Congratulations to the FLAVA 2024 Award Recipients

 

 

Lauren Paz Soldan, 2024 David Cox Award Recipient, Virginia K-12 World Language Teacher of the Year

 

The David Cox Award recognizes a world language educator in grades K-12 who has demonstrated excellence in world language instruction. Lauren Paz Soldan is a Spanish teacher in Fairfax County Public Schools currently working at Annandale High School where she has mentored many new teachers and currently serves as World Language Department Chair. She believes in a relationships-first community to create belonging for everyone in world language classrooms. Her principal and colleagues have witnessed firsthand Lauren’s incredible commitment to creating a positive and inclusive classroom environment. In her role as World Language Department Chair, Lauren has transformed her school’s approach from traditional instruction to an acquisition-driven model. Her passion for building relationships has energized her department, fostering an atmosphere where both students and teachers feel valued and inspired to embrace new practices. Lauren’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She proactively collaborates with the World Languages Coach and Director of Student Services to ensure heritage learners are accurately placed, significantly increasing their participation in advanced language courses. Lauren champions cultural competency, encouraging students to explore diverse languages and cultures through innovative projects. One such initiative involved students researching indigenous languages and creating posters that fostered a sense of belonging among her school’s ESOL students. Her dedication to student success is palpable. Lauren has doubled her school’s participation in the Virginia Governor’s School summer language programs, opening doors for students who may not have otherwise had these opportunities. Her classroom is a vibrant hub of laughter and learning, where students feel confident and engaged. One of her students beautifully expressed how Lauren’s teaching has transformed their perspective on language learning, creating a space where curiosity thrives. Lauren Paz Soldan embodies the very best of world language instruction. Her commitment to fostering relationships, advocating for students, and inspiring a love for languages makes her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award. Ms. Lauren Paz Soldan will represent FLAVA as the regional teacher of the year nominee at the SCOLT conference in the spring.

 

 

 

Dr. Paul “Dick” Kuettner, 2024 Helen Warriner Burke Award Recipient, FLAVA Distinguished Service Award Winner

 

The Helen Warriner Burke Award recognizes a Virginia world language educator who has made outstanding contributions to the profession. Dr. Paul “Dick” Kuettner serves as the Director of the Global Discovery Laboratories and teaches Romance Languages and Teacher Education at Washington and Lee University. He has coordinated the Virginia Governor’s World Language Academies since 2011, offering high school students invaluable immersion experiences. His innovative approach to K-12 language instruction has opened doors for students in rural areas, ensuring they have access to world languages. Dr. Kuettner’s contributions to FLAVA are immeasurable. As a two-term president of FLAVA, he has championed advocacy for language education and fostered collaboration and transparency in a number of ways that have benefitted our organization. His mentorship has empowered new board members, guiding them with patience and grace, and creating a culture of teamwork and innovation. Dick has been the driving force behind the FLAVA Interactive Web Series, providing free professional development to world language teachers across Virginia and beyond. With an average attendance of 300 before the pandemic, this initiative exemplifies his commitment to supporting educators. Beyond his impressive accomplishments, it is Dick’s personal qualities that make him exceptional. He listens thoughtfully, offers wise suggestions, and maintains a calm, encouraging demeanor. His quick wit and ability to create a welcoming environment have fostered positive relationships among his colleagues. So many colleagues cited Dick’s humility as one of his most notable qualities, which means he probably dislikes this whole thing very much. Dr. Paul “Dick” Kuettner embodies the spirit of the Helen Warriner-Burke Service Award. His dedication to language education, mentorship, and innovative programs has left an indelible mark on our community.

 

 

 

Miles Meijer, 2024 FLAVA Novice Teacher Award Recipient

 

