Fairfax High biology teacher Ronnetta Lyons (fifth from left) with some of her students beside the school’s brand-new spirit rock donated by the Class of 2019.
“When I met Ronnetta over the summer, what I encountered was a consummate professional, passionate educator and born leader.” —Fairfax High Principal Erin Lenart
First, freshman-biology teacher Ronnetta Lyons was honored as Fairfax High’s Teacher of the Year. Now, this inspiring and hardworking educator has been selected as the Teacher of the Year for the entire Fairfax High School Pyramid.
“I am so honored to be named Teacher of the Year amongst the amazing faculty and staff that I work with daily,” said Lyons. “I am rewarded every time I see any growth and success with our students here at Fairfax High, but it is really amazing to get recognized for that hard work.”
She was nominated for this award in January by her school’s staff members. And, according to City of Fairfax Schools spokeswoman Carrie Dorsey, Lyons was chosen to receive it because of “her love for her students, her positivity in and out of the classroom and her leadership among her peers.”
Dorsey noted that Fairfax High Principal Erin Lenart was “immediately impressed” with Lyons when they first met each other, prior to the start of the school year. “Ms. Lyons’s reputation and influence are second to none,” said Lenart. “When I met Ronnetta over the summer, what I encountered was a consummate professional, passionate educator and born leader.”
“After working with her, I found she is organized, supportive, creative and leads by example – expecting the same of her peers,” continued Lenart. “She is so deserving of this award, as she represents all that we hope to cultivate and nurture.”
Also praising Lyons was City of Fairfax School Board Chairman Carolyn Pitches. She knows Lyons not only as a member of the Fairfax High teaching staff, but as a teacher of one of her own children.
“She is compassionate and respectful with her students and has an amazing rapport with each of them,” said Pitches. “Ms. Lyons makes the [curriculum] content come alive, trying to engage all her students.”
In addition, Lyons is the co-sponsor for Fairfax High’s Class of 2019. Later this month, she will be in the running for the Region 5 Teacher of the Year award.