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Amanda Bontzos helps Mantua Elementary School’s students tackle some of their greatest literacy challenges while guiding teachers through new instructional practices.

The reading specialist coordinates interventions across the school and works directly with students who need the most support. Her efforts contributed to her recognition in 2025 as a finalist for Outstanding School-Based Professional Employee.

Her nomination described students as eager to attend sessions with her, sometimes running out the classroom door when she arrives. One student said Bontzos teaches useful reading strategies, while another credited her with helping students choose books and feel capable of succeeding.

Bontzos also works closely with teachers to identify practices likely to have the greatest effect on student learning.

Mantua Principal Linda Shannon called her “a true teacher of teachers,” citing her knowledge of literacy, educational practices, child development and teacher development. Shannon said Bontzos has made a profound difference in learning among both students and staff.

That support became especially important when teachers from kindergarten through sixth grade implemented Benchmark Advance, a new literacy program, during the previous school year. Colleagues credited Bontzos with helping teachers and students understand the program and navigate its introduction.

Her nomination also highlighted her patience, diligence and willingness to confront difficult work. One colleague said Bontzos keeps her door open, communicates thoughtfully and treats challenges as opportunities to learn.

Her work aligns with a Fairfax County Public Schools strategic goal of having students read at grade level by the end of third grade—a priority placed in focus each March around Read Across America Day.