E-mail Directory
Hover your mouse over the "bio" text to learn more about our faculty.
| Name [click to sort] |
E-mail |
Phone |
Department/Position [click to sort] |
| {Name} |
{E-mail} |
{Phone} |
{Department/Position} |
WD Miller, an area native, attended McLean High but actually graduated from Marshall High, after hitchhiking around the US his senior year. He has two sons, Sam & Blue, currently enrolled in McLean & Haycock respectively. After roofing for 27 years, WD received a BA in English and a M.Ed. + 30 from George Mason University. He has gained GT certification through UVA, and is now working on IB certification. WD has taught creative writing, journalism, English Honors & GT English at Longfellow Middle. He also taught English 11 for four years at Pimmit Hills Adult Education, where the school was ranked near the top of the nation in English, math and history. WD's endorphins split open for the three minute pop song, the ones with hand claps, harmonies, and jangle guitars -- like from the Beatles, Marshall Crenshaw, the Beach Boys-where melody is king. He has written over 250 songs, and is now working on his 3rd CD. In tandem with a stable of great local musicians, WD has played in clubs around the area, including Jammin' Java and Iota Club & Caf@eacute. Check him out on iTunes!
Pierce Bello teaches IB Film Study 1 and English 10 Honors, and he serves as the class sponsor of the class of 2012 and a squad leader for the freshmen transition program. Mr. Bello earned a Master of Arts in English degree from George Mason University and a Master of Arts in Teaching degree from James Madison University. In 2010, both the National Honors Society and the Vienna Optimist Club named Mr. Bello as Marshall's Teacher of the Year. Outside of Marshall's hallways, Mr. Bello cheers on the Duke Blue Devils basketball team and attempts to see every film listed in 1001 Movies You Must See before You Die.
Ms. Bresnahan is the head cheerleading coach for the Statesmen. Miss Bresnahan graduated from Clemson University with a BA in Special Education. When not at GCM, she can be found working out, reading a book at the beach, catching some serious air on her snowboard, or watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy with her adorable kitten, Carson.
Martha Noone teaches IB 1 English and English 10. She also sponsors the Knitting and Crocheting Club, the GSA, and co-sponsors the National English Honor Society. She graduated from Bryn Mawr with a BA in English and a minor in mathematics. Her graduate work was through the University of Virginia. In addition to her work at Marshall, Mrs. Noone enjoys time with friends and family, traveling to new places, and pursuing learning opportunities.
Mr. Reinish teaches journalism and advises the Columbian yearbook and the Rank & File student newspaper. He is a two-time graduate of the University of Virginia, receiving a BA in English and cognitive science as well as a Master of Teaching degree in secondary English education. Also certified in mathematics, Mr. Reinish's other interests include computer science, digital photography, and linguistics. In his spare time, he enjoys writing poetry and short prose and attempting to complete the daily New York Times crossword.
Ms. Prosser is the Orchestra Director and Piano Lab instructor at Marshall. She is also the faculty sponsor for Marshall's chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and a squad sponsor for the freshman transition program. Ms. Prosser earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from James Madison University and a Master of Music in Music Education from George Mason University. She has eight years of experience teaching orchestra in FCPS, and her ensembles consistently earn ratings of "Superior" at the VBODA District Orchestra Festival. As a violinist, Ms. Prosser performs regularly with The Dolce Quartet and she freelances in the area.
Mr. Martin teaches Basic Technical Drawing, Architectural Drawing, Engineering Drawing, Electronics, and Design and Technology. He also advises the ACE Mentoring Program, an after-school program for students with interests in Architecture, Construction Planning, and/or Engineering. Mr. Martin has a BA in Industrial Arts Education from Central Connecticut State College and an MA in Secondary School Administration from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. He has been at George C. Marshall High School since Fall 2003; he previously spent 18 years as a teacher and high school adminsitrator in Loudoun County. Mr. Martin received the Virginia Technology Education Association Chester Lane High School Teacher of the Year award for 2009.
Ms. Peyton is a "career switcher" teacher, with 15 years business experience prior to becoming a teacher in 2004. She was formerly a corporate account manager at Bank of America in San Francisco, Controller of Sonic Solutions in its start-up days, and a financial analyst with Sungard Corporation. She also ran her own consulting business in the Northern California area for many years. She moved with her family to Virginia in 2002. Mrs. Peyton is a magna cum laude graduate of Duke University with a BA in Political Science, and she has an MBA in Finance from the Haas School of Business at the University of California-Berkeley.
