Previous Recipients
2016 Grant Recipients
In 2016, the Fauquier Excellence in Education Foundation awarded 11 grants totaling $14,100.00 to the following:
Kimeth Helsel
Ms. Helsel has been teaching for 20 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Business teacher at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree in Business Management from George Mason University. Ms. Helsel was awarded a grant to attend the Financial Literacy Institute at Teachers College of Columbia University in New York City this summer.
Kimberly Govern-Niskanen
Ms. Niskanen has been teaching for 24 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree from The Ohio State University and her masters degree from Kent State University. Ms. Niskanen was awarded a grant to attend the AIM Summer Institute in Ontario, Canada this summer.
Lori Kissell
Ms. Kissell has been teaching for 23 years in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Latin at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree in Latin from Mary Washington College, UNC Greensboro, NC. She is currently in the process of receiving her Masters in Latin & Education. Ms. Kissell was awarded a grant to attend the American Classical League Institute and Workshop at The University of Texas in Austin this summer.
Nancy Fermoselle
Ms. Fermoselle has been teaching for 13 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Kettle Run High School. She received her bachelors degree from Mary Baldwin College and her masters from Middlebury College. Ms. Fermoselle was awarded a grant to chaperone students on a tour of Costa Rica this summer via EF Tours.
Lisa Larkin
Ms. Larkin has been teaching for 20 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at P.B. Smith Elementary School. She received her bachelors degree from The Catholic University of America. Ms. Larkin was awarded a grant to attend Staff Development Education Kindergarten Conference in Orlando, FL this summer.
Linda Hume
Ms. Hume has been teaching for 14 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelors degree from James Madison University and her masters degree from Marymount University. Ms. Hume was awarded a grant to attend an annual conference on middle level education in Austin, TX this summer.
Nicole Dearborn
Ms. Dearborn has been teaching for 12years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at P.B. Smith Elementary School. She received her bachelors degree from the University of Connecticut and her masters from Loyola College. Ms. Dearborn was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer along with Ms. Harre and Ms. James.
Rebecca Harre
Ms. Harre has been teaching for 36 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at C.M. Bradley Elementary School. She received her bachelors and masters degree from Virginia Tech. Ms. Harre was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer.
Cheryl James
Ms. James has been teaching for 34 years, 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at Greenville Elementary School. She received her bachelors from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, her masters from West Virginia University, and 45 credit hours past her masters from Virginia Tech. Ms. James was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer.
Jennifer Linthicum
Ms. Linthicum has been teaching for 6 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Special Education, Math and Language Arts at Taylor Middle School. She received her bachelors and masters from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Linthicum will take Spanish 101 & 102 for her ESL Cohort.
Julie Kuzma
Ms. Kuzma has been teaching for 21 years, 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches IT at C. Hunter Ritchie Elementary. She received her bachelors from Bloomsburg University and her masters from Virginia Tech. Ms. Kuzma was awarded a grant to attend the International Society Technology in Education in Denver, CO this summer.
Ms. Helsel has been teaching for 20 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Business teacher at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree in Business Management from George Mason University. Ms. Helsel was awarded a grant to attend the Financial Literacy Institute at Teachers College of Columbia University in New York City this summer.
Kimberly Govern-Niskanen
Ms. Niskanen has been teaching for 24 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree from The Ohio State University and her masters degree from Kent State University. Ms. Niskanen was awarded a grant to attend the AIM Summer Institute in Ontario, Canada this summer.
Lori Kissell
Ms. Kissell has been teaching for 23 years in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Latin at Liberty High School. She received her bachelors degree in Latin from Mary Washington College, UNC Greensboro, NC. She is currently in the process of receiving her Masters in Latin & Education. Ms. Kissell was awarded a grant to attend the American Classical League Institute and Workshop at The University of Texas in Austin this summer.
Nancy Fermoselle
Ms. Fermoselle has been teaching for 13 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Kettle Run High School. She received her bachelors degree from Mary Baldwin College and her masters from Middlebury College. Ms. Fermoselle was awarded a grant to chaperone students on a tour of Costa Rica this summer via EF Tours.
Lisa Larkin
Ms. Larkin has been teaching for 20 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at P.B. Smith Elementary School. She received her bachelors degree from The Catholic University of America. Ms. Larkin was awarded a grant to attend Staff Development Education Kindergarten Conference in Orlando, FL this summer.
Linda Hume
Ms. Hume has been teaching for 14 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelors degree from James Madison University and her masters degree from Marymount University. Ms. Hume was awarded a grant to attend an annual conference on middle level education in Austin, TX this summer.
Nicole Dearborn
Ms. Dearborn has been teaching for 12years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at P.B. Smith Elementary School. She received her bachelors degree from the University of Connecticut and her masters from Loyola College. Ms. Dearborn was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer along with Ms. Harre and Ms. James.
Rebecca Harre
Ms. Harre has been teaching for 36 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at C.M. Bradley Elementary School. She received her bachelors and masters degree from Virginia Tech. Ms. Harre was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer.
Cheryl James
Ms. James has been teaching for 34 years, 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a guidance counselor at Greenville Elementary School. She received her bachelors from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, her masters from West Virginia University, and 45 credit hours past her masters from Virginia Tech. Ms. James was awarded a grant to attend the American School Counseling Association Annual Conference in New Orleans, this summer.
Jennifer Linthicum
Ms. Linthicum has been teaching for 6 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Special Education, Math and Language Arts at Taylor Middle School. She received her bachelors and masters from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Linthicum will take Spanish 101 & 102 for her ESL Cohort.
Julie Kuzma
Ms. Kuzma has been teaching for 21 years, 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches IT at C. Hunter Ritchie Elementary. She received her bachelors from Bloomsburg University and her masters from Virginia Tech. Ms. Kuzma was awarded a grant to attend the International Society Technology in Education in Denver, CO this summer.
