like Mrs. Kim play a crucial role in shaping the next generation, and I want to extend my highest recommendation for her. She is a shining example of the excellence we strive for in our district. Thank you for recognizing her hard work and the lasting impact she makes. Sincerely, A parent seeing her hard work."
-a Fort Belvoir Primary ES parent
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Kirsten De Roos, Lake Braddock Secondary
"Kirsten regularly goes above and beyond to de-escalate student behaviors with her calm and compassionate nature and ability to listen to and connect with students across diverse backgrounds and needs. She stocks snacks in her classroom to meet basic needs and is relaxed and open with students so they trust her and are able to share real concerns and problems which she can then help them process and figure out next steps for managing. On top of helping kids to be emotionally regulated, she teaches amazing literacy classes blending comprehension, decoding, and morphology to help all students gain a stronger understanding of language and better skills in reading and writing. But the reason for this shout out is in gratitude for how Kirsten was able to assist a student who has been struggling more than usual this year by compassionately serving as a listening ear and resource as the student navigated some difficult personal choices and had to process what the choices meant. Then Kirsten seamlessly stepped into class and began teaching the students who had arrived for the next instructional period. The way Kirsten manages so many aspects of teaching with grace and serves as an angel to students who are struggling with personal challenges is truly a gift."
-Denise Steene, Lake Braddock Secondary
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Ali Drafate, Susan Hurley-Abbasi, Matt Keller & Wendy Osteguin, Stonecroft Transportation
"I wanted to highlight our amazing transportation team (Area 3: Team 32) from Greenbriar West (GBW)ES. This team is led by our transportation supervisors: Ali Drafate, Wendy Osteguin, Susan Hurley-Abbasi, and Matt Keller. Many of the drivers at Greenbriar / Chantilly Pyramid have been driving their routes for many years and have become like a family to our GBW community. We are particularly impressed with the supervisors who are frequently known to pick up extra routes just to help get all our students to and from school safely. Anytime, we have ever had a safety concern, the supervisors show up at GBW on site for a face-to-face visit to help quickly address the concern. Additionally, these same supervisors have helped us to provide specialized accommodations to our students with special needs that show a special level of love and concern for student safety and wellness. Our drivers and assistants are well known in our community for taking student safety so seriously and for showing up to bus stops with a friendly smile ready to greet our students and families with a sincere and authentic greeting. We are so grateful for our amazing transportation team (Area 3: Team 32) serving our community and wanted to publicly recognize the team with you and your team. Thank you again Ali, Wendy, Susan, and Matt for taking such good care of our drivers so they can in turn take such good care of our students. We are so proud to have you on our FCPS team!"
-Andrew Blount, Stonecroft Transportation
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Ellen Rogers, Belvedere ES
"Our son does not love school, and yet, he wakes up each day excited and ready to go to school due to the exceptional support and nurturing learning environment that Ms. Rogers creates for her 3rd graders. Ms. Rogers has connected with our son by using her humor, patience, and genuine acceptance of who he is a whole person. She challenges him academically, and because of the safe and supportive space she provides, he consistently rises to meet those challenges. When he feels frustrated or upset, she approaches the situation with curiosity, seeking to understand his perspective and help him navigate his emotions. Ms. Rogers is truly an exceptional teacher in every way."
-a Belvedere ES parent
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Eugenio Fischer, Bryant HS
"I would like to recognize Mr. Eugenio Fischer for his incredible contributions to the Bryant community. Although he is new to our school this year, he has already made a profound impact on both students and staff. With a genuine and caring demeanor, Mr. Fischer’s sincerity is evident in every word and action. As our OTG Coordinator and a teacher of Spanish for Heritage Speakers, Mr. Fischer goes above and beyond to support our students. He tirelessly tracks down chronically absent students, making daily calls, conducting home visits, and working to re-engage those who have dropped out. He seeks innovative solutions to help them continue their education, often acting as a bridge between home and school by reaching out to parents and fostering meaningful partnerships. Last week, when I expressed concern about a student, Mr. Fischer took it upon himself to track down a contact number. After connecting with the parent, he uncovered serious financial hardships and immediately collaborated with our social worker to find a solution. Together, they identified a church that could assist with a utility bill that had been cut off. Mr. Fischer’s kind and helpful demeanor extends beyond his work with students. He is a supportive colleague, always willing to lend a hand or brainstorm creative solutions to challenges. His presence is reassuring and uplifting, making him a role model not only for students but also for staff. For our Hispanic male students in particular, Mr. Fischer is an inspiring figure, encouraging them to not only achieve their high school diplomas but also to dream big about their future goals in higher education and employment. He is truly extraordinary, embodying the compassion, dedication, and commitment that make Bryant such a special place."
-Florence Harrison, Bryant HS
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Patrice Gotsch, Bryant HS
"I would like to recognize Patricia Gotsch, an exceptional Multi Language (ML) Teacher at Bryant High School, for her unwavering kindness and dedication to our students. This past month, Ms. Gotsch went above and beyond to support two students during pivotal moments in their lives. When a new student enrolled and struggled to make connections, Ms. Gotsch organized a lovely luncheon, inviting several peers to help the student feel welcome and begin building friendships. In another heartfelt gesture, she hosted a farewell party for a student moving to North Carolina, complete with thoughtful gifts and food. These gestures not only provided a sense of belonging but also demonstrated her genuine care for their well-being. Both students have faced significant challenges in their personal lives, yet Ms. Gotsch’s actions made them feel valued, seen, and celebrated. Beyond her acts of kindness, she is a passionate advocate for our ML population, consistently seeking innovative ways to advance their skills, particularly in digital readiness. Her compassionate approach and commitment to her students exemplify the best of what teaching should be. We are very fortunate to have Ms. Gotsch at Bryant."
-Florence Harrison, Bryant HS
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Mary Freeman, Pulley Career Center
"Mary Freeman is Pulley's main office assistant. She also serves as our transportation liaison, food and nutrition services liaison, student information assistant, supports clerical work for our department chair, etc. Without Mary, our main office and our school would not operate. She truly is a jack of all trades. Pulley does not have the staffing resources as a typical school, so operational staff wear several hats. Mary has multiple hats/roles, all of which are critical to school operations. On behalf of her main office team, and on behalf of Pulley, we want to recognize Mary's hard work, dedication, and commitment to Pulley and our students. We love you, Mary!!!"