Ms. Carser-Brown earned a BA in English from the University of Minnesota, and her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, with a specialization in ESOL, from George Mason University. She teaches ESOL 2, teamed World History and Geography 1, and teamed Biology 1.
Born and raised in Falls Church, Ms. Itayem received both a BA in Communications (minor:PR) and and a M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (concentration:ESL) from George Mason University. She is currently working on a second Master's degree in Education Leadership at George Mason University. She teaches Science Concepts, Teamed Biology 1, and ESOL 3.
Grace L. Luehring attended George Washington University and obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Contemporary French and Russian Studies. She also has a Master of Education degree from George Mason University in Secondary Education specializing in Teaching ESOL. She has taught ESOL at the high school and college levels for 20 years. Currently she teaches ESOL 1 Literature and Content, and Fast Math.
Ms. Smith received her BA in Classical Civilization from Bucknell University and her M.Ed. in Secondary Education from George Mason University. She has worked at Marshall for 7 years. Currently she teaches World Concepts, ESOL 2 Literature, and Teamed World History and Geography.
Coach Planakis graduated from Fairfax HS in 1996. While there he was involved in wrestling, football, and track & field. After high school Coach Planakis joined the Marine Corps where he served for four years. Upon completion of his enlistment in 2001, Coach Planakis enrolled at JMU where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Kinesiology and a Masters Degree in Teaching, completing his education in May of 2005. Coach Planakis was hired at Marshall in July 2005 where he teaches Health, PE, and Drivers Education. He is the head wrestling coach and the head freshmen football coach here at Marshall. Coach Planakis enjoys traveling and has visited all 50 states, plus 15 foreign countries on 5 continents. He has a passion for classic film and is an amateur numismatist. Coach Planakis was married in May of 2010. He and his wife Cassie live in Springfield with their two english bulldogs, Dolley and Walter.
Carol Trost teaches Studio Art and Design 1, 2 and 3, and Computer Graphics 2 and 3. Ms. Trost also works as an Art Curriculum Specialist in the Fine Arts Office at Fairfax Ridge and is the Great Beginnings Coach for Art Secondary Teachers new to Fairfax County Public Schools. Ms. Trost earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from Iowa State University and a Master of Science in Education from the University of Southern California. Ms. Trost is a native Washingtonian.
Currently Teaching: Health and Physical Education 9, CPR, and working as the Assistant Director of Student Activities for Clubs and Activities Educational background: BS in Physical Education and Coaching K-12 from Ithaca College Coaching experience: Has coached JV & Varsity basketball, soccer, and softball in NY and VA; coached and assisted with the field hockey team at SUNY Cortland (Division III) Personal interests: staying active through: running, hiking, road biking, playing tennis, and practicing yoga/Pilates. Enjoys: indie movies, traveling, learning to surf and snowboard, reading, and learning.
Mrs. Champ has been teaching for 30+ years and has been at Marshall since 1983. Currently she teaches IB Math SL1 and HL 1 & 2, all calculus based mathematics, which will give you a clue to the meaning of her license plate, "2ND DERV". Originally from Texas, she earned her BS from Texas A&M University and graduated before women were officially admitted to the all-male school. She is certified in math, general science and gifted & talented. Mrs. Champ was awarded a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship in math for summer study at Princeton in 1990. She has given presentations at NCTM and Eisenhower Conferences national meetings and has conducted teacher workshops in several counties and states. Mrs. Champ has also served as a math consultant to the Discovery Channel. Her spare time pleasures are spending time with family including two grandchildren, reading fiction, playing with her Bichons and watching college football.
Rochelle Cohen is beginning her first year at Marshall High School. Although she has taught nearly every core subject over the years, this year she teaches Algebra 1 Part 1, and teams Algebra 1, as well as teaming Geometry with Mrs. Lennon and Ms. Kreshover. Ms. Cohen has served on Math, Language Arts and Yearbook committees and helped facilitate "Family Math Night" and "Art and Author Night" at her previous schools. She graduated from George Mason University with a BA in English and eleven years later received her M.Ed in education/special education from Marymount University. Along the way she developed an appreciation for math and pursued a Highly Qualified Teacher status for secondary math with a special education focus. Before becoming a teacher, Ms. Cohen worked as a technical writer throughout the Washington metro area. A former musician, these days she spends her free time knitting, exploring music genres, and visiting with friends and extended family. Every year she participates in Race for the Cure.