This award recognizes a K-12 world language teacher, who is in his/her first three years of classroom teaching, who is an outstanding classroom teacher and who demonstrates a love for language learning and teaching. In just his second year of teaching at Annandale High School, Miles Meijer has already emerged as a remarkable advocate for world languages and a true leader among his peers. Miles embodies a passion for language learning that is contagious. His Spanish classes are vibrant and engaging, fostering not just a love for the language, but also a profound sense of belonging among his students. His innovative teaching methods, such as interactive storytelling and dynamic classroom activities, have led to a significant increase in target language use across his team. Mile’s commitment to data-driven instruction ensures that every student’s learning journey is personalized and impactful. But his influence extends beyond the classroom. Miles serves on the Superintendent’s Advisory Committee, mentors students toward their graduation goals, and has even shared his insights nationally through publications in ACTFL magazine and Edutopia. His students speak highly of him, noting how he makes learning enjoyable and accessible. One student beautifully highlighted how Miles brings lessons to life, for example transforming traditional folklore into engaging performances that foster a deeper connection to the language. Miles believes in the transformative power of language education. He understands that language learning opens doors to empathy, understanding, and cultural exchange. He inspires students to think critically and creatively, preparing them not just to communicate, but to connect. Miles Meijer is a shining example of what it means to be an exceptional educator. His dedication to his students, his leadership, and his unwavering enthusiasm make him a deserving candidate for the FLAVA Novice Teaching Award.

 

 

 

Tom Haines, Global Virginia, 2024 Friend of FLAVA Award Recipient

 

The Friend of FLAVA Award recognizes individuals and institutions that have made a significant contribution in building a strong foundation of support for world language education. As immediate past President of Global Virginia, Tom Haines has been a tireless champion for language equity and access, transforming our approach to global competency in the Commonwealth. Since founding Global Virginia in 2020, Tom has driven the development of the Virginia Language and Global Education Roadmap, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing language learning opportunities for all students. Under his leadership, Global Virginia has evolved from a steering committee into a nationally recognized organization, fostering vital connections with esteemed partners like the Virginia Chamber of Commerce and the World Economic Forum. Tom’s influence extends far beyond organizational leadership; he has orchestrated five statewide Global Summits, bringing together luminaries such as Secretary Leon Panetta and former Secretary of Education Anne Holton to share insights and shape our collective vision. His relentless advocacy has ensured that language education remains a priority in Virginia’s policy discussions, successfully promoting initiatives like the Seal of Biliteracy and Dual Immersion Education. Moreover, Tom’s dedication to building partnerships with legislators, educators, and business leaders underscores his commitment to creating a more globally competent citizenry. His extensive experience in both government and language advocacy equips him with a unique perspective, enabling him to navigate challenges in language education and advocate for innovative solutions. Through his work, Tom inspires us all to invest in a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive in an interconnected world. His passion for fostering language skills and cultural understanding is exemplary, making him a deserving candidate for this prestigious award. Let us recognize Tom Haines as a true friend of FLAVA, dedicated to enhancing the landscape of language education for generations to come.

 

 

 

 

Sarah Donahue, FLAVA University Student Recognition

 

Sarah Donahue, a senior at Longwood University, is majoring in Modern Languages with a focus on Spanish and an Environmental Science minor. Her dedication is evident in her stellar academic record, advanced coursework, and a transformative study-abroad experience in Cusco, Peru. While there, she immersed herself in the culture, volunteering at Awana Kancha and conducting original research on Latin American literature. Sarah’s commitment extends beyond academics; she serves as President of Longwood’s Alternative Breaks program and is actively involved in student government. With a bright future ahead, possibly teaching Spanish in here Virginia, Sarah exemplifies leadership, service, and a deep commitment to language and culture.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Christina White, FLAVA University Student Recognition

 

Christina (Chrissy) White, senior at Longwood University, is majoring in Modern Languages with a focus on Spanish Education, Chrissy exemplifies dedication to language and teaching. Her enthusiasm for learning is evident through her advanced Spanish courses and her study abroad in Valencia, Spain this past summer. Chrissy’s innovative lesson plans and mentorship to her peers in her Introduction to Teaching Languages course showcase her commitment to a future in the field of education. Beyond the classroom, Chrissy actively participates in the Sigma Delta Pi Spanish Honor Society and gains valuable teaching experience as an Instructor Assistant at Kumon. Her leadership roles, including Vice President of Zeta Phi Beta and Philanthropy Chair of Alpha Phi Omega, highlight her dedication to community service. With a deep knowledge of Spanish language and culture and a passion for teaching, Chrissy is poised for a successful career in education.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Congratulations to Best of FLAVA 2024 Winner!

 

Kelly Mades with “Strategies to Keep Burnout Away” who will represent FLAVA at SCOLT