Ms. Kimberly Retzer, South Lakes High School’s Principal, is one of five finalists for the Fairfax County Public Schools 2021 Outstanding Principal award. As a part of the Employee Recognition Programs, FCPS awards outstanding employees with an award in one of many categories from Outstanding Principal to Outstanding Nonschool-based Operational Employee and South Lakes High School’s Ms. Retzer has been recognized as the FCPS Region 1 Outstanding Principal of the Year.

There are a number of qualifications that are looked at to be considered for the award. They include: managing effectively, demonstrating and encouraging creativity and innovation, fostering cooperation, maintaining a continuing dialogue with students, parents, faculty, and staff, encouraging team spirit, demonstrating leadership and exemplifying commitment, continuing to play an active role in the classroom, and fostering an environment where diversity is valued and appreciated. All of these qualities are truly impressive and illustrate the honor of receiving the award.

Ms. Retzer has been hard at work this year with departure from distance learning and the transition to in-person learning with COVID-19 still at hand as well as a number of other challenges like the transition to schoology. Her nomination for this award is just one way to recognize and appreciate this work. As a school, it is important to demonstrate appreciation for the work of not only the principal but teachers, counselors, and all school staff. They are all battling the challenges of school in COVID-19 in addition to the challenges they already face so they really deserve a “thank you” for all their hard work!