Mrs. Della Corna teaches high school math because she loves math, and because she thinks that high school is a fascinating, fun, and important time in young adults' lives.
She is also intrigued with learning— the different ways that people learn, the neuroscience of learning, methods of teaching and learning that are most effective and why, and the role that motivation plays in learning.
Before entering K-12 education, Mrs. Della Corna did engineering, technical sales, marketing, training, and management work in the medical device and environmental products and services industries. She taught adults as a corporate trainer for a leading water treatment company. She also taught at the college level while a graduate student at Penn State University, where she earned a BS in Engineering Science and an MS in Bioengineering.
This is Mrs. Della Corna’s second year at Marshall. She moved here from Pittsburgh, PA, where she is originally from, with her husband and two children. When not teaching, she manages a busy household, oversees slow-moving home-renovation projects, takes graduate education and math classes, collaborates with a neuroscientist at the NIH, and spends time hosting or travelling to see family and friends which usually involves lots of good food, drink, interesting places and events.
Cheryl Fischer teaches IB SL1 and Pre-IB Geometry. She is the sponsor of the Junior Math League at Marshall and is the co-sponsor of the Class of 2009 with Ms. Fairbanks. Mrs. Fischer has a Master's Degree in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and a B.S. degree in Mathematical Economics from Wake Forest University. She has two kids of her own in elementary school and can be seen attending various and sundry high school, elementary school, and sporting events around the Falls Church area. Go Deacs!
Judy Greenblum teaches Pre-IB Geometry and IB Math SL2. She received her B.A. in mathematics and economics from the State University of New York at Binghamton and her M.S. in Operations Research from the George Washington University. Before becoming a math teacher, Ms. Greenblum worked for many years as a research and network analyst for the government and telecommunications companies. Ms. Greenblum resides in Arlington, VA with her husband, two teenage children and two dogs.
Sandra Lennon teaches Geometry and Algebra I. Ms. Lennon graduated from the University of Utah in Civil Engineering and then decided to pursue Certification as a Math Teacher because she loves math and enjoys working with young adults. Her favorite activity is riding her motorcyle, especially in the cooler weather. In addition, she enjoys a variety of interests, including quilting, playing electric guitar (not well!), camping, Amateur Radio (she has her General License), and doing World War II Living History (Reenacting). This is her second year at Marshall, and she is very excited to be a part of the team!
Gail Reaves was formerly known as Gail Hamilton and is beginning her fifteenth year at Marshall High School. Although she has taught everything from English, history, science, and math to Spanish over the years. Throughout her tenure at GCM, Mrs. Reaves has served the Statesmen as lead mentor, cheerleading coach, and class sponsor for the classes of 1999 and 2004. She graduated from Tufts University with a BS in biology and education and later received a graduate degree in counseling and personnel services from the University of Maryland College Park. She worked for years as a guidance counselor in California and the Republic of the Philippines. These days she spends her free time dancing with her new husband, visiting her grown children, reading with her book club, or raising scholarship money with her sorority.
This is Mrs. Brown’s tenth year at Marshall HS. She is currently teaching Biology I and IB Environmental Systems and Societies, and is faculty advisor to FAAD/SADD, Earthforce, the Biology Club, and the newly formed Envirothon Team. Mrs. Brown graduated from Immaculata (PA) College, with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry. She has completed graduate work in Cell and Molecular Biology at the University of Delaware, and earned a Master's degree in Educational Psychology/Gifted Education from the University of Virginia. She is certified as a Virginia Master Naturalist.
Previously, Mrs. Brown was a research associate in the Department of Zoology at the University of California at Davis, and later developed and taught a preschool science program at Wesley Preschool in Vienna, and wrote and edited science education materials for Science Weekly. While her four children were attending FCPS, she was an active PTA volunteer in the Marshall Pyramid and at the county level. Mrs. Brown lives in Vienna with her husband, Tom, and their four labradoodles.
