Celebration Express: MCPS Surprises 11 Top Employees Across the County
MCPS honored 11 of its top employees during surprise celebrations today. Aboard the Celebration Express, Superintendent Thomas Taylor, Board of Education members and association leadership visited schools and worksites across the county, to pay tribute to three educators and eight supporting staff members.
Of the three MCPS Teacher of the Year finalists, one will be named MCPS Teacher of the Year during the Distinguished Service to Education Honors celebration in May. That teacher will go on to compete for Maryland Teacher of the Year.
In addition, eight outstanding supporting services staff members were honored as SEIU Local 500 chapter award winners. From these first place winners, three will be selected to advance as finalists to compete for Supporting Services Employee of the Year; one will be named the winner.
Teacher of the Year Finalists
High School Teacher of the Year — Michelle Elie, Honors English and African American Literature Teacher, Montgomery Blair High School
A National Board Certified Teacher and founder of Blair’s African American Studies Academy, Michelle Elie is recognized for her deep commitment to social justice and culturally responsive curriculum. The African American Studies Academy provides a dedicated academic space where students can explore their cultural heritage and literature, fostering a sense of pride and belonging. Elie is celebrated for her leadership in student-led journalism as advisor for Silver Chips Online, the student-led news publication, and for her tenure as director of Sankofa, a massive Black History Month production featuring hundreds of students. Colleagues and former students praise her for nurturing student talent, fostering inclusive communities and empowering marginalized voices through poetry, literature and advocacy.
Her teaching is noted for nurturing intellectual and social-emotional development. Former students highlight her ability to build pride and purpose in young people, helping them find their voices and build lasting community connections. Her impact often extends beyond the classroom; former students describe her as a lifelong mentor who continues to provide guidance and support years after they have graduated.
Middle School Teacher of the Year — Delia Dunlap, Model United Nations World Studies Teacher, Silver Spring International Middle School
With over 20 years of experience, Delia Dunlap specializes in civic engagement and global studies. She has transformed the Model United Nations elective into a premier program where students engage with real-world issues through research, debate and simulations.
As the Student Government Association advisor, she empowers students to take action on issues they care about and see themselves as capable leaders. Dunlap creates a student-centered classroom that amplifies individual voices and prioritizes project-based, experiential learning. Beyond academics, she acts as a tireless advocate for her students, helping them navigate middle school challenges with a focus on their long-term growth and leadership potential.
She has organized community-building events and mentored staff with a focus on equity and project-based learning. She organizes events, such as donut days and open-door lunch sessions, to ensure every student feels welcome and connected to the school culture.
Elementary School Teacher of the Year — Alvaro Silva, Music Teacher, Laytonsville Elementary School
A Chilean-American clinician and doctoral candidate, Alvaro Silva is recognized for his culturally responsive and mindfulness-based approach to music education. Colleagues and parents praise his ability to create an inclusive environment, particularly for students with significant special needs. He utilizes innovative strategies, such as sign language and using specific instruments to aid transitions and incorporating Augmentative and Alternative Communication devices for language learners. Silva is celebrated as a master of his craft who builds strong community bridges and empowers students of all backgrounds through the joy of music.
Drawing from his doctoral research in positive psychology, he uses a mindfulness-based lens to help students develop attentional tools and reach a state of flow during musical activities. He encourages students with fine motor challenges to explore playing instruments, which has led to increased musical engagement and dancing at home. Silva identifies what motivates individual students, such as a specific interest in jazz or the trumpet, and incorporates those elements into his lessons as incentives for learning. He also focuses on literacy and world music to help students become culturally aware musicians.
SEIU Local 500 Chapter Winners
Building Services — Alicia Vargas, Building Service Manager, Sargent Shriver Elementary School
Known for her exceptional organizational skills and outstanding problem-solving abilities, Alicia Vargas manages complex facility operations with diligence and precision. She is recognized for her proactive communication, staying ahead of work orders and collaborating effectively with the UpCounty Service Center to train new managers and oversee large-scale summer cleaning projects. Beyond technical expertise, colleagues note her positive, uplifting presence and commitment to the school community. She consistently goes above and beyond daily responsibilities to support her team with humility and grace. Her leadership ensures a safe, clean and welcoming learning environment, making her a vital asset to the district’s mission of excellence.
