Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) honored 21 employees in instructional and operational roles as Employees of the Year at the April 28 School Board meeting. Each year, LCPS Human Resources and Talent Development (HRTD) celebrates the dedication and achievements of LCPS employees for all they do to support students, families and the community.
“At LCPS, our people are the foundation of our success and the driving force behind every student’s experience. This year’s honorees represent the very best of our school division – demonstrating excellence, care, and commitment to students, families and one another,” said Superintendent Dr. Aaron Spence. “In every role, they make a meaningful difference each day, and we are proud to recognize their impact and grateful for the example they set for our community.”
This years’ winners are:
Teacher of the Year, and LCPS 2027 nominee for Washington Post Teacher of the Year - Eric Kursman, Blue Ridge Middle School
“Equally important is his commitment to building meaningful relationships grounded in affirmation and cultural sensitivity. He greets every student at the door by name, offering a handshake, eye contact, and a genuine welcome. This simple but powerful routine signals to students that they are seen, valued, and respected as individuals. Parent feedback repeatedly highlights how much this matters. One parent shared that their child feels special because he takes the time to greet each student personally, while another described how he celebrates students’ strengths, leadership, and creativity in heartfelt messages home. These interactions demonstrate his belief that relationships are the foundation of learning.”
Principal of the Year, and LCPS 2027 nominee for Washington Post Principal of the Year -
Katie Johnson, Belmont Ridge Middle School
“As a parent of two children who have had the privilege of learning under her leadership, I have witnessed firsthand the extraordinary impact she has made on our school community. She has created a positive learning environment that has led to incredible student achievements. Through her leadership, students feel supported and teachers are engaged and empowered. Katie has an open-door policy, making herself available to parents, staff, and students. No matter how busy she is, she listens and takes the necessary steps to address concerns. Whether stepping in to supervise lunch duty, assisting at carpool, or filling in for a teacher, she leads by example.”
Elementary New Teacher of the Year - Maria Emilia Proano, Hovatter Elementary School
Middle School New Teacher of the Year - Erick Enciso, Watson Mountain Middle School
High School New Teacher of the Year - Bentley Chen, Heritage High School
Substitutes of the Year -
Karen Pegan, Broad Run High School
Benjamin Nichols, Heritage High School
John Hunt, Lovettsville Elementary School
Katharine Cox, Sycolin Creek Elementary School
Instructional Support Employee of the Year - Jessica Trigiani, Madison’s Trust Elementary School
Student Support Services Employee of the Year - Donna Vanik, Madison’s Trust Elementary School
Professional Employee of the Year - Peggy Tyree, Hovatter Elementary School
Bus Driver of the Year - Shakeba Friday, Transportation
Bus Attendant of the Year - Sharron Brent, Transportation
Custodial Services Employee of the Year - Linda Pocasangre Lopez, Blue Ridge Middle School
Information Technology Employee of the Year - Joey Berrios, Cedar Lane Elementary School
Professional Trades Employee of the Year - Charles Marcum, Facilities Operations
Safety and Security Employee of the Year - Brandon Sellars, Willard Middle School
School Nutrition Services Employee of the Year - Evelyn Ceballos, Brambleton Middle School
Administrative Support Employee of the Year - Anne Grazier, Belmont Ridge Middle School
Support Staff Employee of the Year - Shari Byrne, Clerk to the School Board
Administrative Support Employee of the Year - Anne Grazier, Belmont Ridge Middle School
This year, over 700 nominations were received across all categories, submitted by employees, parents, students or community members.