Mark Fredenburg has taught all levels of chemistry and physics that are offered in Fairfax County. In his role as a Co-Assessment Coach and the Best Practices Liaison for Marshall HS, he works with teachers to improve instruction, analyze data and look at grading practices in the classroom. Mr. Fredenburg earned his BS in Chemistry at Mount Union College, his MS in Chemistry at the University of Rochester and his MS in Forensic Science at the George Washington University. While he has retired from coaching several sports at Marshall (including golf, wrestling and softball), he is a member of the announcing team for home football games.
Ms. Hayhurst received her BS in Biology and Education from Southwest Missouri State University and her MS in Biology and Curriculum Development from Frostburg State University in Maryland. In her "FREE" time she enjoys playing with her horses, Miznan and Gidget, and her chickens!
Ms. Kahn has a B.S. in Physics with a minor in Mathematics from Georgetown University and a M.S. in Physics from Stanford University, where she did research using synchrotron x-rays to study surfaces of materials. Her education classes were primarily from GMU. When not teaching, she spends her time with her husband and children, and two kittens, who are quickly turning into cats.
Mr. Kirk is teaching Chemistry 1 and IB Chemistry. Prior to Marshall, he taught Chemistry I, Honors, and AP Chemistry at West Springfield. Mr. Kirk will be coaching pole vault for the Marshall track team and sponsors the Interact Club. In his spare time, Mr. Kirk likes to run on the trails of Rock Creek Park and catch his favorite bands when they visit D.C.
Sunny Nieh teaches Biology I, IB Biology I, and Concepts Science II. She is the sponsor of the Class of 2010. Ms. Nieh graduated from the University of Maryland at College Park with a BS in Engineering (Electrical Engineering and Biology) and later received a M.Ed. in Secondary Education (Biology and ESOL) from the George Washington University.
Mrs. Poirier is thrilled to be a returning member of the Marshall Community; she teaches Geosystems. She has a BS degree in Geology and a MS degree in Secondary Education. Prior to teaching, Mrs. Poirier spent 15 years working as a Geologist/Environmental Scientist focusing on hazardous waste site investigations and land management. She has lived and worked in six U.S. states and one foreign country (Japan). In her free time she enjoys spending time with her husband, two sons, and the family cat.
Mrs. Schoonmaker is returning for her ninth year at Marshall High School and is teaching PreIB Biology and Biology I. She has a B.S. in Biology and Sociology from Belmont University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Policy at George Mason University.
Amy Snyder team teaches Chemistry 1 with Ms. Ulch and Mr. Kirk. She is also a member of the Special Education Department. Ms. Snyder graduated from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a BS in Computer Science and later received her graduate degree in Secondary Education from Canisius College. She is fully licensed to teach Mathematics as well. When not tutoring students in the DC-metro area, she enjoys gardening, writing, and ice skating.
Amy Speegle is excited to be at Marshall for her fourth year. She continues to teach a variety of physics courses, and serves as the Science Department Chair. She enjoys making physics accessible to all students and hopes that her students will learn to embrace their inner nerd. She is also the sponsor of the Science Honor Society, and will be assisting Ms. Ulch with Science Olympiad. Mrs. Speegle graduated with honors from Haverford College with a B.S. in Physics and minors in Astronomy and Mathematics. She earned her M.Ed. in Secondary Education (Physics) from the George Washington University where she has taught other teachers about the research process as an adjunct professor. She is a Knowles Science Teaching Foundation Fellow. In the rare event of “free time,” Mrs. Speegle enjoys cooking, playing Frisbee with her dog, and Guitar Hero with her family.
Erica Ulch is excited to be teaching Chemistry 1 at Marshall High School this year. She received her BS in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Michigan and completed her Secondary Education program at Western Michigan University in Biology and Chemistry. Before entering the teaching profession, Ms. Ulch was a research assistant at the University of Michigan where she worked to find potential treatments for sickle cell disease.
Julie Veenstra teaches pre-IB and IB II Biology at Marshall. She grew up in Michigan and received her B.S. in Medical Technology from Michigan State University. At the University of New South Wales in Australia, Ms. Veenstra had the opportunity to study microbiology while exploring the land down under. She also studied Criminal Justice before pursuing her M.Ed. in Secondary Education from George Washington University.
Andrea Wallace teaches special education. She graduated from James Madison University with a Biology/Pre Veterinarian degree. She is currently attending George Mason University where she will receive her masters in Special Education in March 2009. Some of her hobbies are spending time with family and friends, playing sports, shopping, and volunteering.
