Congratulations to Instructional Assistant Wanda Talford who was recognized as the FCPS 2021 Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee at this year's FCPS Honors event, held at Jiffy Lube Live on June 9th.

Students refer to Ms. Talford as the “Burke Mom,” as her calm demeanor, equitable approach, and instructional skills help them to flourish. Ms. Talford is a unique and exceptional paraeducator who is recognized for her collaborative spirit, content knowledge, and behavior management skills. Her positive attitude, dedication to student success, and organizational abilities make her a regular candidate for positions of leadership, including After School Program Coordinator, new staff mentor, and Equity Team member. Ms. Talford strives to celebrate student diversity within Burke School and to enrich learning with responsive approaches. Trained in cultural proficiency practices, she provides critical support to staff in their efforts to ensure that equity is at the center of teaching throughout the school.

• Visit Ms. Talford's page on the FCPS website

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

Outstanding Secondary New Teacher School-Level Recipient

• Sara Beaver, Emotional Disabilities Teacher

Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee School-Level Recipient

• Kelly Willis, School Based Technology Specialist

Outstanding Secondary Teacher School and Pyramid-Level Recipient

• Cari Schmucker, Learning Disabilities Teacher

Outstanding School-Based Leader School-Level Recipient

• Thomas Sweet, Assistant Principal

Outstanding Principal Nominee

• Deborah Strayhorn

Thank you to Thomas Sweet for all of his hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaison.