After 233 Youngkin Vetoes, Richmond to Craft New Budget

At the outset of yesterday’s reconvened session of the Virginia state legislature, representatives of the Democratic-controlled legislature and Republican governor Glenn Youngkin agreed to start from scratch on a new biennial budget after Youngkin had issued a record 233 mostly line-item vetoes. It leaves localities like Falls Church in the lurch as they prepare their own budgets, in particular in Falls Church’s case, whether or not the state will fulfill its commitment to a subsidy to WMATA or burden local governments with that obligation. For Falls Church, that could spell a need for an additional $1 million in expenditures in an overall budget of $148 million.

Falls Church’s representative in the House of Delegates, Del. Marcus Simon issued the following statement to the News-Press yesterday morning: “Today the House of Delegates decided, after conversations with the Governor’s administration, that the best path toward a budget agreement that meets all the needs of the Commonwealth was to set his amendments aside and start again. There is a commitment from all parties to work together with a goal of having a new budget agreement ready for adoption next month.”

Kindell Named F.C. Employee of Year

Rachel Kindell, the Aurora House Group Home Manager, is the City of Falls Church 2023 Employee of the Year. Kindell has served the City of Falls Church since 2000, the City announced this week.

The community-led Employee Review Board selected Kindell for her compassion and ongoing dedication to the young women and staff of the Aurora House Group Home. The home, which is certified by the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice, serves up to 12 adolescent females ages 13-20 and provides a nurturing environment with the structure and support necessary to help them through the difficulties they experience.

In 2023, Kindell started the accreditation process to designate Aurora House as a Qualified Residential Treatment Program to increase utilization and support foster care for youth. This is the first time the program has done this, and it is part of Kindell’s vision to be the best in Virginia.

Kindell’s approach to care is holistic, and she also supports the residents’ families. In 2023, she arranged for a suit donation for a parent in need who was job-seeking. She also worked with staff to meet family food assistance needs. In addition, Kindell assisted and supported the Aurora House Citizens Advisory Council (CAC) while they planned and executed one of the largest and most successful fundraisers the program has ever had. Over $10,000 was raised for scholarships at the Clare and Don’s event in the City. These are just a few of Kindell’s accomplishments in 2023.

The City Council will recognize Kindell at their April 29, 2024, meeting.

F.C. Schools Recognize Key Personnel With Awards

Falls Church City Public Schools celebrated their annual Employee Awards announcements with an annual Prize Parade to various schools, acknowledging the contributions of its staff during the 2023-2024 school year. This year’s awards recognized individuals who, according to school statement, “have gone above and beyond in their roles, fostering educational excellence and community spirit within the school district.” They are:

Tosin Adetoro, a STEAM teacher at Oak Street Elementary, was honored with the Falls Church Education Foundation Teacher of the Year Award. Adetoro was celebrated for her inspiring approach to science education, promoting curiosity and enthusiasm among her students. Her innovative teaching methods and dedication to fostering collaboration have significantly impacted her students and colleagues.
The Professional Specialist of the Year Award was given to Mary Manzione, a speech therapist at Jesse Thackeray Preschool. Manzione is revered as the heartbeat of the preschool, where she plays a crucial role in the early development of FCCPS’s youngest learners. Her profound influence extends beyond her assigned duties, supporting and guiding staff and families.

Jessica Hollinger, the administrative assistant at Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School, received the Academic Support Staff Employee of the Year Award. Hollinger’s organizational skills and ability to connect with students, staff, and parents have been instrumental in enhancing the educational experience and community at the middle school.

The Operational Support Staff Employee of the Year Award was posthumously awarded to Eduardo Molina, the district’s custodial supervisor, who sadly passed away in March. Known affectionately as “El Jefe,” Molina was recognized for his more than thirty years of dedicated service. His leadership and kindness left a lasting legacy that inspires the FCCPS community.

Superintendent Peter Noonan expressed appreciation for all the award recipients and nominees: “This year’s awards are a testament to the strength and dedication of our FCCPS family. Each winner exemplifies the spirit and commitment that make our schools such a special place. We are particularly moved to honor Eduardo Molina, whose life and work touched us all profoundly.”