Many students know her by her round-rimmed glasses, her friendly smile, and her charming patience.

Ms. Mary Jo York is a Special Education Assistant who goes above and beyond to help any and all students who are willing to accept assistance. On May 17, she was awarded the FCPS Outstanding High School Special Education Instructional Assistant.

York offers tutoring both during the school day and after school on Mondays through Thursdays from 2:15-3:00. She has worked hard to improve the experience of those being tutored by arranging for members of different school honor societies to come after school to aid others.

Every Monday, York prints out her regular students’ grade reports in order to organize their tasks for the week.

York was recommended for the award by Principal Dave Kehne, Assistant Principal Andrew McWilliams, and Special Education Assistant Traci Davies and Special Education Case Manager and Department Chair Stephanie Bindel.

They describe her as “someone who takes initiative to go beyond her basic job duties in order to help students to succeed,” as well as diligent, and an excellent communicator between all parties. She is also illustrated as “highly educated, organized, and meticulous,” which shows in each task she completes.

Congratulations, Ms. York! Thank you for making Linganore wonderful.