Kirsten Salonga, biology and environmental science for multilingual learners teacher and science department chair at Justice High School, has been awarded the 2025 AFS-USA Global Educator of the Year. 

AFS-USA is the largest partner in a worldwide network of non-profit, volunteer-based international education organizations. The Global Educator Award recognizes educators who have demonstrated excellence integrating cultural diversity, global competence, and internationalized concepts into their instruction with the aim of cultivating active global citizens.

“Ms. Salonga is an educator who sees the beauty in every student's unique story, embraces their cultural differences as a strength, and tirelessly works to provide opportunities for growth, exploration, and learning,” said Assistant Principal Rashawn Luckman. “With an unwavering commitment to her students, she connects the world to the classroom and inspires everyone around her to believe in the power of education and global unity.”

Kirsten was praised by one of her colleagues, Biology Teacher Benjamin Slyngstad, for her “innovative approach to the curriculum” and her “vivacious commitment to a student population that is sadly overlooked” as she has created a variety of science resources. He also commented about the role Kirsten plays in sparking interest among students to learn about scientists, her unwavering commitment to seeking out opportunities for her students to experience new things, and to incorporate global perspectives into her classroom’s daily learning.

In her letter of recommendation submitted as part of the application process, Karen Rosicela Orozco Carreto, a former student in Kirsten’s class, stated, “What sets Ms. Kirsten Salonga apart is her ability to combine her love for teaching with her dedication to making the world a better place. She not only teaches science, but also instills in her students the importance of empathy, collaboration, and global citizenship. Her lessons go far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she teaches.”

As the 2025 Global Educator, Kirsten attended the annual AFS-USA Educational and Cultural Affairs Program Workshop in March to accept her award, meet with and learn from people around the world, and engage with AFS-USA volunteers and staff.

Virginia Finalists for Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

Kristen and John Mika, a mathematics teacher at Hayfield Secondary School, have been named Virginia’s finalists for the 2025 Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching. The award — regarded as the nation’s top honor for K-12 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics teachers — recognizes educators who have both deep content knowledge of the subjects they teach and the ability to motivate and enable students to be successful in those areas.