2015 Award Winners
In 2015, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded nine grants totaling $10,000.00 to the following:
Stacey Babish
Ms. Babish has been teaching for 10 years, the past nine in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Reading Specialist at Greenville Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree as an Education Specialist from the University of Virginia in 2006. Ms. Babish was awarded a grant to attend the International Literacy Association Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, this summer.
Joan Bacot
Ms. Bacot has been teaching for 18 years, the past 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Music at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Wingate College in 1987 and her master’s degree from George Mason University in 2004. Ms. Bacot was awarded a grant to attend a String Teacher Workshop at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, this summer.
Vivian Bowles
Ms. Bowles has been teaching for 25 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English & Science at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Speech/Language from Mississippi University for Women and her master’s degree as a Reading Specialist from Shenandoah University. Ms. Bowles was awarded a grant to attend a Dyslexia Screening Seminar in Richmond, Virginia, this summer.
Karla Kolb
Ms. Kolb has been teaching for 16 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Art Educator at Pierce Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Art History/Studio Art from Fordham University in 1990 and her master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996. Ms. Kolb was awarded a grant to attend an Educator Forum in Savannah College in Savannah, Georgia, this summer.
David Kuzma
Mr. Kuzma has been teaching for 19 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches World History at Kettle Run High School. He received his bachelor’s degree History from Thiel College in 1995. Mr. Kuzma was awarded a grant to chaperone students on a Welsh Exchange trip to Cardiff, UK, this summer.
Kelly Kwolek
Ms. Kwolek has been teaching for 29 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Education from Ball State University in 1986 and her master’s degree in Education from the University of Virginia in 1993. Ms. Kwolek was awarded a grant to attend the National Conference on Innovative Teaching in Las Vegas, Nevada, this summer.
Pamela Smith
Ms. Smith has been teaching for 28 years, all 28 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches at Ritchie Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and in Sociology/Anthropology from West Virginia University in 1987. Ms. Smith was awarded a grant to attend the RC Academy Training Workshop in Atlanta, Georgia, this fall.
Sonya Wilson
Ms. Wilson has been teaching for 10 years, all 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches first grade at Miller Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education/Human Development in 2003 and her master’s degree in Elementary Education in 2005, both from Virginia Tech. Ms. Wilson was awarded a grant to participate in George Mason University’s Leadership Program.
Ms. Babish has been teaching for 10 years, the past nine in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Reading Specialist at Greenville Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree as an Education Specialist from the University of Virginia in 2006. Ms. Babish was awarded a grant to attend the International Literacy Association Conference in St. Louis, Missouri, this summer.
Joan Bacot
Ms. Bacot has been teaching for 18 years, the past 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Music at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Wingate College in 1987 and her master’s degree from George Mason University in 2004. Ms. Bacot was awarded a grant to attend a String Teacher Workshop at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, this summer.
Vivian Bowles
Ms. Bowles has been teaching for 25 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English & Science at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Speech/Language from Mississippi University for Women and her master’s degree as a Reading Specialist from Shenandoah University. Ms. Bowles was awarded a grant to attend a Dyslexia Screening Seminar in Richmond, Virginia, this summer.
Karla Kolb
Ms. Kolb has been teaching for 16 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Art Educator at Pierce Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Art History/Studio Art from Fordham University in 1990 and her master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania in 1996. Ms. Kolb was awarded a grant to attend an Educator Forum in Savannah College in Savannah, Georgia, this summer.
David Kuzma
Mr. Kuzma has been teaching for 19 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches World History at Kettle Run High School. He received his bachelor’s degree History from Thiel College in 1995. Mr. Kuzma was awarded a grant to chaperone students on a Welsh Exchange trip to Cardiff, UK, this summer.
Kelly Kwolek
Ms. Kwolek has been teaching for 29 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English at Warrenton Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Education from Ball State University in 1986 and her master’s degree in Education from the University of Virginia in 1993. Ms. Kwolek was awarded a grant to attend the National Conference on Innovative Teaching in Las Vegas, Nevada, this summer.
Pamela Smith
Ms. Smith has been teaching for 28 years, all 28 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches at Ritchie Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and in Sociology/Anthropology from West Virginia University in 1987. Ms. Smith was awarded a grant to attend the RC Academy Training Workshop in Atlanta, Georgia, this fall.
Sonya Wilson
Ms. Wilson has been teaching for 10 years, all 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches first grade at Miller Elementary School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education/Human Development in 2003 and her master’s degree in Elementary Education in 2005, both from Virginia Tech. Ms. Wilson was awarded a grant to participate in George Mason University’s Leadership Program.
2014 Recipients
In 2014, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded nine grants totaling $6,335.00 to the following:
Jennifer Copperthite
Ms. Copperthite has been teaching for 20 years, all 20 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Earth Science & AP Environmental Science at Fauquier High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Earth & Space Science from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1994 and her master’s degree in Geosciences from Mississippi State University in 2005. Ms. Copperthite was awarded a grant to chaperone students on an exchange visit to Builth Wells High School in Wales this summer.
Mariann Lynch
Ms. Lynch has been teaching for 22 years, the past 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Marshall Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in 1982 and her master’s degree in 2000, both from the University of Pittsburgh. Ms. Lynch was awarded a grant to attend two online classes to enhance the use of the Blackboard Learn program that Fauquier County Public Schools has adopted.
Wendy Oesterling
Ms. Oesterling has been teaching for 11 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Chorus & Orchestra at Liberty High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Music from Wittenberg University in 1972 and her master’s degree in Church Music from Shenandoah University in 2003. Ms. Oesterling was awarded a grant to attend the String Teacher Workshop at Ohio State University this summer.
Alice Pleasants
Ms. Pleasants has been teaching for 21 years, the past 12 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Library Media Specialist at Kettle Run High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Government & Politics from George Mason University in 1987 and her master’s degree in Education in 2007. Ms. Pleasants was awarded a grant to chaperone students on an exchange visit to a high school in Freiburg, Germany this summer.