-Peter Kelly, Pulley Career Center
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Arman Nikmorad & Eren Parla, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"Huge thanks to Arman Nikmorad and Eren Parla for being flexible when my event setup had to be delayed due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts. They were quick to offer an alternative solution the morning of the event. Without their assistance, our book author visit would not have gone smoothly."
-Brent Litherland, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
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Essie Carter, Burke Center
"Ms. Carter is an exceptional teacher who inspires and motivates students, consistently bringing out the best in each learner through her patience, understanding, and skillful guidance. She demonstrates a deep commitment to her students’ success, recognizing their potential even when they may not yet see it themselves. With an incredible ability to adapt to each student’s unique needs, Ms. Carter creates a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to take risks and thrive. For example, I witnessed her crawl under a table with a student to continue a reading lesson in a space where the student felt comfortable and engaged. Beyond her classroom, Ms. Carter is a beacon of support for students and colleagues alike, often stepping in to assist during crisis situations, even when the student in need is not one of her own. She also fosters a strong sense of community as the leader of our staff recognition committee, spearheading initiatives like the weekly kudos program and organizing staff appreciation events throughout the year. Ms. Carter’s dedication, creativity, and compassion make her an invaluable asset to our school and a true inspiration to all who work with her."
-Brad Bartosiewicz, Burke Center
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Matt Allen & Mandy Stevens Jolly, Gatehouse Admin Center
"Environmental Health and Safety Specialists Matt Allen and Mandy Stevens Jolly have done a phenomenal job supporting schools with all aspects of safety, in particular chemical safety at the secondary school level. They have worked to update and review safety protocols and training to ensure that school staff are well-equipped with the knowledge to support hands-on learning in science classrooms in a safe environment. They have been responsive to teacher inquiries and have worked collaboratively with the Instructional Services Department. We are grateful for their expertise, diligence, and responsiveness!"
-Ann Wong, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Letty Marquina, Laurel Riddge ES
"I'd like to express my deepest gratitude for kindergarten instructor Letty Marquina. She is the epitome of a caring and patient teacher. She goes above and beyond for her students. She leads by example and encourages her students to be better citizens. She is creative and energetic. She displays empathy by singing songs and playing clapping games to keep her students calm during fire drills. More importantly she makes my child feel loved and valued. Recently she asked parents to send in a recorded voice message dedicated to our child. The message was a positive "ray of sunshine" to our child telling them what we are grateful for. The activity made my daughter explode with joy and love. I truly could not ask for a more caring instructor."
-a Laurel Ridge ES parent
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Celine Leary, Bull Run ES
"Celine Leary is an exceptional and valued member of the Bull Run community. She has volunteered to lead a variety of school activities (Spelling Bee, Recycling club, Get2Green initiatives, STAC, Employee Awards, Grade Level Team Lead, and there are probably more things that I am forgetting!) Celine does all of this with a smile on her face, a contagious energy, and never asks for any recognition for doing so. Bull Run is fortunate to have her as a teacher leader!"
-Anonymous
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Alexander Gregory, Marshall HS
"We want to express our sincere gratitude to Mr. Alexander Gregory for his sponsorship of the eSports club at Marshall HS. HIs dedication to these students is evident in this commitment to volunteering his time for two club meetings each week. It's clear that this club is having a positive impact on our child, fostering new friendships, social skills, and teamwork abilities."
-a Marshall HS parent
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Peter Schmidt, Fort Center
"Pete Schmidt from the Warehouse has ALWAYS gone above and beyond! He even returned after retirement. He is well-loved by every school he goes to. He'll go the extra mile to fix something minor knowing how much schools depend on it. The other day I emailed to ask how long it would take report card envelopes to get from one school to another as the other school ran short. He personally made sure they made it onto the truck so that they would arrive in time. It's little things like this that are huge to us. He's a gem!"
-Kathy Cutri, Louise Archer ES
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Tony Uccellini, Poe MS
"Tony Uccellini organizes the annual Turkey Trot fun run at Poe Middle School. The event is sponsored each year to collect nonperishable food items for families in our community. This year, Tony has gone above and beyond with his efforts! He challenged each Advisory class to collect 20 or more food items, with a goal of 1,600 from the entire school community. All the donations stay at the school and are distributed to families that experience food insecurity. He created videos for the school news show that are both funny and heartwarming to raise awareness for the event. New this year: teachers get the "opportunity" to get a pie in the face to raise excitement and support for this event. His dedication to the school and community is evident through all his extra efforts. Thank you!"
-Michelle Berret, Poe MS
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Dawn Barnes, Westbriar ES
"Ms. Dawn Barnes, 6th grade teacher, is amazing. She integrated my son into Westbriar as a new student, and into his classes with ease, and worked with him and his challenges to make new friends, as well as his educational needs with ADHD, and being an AAP student, and his 504 plan, while also managing the rest of her classroom with such organizational prowess. She cares for all her students in the same manner, and she continues to coordinate all the classroom activities as well as keeps all the other teachers for her homeroom students organized and the parents informed. We are never not in the know! She is uber responsive and her mannerisms are reflective when my son returns home every day from school. He is so excited to go to school the next day to see her! She listens to the parents when they provide recommendations on how to be mindful of a student's progress and how to adjust for them to improve based on how they are at home and what works for them. She also listens to the students on what works for them and adjusts to their needs and sometimes their wants to make their educational journey a success and fun! She is a wonderful teacher!"
-a Westbriar ES parent
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Thomas Sweet, Burke School
"I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at Burke School and their principal Dr. Sweet. They are truly exceptional, providing unparalleled support to their students. Every day at Burke presents its own unique challenges, yet the staff consistently shows up with a positive attitude and a collaborative spirit that truly shines. Thanks to each of them, I’m deeply grateful for the valuable experience I’ve gained as an aspiring leader. Thank you, Burke Bears, for all that you do—keep being amazing and making a difference in our school!"
-Daniel Seymour, Brookfield ES
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Mary Sims, Fort Hunt ES
"It has been a wonderful experience to meet and collaborate with Ms. Sims. As one of our Site-Based Substitutes, she maintains a calm demeanor and possesses a wealth of knowledge when going into so many different classrooms. Ms. Sims is also incredibly supportive and provides great assistance to the students."
