FCPS CARES - September 2024
To recognize an employee with an FCPS Cares, please visit our submission page.
To view past submissions, please visit our previous submissions page.
Felicia Hamilton, Gatehouse Admin Center
"You may be aware that FCPS brought on about 100 international teachers this year. These teachers come from the Philippines, Barbados, Colombia, Jamaica, Kenya, Argentina and so many other places. They bring new perspectives and ideas to our classrooms and face many hurdles to get her. Hurdles like obtaining housing and transportation and generally navigating in a new country. Another hurdle they face is obtaining fair credit and car loans as they have no credit history in America. Yesterday afternoon Apple FCU set up at Gatehouse to help these employees with loan applications. Apple processed more than 120 loan applications for the international teachers yesterday. They will be receiving credit cards, car loans and lines of credit with a big thanks owed to Felicia Hamilton who helped make the event possible. She sent out the invitation/communication regarding the event to the international teachers, secured the space at Gatehouse, coordinated with Educate Fairfax to have dinner in the form of pizza and stayed until every last teacher was taken care of at 8:40pm. I'm sure it was a very long day for Felicia but she remained high energy and ever positive as we worked to get everyone seen. Thank you!"
-Katie Knight, Apple Federal Credit Union
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Jennifer Conner, Gatehouse Admin Center
"You may be aware that FCPS brought on about 100 international teachers this year. These teachers come from the Philippines, Barbados, Colombia, Jamaica, Kenya, Argentina and so many other places. They bring new perspectives and ideas to our classrooms and face many hurdles to get her. Hurdles like obtaining housing and transportation and generally navigating in a new country. Another hurdle they face is obtaining fair credit and car loans as they have no credit history in America. Yesterday afternoon Apple FCU set up at Gatehouse to help these employees with loan applications. They needed a representative from HR on-site to help with access to contracts, a stipulation as a part of the loan process. Jennifer Conner went above and beyond. She assisted with more than 60 employees who needed their contracts from 4pm until well after 8pm that evening. It must have been a very long day for her and it was certainly beyond the normal scope of her job duties. Apple processed more than 120 loan applications for the international teachers yesterday. They will be receiving credit cards, car loans and lines of credit with a big thanks owed to Jennifer Conner and her flexibility and positivity."
-Katie Knight, Apple Federal Credit Union
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Alison Costanza, Nancy Sprague Technology Center
"Alison has been tirelessly trying to fix an issue with an application. She is super pleasant and extremely quick to reply and offer suggestions! Thank you Alison!"
-Jenn Scott, Montrose ALC
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Rachel Le, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"Don't call her Ms. Rachel Le, call her the Renaissance Woman, because this lady DOES IT ALL. For now, let’s stick with Ms. Le as I share just how exceptional she is in managing the ISAEP program. This program supports at-risk students in completing career counseling, technology training, personal finance education, and preparation for the four exams which comprise the GED. Given the VDOE’s specific protocols for under-age participants, meticulous record-keeping is essential. The ISAEP program is a hidden gem, and Ms. Le plays a crucial role in educating guidance staff and families about it. Her patience and dedication help build strong relationships with counselors, fostering trust and support for students on this alternative path. This year, we’re celebrating NINETEEN 2024 graduates from ISAEP East—a testament to Ms. Le’s hard work and commitment. While that is an OUTSTANDING accomplishment, it is rarely understood from the outside that for every student who qualifies for the program and completes, there are half a dozen more who Ms. Le has communicated with, coordinated testing for, and assessed their fit for the program. One student who returned to finish the program this year described Ms. Le as “helpful and inspirational,” setting her apart from the teachers he has had. Students and families are often apprehensive about "alternative school", but Ms. Le’s warm demeanor, exuberant laugh, and genuine desire to connect with students help dissolve their worries. They see how much she cares noticing small changes in their demeanor in the classroom or making a daily morning wake-up call over and over without fail. As Ms. Le's new teammate, I am grateful for her competence and guidance with the intricate student application process and extensive data collection, recording, and communication. Her patience extends to her peers and she understands that mistakes are part of learning. Ms. Le’s enthusiasm motivates students and makes her a worthy candidate for recognition for her outstanding contributions to FCPS, its students, and their futures."
-Jude Welling Browns, ISAEP East - Graham Rd
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Meghan Kelleher, Providence ES
"I’d like to recognize Meghan Kelleher, an assistant principal at Providence Elementary. Meghan’s patience and compassion with students during the toughest moments is awe inspiring. Her ability to see what a child needs in any moment is spot on; moreover, she’s able to recognize a student’s strengths in those moments. She is both a safe space for kiddos and a respected authority figure in the building because she creates genuine relationships with students. In addition, Meghan listens and supports her staff with an empathetic ear as well as an actionable plan. I feel lucky to work with Meghan Kelleher."