Mr. Axelrod teaches IB World History and V/US Government and is the Co-Coordinators for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program. He is the faculty sponsor for student government. He received his B.A. and his Master's in Education from the University of Virginia.
Born in Virginia, raised near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and in Kobe, Japan, Wes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from Allegheny College. He also has amassed 40 plus hours of graduate history courses at four different universities. Wes has been teaching for 27 years and has taught at Marshall since 1986. He presently teaches United States / Virginia History, IB Cultural Anthropology, and IB Theory of Knowledge.
Bob Bowdey teaches Senior Government with Matt Axelrod and Jim Robinson. Mr. Bowdey graduated from the University of Utah with a degree in psychology and later received a Masters of Science in special education from George Mason University. Mr. Bowdey is currently attending George Mason University in the Education PhD program and is ready to start work on his dissertation. When not teaching Mr. Bowdey is an internationally published wildlife photographer and author and also enjoys ballroom dancing with his wife.
Mr. Brannan teaches World History 1 and IB Topics in 20th Century World History. He is the team leader for IB Topics in 20th Century World History. He is also co-sponsor (with Mrs. Gannaway) of the Model United Nations Club. He has a B.A. in Political Science from Catholic University and a Master's in Public Administration from George Mason University. He completed the Transition-to-Teaching program at George Washington University and has taken post-graduate coursework at the Johns Hopkins School for Advanced International Studies.
Susan Cimburek began teaching in 2007 after completing an intensive internship program for career-changers at George Washington University. Prior to teaching, she was a vice president at a Washington, DC-based, non-profit educational association concerned with policy issues related to teaching and teacher education; served as an assistant dean for a college of education at a New England university; and worked at the Smithsonian Institution’s Museum of American History library where she handled a special collection of American trade literature. Ms. Cimburek holds degrees from the University of Colorado-Boulder (political science); Catholic University of America (American History); and University of Southern Maine (American and New England Studies). She lives in Washington, DC with her husband and children.
Ms. Farley teaches World History 2. She is faculty co-sponsor of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and is the lead mentor of the Mentor Teacher Program. She is also the head JV men's soccer coach. She earned her Master's degree from George Washington University in Special Education Transition and has a Bachelor's degree in Political Science.
Mr. Freeman teaches V/US Government, Sociology, Psychology, and IB History of the Americas . He is the head coach for GCM women's lacrosse.
Mr. Kane teaches IB Topics in 20th Century World History and IB History of the Americas. Mr. Kane has been with Fairfax County Public Schools since 1987 and at Marshall since 2000. He presently serves as an Assessment Coach at Marshall as well as a history teacher.
Mr. Robinson teaches V/US History and IB History of the Americas. He is the team leader for each of those courses.
Mrs. Wilson teaches World History 1. She is the team leader for World History 1. She has a B.A. in History and a M.S. in Secondary Education from Indiana University. She holds an endorsement in Special Education completed at George Mason University.
Mr. Yates teaches IB History of the Americas and Pre-IB Government. He is chair of the Social Studies department. Mr. Yates has taught at Marshall since 2000. He has previously served as student government sponsor and as team leader for World History 1 and Pre-IB Government. He is a graduate of the University of Virginia and George Mason University's School of Law and Graduate School of Education. He is a member of the Virginia State Bar. He also serves as a member of the Technology Committee.
Myrna Acevedo was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. While growing up Myrna spent her summers in Spain and had the opportunity to travel to many European countries. She earned a Bachelor in Agriculture from Kansas State University and a Bachelor in Marketing Management from University of Puerto Rico. She is currently working on a Master in Spanish Language and Culture from The University of Salamanca in Spain. Myrna loves traveling, experiencing different cultures, and learning world languages. She has been a student of L'Alliançe Française since she was 15 years old. "I hope that by learning a new language and culture my students are encouraged to see the world from a different perspective, therefore, promoting a better understanding of other ways of life."
Brian Kane received a B.A. in History from Virginia Tech and an M.A. in Classical Studies from The University of Kansas. He teaches Latin 1, Latin 2, Latin 3, IB Latin SL 1, IB Latin SL 2, IB Latin HL 2 and IB Theory of Knowledge. He also oversees the Latin Club and "Certamen" (an "It's Academic" contest in Latin). His favorite quote is: "Caelum, non animum mutant, qui trans mare currunt". (Horace, Epistles , I.xi.27) "They change their skies, but not their souls, who hasten across the sea."
