Virginia Board of Education Recognizes Recipients of Prestigious FLAVA Awards

Virginia Department of Education sent this bulletin at 10/24/2024 02:32 PM EDT

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Lisa Coons, Ed.D.| Superintendent of Public Instruction

For Immediate Release: October 24, 2024
Contact: communications@doe.virginia.gov

Todd.Reid@doe.virginia.gov

Virginia Board of Education Recognizes Recipients of Prestigious FLAVA Awards

World language educators receiving prestigious FLAVA awards

RICHMOND, VA – The Virginia Board of Education today recognized two world language educators who have received awards from the Foreign Language Association of Virginia (FLAVA) acknowledging their excellence in the field of world language education and advocacy.

Lauren Paz Soldan, a Spanish teacher at Annandale High School in Fairfax County Public Schools, received the David Cox FLAVA Award for Excellence in World Language Teaching, K-12, and Dr. Paul R. (Dick) Kuettner, an adjunct professor and Director of the Global Discover Laboratories in the Ruscio Center for Global Learning at Washington and Lee University, received this year’s Helen Warriner-Burke FLAVA Distinguished Service Award.

Ms. Paz Soldan and Dr. Kuettner were recognized with their awards during the Virginia Board of Education’s Meeting on October 24.

"World language educators help open their students’ minds to new cultures and communities," said Virginia Board of Education President Grace Turner Creasey. "Ms. Paz Soldan and Dr. Kuettner are two Virginia educators who help students think on a global scale while prioritizing enriching education and learning opportunities. I am thrilled their accomplishments are being recognized by FLAVA and to have had the opportunity to celebrate their excellence today at the Board meeting."

The David Cox FLAVA Award for Excellence in World Language Teaching, K-12, is presented annually to a K-12 educator who has demonstrated excellence in world language teaching. The recipient of this award is recognized for their outstanding contributions to language education, their innovative teaching practices, and their commitment to student success in language learning.  

Ms. Paz Soldan will represent Virginia in the regional World Language Teacher of the Year competition. Her work includes active participation in cultural and heritage language programs, leadership roles in the Sunshine Committee and Faculty Equity Teams, and contributions to professional development through publications and presentations. 

The Helen Warriner-Burke FLAVA Distinguished Service Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by FLAVA, recognizing individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of world languages over their career. The award highlights a lifetime of dedication to language education, advocacy, and service within the language teaching community.  

Dr. Kuettner has been a driving force in expanding world language education opportunities, particularly in rural areas. Dr. Kuettner's innovative leadership and commitment to professional development have had a significant impact on the field. For the past fourteen years, Dr. Kuettner has acted as the host site coordinator for three of the five Governor’s World Language Academies held each summer.  

For more information on the organization and awards, please visit FLAVA’s website.

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