Ms. Copperthite has been teaching for 20 years, all 20 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Earth Science & AP Environmental Science at Fauquier High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Earth & Space Science from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1994 and her master’s degree in Geosciences from Mississippi State University in 2005. Ms. Copperthite was awarded a grant to chaperone students on an exchange visit to Builth Wells High School in Wales this summer.
Mariann Lynch
Ms. Lynch has been teaching for 22 years, the past 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Marshall Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree in 1982 and her master’s degree in 2000, both from the University of Pittsburgh. Ms. Lynch was awarded a grant to attend two online classes to enhance the use of the Blackboard Learn program that Fauquier County Public Schools has adopted.
Wendy Oesterling
Ms. Oesterling has been teaching for 11 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Chorus & Orchestra at Liberty High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Music from Wittenberg University in 1972 and her master’s degree in Church Music from Shenandoah University in 2003. Ms. Oesterling was awarded a grant to attend the String Teacher Workshop at Ohio State University this summer.
Alice Pleasants
Ms. Pleasants has been teaching for 21 years, the past 12 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Library Media Specialist at Kettle Run High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in Government & Politics from George Mason University in 1987 and her master’s degree in Education in 2007. Ms. Pleasants was awarded a grant to chaperone students on an exchange visit to a high school in Freiburg, Germany this summer.
2013 Recipients
In 2013, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded nine grants totaling $5,400.00 to the following:
Kathryn Conners
Ms. Conners has been teaching for 15 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree from Miami (Ohio) University in 1978 and her master’s degree from George Mason University in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend the Department of Continuing Education’s Parisian Art and Design class at the University of Oxford in England this summer.
Barbara Huss
Ms. Huss has been teaching for 38 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Librarian at Mary Walter Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Madison College in 1975, a Master in Education from James Madison University in 1997, and a Technology Certificate from George Mason University in 1999. Ms. Huss was awarded a grant to attend the American Association of School Librarians National Conference in Hartford, CT this fall.
Bess Robertson
Ms. Robertson has been teaching for 33 years, all 33 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Librarian at James Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in 1978, a Master of Education from James Madison University in 1980 and a Technology Certificate from George Mason University in 1999. Ms. Robertson was awarded a grant to attend the American Association of School Librarians National Conference in Hartford, CT this fall.
Ms. Conners has been teaching for 15 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received her bachelor’s degree from Miami (Ohio) University in 1978 and her master’s degree from George Mason University in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend the Department of Continuing Education’s Parisian Art and Design class at the University of Oxford in England this summer.
Barbara Huss
Ms. Huss has been teaching for 38 years, the past 16 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Librarian at Mary Walter Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Madison College in 1975, a Master in Education from James Madison University in 1997, and a Technology Certificate from George Mason University in 1999. Ms. Huss was awarded a grant to attend the American Association of School Librarians National Conference in Hartford, CT this fall.
Bess Robertson
Ms. Robertson has been teaching for 33 years, all 33 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Librarian at James Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in 1978, a Master of Education from James Madison University in 1980 and a Technology Certificate from George Mason University in 1999. Ms. Robertson was awarded a grant to attend the American Association of School Librarians National Conference in Hartford, CT this fall.
2012 Recipients
In 2012, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded nine grants totaling $6,350.00 to the following:
Jennifer Davis
Ms. Davis has been teaching for 15 years, the past seven in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 6th grade mathematics and is the outdoor classroom coordinator at Auburn Middle School. She received her degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida in 2000. Ms. Davis was awarded a grant to attend a CEEO cultural education program in Costa Rica this summer.
Joyce D’Urso
Ms. D’Urso has been teaching for 30 years, all 30 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 7th grade Life Science and Reading at Taylor Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Virginia Tech in 1978 and a Master in Education of Curriculum and Instruction from George Mason University in 1998. Ms. D’Urso was awarded a grant to attend the Shenandoah Watershed Experience program at Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Port Isobel Study Center in Virginia this summer.
Robin Guay
Ms. Guay has been teaching for eight years, all eight in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art and Functional Art grades 9-12 at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Science/ Interior Design from the University of Tennessee in 1979 and a Master of Education/Visual Arts Concentration from the University of Mary Washington in 2008. Ms. Guay was awarded a grant to attend a summer workshop at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN this summer.
Kristin Vercammen
Ms. Vercammen has been teaching for six years, all six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 3rd grade at Greenville Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University in 2005 and a Master in the Art of Teaching from Mary Grove College in 2010. Ms. Vercammen was awarded a grant to attend the 57th Annual International Reading Association Convention in Chicago, IL this spring.
Ms. Davis has been teaching for 15 years, the past seven in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 6th grade mathematics and is the outdoor classroom coordinator at Auburn Middle School. She received her degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida in 2000. Ms. Davis was awarded a grant to attend a CEEO cultural education program in Costa Rica this summer.
Joyce D’Urso
Ms. D’Urso has been teaching for 30 years, all 30 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 7th grade Life Science and Reading at Taylor Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Virginia Tech in 1978 and a Master in Education of Curriculum and Instruction from George Mason University in 1998. Ms. D’Urso was awarded a grant to attend the Shenandoah Watershed Experience program at Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Port Isobel Study Center in Virginia this summer.
Robin Guay
Ms. Guay has been teaching for eight years, all eight in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art and Functional Art grades 9-12 at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Science/ Interior Design from the University of Tennessee in 1979 and a Master of Education/Visual Arts Concentration from the University of Mary Washington in 2008. Ms. Guay was awarded a grant to attend a summer workshop at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, TN this summer.
Kristin Vercammen
Ms. Vercammen has been teaching for six years, all six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 3rd grade at Greenville Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Central Michigan University in 2005 and a Master in the Art of Teaching from Mary Grove College in 2010. Ms. Vercammen was awarded a grant to attend the 57th Annual International Reading Association Convention in Chicago, IL this spring.
