The Outstanding Elementary New Teacher Award recognizes elementary school teachers who are within their first three years of teaching and demonstrate outstanding performance and superior instructional skills. Any FCPS employee or community member may nominate new teachers for this award.

2024 Outstanding Elementary School New Teacher 

Mary Ann Cassell

Multiple Disabilities Teacher
Lorton Station Elementary School, Region 6

Mary Ann has dedicated her life to improving the lives of students with autism, which led her to teaching. She deeply believes that all students are capable of great success. As a special education teacher, Mary Ann develops a positive, supportive, and nurturing rapport that creates a safe environment where students learn, grow developmentally, and have fun in the process. Mary Ann values compassion and service and strives to enrich the school community by sharing her experience and collaborating with colleagues to help her students and all others succeed. Her favorite part of teaching is celebrating the growth of her students which allows them to participate fully in their family, school, and community.