Congratulations to fourth-grade teacher James Koontz who was recognized at the annual FCPS Honors event as the 2017 Region 4 Outstanding Elementary Teacher and one of five finalists for this year's Outstanding Elementary Teacher Award.

Before he became a teacher eight years ago, Mr. Koontz was a defense contractor and stay-at-home dad. This helps account for the “real world” context he brings to his classroom, where students have learned to balance a checkbook, design a resort and write for the class newspaper. Mr. Koontz founded the robotics and 3D printing clubs and created a schoolwide “Innovation Time” to encourage students to figure out how they learn best. He also serves as the school’s PTA representative and is a core member of the Responsive Instruction team to reach struggling students. Colleagues praise him as a collaborative leader and mentor who goes out of his way to help. “Mr. Koontz is a prime model of an educator dedicated not only to his students,” says a co-worker, “but to the school, staff and community at large.”

• See Mr. Koont'z page on the FCPS website

Congratulations to all of the West Springfield Elementary School staff members recognized FCPS Honors.

Outstanding Elementary New Teacher School-level Recipient

• Regina Uribe (third-grade teacher) 

Outstanding School-based Support Employee School-level Recipient

•  Linda Barrett (instructional assistant)

Outstanding Principal Pyramid-level Recipient

•  Kelly Sheers 

Thank you to Nina Barkley for all of her hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaison.