Recognizing Excellence: Anne R. Lipnick Awards

The 2026 Anne R. Lipnick Awards for Specialized Instruction were presented at the Alexandria City School Board meeting on Thu., May 21, 2026. This awards program provides an opportunity for Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) families and staff to acknowledge and honor the work of outstanding administrators, special education teachers, general education teachers, related service providers, instructional assistants or other support staff whose classroom and therapeutic practices exemplify excellence in specialized instruction in the spirit of true inclusion.

“The Anne R. Lipnick nominations and awards play a vital role in recognizing and celebrating our amazing staff who go above and beyond for our students with disabilities. Each nomination, submitted by ACPS staff or community members, speaks volumes about the unwavering dedication, passion and commitment our staff bring to our special education community,” said Executive Director of Specialized Instruction Amy Creed. “I am immensely proud of all our nominees and award winners. It is truly an honor to work in a division where so many educators are devoted to ensuring the best outcomes for our students.”

Six Anne R. Lipnick Awards for Specialized Instruction were awarded this year.

Administrator: Paul George is an assistant principal at Douglas MacArthur Elementary School. He has been instrumental in strengthening instructional and social practices that allow students with disabilities to access learning alongside their peers. George is also a tireless advocate for students and families, and always ensures that our students with disabilities have access to the full school experience.

Inclusion: Teagan West is an elementary teacher at James K. Polk Elementary School. She is a champion for inclusion and an advocate for students being served in their least restrictive environment. West cultivates a classroom community where students genuinely lift one another up—cheering each other on, collaborating with enthusiasm and finding joy in learning together. 

Instructional Assistant Support: Mia Pedraza-Arnez is an instructional assistant at Cora Kelly School for Math, Science and Technology. She goes above and beyond for all of her students in countless ways. Pedraza-Arnez helps to facilitate inclusion in Encore classes and at recess where she always makes sure that all students have access to the same things. 

Related Service Provider: Aimee Mathews-Kurfis is a speech-language pathologist at Samuel W. Tucker Elementary School. Mathews-Kurfis consistently ensures that students with communication challenges have equitable access to the general education curriculum. She works tirelessly to remove barriers, collaborating closely with both special education and general education teachers to design meaningful supports and strategies. 

Other Support Staff: Sheila Wasilewski is a school psychologist at John Adams Elementary School. Wasilewski always ensures families feel comfortable and informed about the special education process, taking the time to explain evaluations in a way that is clear and compassionate. She understands that these conversations can be overwhelming, and she approaches each one with empathy and respect. 

Specialized Instruction: Stephanie Mears is a special education teacher at Alexandria City High School. Mears has made a powerful and lasting impact on her students through her dedication to specialized instruction and her deep commitment to meeting each learner’s unique needs. Three of her former students nominated her, highlighting the nurturing classroom environment Mears has created.

This year, 76 nominations were received, surpassing the more than 50 received last year. That is inspiring and a true testament to the passion and dedication ACPS staff have toward our students with disabilities.

These awards honor the memory of Anne R. Lipnick, a social worker and parent support specialist and advisor to families of children with disabilities in ACPS. Lipnick was the first director of the ACPS Special Education Parent Resource Center.