Mr. Pierson graduated from Mary Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs and received a certificate in Foreign Language Education from George Mason University. He lived in Spain, Mexico, Ecuador and Argentina. For 2008-09, Mr. Pierson teaches Spanish 2 and Spanish for Fluent Speakers 1 and 2. He loves to go camping, play tennis, listening to music, read and attend plays. Favorite quote: "I imagine Sisyphus happy" - Albert Camus.
Mr. José A. Portillo teaches Spanish level 1 and IB Spanish for fluent speakers A2 HL/SLteaches Spanish level 1 and IB Spanish for fluent speakers A2 HL/SL. He was born and raised in El Salvador, he moved to the USA when he was 9 years of age, he is a 1999 Marshall H.S. graduate. He recently married and now resides in sterling VA. He received a Bachelors of Science in Education from Temple University. He is currently in his second year here at GCM and enjoys being back in his old stomping grounds. In his spare time in the summer and winter, Mr. Portillo enjoys participating in indoor and outdoor track and field games such as the shot put, discus throw, javelin, hammer and weight throws. He is a member of the PVTC (Potomac Valley Track Club) He loves to read and write and is currently working on an autobiography. "The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will." - Vince Lombardi
Mrs. Shewchuk was born in Beirut, Lebanon and gained her passion for travel and learning languages at a young age. She lived in Madrid, Spain as a little girl and learned Spanish, Swedish and English simultaneously. Her mixed Mexican-American and Swedish heritage has allowed her to appreciate different cultural perspectives and she embraces the Marshall community for its rich ethnic diversity. Mrs. Shewchuk became a Foreign Language teacher because she believes that learning a language is one of the major gateways to understanding a culture different from one’s own and can be the bridge to harmony among all peoples. She majored in Spanish and German at the University of Virginia for a Bachelor of Arts degree along with a Masters in Teaching degree from the Curry School of Education. Subsequently, she earned her M.S. in Linguistics from Georgetown University, where she also studied Portuguese. In addition to teaching Spanish 3, Mrs. Shewchuk is one of the Co-Coordinators for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program and is the Spanish Honor Society Sponsor. Outside of work life at Marshall, she treasures the roles of mother and wife, and appreciates the following quote: "Two things fill the mind with ever-increasing wonder and awe, the more often and the more intensely the mind of thought is drawn to them: the starry heaven above me and the moral law within me." - Immanuel Kant
Raised in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and North Carolina. Adwoa Ulzen teaches French 2 and I.B. French I. She double majored and earned a B.A. in Romance Languages: French and International and Area Studies from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. After she spent a year working with youth as a French teaching assistant at a boarding school in British Columbia, Canada, she then began serving as a staff member with an international peace and community building program, Transformation For Peace in the Czech Republic and various states in the USA. She then earned an M.A. in Secondary Foreign Language Education from the University of Alabama and taught high school French in Tuscaloosa, AL. A love for music, culture, travel, language, diverse peoples and international experiences are her life-long passions. She strongly believes in the potential of youth and in the importance of education in that if we "regard man (humanity) as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value . . . Education, can alone, cause it to reveal its treasures and enable mankind to benefit therefrom" - Bahá'u'llah
I was born in Managua, Nicaragua, but grew up in Washington DC. I went to elementary school in Arlington, Va. I went back to Managua to study Spanish. I came back and my mother had moved to Michigan where my aunt lived. I graduated from high school in Michigan and applied to colleges in Virginia. I attended the College of William and Mary for my undergraduate and George Mason University for my graduate degree. I was married in July of 2008. My wife and I just celebrate the birth of our first daughter, Isabella Uribarri.
Mrs. Walker de Llanas teaches IB Spanish 1. She graduated with a B.S in Biology/High Honors in Spanish from The University of Michigan and a M.Ed. in Multilingual, Multicultural Education from George Mason University. She is a National Board Certified teacher in World Languages Other than English. During 2007-08, she teaches Spanish 3 and IB Spanish, Part One on red days. On blue days, she is working as a Curriculum Resource Teacher in the FCPS foreign language office. Her hobbies include reading, HOT yoga, exercising, gardening, cooking, listening to music and especially playing with her children, Alessandra and Daniel. Motto: "He who keeps trying, will never be a failure."