-Tracy Hutchison, Fort Hunt ES
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Natividad Ramos, Forte Center
"Natividad Ramos is a kind and helpful employee that helped us out at Colin Powell ES today - he's the real deal!"
-Lisa Dockins, Colin Powell ES
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Quincy Johnson, Maurice Leake & Natividad Ramos, Forte Center
"Sending some love to three fantastic warehouse employees, Maurice Leake, Quincy Johnson and Natividad Ramos for their professionalism and kindness today - they made things so much better for us at CPES today, and we are grateful!!"
-Lisa Dockins, Colin Powell ES
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Linda Simon, Lane ES
"Linda, thank you for leading the insightful session on Jason Learning at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to lead this session, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all of your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Janet McHale, Laurel Ridge ES
"Janet, thank you for leading the insightful session on Jason Learning at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to lead this session, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all of your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Carrie Cleary, Saratoga ES
"Carrie, thank you for leading the insightful session on Grades 5 and 6 Advanced Math Units at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. Participants were actively engaged in the 3-Act task, and learned strategies to implement with their students. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to lead this session, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all of your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Kimberley Griffin, Oak View ES
"I’d like to recognize Kimberley Griffin for all the hard work she has put in during the first quarter. Her dedication to her students has been clear from the very beginning. Her professionalism and commitment to growth have made a real impact on the classroom. It’s not easy being a first-year teacher, but she is handling it with grace and determination. Thank you for all you do—your hard work is noticed and deeply valued!"
-Katherine Hover, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Neva Apsche, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for your exceptional help with all things Science. Your institutional knowledge and selflessness are invaluable. We continue to lean on your knowledge and willingness to grow and evolve."
-Leigh Kelly, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Lori Darden, Dana Harlan, Susan Lattuca, Jayne Mejia & Kristin Middel, White Oaks ES
"Our family doesn't give praise easily, but it's so easy when speaking about the teachers and staff at White Oak Elementary School. During the pandemic, we placed our advanced learner in private school, but made a decision to return to White Oaks. Each one of these teachers truly went beyond to welcome our child back to the White Oaks community and ensure they assimilated well with their former friend groups and received advance placement services needed. They answered all of our questions and concerns, meeting with us and our former schoolteachers to ensure a great transition plan. Due to their efforts, our child is thriving academically, emotionally, and socially in a Fairfax County Public School. Their efforts are very self-evident when you look at our child's I-ready assessments, report cards, and how they are thriving in full-time advance placement services the last two years. Without the AAP program, more importantly these amazing teachers and staff, we wouldn't have returned to FCPS. They care so deeply for all children. They showed deep care for our family and child throughout the whole process in a unique situation when they didn't have to. I hope they know how much we care about them and what a difference they have made. Thank you for your service as teachers and public servants. The White Oaks community is strong and resilient, because of teachers like you, making it a special community for all learners and their families. "
-a White Oaks ES parent
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Brian Garvey, Debbie O' Rourke, John Scholla & Monica White, Justice HS
"The JHS Activities Office demonstrated exceptional dedication to community engagement and sustainability through two impactful events. Their Recycling Fair, organized in partnership with community businesses and student volunteers, fostered environmental responsibility by collecting 24 bikes for Safe Rides to School, shredding 4500lbs of documents, and gathering 7-8 large bins of electronics for recycling. This event, with over 180 cars participating, showcased the power of collaboration and community spirit. The following weekend, the Activities Office further solidified its commitment to community by hosting a vibrant Pyramid Night, welcoming students from all schools in the pyramid for a Trick or Treat, team tunnel run, and spirited performances. These events, fueled by the Activities Office's leadership and the enthusiastic participation of students and community members, created a truly special atmosphere and exemplified the positive impact JHS has on those around them."
-Jenny Collins, FCPS Community Member
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Stephanie Dymond, Haycock ES
"We are ever so grateful for Ms. Dymond's continued kindness and invaluable support, as it has made a world of difference for our daughter as she settles into 2nd grade. I am sure we will continue to have her as a part of our ongoing dinner conversations and routine. We hear of her especially on the days she is not in attendance at school. In a way, Ms. Dymond and “her teachings” have become an integral part of our family this year. Even our 4 yr. old is looking forward to meeting “her” Ms. Dymond. Ms. Dymond's enthusiasm and dedication for learning is contagious and inspirational. We just want to say thank you for all that she does, and we are appreciative that our daughter has access to such a wonderful teacher."
-a Haycock ES parent
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Ken Junge, Colvin Run ES
"As a new family at Colvin Run, we are truly inspired by the exceptional leadership Mr. Junge brings forth. His genuine commitment to connecting with each student creates a nurturing and supportive environment. We truly felt welcomed with open arms by him and his dedicated staff. I have never seen a principal be as involved and invested in his students as he is. We are so grateful to be part of this caring and engaged community, Thank you Mr. Junge!"
-a Colvin Run ES parent
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Jennifer Doble, Colvin Run ES
"Starting at a new school comes with uncertainty, but we couldn’t have hoped for a warmer, more supportive welcome than the one our daughter has received from Ms. Doble. Ms. Doble's commitment to fostering growth, confidence, and connection has made our first quarter a truly joyful experience. We feel incredibly fortunate to have such an inspiring teacher with excellent communication with parents and students, and we are genuinely grateful for the positive impact she makes every day."
-a Colvin Run ES parent
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Luke Donald & Amy Hard, Fairfax HS
"I would love to send a special thank you to Academy Counselor, Luke Donald and Career Experience Specialist, Amy Hard from Fairfax High School. By the end of the session, it was clear that the students felt more confident and excited about their upcoming high school journey. They came to speak with our 8th grade Young Scholars about Fairfax Academy and did an outstanding job! With a perfect blend of enthusiasm, clarity, and creativity, they made what could have been an overwhelming topic engaging and accessible to middle school students. Not only did they educate them about class choices but also inspired them to think about how those choices could help them pursue their passions, explore new interests, and set the foundation for their future careers."
-Jessica Galuten, Johnson MS
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Ahmad Zadeh, Langley HS
"Mr. Zadeh is the most kind and compassionate teacher. He has motivated my very humanities-centered daughter to love AP Statistics. We are thankful that this rigorous course is not added to her stress, but rather something she looks forward to! He is amazing and deserves to be recognized."