Food Services — Michelle Li, Food Services Field Manager, Department of Food and Nutrition Services
Michelle Li has risen from a temporary substitute to overseeing 25 school cafeterias. Colleagues describe her as a boots-on-the-ground leader who provides hands-on training, ensures strict compliance with nutrition guidelines, and masterfully manages complex staffing and equipment emergencies. Beyond her operational excellence, she is recognized for her compassion in supporting staff through personal challenges and her dedication to community outreach at events, such as Back-to-School Nights and helping families navigate the Free and Reduced Meal application process. She is also credited with mentoring new Field Managers and cafeteria staff, fostering a family atmosphere.
Maintenance — Michael Foxwell, Assistant Maintenance Facilities Manager, Division of Maintenance and Operations
A 22-year veteran of MCPS, Michael Foxwell has risen through the ranks from electrician to his current leadership role. Colleagues and supervisors praise his professionalism and team-oriented leadership, noting his significant impact on strengthening staff morale and fostering collaboration across service centers. Recognized for his exceptional communication skills and trustworthiness, Foxwell is a dedicated professional who sets a high standard for excellence and reliability within the Division of Maintenance. Colleagues note his calm, solutions-focused approach in emergency situations. He is consistently available by phone, provides expert guidance and has been instrumental in supporting the needs of schools. While he was in the electronics department, there was significant improvement in the timely and efficient handling of work orders under his supervision.
Media and Technology — Bryan Nance, Media Services Technician, Montgomery Blair High School
A 33-year veteran of MCPS, Bryan Nance is described as the giant heart of his school. Colleagues praise his technical expertise in managing audio-visual systems, his proactive problem-solving, and his ability to multitask during high-pressure events. He resolved complex audio-visual issues for health and physical education teachers, revamping sound systems in the dance and weight rooms, ensuring they were durable enough to withstand building challenges, such as water damage. Beyond his technical role, Nance has mentored students as a football and track coach for over three decades. He is widely recognized for his reliability, institutional knowledge and unwavering commitment to the Blair community.
Office — Oscar Alvarenga, Newcomers Transition Coordinator, Department of International Admissions
Oscar Alvarenga is a transformative leader who redefines “wraparound services" for the district's most vulnerable populations. Managing the International Admissions and Enrollment Welcome Center, he facilitates the transition of more than 4,000 new students annually, ensuring they receive not just academic placement, but essential access to housing, healthcare and legal resources. His advocacy has led to systemic shifts, such as the successful implementation of the GED in Spanish in Maryland and the creation of Youth Summits that bridge educational gaps for immigrant families. Colleagues and community leaders describe him as a quiet champion and ultimate problem solver who combines cultural proficiency with an unwavering work ethic.
Paraeducator — Aaron McFarland, Paraeducator, Col. Zadok Magruder High School
With eight years of service at MCPS, Aaron McFarland has an amazing ability to connect with and motivate students who face significant challenges. Colleagues and supervisors praise his dependability and proactive leadership, noting his willingness to step into any situation, even difficult ones, without being asked. Students respond positively to him because he consistently shows that he believes in them and gives his full effort to support their needs. He is also a dedicated coach who mentors young athletes in sports and life skills. By providing a consistent example of hard work and empathy, McFarland has become a cornerstone of the Magruder community, earning the deep respect of students, staff and parents.
Security — Jackeline Stella Rivas, Security Assistant, William H. Farquhar Middle School
With three years of experience at the school, Jackeline Stella Rivas has transformed the role of a security professional into one of deep mentorship and compassionate care. She is widely recognized for her genuine, kind and loving nature, creating a safe environment that balances firm security protocols with emotional warmth. Rivas proactively supports the school’s most vulnerable populations, including students in the Learning for Independence and School Community Based programs. She uses personal resources to provide sensory tools, stuffed animals, snacks and drinks, ensuring students' basic and emotional needs are met. Colleagues highlight her ability to de-escalate conflicts with patience and humor, while students describe her as a favorite confidante who provides safety and joy, making her an indispensable pillar of the Farquhar community.
Transportation — Santos Rivera Hernandez, Parts Specialist, Shady Grove Bus Depot
A 17-year veteran of MCPS, Santos Rivera Hernandez spent 13 years as a school bus driver before transitioning to his current role three years ago. Colleagues praise his deep operational knowledge, describing him as a diligent and loyal team player who handles deliveries and responsibilities with remarkable efficiency. He is recognized for his extraordinary efficiency, often delivering critical parts within minutes to keep bus technicians on schedule. He mentors new staff, fosters a positive workplace culture through his collaborative spirit and constant smile, and helps to maintain high morale through a consistently positive attitude. Colleagues praise his can-do attitude and the professionalism he displays under the high-pressure environment of a busy transportation depot.