2011 Recipients
In 2011, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded nine grants totaling $13,700.00 to the following:
Stacey Babish
Ms. Babish has been teaching for 11 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the K-4 Reading Specialist & Literacy Coach at Greenville Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from George Mason University in 1994, a Masters in Special Education also from GMU in 1998 and Education Specialist from the University of Virginia in 2006. Ms. Babish was awarded a grant to attend the International Reading Association Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida in May this year.
Jeannie Byvik
Ms. Byvik has been teaching for four years, all four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from James Madison University in 1991. Ms. Byvik was awarded a grant to attend the National Kindergarten Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada this summer.
Elizabeth Day
Ms. Day has been teaching for 18 years, the past 14 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Marymount University in 1975 and a Master in Education from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Day was awarded a grant to attend the Christian Spanish Academy in Antigua, Guatemala this summer.
Kathleen Evans
Ms. Evans has been teaching for 20 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Business & Marketing at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Maryland in 1985. Ms. Evans was awarded a grant to attend the MBA Research Conclave in San Diego, California this summer.
Tara Helkowski
Ms. Helkowski has been teaching for 13 years, all 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Instructional Technology Resource teacher at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Service & International Politics from Pennsylvania State University in 1991 and a Masters in Education from George Washington University in 2009. Ms. Helkowski was awarded a grant to visit Auburn’s sister school, the Carol Morgan School, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic this summer.
Sharon Kline
Ms. Kline has been teaching for 25 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Special Education at C. Hunter Ritchie Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Cedar Crest College in 1993 and a Master of Science in Education from Old Dominion University in 2004. Ms. Kline was awarded a grant to attend the Screening for Dyslexia Seminar in San Francisco, California this summer.
Nancy Nye
Ms. Nye has been teaching for 16 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from Mary Washington College in 2000. Ms. Nye was awarded a grant to attend the National Kindergarten Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada this summer.
DeJuanna Parker
Ms. Parker has been teaching for 22 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English, World Mythology, and Speech & Debate at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia State University in 1982 and a Masters in Education from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Parker was awarded a grant to attend the 31st Annual Critical Thinking Conference in Berkeley, California this summer.
Lyn Sweetapple
Ms. Sweetapple has been teaching for 12 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches at Thompson Elementary School and Southeastern Alternative School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Miami in 1983 and a Master of Arts from Marymount University in 1994. Ms. Sweetapple was awarded a grant to attend the Constructing Modern Knowledge Conference in Manchester, New Hampshire this summer.
Ms. Babish has been teaching for 11 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the K-4 Reading Specialist & Literacy Coach at Greenville Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from George Mason University in 1994, a Masters in Special Education also from GMU in 1998 and Education Specialist from the University of Virginia in 2006. Ms. Babish was awarded a grant to attend the International Reading Association Annual Convention in Orlando, Florida in May this year.
Jeannie Byvik
Ms. Byvik has been teaching for four years, all four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from James Madison University in 1991. Ms. Byvik was awarded a grant to attend the National Kindergarten Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada this summer.
Elizabeth Day
Ms. Day has been teaching for 18 years, the past 14 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Marymount University in 1975 and a Master in Education from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Day was awarded a grant to attend the Christian Spanish Academy in Antigua, Guatemala this summer.
Kathleen Evans
Ms. Evans has been teaching for 20 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Business & Marketing at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from the University of Maryland in 1985. Ms. Evans was awarded a grant to attend the MBA Research Conclave in San Diego, California this summer.
Tara Helkowski
Ms. Helkowski has been teaching for 13 years, all 13 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Instructional Technology Resource teacher at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Foreign Service & International Politics from Pennsylvania State University in 1991 and a Masters in Education from George Washington University in 2009. Ms. Helkowski was awarded a grant to visit Auburn’s sister school, the Carol Morgan School, in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic this summer.
Sharon Kline
Ms. Kline has been teaching for 25 years, the past 11 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Special Education at C. Hunter Ritchie Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Cedar Crest College in 1993 and a Master of Science in Education from Old Dominion University in 2004. Ms. Kline was awarded a grant to attend the Screening for Dyslexia Seminar in San Francisco, California this summer.
Nancy Nye
Ms. Nye has been teaching for 16 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Kindergarten at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Child Development from Mary Washington College in 2000. Ms. Nye was awarded a grant to attend the National Kindergarten Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada this summer.
DeJuanna Parker
Ms. Parker has been teaching for 22 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English, World Mythology, and Speech & Debate at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia State University in 1982 and a Masters in Education from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Parker was awarded a grant to attend the 31st Annual Critical Thinking Conference in Berkeley, California this summer.
Lyn Sweetapple
Ms. Sweetapple has been teaching for 12 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches at Thompson Elementary School and Southeastern Alternative School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Miami in 1983 and a Master of Arts from Marymount University in 1994. Ms. Sweetapple was awarded a grant to attend the Constructing Modern Knowledge Conference in Manchester, New Hampshire this summer.
2010 Recipients
In 2010, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded 12 grants totaling $14,900.00 to the following:
Susan Donnelly
Ms. Donnelly has been teaching for 5 years, the past three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Earth Science/Biology/Ecology at Southeastern Alternative High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/Earth Science from Eastern Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Donnelly was awarded a grant to attend the Solar Schoolhouse Summer Institute for Educators in Petaluma, California this summer.
Keri Fox
Ms. Fox has been teaching for 31 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches ESL K-3 at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University in 1976 and a Master of Education in Reading from the University of Virginia in 1994. Ms. Fox was awarded a grant to attend the Summer Renewal Rhythm Program in Loretta, Pennsylvania this summer.
Michelle Lieb
Ms. Lieb has been teaching for 8 years, the past seven in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Photography and AP Art at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in 1997 and a Master of Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2006. Ms. Lieb was awarded a grant to attend the Center for Alternative Process in New York, New York this summer.
