The Prince William County Special Education Parent Teacher Association (SEPTA) recently held its fourth annual virtual recognition awards ceremony. During the ceremony, SEPTA recognized outstanding teachers, administrators, school staff, professionals, community members, and students. Among various community involvements, SEPTA members participate in fundraisers and networking events, as well as provide sensory friendly engagement opportunities for students with disabilities.

Congratulations to the following PWCS award winners:

Outstanding General Education Teacher, Primary: Colleen Lennon, Rosa Parks Elementary School
Outstanding General Education Teacher, Secondary: Laura Fegley, Woodbridge High School
Outstanding Special Education Teacher, Primary: Kristina Fassett, Piney Branch Elementary School
Outstanding Special Education Teacher- Secondary: Brittany Andino, Osbourn High School
Outstanding Instructional Assistant/Paraprofessional: Falguni Pandya, Piney Branch Elementary School
Outstanding Administrator: Justin Wilk, Prince William County School Board Member, Potomac Magisterial District
Outstanding Related Services Provider: Erin Saar, Antietam Elementary School
Outstanding Student Advocate, Primary: Rhys Gallagher, Dumfries Elementary School
Outstanding Student Advocate, Secondary: Samuelle (Sam) Baisas, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Outstanding Student Ally: Sasha Parrish, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Outstanding Inclusive School-Based Program: Fin Friends, Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School
Outstanding Inclusive School: Cedar Point Elementary School
Outstanding Bus Driver: Zachary Hinojosa and Beatrice Sarfo (Aide), PWCS #536 Team
SEPTA also awarded grants to creative, innovative programs that provide educational experiences to students and enhance their physical, social, and emotional abilities.

Congratulations to the following PWCS grant recipients:

Kathleen Drago, Gainesville Middle School: $100 for therapeutic putty, fidget, and sensory items for the classroom
LaShonda Black, River Oaks Elementary School: $100 for materials for creative play and crafts
Kathy Hoback, Brentsville District High School: $300 for a button maker and supplies for a student-run button and sticker business that enhances students’ technical and social skills
Jasmine Wright, Dumfries Elementary School: $300 for flexible seating
Tracy Wrighten, Graham Park Middle School: $100 for Standards of Learning (SOL) coach books for students
Nora Yates, Dumfries Elementary School: $100 for a sensory calm down area