George Becerra was recognized as the first recipient of Fairfax County Public Schools’ Dr. Lawrence Bussey Memorial Equity Award.

The award recognizes staff, students, or community members who have demonstrated significant and impactful efforts to improve the educational experiences and outcomes of students from groups who are marginalized or underserved. It was awarded by the School Board’s Minority Student Achievement Oversight Committee (MSAOC) at the annual Equity Symposium this summer. 

Becerra is an active volunteer with Fairfax County Public schools, serving as a member of MSAOC. He has also previously volunteered as a member of the Joint Task Force on Successful Children and Youth Policy Team, the Superintendent’s Community Selection Panel (for the last four superintendents), the School Board’s Advanced Academic Program Advisory Committee, the Superintendent’s Business and Community Advisory Council, the Bond Referendum Committee, and the Fairfax County Council of PTAs. 

This year, he co-chaired the FCPS Strategic Plan Core team, which involved planning and leading a group of more than 100 staff and community members through a process which took months to bring to fruition. 

“His steadfast belief in the importance of equity serves as an inspiration to others and encourages a shift toward a more just school system,” said one of his nominators. 

Becerra worked with Dr. Bussey, who the award is named for, and continues his legacy of meeting the needs of underserved and minority students. “By recognizing the unique needs of those who have been historically underserved, George is able to make suggestions which target the specific barriers faced by these students and families,” another nominator said.

Nominees for this new award included individuals as well as groups — community members, staff, and students — people making an impact in single schools and others influencing the work of the division.