Lee Lorber
Ms. Lorber has been teaching for 30 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Honors English at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Radford in 1969 and a Master of Education from North Texas State University in 1975. Ms. Lober was awarded a grant to attend an AP Conference in Washington, DC this summer.
Sheila Monahan
Ms. Monahan has been teaching for 27 years, all 27 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Music & Chorus at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Bridgewater College in 1982. Ms. Monahan was awarded a grant to attend a Developmental Community Music conference and workshop in New York this summer.
Shawn Morton
Ms. Morton has been teaching for 3 years, all three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches third grade at Coleman Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Social Work from West Chester University in 1987 and a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Science from Johns Hopkins University in 2000. Ms. Morton was awarded a grant to attend the Multicultural Perspective in Health Psychology program in Thessaloniki, Greece this summer.
Janie Mosby
Ms. Mosby has been teaching for 37 years, all 37 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art & Photography at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Longwood and a Master of Science in Art from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Mosby was awarded a grant to attend the Expressive Alternative Photography program in Bennington, Vermont this summer.
Patrick Neidich
Mr. Neidich has been teaching for 9 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Band & Music Theory at Liberty High School. He received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Duquesne University in 1999 and a Master of Music in Music Performance from the University of Michigan in 2001. Mr. Neidich was awarded a grant to attend a program for band directors in Villanova, Pennsylvania this summer.
Tara Baun-Neidich
Ms. Baun-Neidich has been teaching for 10 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Band at Cedar Lee Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Duquesne University in 2000. Ms. Baun-Neidich was awarded a grant to attend a program for band directors in Villanova, Pennsylvania this summer.
Carolyn Parks
Ms. Parks has been teaching for 31 years, the past 28 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English, Reading & SOL/SAT Prep at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Salisbury University in 1969 and a Master of Arts from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Parks was awarded a grant to attend an AP Conference in Washington, DC this summer.
Megan Reynolds
Ms. Reynolds has been teaching for 26 years, the past 23 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches World Geography at Taylor Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education & History from Waynesburg College in 1983 and a Master of Science in School Library Media from Longwood University in 2007. Ms. Reynolds was awarded a grant to attend Brazil’s Changing Landscapes Institute in conjunction with the Virginia Geographic Alliance in Pernambuco, Brazil this summer.
Christena Smith
Ms. Smith has been teaching for 18 years, all 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art & Photography at Kettle Run High School. She received a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from George Washington University in 1975. Ms. Smith was awarded a grant to attend the Painting the Figure in the Landscape program in Bennington, Vermont this summer.
Ms. Donnelly has been teaching for 5 years, the past three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Earth Science/Biology/Ecology at Southeastern Alternative High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education/Earth Science from Eastern Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Donnelly was awarded a grant to attend the Solar Schoolhouse Summer Institute for Educators in Petaluma, California this summer.
Keri Fox
Ms. Fox has been teaching for 31 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches ESL K-3 at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University in 1976 and a Master of Education in Reading from the University of Virginia in 1994. Ms. Fox was awarded a grant to attend the Summer Renewal Rhythm Program in Loretta, Pennsylvania this summer.
Michelle Lieb
Ms. Lieb has been teaching for 8 years, the past seven in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Photography and AP Art at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University in 1997 and a Master of Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2006. Ms. Lieb was awarded a grant to attend the Center for Alternative Process in New York, New York this summer.
Lee Lorber
Ms. Lorber has been teaching for 30 years, the past 10 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Honors English at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Science from Radford in 1969 and a Master of Education from North Texas State University in 1975. Ms. Lober was awarded a grant to attend an AP Conference in Washington, DC this summer.
Sheila Monahan
Ms. Monahan has been teaching for 27 years, all 27 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Music & Chorus at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Bridgewater College in 1982. Ms. Monahan was awarded a grant to attend a Developmental Community Music conference and workshop in New York this summer.
Shawn Morton
Ms. Morton has been teaching for 3 years, all three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches third grade at Coleman Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a Minor in Social Work from West Chester University in 1987 and a Master of Science in Applied Behavioral Science from Johns Hopkins University in 2000. Ms. Morton was awarded a grant to attend the Multicultural Perspective in Health Psychology program in Thessaloniki, Greece this summer.
Janie Mosby
Ms. Mosby has been teaching for 37 years, all 37 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art & Photography at Kettle Run High School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Art Education from Longwood and a Master of Science in Art from Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Mosby was awarded a grant to attend the Expressive Alternative Photography program in Bennington, Vermont this summer.
Patrick Neidich
Mr. Neidich has been teaching for 9 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Band & Music Theory at Liberty High School. He received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Duquesne University in 1999 and a Master of Music in Music Performance from the University of Michigan in 2001. Mr. Neidich was awarded a grant to attend a program for band directors in Villanova, Pennsylvania this summer.
Tara Baun-Neidich
Ms. Baun-Neidich has been teaching for 10 years, the past 8 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Band at Cedar Lee Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Duquesne University in 2000. Ms. Baun-Neidich was awarded a grant to attend a program for band directors in Villanova, Pennsylvania this summer.
Carolyn Parks
Ms. Parks has been teaching for 31 years, the past 28 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches English, Reading & SOL/SAT Prep at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Salisbury University in 1969 and a Master of Arts from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Parks was awarded a grant to attend an AP Conference in Washington, DC this summer.
Megan Reynolds
Ms. Reynolds has been teaching for 26 years, the past 23 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches World Geography at Taylor Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education & History from Waynesburg College in 1983 and a Master of Science in School Library Media from Longwood University in 2007. Ms. Reynolds was awarded a grant to attend Brazil’s Changing Landscapes Institute in conjunction with the Virginia Geographic Alliance in Pernambuco, Brazil this summer.
Christena Smith
Ms. Smith has been teaching for 18 years, all 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art & Photography at Kettle Run High School. She received a Master of Fine Arts in Painting from George Washington University in 1975. Ms. Smith was awarded a grant to attend the Painting the Figure in the Landscape program in Bennington, Vermont this summer.
