First-Class Awards

An annual celebration of individuals who support, design, and implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students.

First-Class Awards are presented each year at our Special Education Conference, to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students.

2021 Winners

  • Michael Chierichella, 5th Grade Teacher, Coates Elementary School
  • Keely Norris, Special Education Teacher, Glasgow Middle School
  • Julie Tiss, Special Education Teacher, Rocky Run Middle School
  • Allie Ojjeh, Special Education Teacher, Herndon Middle School
  • Mark Thompson, Special Education Teacher, McLean High School
  • Deb Opalesky, Speech and Language Pathologist, McLean High School
  • Anna Southworth, Career and Transition Teacher, McLean High School
  • Mary Beth and Eric Fleming, Assistive Technology Resource Teachers, Assistive Technology Services

Winners from Previous Years

2019 Winners

  • Kerry Peerman, Principal, Halley Elementary School
  • Sarah Chawki, Student, Bush Hill Elementary School
  • Jordan Bristol, Kindergarten Teacher, Canterbury Woods Elementary School
  • Nancy Lucas-Heck, Multiple Disabilities Teacher, Lake Braddock Secondary School
  • Debra Opalesky, Speech-Language Pathologist, McLean High School

Special Education Conference Website