The Loudoun Education Association (LEA) has honored Bellen Woodard, a rising fifth-grader at Evergreen Mill Elementary, and the Capital Community Church with its Friend of Education Award.
The Friend of Education award recognizes a person or organization whose leadership, acts, or support have significantly contributed to the improvement of public education in Loudoun County. The LEA will recognize the recipients in the fall at its annual appreciation celebration.
Bellen Woodard is known for her work in the creation of the More than Peach Project. Her messages and products are created to empower students, build awareness, support opportunities in gifted education, and dismantle “perception gaps”—providing an enriching experience to students and adults and creating a platform for all to be heard.
Bellen says, “let’s join together in moving communities across the country forward through exciting community initiatives.” Her motto is ‘Be you. Brilliant.’
The Capital Community Church in Ashburn has partnered with the Loudoun Education Association for the past three years to recognize educators during Educator Appreciation Sunday. This project, spearheaded by Janet Ford and Pastor Chester Mitchell, is dedicated to educators in recognition of the foundation they provide for student growth and learning.
“These recipients have acknowledged the importance of public education,” said LEA President David Palanzi. “They have been active in our schools and communities supporting educators and advocating for all kids. The LEA award acknowledges their exceptional character and positive attitude in their leadership to our community.”
Past recipients of this award include Jennifer Bergel, Loraine Hightower, Dan Johnson, Joy Maloney, Charlotte McConnell, Tammi Minkin, Phyllis Randall, Tom Reed, Koran Saines, Claire Scholz, Brenda Sheridan, Bruce Smart and Kristen Umstattd.
The Loudoun Education Association is Loudoun’s largest professional employee organization, representing more than 3,700 elementary and secondary teachers, education support professionals, school administrators and retired educators.
Courtesy: Loudoun County Public Schools