In 1983, Loudoun County Public Schools paid tribute to 18 students who had earned an "A" average during the first three years of high school. On Sunday, the school district recognized 164 students with a 4.0 or better grade point average for the three years.
“It is a day of pride and accomplishment and a day to celebrate possibility,” said Superintendent of Schools Edgar Hatrick.
The Loudoun Education Foundation sponsored a banquet for the honorees, kicking off American Education Week, Nov. 14-20.
As Park View High School Principal Anne Brooks introduced her scholars, she said each had provided a short quotation. “Some reflect values, some are motivating and some are humorous,” she said. “Like the quotations, these Park View High School seniors are a kaleidoscope of possibilities.”
Alex Leap, who plans to attend James Madison University and major in biology, quoted Les Brown: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”
Mary Hester, a member of the high school show choir who plans to attend William and Mary or the University of Virginia, chose John Lennon’s “When I cannot sing my heart, I can only speak my mind.”
Phuong Tran Le, who will attend Northwestern University or Brown and major in journalism, selected Shel Silverstein. “Draw a crazy picture, write a nutty poem, sing a mumble-gumble song, whistle through your comb. Do a loony-goony dance cross the kitchen floor, put something in the world that ain’t been there before.”
BROAD RUN High School Principal Edgar Markley said many of his students expressed gratitude for the support they received in the last three years. Chalais Massard has overcome many obstacles, such as growing up without a father. “Her mom has filled both roles and has been an incredible support,” he said. “She wants to dedicate this evening to the special person in her life — her Mom.”
Pedro Jaramillo’s parents came from Ecuador to provide their son with a good education. “On this special evening, he wants to express his gratitude for their sacrifice.”
Dominion High School Principal John Brewer described his first honoree, Ashley Abesamis, as one of the most enthusiastic and encouraging young people he has ever met. He said Kristin Claeys is the epitome of leadership, possessing the ability to positively influence her peers.
Brewer said one of Nicky Pappano’s teachers stated that she will save the world someday. “Those of you who know Nicky know that this is absolutely true.”
POTOMAC FALLS High School Principal David Spage introduced Eric Dvorak who could not decide whether Advanced Placement Physics or BC Calculus was his favorite class. “It is no wonder he wants to attend Virginia Tech and be an engineer,” Spage said.
Kaitlin Simonetti, who plans to study sociology at the University of South Carolina, is someone who has created the “awesome role as advisor and friend.”
Melanie Lause, who plans to study psychology at the University of Richmond or James Madison University, was portrayed by one of her instructors as “truly the student every teacher dreams to have in class.”
STONE BRIDGE High School Principal James Person said Katherine Brickley’s commitment to perfectionism was demonstrated when she earned a 98 percent on an essay in one of her Honors classes and insisted on revising it because she could do better. Brickley plans to major in youth ministry.
Lindsay Relihan, who plans to major in business and politics at Wellesley, Smith College, has a great sense of humor, volunteers in a nursing home and keeps her teachers on their toes if they have not done their homework.
Jacqueline Woods wants to be a psychologist, because it is the only subject she never gets tired of studying.
Jonathan Tong, a Broad Run High School honoree, said the recognition meant a lot to him. “I guess it culminates all the work of the last three years into one moment,” he said. “It all kind of represents the reward, a symbol of our efforts.” Tong plans to become an automotive engineer or designer. He hopes to attend the University of Illinois or the University of Southern California.
Lisa Morreale of Park View High School also used “reward” to describe the evening. “It’s really an honor to be here,” she said, adding that making good grades is important. “High school not only gives you memories, but teaches you life’s lessons. It’s important to do well so you have a future.”
Morreale plans to become a drama teacher and attend either William and Mary or James Madison University.
THE HONOREES recognized 122 teachers who made a difference in their lives. Susan Browning was named Principal of the Year and winner of The Washington Post Educational Leadership Award. Browning has been principal of Seldens Landing Elementary School in Leesburg since 2001. Seldens Landing Assistant Principal Karen Dicks said Browning is the most driven and dedicated educator she has ever worked with in her 14 years in Loudoun County. “Does she lead with her heart? Yes, and it takes her to places that other educators could not even begin to imagine.”
The recipient of the Agnes Myer Teacher of the Year Award, Doug Dillon, could not attend the banquet, because he is serving his second tour in Afghanistan. His wife, Paige, and their four children, were there in his place. Dillon is a seventh grade social sciences teacher at Harper Park Middle School in Leesburg. “Through his experiences, Doug has been able to bring the events of history alive to his students,” said Dan Kent, the 1997 Virginia Teacher of the Year and a social studies teacher at Broad Run High School.
Harper Park Principal Claudia Bolen said Dillon is a teacher who influences young people to become better students and citizens. “He is every administrator’s dream and every parent’s hope.”