Congratulations to Special Education Teacher Michael Leonberger, School-based Technology Specialist Pam Galietta, and (retired) Librarian Charlie Fontz who were recognized for their achievements at the 2018 Excellence Awards.

The FCPS Excellence event was held at Fairfax High School on October 16 and was attended by Superintendent Dr. Scott Brabrand, members of the FCPS Leadership Team, members of the FCPS School Board, and other distinguished guests. The following excerpts from each of the three nomination packet were read while each staff members received their certificate from Dr. Brabrand, Assistant Superintendent, Region 5 Rebecca Baenig, and members of the School Board.

Mr. Leonberger was recognized in the Student Achievement category

Mr. Leonberger is in his third year as a Special Education Teacher at Rocky Run Middle School.  He began his career with FCPS as an instructional assistant with our Category B special education students and developed such a passion for these students that he began the process to earn his teaching license.  Now, Mr. Leonberger is the lead teacher in the Autism Program at Rocky Run.  His passion for his students and his belief that all students can learn has created a positive and vibrant environment for our most needy students. Mr. Leonberger meets them where they are and works tirelessly to make sure they experience success.  The group of students he works with requires a great amount of trust and need to feel safe and Mr. Leonberger takes the time to develop strong and lasting relationships with his students.  As a result, they are constantly engaged in the learning process. His level of excellence benefits his students and the school as a whole.

Ms. Galietta was recognized with the Chantilly Pyramid School-based Technology Specialists (SBTS) Team in the Innovation category

The Chantilly Pyramid SBTS team worked together to develop a professional development program to support the implementation of FCPSOn. Rather than utilize a one-size fits all approach, this Pyramid SBTS team is utilizing a cohort model that provides teachers and staff maximum flexibility in regards to what staff development they need and when they collaborate with their colleagues. By meeting each staff member in the Chantilly Pyramid where they are in terms of their understanding of educational technology and instructional best practices, this Pyramid’s SBTS team has done a great deal to strengthen vertical articulation and provide differentiated professional development while pursuing common goals.

Mr. Fonts was Recognized in the Impact on Others category

Mr. Fontz makes a life changing, positive impact on everyone he interacts with at Rocky Run Middle School. As our school librarian Mr. Fontz was at center of the school physically, but also figuratively. He played an important role in the day to day running of Rocky Run. His responsiveness to teacher needs was unparalleled. Enrichment programs at Rocky Run such as Parent Teen Book Club, National Junior Honor Society, and Eyewitness to History Day have grown because of his involvement and are a success due to his innovation. And as our media liaison he was the reason the community knew about all the good things happening at Rocky Run Middle School. Mr. Fontz retired since the time of his nomination last spring, but we are happy to be able to recognize him this evening.