2009 Recipients
In 2009, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded six grants totaling $9,624.00 to the following:
Amy Acors
Ms. Acors has been teaching for 14 years, all 14 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches History and Government at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in History from Mary Washington College in 1995, a Master of Science in Education Administration from Shenandoah University in 1998 and is currently working on a Master of Arts in International Relations from American Military University. Ms. Acors was awarded a grant to tour World War II battle sites and museums in Normandy, France this summer.
Joan George
Ms. George has been teaching for 12 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Chorus at Warren and Auburn Middle Schools. She received a Bachelor of Music Education from Wingate College in 1987 and a Master of Arts in Music Education from George Mason University in 2003. Ms. George was awarded a grant to attend the World Drumming Workshop in Leesburg, Virginia this summer.
Kevin Mettinger
Mr. Mettinger has been teaching for 11 years, the past eight in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Theatre/Speech & Debate/Film Analysis at Fauquier High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from James Madison University in 1992 and a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (Directing) from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1996. Mr. Mettinger was awarded a grant to attend and participate in the American High School Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer.
Elizabeth Owsley
Ms. Owsley has been teaching for 9 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Adult English As a Second Language and Adult Basic Education at the Adult Learning Center. She received a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Virginia Tech in 1980 and a Certificate of Teaching English As a Second Language from American University in 1984. Ms. Owsley was awarded a grant to attend Proyecto Linguistico Quetzalteco, a Spanish language school in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala this summer.
Meredith Schmahl
Ms. Schmahl has been teaching for 22 years, the past 19 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Reading at Taylor Middle School and has a supplemental position as Spring Musical Director at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Wells College in 1987 and a Master in Education in Reading from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Schmahl was awarded a grant to attend and participate in the American High School Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer.
Bobbie Jo Sutton
Ms. Sutton has been teaching for 10 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education and Spanish Language & Literature at State University of New York at Potsdam in 1999 and a Masters in Secondary Education in Leadership & Instruction for Inclusive Classrooms from Utica College in 2004. Ms. Sutton was awarded a grant to attend the Amauta Language School in Cusco, Peru this summer.
Ms. Acors has been teaching for 14 years, all 14 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches History and Government at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in History from Mary Washington College in 1995, a Master of Science in Education Administration from Shenandoah University in 1998 and is currently working on a Master of Arts in International Relations from American Military University. Ms. Acors was awarded a grant to tour World War II battle sites and museums in Normandy, France this summer.
Joan George
Ms. George has been teaching for 12 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Chorus at Warren and Auburn Middle Schools. She received a Bachelor of Music Education from Wingate College in 1987 and a Master of Arts in Music Education from George Mason University in 2003. Ms. George was awarded a grant to attend the World Drumming Workshop in Leesburg, Virginia this summer.
Kevin Mettinger
Mr. Mettinger has been teaching for 11 years, the past eight in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Theatre/Speech & Debate/Film Analysis at Fauquier High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from James Madison University in 1992 and a Master of Fine Arts in Theatre (Directing) from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1996. Mr. Mettinger was awarded a grant to attend and participate in the American High School Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer.
Elizabeth Owsley
Ms. Owsley has been teaching for 9 years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Adult English As a Second Language and Adult Basic Education at the Adult Learning Center. She received a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Virginia Tech in 1980 and a Certificate of Teaching English As a Second Language from American University in 1984. Ms. Owsley was awarded a grant to attend Proyecto Linguistico Quetzalteco, a Spanish language school in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala this summer.
Meredith Schmahl
Ms. Schmahl has been teaching for 22 years, the past 19 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Reading at Taylor Middle School and has a supplemental position as Spring Musical Director at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Wells College in 1987 and a Master in Education in Reading from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Schmahl was awarded a grant to attend and participate in the American High School Theatre Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland this summer.
Bobbie Jo Sutton
Ms. Sutton has been teaching for 10 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Brumfield Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education and Spanish Language & Literature at State University of New York at Potsdam in 1999 and a Masters in Secondary Education in Leadership & Instruction for Inclusive Classrooms from Utica College in 2004. Ms. Sutton was awarded a grant to attend the Amauta Language School in Cusco, Peru this summer.
2008 Recipients
In 2008, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded 10 grants totaling $14,550 to the following:
Gary Colson
Mr. Colson has been teaching for 17 years, all 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Art at Liberty High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Mary Washington College in 1988 and a MIS from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1999. Mr. Colson was awarded a grant to study sculpture under the Italian masters of today in Italy this fall.
Kay Conners
Ms. Conners has been teaching for 10 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Miami of Ohio University in 1978 and a Master of Arts in New Professional Studies/Teaching in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend a Summer Institute Program with the Virginia Geographic Alliance and Virginia Tech’s Department of Geography in England this summer.
Robin Guay
Ms. Guay has been teaching for 5½ years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Visual Arts to PreK-Fifth grade at H. M. Pearson Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the University of Tennessee in 1979 and will receive her Master of Education/Visual Arts this May. Ms. Guay was awarded a grant to attend the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Tennessee this summer.
Patricia Kridler
Ms. Kridler has been teaching for 10 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Mathematics teacher at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech in 1982 and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction from George Mason University in 1997. Ms. Kridler was awarded a grant to attend the International Congress on Mathematics Education in Mexico this summer.
Gail Matthews
Ms. Matthews has been teaching for 21 years, the past 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is an Instructional Technology Resource teacher at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Winthop University in 1967 and a Master of Education in Technology from George Mason University in 2001. Ms. Matthews was awarded a grant to attend training classes in Teaching English as a Second Language in Costa Rica this summer.
Theodora Munslow
Ms. Munslow has been teaching for 34 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art at Warrenton Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Eastern Michigan University in 1973 and a Master of Education in Art from Wayne State University in 1995. Ms. Munslow was awarded a grant to attend a course at the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center in New York this summer.
