Congratulations to History and Social Studies teacher Douglas B. Schneider on his recognition as the FCPS 2023 Region 1 Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher at this year's FCPS Honors event, held at George Mason University Center for the Arts on June 14th.

Excited to return to public service in a vocation, Doug made the transition to teaching as a career switcher after serving as an officer in the United States Coast Guard and working in the maritime sector. For Doug, mentoring and engaging with young people is the ultimate leadership opportunity that requires setting a positive and consistent example, building strong relationships, and being empathic and responsive to student needs. Doug guides students to create a supportive, engaging, and spirited classroom culture in which students feel safe to share their perspectives, make mistakes, and learn. He loves to spark student curiosity as he helps students investigate the social, economic, and political impacts of historical developments and make connections with their own experiences.

Congratulations to the following Oakton High School staff members who were also recognized at this year's FCPS Honors Ceremony!

Outstanding School-Based Operational Employee School-Level Recipient

• David Slabaugh, Operating Engineer

Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee School and Pyramid-Level Recipient

• Elizabeth Chase-Kang, School Counselor

Outstanding School-Based Leader School-Level Recipient

• James Oberndorf, Assistant Principal

Outstanding Secondary School Teacher and Pyramid-Level Recipient

• Gabrielle Gombos, English Teacher 

Thank you to James Oberndorf and Jamie Lane for all of their hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaisons.