Cultivating Student Competence and Confidence

Josh McFarland, a West Potomac High School alumnus who is now a multiple disabilities teacher at the school, traveled from the oil fields of Alaska back to the classrooms of Alexandria to transform how students learn. His dedication and innovative classroom practices earned him recognition as a finalist for the  FCPS 2025 Outstanding Secondary School New Teacher .

After a career in petroleum geology, he realized that the best way to master a skill isn't always through a textbook. He creatively delivers science concepts to his students with disabilities through project-based learning — “real projects that people can see that have a real effect on the school and community,” he says.  Hear more from Josh on what inspires him. 

His students thrive on the humorous and unexpected ways he involves them, forging strong connections with scientific principles. Furthermore, when teaching crucial life skills and career preparation, he consistently emphasizes the importance of perseverance and hard work, incorporating engaging activities like woodworking to build routines and independence. 

Josh's primary goal is to cultivate increased student competence and confidence in practical ways that will equip them for meaningful and impactful life experiences. Speaking of cultivating, his students worked together with general education students on West Potomac High School’s Pond Renovation Project, an outdoor learning space.  

After visiting it last year, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid commented that through this project, “The students did an amazing amount of tilling, planting, and cultivating, all the while strengthening their relationships with each other and improving their connection with nature.”

Watch more  “In the Spotlight” videos , which feature FCPS employees sharing best practices and inspirational moments.