-Stephanie McCrone, Providence ES
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Abby Taylor, Centre Ridge ES
"I need to say a big kudos and thank you to my amazing colleague/partner/teammate Abby Taylor! I've been out sick and she's stepped up to the plate (baseball theme!) in more ways than one. She did absolutely fabulous presenting for back to school night, always working on our expanding case loads and prepping for the days. She's incredibly efficient, reliable and loyal. Best preschool team!!"
-Sharon Santo Domingo, Centre Ridge ES
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Simon Tham, Ji Ahn & Nitin Bhatia, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"Simon Tham, Ji Ahn, and Nitin Bhatia, from the Professional Learning Office, have gone above and beyond again and again to guide our team in creating Professional Development offerings for our Get2Green leaders. They are patient, quick to respond, and willing to work through barriers to get the job done. Each time I come away from an interaction with them, I am grateful for their expertise and collaboration. Even when they don't know an answer, they are quick to connect us with someone who does."
-Chrissy Brownson, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Kerry Ravenelle, Herndon Learning Center
"Non-traditional School Programs moved office locations in mid-August from Willow Oaks to Herndon Learning Center. As the Out-of-School Support team was unpacking and setting up our new office space in Herndon, OSS team members had numerous issues with technology, connecting monitors, laptops, docking stations, getting access to printers, etc. Kerry quickly stepped in to help with all the technology issues. She took time away from her own unpacking to troubleshoot OSS team member's technology issues to include setting up monitors, connecting docking stations, etc. She was so patient as she helped each team member and she ensured everyone's technology was working. Thank you Kerry, the OSS team appreciates your help so much!!!"
-Kristin Dougherty, Herndon Learning Center
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Jorge Del Carpio Vasquez, Wilton Woods Center
"Jorge Del Carpio Vasquez, a former DSS Data Management team member, assisted a current DSS Data Management staff member on a mission-critical data request. Mr. Del Carpio Vasquez's prior knowledge proved essential as the current DSS Data Management team benefited from Jorge’s previous knowledge and experience to deliver the request promptly. Thank you, Jorge!"
-Andrew Guillen, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Angela Stotka, Fairview ES
"I am writing to nominate Angela Stotka for the FCPS Cares award because of her exceptional dedication to my children's school, Fairview ES. One of the most remarkable qualities about Ms. Stotka is her ability to forge deep connections. From the moment my daughter started working with her, I could see a noticeable shift in her attitude towards spelling and her self-image. Ms. Stotka always takes the time to listen attentively, asking thoughtful questions and showing genuine interest in both my daughter's thoughts and feelings, as well as mine as a parent. This personalized approach has made my child feel valued and understood, creating a safe and supportive learning environment where she can thrive. Ms. Stotka has been instrumental in boosting my daughter's confidence in her spelling and writing abilities. She was able to identify the areas that needed more instruction, celebrate her successes, and provide constructive feedback that has helped her grow. Through targeted strategies and encouragement, Ms. Stotka has helped my daughter develop a positive mindset towards learning, believing that she can overcome challenges and achieve her goals. At the end of last year, my daughter said. "Ms. Stotka is my trusted adult at school." This heartwarming statement made my husband and I excited to know that she has someone who not only cares about her goals but also provides her with the support, guidance, and encouragement she needs to succeed.
-a Fairview ES parent
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Shawna Peterson, Rolling Valley ES
"Shawna Peterson is an essential part of Rolling Valley! Every day, she goes above and beyond to ensure that all the students and teachers she works with are set up for success. Shawna is exceptionally organized and finds a way to go between four fifth-grade classrooms and supports second-grade while juggling four children at home. Shawna is extremely knowledgeable in everything- she can tell the students about dinosaur fossils and the numerous places she has lived worldwide! Shawna is an avid reader, and every week, the students look forward to hearing her book recommendations and book talks. Shawna is patient, kind, and extremely helpful. She goes way beyond her job requirements for the good of the school community. To me, Shawna is what being a Rockin’ Robbin is all about! I am honored to know and work with Shawna and call her a friend."