-a Langley HS parent
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Jenny Collins, Frost MS
"When Jenny Collins arrived at Frost, she was faced with a formidable task: replacing Emily Sweeney. Jenny took on the challenge and made it look easy. When she first spoke to the students in Lift Off and staff during Teacher Work Week, there was no stress, chiding, or forced cheer. She simply relayed the information in a smooth, welcoming, organized way -- with some interesting background info about time in her native Ireland mixed in. Since then, her Soar Through Tech messages have helped highlight info like End of Quarter dates, deadlines, support sessions for posting grades, time-saving tips, seasonal podcasts, accessible resources, and student-peer feedback. An advantage to her newsletter that I don't remember being true of ones in previous years is the archive. To return to a particular tip as it becomes relevant, you don't need to do an Outlook scavenger hunt. The link to that week's newsletter is a doc that contains all prior ones. Any time she's provided individual support, I've been struck by how quick it's been. When I asked about a sharing setting, photo list, attendance list, and Schoology group, the follow-up was close to immediate. When a projector wasn't working for PE, there she was in the weight room a minute later, with a long cord. I also appreciate the numerous times she's gone out of her way to comment and recognize me -- for 5K, SCA, and Halloween posts. Years from now, when she moves on Frost, there will be another tough challenge: replacing Jenny Collins."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Kristin Bretz, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"When Kristin Bretz arrived at Frost, she was faced with a formidable task: replacing John Greenwood. Kristin took on the challenge and made it look easy. When she arrived two summers ago, the building was still being renovated. I came to school to retrieve equipment, the doors malfunctioned, and it seemed like I'd be stuck between hallways, unable to leave. When I showed her who I was, she warmly told me not to worry, got me out, and saved the day. Since then, day saving has been a regular occurrence. Last April, she rescued my Outlook, which had lost its mind. She nimbly navigated multiple rules, threads, folders, and laptops. I was afraid random batches of messages had been deleted. She found them and fixed the settings, so it hasn't been an issue since then. Last Tuesday, the tenth time I saw the sub email wig out, I wondered if it could even be fixed -- or if asking about it would seem too minor. When I came to her, Kristin provided an immediate solution: open the message in a separate window. In between, there have been countless student laptop issues and projector connection problems she's helped solve. She also organized help for a colleague in need, facilitating a GoFundMe and gift cards to Target, Walmart, Costco, Chick-fil-a, Jersey Mike's, and Papa Johns. Years from now, when she moves on Frost, there will be another tough challenge: replacing Kristin Bretz."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Ashley Martin, Frost MS
"Science is not my forte. I love aspects of it: the way vivid examples and grand principles shape the universe. When it comes to the nitty gritty of it, however, when I try to follow the steps of the Scientific Method in a lab, it's brutal. My brain shuts down. It's with anxiety then that I stepped into Ashley Martin's class as an IA this fall -- an Honors class at that, presumably with students and a rigor I wouldn't be able to keep up with. Fortunately, Ashley did for me what she did for all the students that block. She made me feel welcome, comfortable, and accountable. She said hello in the hall, upon entering the room, and started every class with a few minutes for students and staff members to share how their weekends went, what their plans were for the following weekend, etc. Some might think sharing would be a waste of time, lead to extended tangents, or force content to be scrunched in and lopped off at the end. None of this was true in Ashley's class. The sharing built a community and motivated us to tear through the content afterward. The color-coded agenda, whiteboard reminders, mix of slides and clips, and overall organization made it flow from there. Before I had to escort a student at the end of the period, I noticed that lessons did end at a natural time -- no scrunching or lopping to speak of. 'Smart' boards and goggle straps didn't always cooperate, but her honesty and self-deprecation turned them into net positives. It turned us into war buddies -- 31 of us in the trenches, ready to take on the tech world! On a personal level, I appreciate the way she included me in lesson examples, paper distribution, Kahoot, Schoology, Schoology Google Drive, and team-teacher emails. She mentioned me as someone students could go to if they had a question and sent a Superstar email after I subbed. Moreover, she expressed interest in my PSAT/PMAT link for Mitosis, Neil DeGrasse Tyson's Cosmos, and Will Ferrell's Will and Harper. Before the ever-shifting IA schedule moved me to another class, I'm glad she acted on suggestions I had for the seating chart. Cooking may not be Ashley's forte, but teaching is. Her teaching matches the temperature of any steak she'd dared to make: well done!"