John Reynolds is native to Northern Virginia and attended FCPS schools from kindergarten through high school (Shrevewood, Timber Lane, Forestville, Herndon Middle and Herndon High). After earning a BS in Athletic Training/Exercise Science from Ithaca College and a MS in Athletic Training from Indiana State University, Mr. Reynolds came to work as a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) at Marshall, a position he has held for the last 10 years. In addition to serving as an ATC, Mr. Reynolds worked as a substitute teacher (1 year), Public Health Training Attendant (2 years) and Special Education Teacher (5 years). During his five years of teaching at Marshall, Mr. Reynolds earned his second Master’s degree in Exceptional Student Education and taught 11 different subjects over that time period. Mr. Reynolds also served as a curriculum team leader early on in Marshall’s development as a Professional Learning Community.
Mr. Reynolds is very involved as an athletic training professional, authoring articles for several sports medicine publications and presenting on a variety of athletic training topics at local, state, regional and national conferences. In 2002, he served on a national task force charged with developing recommendations regarding the appropriate medical care for secondary school-aged athletes. He is currently the Health and Safety Consultant for USA Football as well as President of the Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association, a position he will leave in January after a two-year term.
When not in his office or on the sideline of a Marshall athletic contest, Mr. Reynolds enjoys spending time with his wife Carrie and their three sons, Erik, Ian and Aiden as well as cooking for his family and playing tennis.
Gardner is from Rhode Island and is married with two children. He graduated from Middlebury College, VT in 1994 and has been a counselor and non-profit youth worker ever since. Gardner has been an AmeriCorps member, environmental teacher, soccer coach and mentor. He loves talking with teens and helping them prepare for their future. In his spare time he enjoys soccer, politics, outdoors movies, books and playing with his children!
Born in Alexandria and raised in Northern Virginia. Graduate of FCPS schools from Lake Braddock Secondary School. Alumni Virginia Tech and I do all I can to never miss a Hokies football game. I enjoy spending time with family, friends, and playing guitar whenever I can. Go Hokies!
Mrs. Bennett is from El Salvador and came to the United States in 1980. She worked several years at the Inter-American Development Bank in Washington, DC, and graduated from Marymount University with a Bachelors in Business Administration. Currently she is the Parent Liaison for Marshall High School. Mrs. Bennett most enjoys the time she spends with her family. She is a Marshall parent as well.
Mrs. Felder is the administrative assistant to the principal of Marshall High School. I am a fourth-generation Washingtonian. Born in Washington, D.C. and grew up Arlington, VA. In my career with Fairfax County Public Schools, I have served as administrative assistant to multiple principals as well as worked in the centrla office. I have received an Outstanding Performance award from FCPS as well as being nominated as Support Employee of the Year for FCPS. In addition, I received the Marshall High School PTSA Support Employee of the Year award. I serve as a Notary Public. In my spare time, I enjoy cruising, decorating, and spending time with my husband and our two adult children and our bichon "Brodie." I am certainly most proud to be a STATESMAN.
Ms. Stark has been at Marshall since 1998. She has a M.A. +30 in School Psychology and is a Nationally Certified and Licensed School Psychologist. Ms. Stark is a member of the National Association of School Psychologists as well as the Fairfax Association of School Psychologists.
Ms. Kidd has been working with Fairfax County Public Schools for more than seventeen years: seven of those years at Kent Gardens Elementary School and the rest at Marshall. Prior to working with Fairfax County Public Schools, she was an Administrative Assistant with the Department of Defense. Her biggest hobby is gardening.
Ms. Pangilinan attended Warwick High School in Newport, VA and Mary Washington College. She worked as a preschool teacher before coming to Marshall and Fairfax County in 2001. Currently she is the Student Services Secretary and the Transcript Secretary. Her hobbies include music, books and traveling to the beach.
An Ohio native, Mrs. Lapthorn earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Miami University (in Ohio!) and her Masters in School Counseling from Xavier University in Cincinnati. Starting out as a high school science teacher, she taught Life Science and Physical Science and kept herself busy sponsoring student government programs and holding various School Improvement leadership positions. Since moving to VA in the fall of 2005, Mrs. Lapthorn has been the testing and assessment specialist (Assessment Coach) at South Lakes High School. She joined the Marshall High School staff as a counselor in the fall of 2009 but has been a huge supporter of the Statesmen football program for a few years and loves officially being part of the entire Marshall community. When not at school she enjoys spending time with her family (Coach Lapthorn and two small sons), reading, watching sports, and keeping up on the latest Ohio family news.