-Bethany Araujo, Rolling Valley ES
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Saira Bano, Saratoga ES
"Ms. Saira Bano is Saratoga’s Cafeteria Manager, and a Food Service Manager Trainer (MIT). Ms. Saira goes above and beyond, taking interest in the students meeting their needs, supporting her staff, and motivating the MIT’s to be the best. She works with the MIT’s to fully understand and perform their duties to learn the different positions to become the best Food Service Managers. Ms. Saira inspires by example helping students with their food choices, ensuring they are happy with their meals; taking time to build student relationships. In the mornings, Ms. Saira is there to greet her trainees, her staff to get the day started and then greets each student as they enter the cafeteria offering breakfast to get their day started. She is there with a smile and “how are you” at lunch. Ms. Saira is a great Food Services ambassador, and we are so lucky to have her on our Food Service team as well as the Saratoga Elementary Team. Thank you, Ms. Saira, for all you do."
-Teresa Hinds, Saratoga ES
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Macario Doral & Bart Johnson, Sideburn Support Center
"Dear Mr. Mac Doral and Mr. Bart Johnson, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks for the incredible work you've done in repainting our classroom walls. The quality of your work is truly exceptional, and our rooms look fantastic thanks to your expertise. What sets you both apart, though, is the extra care you take to ensure that our staff's personal touches, like the pictures on the walls, are restored exactly as they were before. This attention to detail means a lot to all of us and shows just how much pride you take in your work. Thank you for going above and beyond to make our classrooms not only look great but feel like home. Your dedication and thoughtfulness are greatly appreciated"
-Frost Admin Team at Frost MS
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Jennifer Conner, Gatehouse Admin Center
"Jennifer guided me through the deep and mysterious forest of teacher contracts and helped me understand how and why certain procedures work. When I emailed her to ask advice, she very kindly called me and explained the particular issue to me in a very friendly and reassuring way. Oodles of expertise and and great people skills! Thanks, Jennifer!!"
-Diana Scheid, Centreville HS
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Remberto Chavez, Woodson Complex
"Dear Mr. Chaves and the FCPS Grounds Crew, I wanted to extend my sincerest gratitude to you and your team for the exceptional work you've done in clearing the brush weeds and other growth along our fence lines. For years, these obstacles have hindered our visibility and detracted from the overall appearance of our grounds. Thanks to your efforts, our school now boasts improved visibility and a significantly enhanced aesthetic appeal. Your dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed. Your attention to detail and commitment to excellence are truly commendable. It's clear that you take great pride in your work, and it shows in the outstanding results we see today. Once again, thank you for your invaluable contribution to our school community. Your efforts have made a lasting impact, and we are incredibly grateful for all that you do."
-Philip Hudson, Frost MS
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Geoveddy Marte, Colleen Wood, Leyla Lytle & Connie Johnson, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"Dr. Connie Johnson (PT) and her colleagues (Leyla Lytle, Colleen Wood and Geoveddy Marte) conducted a very helpful training session during teacher workdays prior to the start of school. Their professionalism, delivery of the information, and opportunity to practice good body mechanics in order to move or transfer students with limited mobility were extremely helpful. I was struck by their sensitivity and care for employees taking care of themselves to prevent injury, especially addressing the needs of staff who may work more than one job, have their own physical limitations, or are at higher risk of injuring themselves due to their own fatigue. I have been to multiple trainings by Dr. Connie Johnson, and I am always impressed by her ability to relay her expertise, use fantastic resources, and understand not only clinical applications but what it is like to actually be multi-tasking in a busy classroom setting. PT services are not only addressing individual needs of students but also going above and beyond to care about the wellbeing of staff!"
-Linda Lee, Chantilly HS
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Katherine Connolly, Bucknell ES
"Katherine Connolly is an outstanding and caring teacher at Bucknell elementary school. She embodies a growth mindset with adaptive thinking, always ensuring that her students receive what they need and deserve. In addition to being an excellent teacher, she is a strong leader among her colleagues. She collaborates with others in a considerate manner, taking into account the experiences, and thoughts of team members. She leads by example and is a great role model for fellow teachers. Her consistent and clear communication with families provides a comprehensive approach to being an "Outstanding Teacher". Thank you Katherine for your dedication to Bucknell, students, staff, and families."
-Tara Klibansky, Bucknell ES
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Debbi Morton, Willow Oaks Admin Center
"The Department of Special Services (DSS) Operations and Strategic Planning (OSP) team recently relocated from the FCPS Gatehouse Admin Center (GAC) to the Willow Oaks complex. The team of over 40 personnel moved seamlessly over to our new office spaces thanks to the hard work and dedication of our OSP Admin Assistant III, Debbi Morton. In addition to her regular job responsibilities, she worked and coordinated with DSS leadership, facilities and tech support teams from both GAC and Willow Oaks and moving vendors to ensure the move went smoothly. Debbi relayed to the team all the information we needed to move over, including dates, timeframes, detailed packing directions, and office space and phone assignments. Once we arrived at Willow Oaks her work was not done, as she still worked tirelessly to make sure we each had the office supplies, tech support and physical workspace set-up needed to do our jobs. Debbi did all this with professionalism mixed in with a sense of humor – always smiling, laughing and lightening up the mood for us all. Our OSP team is beyond lucky to have Debbi always supporting us and our FCPS students and families!"