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Patrick Murphy, Frost MS
"Patrick Murphy has always had strengths. He came in with a solid foundation in classroom management, workload management, and history itself. His writing ability, wry humor, and knack for improv elevated the material and helped students connect with the subject. It's hard to forget sharecropping or The Cold War when you have a cruel taskmaster hoarding your beans and bellowing across the Berlin Wall. Amendments, tariffs, and Westward Expansion are far less dry filtered through his dry wit. After the first few years, many teachers settle into a rhythm and go on autopilot. Patrick may now be a veteran teacher, but he has not stuck with inveterate habits. In recent years, he has gone out of his way to be inclusive. He spoke movingly about gender and race at two faculty meetings after Covid. He resolved to his undue/undeniable privilege to help others. Last April, he wrote a note recognizing Robin and Caryn, our administrative assistants. This wasn't any ordinary note, but a ten-sentence essay that ended with, "I wish I could give you a billion superstar cards, but Bower would chastise me for breaking the superstar card economy." Around the same time in April, when I entered his class for support, there was a transformation. In previous years, IA utilization was minimal. Chances to help read, provide meaningful connections, or participate in class jokes were rare and required IA interjection. This year, Patrick encouraged all of these, and it paid off. Student behavior was better because there were multiple empowered adults in the room. Lesson flow and rapport improved as well. The same collaborative prowess he'd become known for in Bower classes became true in small-group classes. Even better: Patrick went out his way to pay it forward. He reached out to the department about sharing his experience: to create a guide for future teachers and IAs. Who knows if the Commanders will continue their climb – whether they will be the 2018 Caps, 2019 Nats, or . . . every other Commanders team for decades. I know one of the team’s biggest fans will continue his climb though. Patrick will leave his mark."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Allie Ojjeh, Frost MS
"If you were to make an anagram of Allie Ojjeh, two of the words in it would be "Hi" and "Jell-o." Both make sense. Ojjeh greets and is consistently friendly to students and staff. Her "hi" is not just lip service. She's the first teacher I can remember who emailed her IAs at the beginning of the year to welcome them and arrange a meeting to discuss the first week and what we can add to class. A sign outside her door also says "I'm So Glad You're Here." Moreover, she makes every effort to inform staff members who may be interested in FCFT how they can join. "Jell-o" fits Ojjeh because she can be colorful (in hair and speech), sweet, and adaptable. She changes form depending on student need. Two students in a particular period have shown they respond well to an especially gentle approach -- and one to an especially assertive one. The others are fine in between. She knows just how to adapt her tone to each. The remaining letters in an anagram of her name spell JAE. On YouTube, this is apparently an acronym for "Just About Everything," which fits all she accounts for when absent. See an excerpt from this sample sub plan: "I've included a bell schedule, rosters, and health information for all of my even day classes. There is also a copy of my Schoology page for your reference to see how it's organized (in regards to folders, follow the blue folders to stay current). In Schoology, I have posted video directions, slides, activities, and more. It is all ready to go for you for 2nd period, my self contained classes. There are also notes on the white board at the front of the classroom, Purple is for 2nd period and Green is for 4th period." Ojjeh's class is a well-oiled, color-coordinated machine -- even when she's absent. A final strength is her ability to pause for teachable moments -- ones that improve students understanding of race, gender, ethnicity, orientation, and 9/11. That may not fit "Hi," "Jell-o," or "JAE," but it's yet another reason Allie Ojjeh is a valuable member of the Frost community."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Jenny Murphy, Frost MS
"My interactions with Jenny Murphy have been limited. This is probably a good thing. The more I worked with her, the longer this message would become. Her animation, social skills, and tendency to go the extra mile are off the charts. If I was in her class consistently, this message could end up being ten-plus paragraphs, and readers would collapse in exhaustion... Being serious, though, she is amazing. The first evidence I saw of this: the way she transformed the bathroom. School bathrooms tend to run from antiseptic to heinous. They're places you need to go but never anywhere you want to be. Jenny changed that with festive decorations, scents, and messages. She turned the lavatory between the two art rooms into a third art room. Each holiday and season seem to bring a whole different theme. At the moment, it's "Happy Fall Y'all." This means apple-honey soap to wash our hands, several multi-color 'leaves,' and 21 messages on poster paper from staff members sharing their favorite thing about fall. Arguably the most impressive aspect of the room is that, as far I know, no one prompted her to do it. It wasn't a Social Committee agenda item or admin directive; it was all Jenny. The opening of the first day supporting a student in Jenny's afternoon class was remarkable. The flow from a just-for-fun flavor-of-gum warmup question into the main lesson was seamless. Every student was engaged and intent to share answers. This includes several students who could have starred in The Breakfast Club, if every actor played the role of Judd Nelson. When these particular students moved into individual kitchens, inevitable misbehavior started. One quick reminder, though, and it was back on task. One student in particular, who I was not sure was physically capable of apologizing, said sorry without prompting. The final indication the first day that Jenny had it all made me laugh out loud. Seamless as it was, the warmup had one minor thing missing. She got gum flavor answers from all the students, mentioned her own, and moved on. It wasn’t a big deal, but for someone so committed to community, it felt off. Then, incredibly, five minutes later, in the middle of another topic, she said, “Oh, wait, Mr. Verbicar, I’m sorry. What was your gum flavor?” HA! She read my mind and made my day. I can't remember what I said as my flavor, what anyone else said, and what students then made in kitchens. I remember how Jenny Murphy made me feel, and everyone else feel, and that’s what matters."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Mark Perlin, Frost MS
"A 2018 Cuemath study indicated that 89 percent of parents feel that math is the hardest subject their children study. A 2011 A-to-Z Teachers survey indicated that 41 percent of teachers think math is the hardest subject to teach, 12 points higher than the number two answer. If you Google the topic, the most entries on the first page mention math, by a 3 to 1 margin. How lucky then that Mark Perlin is there for Frost students. When students talk about teachers with their peers, it can fall into two categories. Some teachers are deemed 'so cool,' often because kids can 'do anything in class,' talk with their friends, play on their devices, etc. Others are deemed uncool for being unduly harsh or strict. The uniform reaction I've heard from kids about Mr. Perlin is an ideal middle -- not 'mid,' but a 'chill, good teacher.' He keeps order without ordering, provides genuine assistance. A student who had him at Laurel Ridge was excited he was now a teacher at Frost. Part of his success with math comes from his support of students outside the classroom: in Chess Club, the Ping Ping Tournament, and Student-Faculty Pickleball/Volleyball. On a personal level, I appreciate his affability in the hall, at recess, and at Happy Hours. His Survivor fantasy league response time is also way better than the procrastinating masses. Moreover, it was impressive to have his support for kickball before I even sent a prompt. Frost students, staff, and parents may not find math or middle school easy, but with Mark here, everyone is better off."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Joo Choe, Frost MS
"Joo Choe is on point about everything. She was the first IA at orientation week, the first at arrive the staff workday, and first to finish the 7,000 trainings on MyPDE. It is not simply a matter of speed or punctuality. Choe reads and notices details. She was the first to make it through the Alcatraz escape room that was the seizure training. Once she cracked the Red Book question, there was no stopping her. Being driven can sometimes mean being robotic -- or abrasive. Choe is neither of these things. She laughs, smiles, cares for, and puts at ease those around her. She often works with an extremely challenging population, so her coworkers appreciate those skills. When students yell, throw, and elope, her ability to mitigate and de-escalate is invaluable. Her approach works in simpler situations as well. When scheduling meant I had to take her place in a class, a student came up to me and asked where she had gone. The teacher of that class has a strong personality, so an IA wouldn't necessarily make a strong impression. Her support clearly did however – the student genuinely missed her! I recently found out that Choe is studying to become a special ed teacher, so it's only a matter of time before we miss her as well. Until that time, I'm grateful we have her!"
