Congratulations to the Mason Crest Elementary School English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Team of Brijana Anderson, Kimberly Mathews, Katy Padilla (now in an FCPS central office role at Willow Oaks Administrative Center), and Danielle Park which was recognized in the "growth" category  for its efforts in transforming learning for all by integrating into all school teams, offering instructional strategies, language scaffolds, and cultural responsive practices at the 2018 FCPS Excellence Awards Ceremony.

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, family of the recipients, and other distinguished guests, including the Assistant Superintendent of Region 2 Fabio Zuluaga and the Mason Crest Administrative Team of Ms. Sherry Shin, Mr. Larry Aiello, and Mr. Andrew Pratt. Ms. Anderson, Ms. Mathews, Ms. Padilla, and Ms. Park were recognized for their contributions during an informal reception and a formal ceremony. The following excerpt from their nomination packet was read while each member of the team received their certificate.

The 4-person Mason Crest ESOL Team has served students from over 29 countries with 39 different home languages, but the work of the ESOL team impacts all students. They work tirelessly to transform learning for all by integrating into all school teams, offering instructional strategies, language scaffolds, and cultural responsive practices. They push fellow staff outside of their comfort zones to see perspectives different than their own. Their impact is also felt beyond their building by facilitating Academy Classes for FCPS teachers and presenting at the international TESOL conference. Most importantly, the ESOL team reminds us that language development can take up to 7 years, reinforcing the power of yet and a growth mindset. Great work and congratulations to the Mason Crest ESOL Team!

Thank you, Ms. Anderson, Ms. Mathews, Ms. Padilla, and Ms. Park for all of your efforts in receiving this award and your continued commitment to student learning for all students at Mason Crest Elementary School.

Thank you as well to Principal Sherry Shin for for taking the time and effort in writing the nomination packet for this award as well as to FCPS Educational Specialist Angela Rabette, and Diane Kerr for writing letters of support.