-Tara Petrovic, Willow Oaks Admin Center
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Scott Darwin, AJ Keifer & Jason M King, Lake Braddock Secondary
"Let’s go Bruins! Thank you to Mr. King English teacher at Lake Braddock. He’s phenomenal and has supported my son greatly this year in English. Really appreciate his guidance. Also would like to thank AJ Keifer, my son’s History teacher last year, as she showed empathy and understanding. Props to Mr. Darwin as well, as he’s been a supportive assistant principal. Lake Braddock is certainly a wonderful school, administrators, teachers, and staff all the way around. Thank you to these good people!
-a Lake Braddock Secondary parent
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Anna Elston, Franklin Sherman ES
"This message can’t carry the weight of entire year of exemplary support and teaching, but Mrs. Elston was my child’s second grade teacher for 2023/24 and she was a beyond what any parent can hope for in a teacher. Her empathy, patience, kindness, and care for every child of every background makes her the best teacher. The community is so SO fortunate to have her nurturing the youth. We love you Mrs. Elston!!"
-a Franklin Sherman ES parent
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Jacqueline Candray, Blanca Chicas, Carmen Velasco, & Tony Taylor, Columbia ES
"At Columbia Elementary School, we're proud to be a small school with a big heart. Creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our students to learn, take risks, and have fun is a shared responsibility. A major contributor to this positive atmosphere is the consistently spotless conditions of the facility, and timely support of teachers and students, provided by our incredible custodian team. Blanca, Jacky, Carmen, and Tony consistently go above and beyond to make our school a beautiful and inviting place. They greet students with friendly smiles, offer unwavering support to our teachers, and work tirelessly to maintain our building's pristine condition. From preparing the school for summer programs to ensuring it's ready for the start of the school year, their dedication is truly remarkable. Visitors often comment on how well-kept our school is, and we owe this entirely to our wonderful custodians. Their hard work and positive attitude make a significant impact on our school community. We're grateful for everything they do and appreciate their invaluable contributions. They are an irreplaceable piece of this small school's big heart."
-Mike Astudillo, Columbia ES
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David Wall, Justice HS
"Mr. Dave Wall, our Safety and Security Specialist here at Justice High School, has done extensive work supporting multiple versions of new evacuation routes for classrooms. Over the past 18 months, during a renovation project, we have had to adjust the exit doors, paths, and outside zones a number of times for evacuation processes. Mr. Wall has managed all adjustments, editing all emergency evacuation route signs, monitoring numbers, amount of time it takes for zones to evacuate, and communicating edits needed. Thanks to Mr. Wall, despite all the changes needed and the addition of 29 classrooms, our first fire drill was a great success with all hallways cleared quickly, teachers going to accurate zones outside, and student and staff safety ensured. Further, Mr. Wall has helped mentor brand new security team members, showing them procedures and strategies for working with various student situations. His work has supported a succesfull kickoff to the year! We greatly appreciate the work of Mr. Wall!"
-Colleen Lally, Justice HS
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Rebecca McLenithan, Fort Hunt ES
"Mrs. M goes above and beyond to support families, students, and staff members. She always has a positive and willing approach to find solutions, alternatives, and positive experiences for everyone to feel included, welcome, and represented. Mrs. McLenithan thank you for supporting us and motivating us to always look for the bright side."
-Tracy Hutchison, Fort Hunt ES
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Brittany Furman, Kings Park ES
"Brittany Furman is my twins’ speech teacher. She is a talented and dedicated speech language pathologist. But this FCPS Cares is about the love and compassion she showed my twins when they didn’t want to start school this year. She was there everyday to greet them with a smile and confidence. She even came up with an inventive and smart idea to motivate them into the school. Her patience and understanding their young and anxious minds has been a life saver. Thank you Brittany and can’t wait to see how you help them grow this year."
-a Kings Park ES parent
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Dotty Lin, Kings Park ES
"Dotty Lin, principal of Kings Park Elementary, went above and beyond to ensure my twins started this year well. She responded to emails and phone calls quickly. We worked together on ideas and plans. She was there the first few days, when there were tears and clinging. She showed compassion and expertise and trusted her staff to make recommendations and to follow through. Thank Dotty for helping my twins start this year with *some* smiles and laughter. Can’t wait to see what the year brings."
-a Kings Park ES parent
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