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Maurice Hirsh, South Lakes HS
"As a former colleague and from a current parent perspective...Maurice is a bright spot in the SLHS community. He has a kindness about him that radiates into his interactions with students and staff. Last year was Maurice's first year at SLHS. It's always hard to be the new person, but he fit right in. Working with him in our sub-school, I was able to learn by his example. I was able to look at challenges from a different perspective and approach interactions differently. The patience that he showed with his "new" batch of students was amazing. He quickly became the "go-to" person for many of them, including some that weren't even assigned to him. Maurice is fluent in Spanish. I am not. As an ESOL counselor, that is an important aspect of his job. Many of the students would come into the our office needing assistance when he wasn't available. He helped me to begin to learn simple phrases that would help me in assuring that the students would feel comfortable communicating their need in his absence. He encouraged me and quizzed me on my knowledge, helping to build my confidence. From a parent perspective, he was wonderful with my own student. She would wait for me to finish my day and Maurice would always engage her in conversation about school and outside of school activities. Over the course of a few weeks, she became overly anxious about her Reading SOL for grade 11. She was stressing over it and Maurice would talk her through it. She passed it, undoubtedly in part from advice he gave her. She came to share the news and he was just as excited as she was. She felt seen and appreciated the care that he showed her. He made her feel like her stress and anxiety were not "silly teenager normalcy" but validated that even as grown-ups we feel that, too. She still talks about Mr. Hirsch's kindness. SLHS is so lucky to have him!"
-Melissa LaBare, Herndon MS
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Jenny Murphy, Frost MS
"My interactions with Jenny Murphy have been limited. This is probably a good thing. The more I worked with her, the longer this message would become. Her animation, social skills, and tendency to go the extra mile are off the charts. If I was in her class consistently, this message could end up being ten-plus paragraphs, and readers would collapse in exhaustion... Being serious, though, she is amazing. The first evidence I saw of this: the way she transformed the bathroom. School bathrooms tend to run from antiseptic to heinous. They're places you need to go but never anywhere you want to be. Jenny changed that with festive decorations, scents, and messages. She turned the lavatory between the two art rooms into a third art room. Each holiday and season seem to bring a whole different theme. At the moment, it's "Happy Fall Y'all." This means apple-honey soap to wash our hands, several multi-color 'leaves,' and 21 messages on poster paper from staff members sharing their favorite thing about fall. Arguably the most impressive aspect of the room is that, as far I know, no one prompted her to do it. It wasn't a Social Committee agenda item or admin directive; it was all Jenny. The opening of the first day supporting a student in Jenny's afternoon class was remarkable. The flow from a just-for-fun flavor-of-gum warmup question into the main lesson was seamless. Every student was engaged and intent to share answers. This includes several students who could have starred in The Breakfast Club, if every actor played the role of Judd Nelson. When these particular students moved into individual kitchens, inevitable misbehavior started. One quick reminder, though, and it was back on task. One student in particular, who I was not sure was physically capable of apologizing, said sorry without prompting. The final indication the first day that Jenny had it all made me laugh out loud. Seamless as it was, the warmup had one minor thing missing. She got gum flavor answers from all the students, mentioned her own, and moved on. It wasn’t a big deal, but for someone so committed to community, it felt off. Then, incredibly, five minutes later, in the middle of another topic, she said, “Oh, wait, Mr. Verbicar, I’m sorry. What was your gum flavor?” HA! She read my mind and made my day. I can't remember what I said as my flavor, what anyone else said, and what students then made in kitchens. I remember how Jenny Murphy made me feel, and everyone else feel, and that’s what matters."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Megan Fowle, Frost MS
"A 2018 Cuemath study indicated that 89 percent of parents feel that math is the hardest subject their children study. A 2011 A-to-Z Teachers survey indicated that 41 percent of teachers think math is the hardest subject to teach, 12 points higher than the number two answer. If you Google the topic, the most entries on the first page mention math, by a 3 to 1 margin. How lucky then that Megan Fowle is there for Frost students. Megan is far from a pushover -- she is no shrinking violet. Any student thinks they are going to slack off, goof off, or get away with less than their best in math will soon think again. Students genuinely like and respect her though. She's tough but fair, and can give and take jokes. A surplus of ramen may partially explain her class bringing a record 421 items for a food drive, but only partially. On quizzes, tests, and beyond, they want to perform for her. It's the reason she was once chosen to lead the Frost summer program. On a personal level, I appreciate her emails after I subbed for her classes and shared memories at the Woodson football game, Student-Faculty Basketball/Volleyball/Pickleball, Sweetwater Tavern, PJ Skidoos, Glory Days, and Auld Shebeen. Frost students, staff, and parents may not find math and middle school easy, but with Megan here, everyone is better off."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Patricia Johnsen, Frost MS
"A 2018 Cuemath study indicated that 89 percent of parents feel that math is the hardest subject their children study. A 2011 A-to-Z Teachers survey indicated that 41 percent of teachers think math is the hardest subject to teach, 12 points higher than the number two answer. If you Google the topic, the most entries on the first page mention math, by a 3 to 1 margin. How lucky then that Trisha Johnsen is there for Frost students. To colleagues and kids, Trisha's clear approach is positive. Virtually any time I've seen her in the hall, during teacher work days, at Happy Hours, or after I've covered her classes, she's been warm and appreciative. Maybe the example that most impressed me, however, was a bit tougher. I'd been asking about a student who has presented frequent challenges. It'd be understandable if her only response had been a sigh, eye roll, or snicker -- the behavior across the board had been that tough. Instead, she mentioned how firm she'd been with him, holding him to account, and following up with supportive feedback whenever he improved. Hearing of specific progress he'd made and goals he'd met after interventions was impressive -- and offered hope for strides in other classes. Frost students, staff, and parents may not find math easy, but with Trisha here, everyone is better off."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Eve York, Frost MS
"If you've been a teacher at Frost for 5, 10, or 20 years, students who run at random times are still a challenge. Same goes for ones who yell, hiss, and throw objects. Managing such behavior can try even the most experienced teacher. Every time I've been in Eve York's classroom, it's been remarkable. Students who have displayed behaviors like that elsewhere have not in her room. More impressive still: Eve is able to manage that as a first-year teacher! Whenever I enter towards the end of a period, I half expect there to be chaos. Math can be tough, and it would match the group. Yet there all the kids, Eve, and a series of IAs are, quietly, pleasantly finishing work. Part of it is her manner. The warm, encouraging way she speaks sets the tone, and students follow. This includes a student who I heard say "please," "thank you," and "ma'am" for the first time! It's also apparent that Eve puts in the work to make class run smoothly. The labelled, numbered, color-coded white boards, poster papers, and starred bullet points fit this. The walls do as well. They contain vibrant student artwork, a Calming Corner poster, a Let's Take A Deep Breath poster, a comfy bean bag chair, and a laminated guide to 12 calming techniques. I'm not sure if Eve will continue being a math teacher, special ed teacher, counselor, or all of the above. Based on this start, though, whatever she ends up doing, I'm sure she'll be successful!"