Mr. Rixse joined the Marshall counseling staff in 2007 after one year at Edison High School. Previously, he taught chemistry and math for 11 years at Yorktown High School in Arlington. Also, Mr. Rixse worked for 6 years as a litigation attorney at a large DC-based law firm. Mr. Rixse received his B.A. in chemistry from Princeton University, his law degree from the University of Virginia, and his counseling degree from George Mason University. He is a native of Northern Virginia. In his spare time, Mr. Rixse umpires high school and youth league baseball and officiates high school volleyball.
Mrs. Tanya Shuford began her college career at James Madison University, received her B.A. in Psychology from Hampton University, and her Master's degree in Education from University of Maryland. She has been counseling in Fairfax County schools for more than 5 years. To her the best thing about being a guidance counselor is helping to prepare students for life beyond graduation from high school. At Marshall she co-sponsors the College Partnership Program and the African-American Culture Club. In her spare time, Mrs. Shuford enjoys spending time with her family, reading good novels, listening to music and working with her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Ms. Kim Upadhyaya attended James Madison University where she received a B.A. in International Affairs and Spanish. She moved to Northern Virginia after college and pursued a brief career in sales before enrolling at Marymount University and earning a Master's degree in School Counseling. Ms. Upadhyaya joined the Fairfax County school system in 1998 and counseled students at Edison High School for twelve years before joining the Marshall staff. She is very excited to be a part of Marshall counseling team and is looking forward to meeting her students. Ms. Upadhyaya is from Long Island and enjoys visiting New York as much as possible. When she is away from school, she likes to travel and spend time with her family and friends, especially her husband and children.
Ms. Gina Fajardo is originally from South America, but has been raised and lived in Fairfax, VA for most of her life. She has both a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a Masters of Education in Counseling and Development from George Mason University. For the past six years she was the Lead Full-Time Counselor at an FCPS Elementary School, where she coordinated various programs and served as a Mentor to other Counselors. Some of her previous work experience include working in the Education and Counseling Departments of two non-profit organizations, as well as doing a couple of Internships at Robinson Secondary School, GMU's Admissions Department and GMU's Academic Advising Center. Ms. Fajardo is also fluent in Spanish, and has a strong comprehension in French. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, singing, and hanging out with friends and family. Ms. Fajardo is excited to be part of the Marshall team, and is looking very forward to getting to know the students and their families.
Mr. Peters is originally from Norfolk, VA, but has lived in Northern Virginia since 2003. He received a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Virginia, and a Masters in Counseling from George Mason University. Prior to working as a counselor, he spent over 6 years working in Facilities Mangement for a global IT and business consulting company. Mr. Peters is also the head JV Boys Basketball coach at Marshall HS, as well as an assistant Varsity Boys Basketball coach. Previously he coached for 5 seasons at Robinson Secondary, as well as 3 seasons for the Fairfax Stars AAU basketball club. Mr. Peters is very happy to be a part of the Marshall community, and excited about working with the Statesmen students, parents, and faculty.
Mrs. Gannaway currently teaches Senior Government. She has previous taught World History Parts 1 and 2 and Honors (Pre-IB) Government. She is an active member of the Faculty Book Club. She has previously served as World History 2 and Honors Government team leader. Mrs. Gannaway earned her B.A. from Randolph-Macon Woman’s College (now Randolph College) and her Master’s in Political Science from George Mason University. Mrs. Gannaway is also a James Madison Memorial Fellow, which is a highly competitive award for social studies secondary education teachers. Mrs. Gannaway has been teaching at GCM since the 2002-2003 school year. She is currently teaching part-time in order to have more time with her son.
Nicole Walter has been at Marshall since 2003, and currently teaches Studio Art & Design 2 and 3, IB Visual Arts, and Photography 1. She also sponsors the Art Club and co-sponsors the National Art Honor Society. Ms. Walter graduated from the College of Visual Arts with a BFA in Painting, and from the University of Minnesota earning a M.Ed. in K-12 Art Education. She received a grant to conduct a year of education research at Hiroshima University in Japan in 2002, and received a Fulbright Hays Scholarship to study art and culture in Mexico in 2010. She loves teaching Art at Marshall!