Annandale teacher honored for his work with special ed students
Jae Lee, the special education dean at Annandale High School, was honored with a 2023 First-Class Award for Excellence in Special Education in the middle/high school teacher category.
The First-Class Awards recognize the exceptional contributions made by educators and administrators who improve outcomes for students with disabilities in Fairfax County public schools.
Lee is featured in FCPS’s “Our Heroes” video series.
He was recognized for leading Annandale’s Best Buddies program, which pairs students in special education and general education to help build communication and social skills among Category B students with significant cognitive disabilities.
Lee was instrumental in establishing the Special Olympics unified basketball team and the annual FanQuest pep rally to promote inclusion and respect for students with disabilities through sports.
During Annandale’s Inclusion Revolution Week this spring, the school’s Special Olympics basketball team hosted the Lewis High School Lancers. The AHS leadership class and girls’ basketball team helped out.
“It was an incredible experience to watch our Special Olympics athletes showcase their basketball skills in the gymnasium packed with student fans,” says AHS Principal Shawn DeRose. “The crowd went wild when the first basket was made, and the cheering didn’t stop.”
Lee wants the Category B students “to feel they are part of the whole school, not just their class.”
Yay Mr Lee! Max says “thank you” and sank a layup in your honor. This is a well deserved honor.
Man, being a Special Education teacher is a tough job that doesn’t get a quarter of the recognition it deserves. Thanks for being part of the community, Jae!
Mr. Lee took the time to give my son on the Austism Spectrum a personalized introduction to Tae Kwon Do lesson. I was touched by his kindness, understanding, and genuine enthusiasm for engaging with differently abled students. He is true hero and gift to the Annandale community and definitely deserves this honor. Warmest congratulations, Mr. Lee!
That’s amazing. Thank you Mister Lee.