Congratulations to family liaison Carol Melim who was recognized as the FCPS 2022 Region 3 Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee and one of the six finalists for the FCPS Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee at this year's FCPS Honors event, held at George Mason University Center for the Arts on June 8th.

Miss Carol, as she is known, is trusted in the Garfield community. In a school with multiple languages and cultural backgrounds, Carol has made it her mission to be engaged and welcome, listen to, and provide value for all families. She assists many parents who do not speak English as a first language with the US Citizenship class, Virginia drivers manual, and an assortment of learning opportunities. Working closely with the Springfield community, she has accumulated numerous donations and volunteers, and she enlists key staff to join in her efforts. Carol started visiting neighborhoods and bus stops during the pandemic providing the important link between the school and families. Her impact extends far beyond Garfield to families who return with friends to share how she supported their success​​​​​.

• View Ms. Melim's recognition on the FCPS website

Congratulations to our following staff members who were also recognized at this year's FCPS Honors Ceremony!

Outstanding Elementary Teacher School-level Recipient

• Claire Percoco, Fourth Grade Teacher

Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee School-level Recipient

• Kerry Grochmal, Instructional Coach

Outstanding Elementary Teacher School-level Recipient

• Michele Neville, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Thank you to Janet Dougherty for all of their hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaison.