Schools
Mosby Teacher Wins 'Super Teacher' Award
Katherine Ollinger was surprised with the award Wednesday.
A Mosby Woods Elementary teacher was named a Virginia Lottery “Super Teacher,” an honor that comes with a $2,000 cash prize and $2,000 worth of school supplies.
Katherine Ollinger, who teaches the third grade, found out about her win at a surprise assembly at the school on Wednesday.
Find out what's happening in Fairfax Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“It was very shocking, I couldn’t believe it at first,” Ollinger said.
A former student’s parent and one of her colleagues nominated her for the award without her knowledge. Ollinger said that she will save some of the money, and will use some of it for a vacation this summer.
Find out what's happening in Fairfax Citywith free, real-time updates from Patch.
She has taught at the school for six years.
“I love teaching third grade, especially. It’s a really great year,” Ollinger said. “They are so young when they come in and by the time they leave they’re very independent; they grow a lot in the third grade.”
The Virginia Lottery’s Super Teacher award is now in its sixth year. In that time the lottery has presented awards to 40 teachers. The Fairfax County Public Schools received more than $25 million in Lottery profits for K-12 education in the last fiscal year, according to a press release.
Nearly 800 applications were received across the state for the award this year. Eight teachers throughout Virginia were selected.
“I just want to thank all my colleagues and people who have helped me in the past,” Ollinger said. “My principal has been such a great role model. I really appreciate everything everyone has done for me.”
Invited guests who attended the ceremony included Superintendent Dr. Dale; Delegate David Bulova; Delegate Mark Keam; Cluster 8 Assistant Superintendent, Fabio Zuluaga; FCPS School Board member Patty Reed; School Board Member-at-Large, Ted Velkoff; and School Board Chairman Ilryong Moon.
Do you know Katherine Ollinger? What do you think of the lottery's Super Teacher awards? Tell us in the comments.
Stay informed on the latest news and events in your local neighborhood - follow Patch!
Sign up for Fairfax City Patch’s daily newsletter
"Like" us on Facebook
"Follow" us on Twitter
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
