Congratulations to Lyles-Crouch Principal Patricia Zissios, who has been recognized with the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals (VAESP) Don Lacey Award for Excellence.
The award, established by VAESP to honor Donald Lacey, past Executive Director of the Virginia Association of Elementary School Principals, honors Zissios for her commitment to and demonstration of exemplary educational leadership.
The award recognizes Zissios for her outstanding work in advancing student achievement, innovative programs, instructional leadership, school and community relations, and technology initiatives.
“To be recognized by one’s peers for exemplary educational leadership is quite humbling. When fellow Virginia principals, who daily ‘walk-the-walk’ and ‘talk-the-talk,’ acknowledge your commitment and dedication to children, it is a special honor,” said Principal Zissios.
Zissios joined Lyles-Crouch Traditional Academy in 2004, bringing her with thirty-one years of teaching and leadership experience in neighboring school districts. She spent six years establishing a Core Knowledge focused elementary school in Fairfax County and brought that knowledge to Lyles-Crouch. Under her leadership, Lyles-Crouch was one of only eight schools recognized in 2015 as a Core Knowledge School of Distinction with honors for outstanding curriculum integration and teaching practices by the Core Knowledge Foundation.
Under the leadership of Zissios, Lyles Crouch has also been recognized as a Virginia State School of Character and a National School of Character. Only 312 schools have been recognized as a National School of Character in the 10 years that the Character Education Partnership has given these awards. These awards demonstrate Zissios’ emphasis on developing the whole child, not just academics. She has also built a strong community school through community service, community/parent partnerships and a very active PTA.
“Dr. Patricia Zissios is indeed an excellent leader. As she discovers the keys to success in the development of her staff and the academic advancement of her students, she connects with peers within the district to share her strategies for success,” said a colleague.
This award represents our commitment to ACPS 2020 Strategic Plan Goal 3: An Exemplary Staff.