Congratulations to School Based Technology Specialist Leslie Leisey who was recognized as the FCPS 2022 Region 5 Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee and one of the six finalists for the FCPS Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee at this year's FCPS Honors event, held at George Mason University Center for the Arts on June 8th.

While Leslie’s official title is the SBTS at Poplar Tree, she is also a student voice activist, staff morale specialist, and community builder extraordinaire. Leslie’s positive attitude builds and fosters relationships with the school community. She has the unique capability of making you feel knowledgeable while teaching you along the way. Her creation and management of the Paw Tech Squad is what sets her apart. This student organization is a unique and exceptional contribution to FCPS. She champions students to take the role of technology specialists themselves. One Tech Squad parent said, “My kids like her because she ‘listens to us.’ Mrs. Leisey gives students a sense of belonging and a chance for their voice to be heard.”

• View Ms. Leisey's recognition on the FCPS website

Congratulations to our Poplar Tree Panther staff members who were also recognized at this year's FCPS Honors Ceremony!

Outstanding Elementary Teacher School and Pyramid-level Recipient

• Danielle Spiroch, Multiple Disabilities Teacher

Outstanding Elementary New Teacher School-level Recipient

• Catherine Turner, Third Grade Teacher

Outstanding School-Based Operational School-level Recipient

• Maiya Pandey Mishra, Public Health Training Assistant

Outstanding Principal Nominee

• Susan Andujar

Thank you to Leslie Leisey for all of their hard work with the nomination process by serving as this year's awards liaison.