Awards

Excellence in leading schools, in teaching students in our schools, and in supporting our schools is what FCPS is all about. The Department of Human Resources sponsors recognition of our outstanding performers as they seek to create and demonstrate best instructional and support practices.

Principal of the Year: A principal is recognized by the Fairfax County Public Schools for outstanding leadership. The recipient also receives the Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leadership Award.

Outstanding First Year Principal: A newly appointed principal is recognized by FCPS for this award which was established to honor the memory of Dr. Nancy F. Sprague, a leader in fostering the development of principals.

Teacher of the Year: Teachers who exemplify excellence in their profession are recognized annually. The FCPS Teacher of the Year is also the recipient of the Washington Post Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award.

Outstanding Performance Award: This award recognizes employees who have performed outstanding work and whose additional contributions to the school system extend beyond work performance standards normally expected of employees. Eligible employees for the Outstanding Performance Award include all unified-scale (except school-based administrators) employees, food service-scale employees, and instructional assistants. This award is available to individuals and to groups. For more information, see Regulation 4670.

A. Heath Onthank Award: The Onthank Award recognizes outstanding accomplishments that advance and improve public service in the Fairfax County Government and School System by an individual county employee. 

Support Employee of the Year: One school-based employee and one nonschool-based employee are recognized for their commitment, leadership, and cooperation with colleagues and the Fairfax County Public Schools community.

First Year Teacher: Supported by the FCPS Education Foundation, Inc., a first year teacher is recognized with a cash award. Only principals may nominate teachers for this award.

Robert R. Spillane Leadership Award: The Robert R. Spillane Leadership Award honors two outstanding Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) employees who, through their leadership, have made a significant impact on students. Award winners are recognized at the annual Leadership Conference.

Video Clips: Employee Recognition View videos featuring the winners of several of this year's employee awards.