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Adele Jackson, Frost MS
"Anyone would want a free gift card. I was happy then a few weeks ago when I won a $10 one for support in PE. I was honestly happier, however, that Adele Jackson won -- and would have given up mine so she could get hers. Adele has had arguably the toughest assignment in the school -- one that experienced teachers at Frost and outside of Frost have tapped out of. She has handled it like a pro, taking on combined classes, self-contained classes, whatever best serves the needs of the school, parents, and students. A rare break in her day is when students have PE. This is ironic since the pacing, flinging, and sprinting that come with the population could turn any period into an additional PE! Through it all, she maintains a positive, patient, firm approach -- using a token board where it would help, stepping back and letting a student decompress where that would. She also keeps tabs on any possible safety issue. When dismissal became tense one day, Adele made a quick, smart judgment. She had another staff member stay in her room, so she could locate a missing item. Moreover, I appreciate how she's always friendly when I enter her room. If I had to manage what she has to, it would be hard for me to have enough bandwidth to be welcoming. Somehow, though, she can, moments after an outburst. This message is not worth $10, or any actual money, but hopefully it provides some of the pay she deserves."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Rema Cancino, Frost MS
"Frost has a ton of committees: Middle School Council, Frost Instructional Committee, MTSS, Professional Development and Learning, Tier 1 Behavior Wellness, Equity, SIMR, FSAC, Get 2 Green, and Social Committee. For years, fun as it sounds, Social Committee has not been easy. Events have been great, but the same cannot be said about the number of volunteers. Without strong, committed, inventive leadership, it could have collapsed. Fortunately, someone with exactly that type of leadership arrived: Rema! Her new approaches and vibrant messages made an impression. Instead of Social Committee, it became Social Club. Beyond messages, there have been Instagram posts. For years, there have been a barrage of requests to pay dues. Since Rema started, those requests have been accompanied by raffles. Her emails are also far from automated. They’re color-coded with bullets, puns, and pictures. Those tools can become too busy or distracting. In Rema’s case, they enhance her points and make them easier to remember. They’re electronic versions of the rubber “welcome quack” ducks she placed in everyone’s mailboxes to start the school year. Moreover, I appreciate that she went out of her way to secure my VIP seat / package at Woodson’s production of 1776. I’m not sure if Rema came up with the clever branding of Happy Hour as 9th Period, but she embodies it. No matter what challenges she has to deal with, she doesn’t just punch the clock. She goes above and beyond. She makes Frost better before the bell — and long after."
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Darius Broadus & Christopher Moxness, Sideburn Support Center
"We’re no longer cold thanks due to the dedication of OFM HVAC Technicians Darius Broadus and Chris Moxness! Our heat at the old farmhouse has been spotty this year and we have experienced several cold mornings, Chris and Darius responded to our work order on the same day of submission and made some adjustments to the unit that afternoon. They returned the following morning and found the unit was still having issues, so they dug in deep and disassembled and serviced the whole gas furnace. I had the opportunity to speak with them while they worked and it was an absolute pleasure, the gentlemen are great examples of a premier workforce and care about the work that they are doing. I’m looking forward to reliable heat this winter season and am appreciative for OFM’s maintenance operations!"
-Ian Trumbore, Sideburn Support Center
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Tara Harvan, Lynbrook ES
"Tara, thank you for leading the insightful session on Document Based Questioning at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to do this, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all of your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Kerry Urbatch, Woodlawn ES
"Kerry, thank you for leading the insightful session on Jason Learning at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked for a volunteer to lead this session, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all of your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Bridget Healey, Rejane Martins, Christene Nichols, Katherine Richter & Eliana Sanchez, Irving MS
"On November 4th, Irving Middle School hosted professional development sessions to support our SIIP and focused on vocabulary instruction in all contents. Katie Richter led the planning of the entire PD day and put together a phenomenal morning of learning for our staff. The presenters: Katie Richter, Bridget Healey, Rejane Martins, Christy Nichols, and Eliana Sanchez, took the time to design meaningful sessions that had resources and strategies our teachers could turn around and use immediately in their classrooms. The session lead by Rejane, Christy, and Eliana modeled instructional strategies and provided useful information to understand and support our multi-language learners. Teachers at Irving has positive feedback on the PD the received. We are so lucky to have these dedicated educators on our staff that are willing to help all of our teacher improve their practices."
-Sara Padilla, Irving MS
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Melissa Paris, Union Mill ES
"Melissa, thank you for leading the insightful session on Advanced Math at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to do this, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Alex Nietert, Fort Belvoir Upper ES
"Alex, thank you for leading the insightful session on Advanced Math at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to do this, you did not hesitate. We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Tara Harvan, Lynbrook ES
"Tara, thank you for leading the insightful session on DBQ (Document Based Questioning) at the recent Quarter 2 Full-Time Cohort. Your leadership and expertise were instrumental in creating a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. The thoughtful presentation you prepared for teachers implementing Full-Time AAP in their schools enabled them to engage with this resource in authentic and practical ways. When asked to do this, you did not hesitate . We appreciate the time and effort you dedicated to creating this learning experience, especially with your already busy schedule. We truly appreciate all the time, expertise, and dedication you put into making this session a success! Thank you for all your continued leadership to our division."
-Samira Newman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Dara Wein, Mount Vernon Woods ES
"Ms. Wein covers a 4th grade class on a weekly basis for arrival and Morning Meeting. She has truly built strong relationships with the students and has kept their routine intact. Thank you for all you do to support these students."
-Kristen Robinson, Mount Vernon Woods ES
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Paul Fink, Caroline Parris, Amber Greve, Stephanie Graham, Kaitlyn Shaw, Tara Skahill, Donna Higgins, Kristin Lillis, Jana McLeod, Kelly Brown & Jill Hunt, Annandale HS
"Thank you, the Annandale PACE Classroom teachers, and staff! This group have truly outdone themselves, fostering a vibrant and entrepreneurial learning environment for our students. Through innovative projects like their drink business PACE POURS, staff mail delivery, and a crayon business all students are getting to contribute their individual skills in their own way. Students may be taking drink orders, making the coffee, delivering drink orders, or collecting payment via invoices. Students are developing essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and financial literacy. It's inspiring to witness the collaborative spirit among the dedicated staff. The support starts with the administration helping to gain funding for the class curriculum and the Annandale staff who donated items to the classrooms such as a fitness bike and kitchen mini appliances. They have seamlessly integrated these business ventures into the school becoming part of the Annandale Atoms community. The passion of individual teachers was shown off when we toured the classrooms where teachers highlighted their individual passions such as Fink Fitness, mail delivery, crayon business, lamination, and PACE Pours. Who knew that working could be so much fun! The support of the staff including administration, teachers, PHTA’s, PHA’s, SLP’s, OT’s, PT’s, Adapted Curriculum, CTS, and ETR’s make this a real team effort. Your classes are making learning engaging and meaningful. Thank you!"
-Judith Lieberman, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Tobe Pesature, Sangster ES
"Tobe Pesature is not only an incredible teammate, but a remarkable kindergarten teacher. My child is lucky enough to be one of her students and he is thriving with her as his teacher this year. She finds the good in every child, loves them like they are her own, and is always so professional with parents and staff. Sangster Elementary School and FCPS are so fortunate to have her working with our team!"
-Bethany Layton, Sangster ES
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Nathan Miles, Frost MS
"Around the time Nate Miles graduated Frost as a student, the quarterback of his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers was under pressure. It mirrored pressure Nate himself faced when he joined Frost as a staff member. In a Monday Night Football game against the Tampa Bay Bucs in 2016, Ben Roethlisberger had to perform — immediately. He had 75 yards to cover and minimal time to do it. Calmly, decisively, over the next 9 plays, Roethlisberger marched down the field. With a 1-yard touchdown pass to Ryan Switzer, he completed what a journalist called a “picture-perfect 2-minute drill.” Ben completed his 2-minute drill in 69 seconds! 8 years later, when Nate joined Frost as an IA, he faced Roethlisberger pressure. He was tasked with supporting one-and-one and then in groups among the toughest kids at Frost — students who prove challenging to veterans. His 75-yard march included a few sprints: down every Frost hallway, field, and into the neighborhood. Wherever he was needed, Nate was there, showing himself to firm, friendly, whatever the play called for. I’ve valued his help at Sports Club / Flag Football, his participation in the IA Fall Party, and the fact that he responds to every individual/group message — often with gratitude. When he’s able to do something or not do something, he clarifies — an underrated trait I appreciate. I’d appreciate if my Giants or Jets could have the Steelers’ 6-2 record, but that may be too much to ask — even for Nate…"
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Amanda Morgan, Frost MS
"Technically, Amanda Morgan does not need to be recognized. She's been nominated for numerous awards in the past, and she's earned the respect of students, teachers, and staff for more than a decade. Her commitment stands out, though, and has been there from the beginning, so it deserves to be mentioned. The first chance she had to be part of the Frost community, she took it. It was in the summer, off contract hours, in Arlington not Fairfax, and none of her fellow new staff members were there. Yet, Amanda came out to Caribbean Breeze and made an impression. That commitment has continued in many ways since then: attempting to find a missing necklace, attending a holiday chorus concert, and sending a shout-out afterward. She also put in extra hours at Shrek, Matilda, Puffs, and the Woodson art show. Her own kids pitched in, even before they became Frost students. During her tenure as SCA rep, she brought cool things we'd never had before, including a pie-throwing contest and school-wide rock-paper-scissor tournament. We've had plenty of school dances before, but not many that kids kept talking about the next day. This fall, when the SCA moderator had to leave, she leapt back in. I’m not sure if she consulted with a zoo to have a coyote visit Frost the same day as Wild West Wednesday, but it sounds plausible... Moreover, I appreciate her amusing texts, her reactions to my In-House messages, the time she gave up her room for an (epic) Poetry Club session, and a recent comment in the hall about positive male role models. If I were a student in her class, I'm not sure even she could salvage my meager skills as an artist. As a colleague, though, I'm glad to have her!
-Colin Verbicar, Frost MS
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Alex Winiewicz, Braddock ES
"Alex Winiewicz, one of the Physical Education Teachers at Braddock Elementary School, goes above and beyond each and every day to show that he cares about all Braddock students, staff, and families in so many ways. Of particular note is the way Alex greets students as they enter our school building each morning. While he greets all students joyfully by name and wishes their parents and siblings a wonderful day, he is especially gifted at meeting those students who have the most difficulty transitioning to school. He holds hands, brings out a bubble machine or stuffed animal, slings pink unicorn backpacks over his shoulder while walking crying students to class, communicates in Spanish for those who are more comforted that way, and makes every child feel seen, welcomed, and known. He is always thinking ahead when dealing with students with challenging behaviors and jumps in anytime additional support is needed. At dismissal, he knows all students’ families and exuberantly welcomes returning siblings while ensuring everyone is safe and going home with the correct people. He is a true treasure, and I want him to know how much he is appreciated."
-Judith Swoboda, Braddock ES
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Kerrie Turner, Thoreau MS
"Kerrie Turner, a school counselor at Thoreau Middle School, embodies the spirit of FCPS Cares. Her relentless dedication to supporting students is truly inspiring. Kerrie is an exceptional communicator who builds strong relationships with students, teachers, and families. She goes above and beyond to ensure students have their basic needs met, enabling them to fully engage in their education. Her recent act of kindness, personally picking up and delivering a rent support check to ensure it arrived on time for a family in need, exemplifies her selflessness and commitment. Kerrie's unwavering support and compassionate actions make her an invaluable asset to the Thoreau community. She is a shining example of what it means to care and is most deserving of an FCPS CARES."
-Gabi Ritchey, Thoreau MS
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