Cathy Persiani
Ms. Persiani has been teaching for 24 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Sixth Grade Science teacher at Marshall Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio University in 1984 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 2007. Ms. Persiani was awarded a grant to attend the Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education Conference in Nevada this spring.
Nicole Samson
Ms. Samson has been teaching for 10 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art at Marshall Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts at the School of Visual Arts in 2001 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 2007. Ms. Samson was awarded a grant to attend the Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education Conference in Nevada this spring.
Lynette Tait
Ms. Tait has been teaching for 31 years, the past three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Auburn, Taylor and Cedar Lee Middle Schools. She received a Master of Education from the Universidad Federal Fluminense (UFF) in Rio de Janiero and is an honored lifetime member in the Cambridge Who’s Who 2007-2008 Registry of Executives and Professionals. Ms. Tait was awarded a grant to attend courses in the methodology aspects of the Spanish language and culture at the Universidad de Alcola, Spain this summer.
Erin Wyld
Ms. Wyld has been teaching for nine years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, teaches Biology I & II and Ecology at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from George Mason University in 1996 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 1996. Ms. Wyld was awarded a grant to attend an Amazon Rainforest Workshop Expedition for Educators in Peru this summer.
Mr. Colson has been teaching for 17 years, all 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, he teaches Art at Liberty High School. He received a Bachelor of Arts from Mary Washington College in 1988 and a MIS from Virginia Commonwealth University in 1999. Mr. Colson was awarded a grant to study sculpture under the Italian masters of today in Italy this fall.
Kay Conners
Ms. Conners has been teaching for 10 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Miami of Ohio University in 1978 and a Master of Arts in New Professional Studies/Teaching in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend a Summer Institute Program with the Virginia Geographic Alliance and Virginia Tech’s Department of Geography in England this summer.
Robin Guay
Ms. Guay has been teaching for 5½ years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Visual Arts to PreK-Fifth grade at H. M. Pearson Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from the University of Tennessee in 1979 and will receive her Master of Education/Visual Arts this May. Ms. Guay was awarded a grant to attend the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Tennessee this summer.
Patricia Kridler
Ms. Kridler has been teaching for 10 years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Mathematics teacher at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Virginia Tech in 1982 and a Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction from George Mason University in 1997. Ms. Kridler was awarded a grant to attend the International Congress on Mathematics Education in Mexico this summer.
Gail Matthews
Ms. Matthews has been teaching for 21 years, the past 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is an Instructional Technology Resource teacher at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Winthop University in 1967 and a Master of Education in Technology from George Mason University in 2001. Ms. Matthews was awarded a grant to attend training classes in Teaching English as a Second Language in Costa Rica this summer.
Theodora Munslow
Ms. Munslow has been teaching for 34 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art at Warrenton Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Eastern Michigan University in 1973 and a Master of Education in Art from Wayne State University in 1995. Ms. Munslow was awarded a grant to attend a course at the Schweinfurth Memorial Art Center in New York this summer.
Cathy Persiani
Ms. Persiani has been teaching for 24 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is the Sixth Grade Science teacher at Marshall Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Ohio University in 1984 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 2007. Ms. Persiani was awarded a grant to attend the Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education Conference in Nevada this spring.
Nicole Samson
Ms. Samson has been teaching for 10 years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Art at Marshall Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Arts at the School of Visual Arts in 2001 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 2007. Ms. Samson was awarded a grant to attend the Society for Information Technology & Teacher Education Conference in Nevada this spring.
Lynette Tait
Ms. Tait has been teaching for 31 years, the past three in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish at Auburn, Taylor and Cedar Lee Middle Schools. She received a Master of Education from the Universidad Federal Fluminense (UFF) in Rio de Janiero and is an honored lifetime member in the Cambridge Who’s Who 2007-2008 Registry of Executives and Professionals. Ms. Tait was awarded a grant to attend courses in the methodology aspects of the Spanish language and culture at the Universidad de Alcola, Spain this summer.
Erin Wyld
Ms. Wyld has been teaching for nine years, all in Fauquier County. Currently, teaches Biology I & II and Ecology at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from George Mason University in 1996 and a Master of Education from George Mason University in 1996. Ms. Wyld was awarded a grant to attend an Amazon Rainforest Workshop Expedition for Educators in Peru this summer.
2007 Recipients
In 2007, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded 4(*) grants totaling $9,480 to the following: *Ms. Conners grant is not included in the total as she was not accepted in the program for which she applied.
Kathryn Conners - *was not accepted, grant money not used
Ms. Conners has been teaching for eight years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Miami University in 1978 and a Master of Arts in New Professional Studies/Teaching in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend a 3-week seminar this summer on Developing Cartographic Literacy with Historic Maps at the Newberry Library's Dunlap Smith Center in Chicago to study the culture and history of mapping to enhance classroom teaching skills.
Elizabeth F. Day
Ms. Day has been teaching for 14 years, the past ten in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish in the Foreign Language Department at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Marymount University in 1975 and a Master of Arts in Education/Instruction from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Day was awarded a grant to attend Tecun Uman Language School in Guatemala for four weeks this summer for Spanish emersion to enhance classroom communication and teaching skills.
DeJuanna M. Parker
Ms. Parker has been teaching for 19 years, the past 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Freshman English at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English at Virginia State University in 1982 and a Master of Arts in Education/Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Parker was awarded a grant to visit Italy and Greece for two weeks this summer to broaden her knowledge of these areas to enhance teaching skills for classroom units on ancient Greek literature and Epic Poetry.
Mary M. Russell
Ms. Russell has been teaching for eight years, all eight of these in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a math teacher at Cedar Lee Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Mary Washington College in 1984 and a Master of Arts in Education/Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech in 2001. Ms. Russell was awarded a grant to visit Portugal for two weeks this summer to broaden her knowledge of the use of geometric transformations in ceramic tiling patterns to share with her math students and to enchance classroom teaching skills.
Ms. Conners has been teaching for eight years, the past five in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches 8th Grade World Geography at Auburn Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Miami University in 1978 and a Master of Arts in New Professional Studies/Teaching in 2006. Ms. Conners was awarded a grant to attend a 3-week seminar this summer on Developing Cartographic Literacy with Historic Maps at the Newberry Library's Dunlap Smith Center in Chicago to study the culture and history of mapping to enhance classroom teaching skills.
Elizabeth F. Day
Ms. Day has been teaching for 14 years, the past ten in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Spanish in the Foreign Language Department at Liberty High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Marymount University in 1975 and a Master of Arts in Education/Instruction from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Day was awarded a grant to attend Tecun Uman Language School in Guatemala for four weeks this summer for Spanish emersion to enhance classroom communication and teaching skills.
DeJuanna M. Parker
Ms. Parker has been teaching for 19 years, the past 18 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches Freshman English at Fauquier High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English at Virginia State University in 1982 and a Master of Arts in Education/Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University in 2004. Ms. Parker was awarded a grant to visit Italy and Greece for two weeks this summer to broaden her knowledge of these areas to enhance teaching skills for classroom units on ancient Greek literature and Epic Poetry.
Mary M. Russell
Ms. Russell has been teaching for eight years, all eight of these in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a math teacher at Cedar Lee Middle School. She received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Mary Washington College in 1984 and a Master of Arts in Education/Curriculum and Instruction from Virginia Tech in 2001. Ms. Russell was awarded a grant to visit Portugal for two weeks this summer to broaden her knowledge of the use of geometric transformations in ceramic tiling patterns to share with her math students and to enchance classroom teaching skills.
2006 Recipients
In 2006, the Committee for Excellence in Education awarded 5 grants totaling $8,400 to the following:
Virginia Brown
Ms. Brown has been teaching for 21 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Gifted and Talented Teacher at Brumfield Elementary School for K-2 Enrichment classes, Grade 3 Reading and Grade 4-5 Language Arts. She received a Bachelors of Science in Education with distinction from George Mason University in 1986 and Gifted and Talented Certification from the University of Virginia in 2005. Ms. Brown was awarded a grant to attend the Confratute 2006 for in-depth enrichment training at the University of Connecticut in July.
Thomas Falkowski
Mr. Falkowski has been teaching for 18 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, he is a Photography teacher at Fauquier High School. He received a Bachelors of Fine Arts from Memphis Academy of Arts in 1978 and a Masters in Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1980. Mr. Falkowski was awarded a grant to attend the Digital Imaging for Educators class on Adobe Photoshop CS2 to enhance classroom teaching skills given by David Hiser at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, CO in August.
Susan Kraus
Ms. Kraus has been teaching for 24 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches First Grade at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education from Longwood College in 1982 and a Masters in Language Arts Curriculum Development from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Kraus was awarded a grant to attend the 2006 American Educational Research Association (AERA) Conference for enhancement of early childhood development in San Francisco, CA in April.
Michelle Lieb
Ms. Lieb has been teaching for five years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Photography teacher at Liberty High School for Grades 11 and 12. She received a Bachelors of Science in Art from James Madison University in 1997 and presently is working toward a M.I.S. degree through Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Lieb was awarded a grant to attend the Visual Studies Workshop, accredited thru State University of New York, held in Rochester, NY in July.
Jeanne Lowe
Ms. Lowe has been teaching for 25 years, the past 22 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Second Grade teacher at Coleman Elementary School. She has a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education plus an additional 30 hours credit. Ms. Lowe was awarded a grant to attend the Cemanahauc Language School in Cuernavaca, Mexico over the 2006 spring break for Spanish emersion to enhance classroom communication and teaching skills.
Ms. Brown has been teaching for 21 years, the past six in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Gifted and Talented Teacher at Brumfield Elementary School for K-2 Enrichment classes, Grade 3 Reading and Grade 4-5 Language Arts. She received a Bachelors of Science in Education with distinction from George Mason University in 1986 and Gifted and Talented Certification from the University of Virginia in 2005. Ms. Brown was awarded a grant to attend the Confratute 2006 for in-depth enrichment training at the University of Connecticut in July.
Thomas Falkowski
Mr. Falkowski has been teaching for 18 years, the past 17 in Fauquier County. Currently, he is a Photography teacher at Fauquier High School. He received a Bachelors of Fine Arts from Memphis Academy of Arts in 1978 and a Masters in Fine Arts from Cranbrook Academy of Art in 1980. Mr. Falkowski was awarded a grant to attend the Digital Imaging for Educators class on Adobe Photoshop CS2 to enhance classroom teaching skills given by David Hiser at Anderson Ranch Arts Center in Snowmass, CO in August.
Susan Kraus
Ms. Kraus has been teaching for 24 years, the past 21 in Fauquier County. Currently, she teaches First Grade at Grace Miller Elementary School. She received a Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education from Longwood College in 1982 and a Masters in Language Arts Curriculum Development from George Mason University in 1994. Ms. Kraus was awarded a grant to attend the 2006 American Educational Research Association (AERA) Conference for enhancement of early childhood development in San Francisco, CA in April.
Michelle Lieb
Ms. Lieb has been teaching for five years, the past four in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Photography teacher at Liberty High School for Grades 11 and 12. She received a Bachelors of Science in Art from James Madison University in 1997 and presently is working toward a M.I.S. degree through Virginia Commonwealth University. Ms. Lieb was awarded a grant to attend the Visual Studies Workshop, accredited thru State University of New York, held in Rochester, NY in July.
Jeanne Lowe
Ms. Lowe has been teaching for 25 years, the past 22 in Fauquier County. Currently, she is a Second Grade teacher at Coleman Elementary School. She has a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education plus an additional 30 hours credit. Ms. Lowe was awarded a grant to attend the Cemanahauc Language School in Cuernavaca, Mexico over the 2006 spring break for Spanish emersion to enhance classroom communication and teaching skills.