Congratulations to Third Grade Teacher Merrie Joy Hrabak who was recognized as the FCPS 2021 Region 4 Outstanding Elementary Teacher and one of the five finalists for the FCPS Outstanding Elementary Teacher at this year's FCPS Honors event, held at Jiffy Lube Live on June 9th.

Merrie Joy embodies her name perfectly. Her infectious personality brings smiles to all the Rockin’ Robins at RVES. Her classroom provides an inclusive and welcoming environment that embraces risk-taking and collaboration. To her, every child possesses a unique set of gifts, which she seeks to nurture and expand. Her students make educational gains because they feel valued and celebrated. She always dreamt of being an educator because teachers inspire and guide their students. She embraces challenges as opportunities for growth and instills this growth mindset into her students. She models a love of learning by mentoring and collaborating with colleagues and beginning teachers. Ultimately, she strives to ensure all her students feel loved, accepted, and have fun while learning.

• View Ms. Hrabak's page on the FCPS website

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

Outstanding Elementary New Teacher School-Level Recipient

• Sara Bailey, Kindergarten Teacher

Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee School-Level Recipient

• Laura Vargas, Office Assistant

Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee School-Level Recipient

• Darlene Nelson, School Counselor

Outstanding School-Based Leader School-Level Recipient

• Veronica Del Bagno, Assistant Principal

Thank you to Anne Walker for all of her hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaison.