Skip To Main Content

Main Navigation

Mobile Translate ( don't delete )

Mobile Utility

Header Holder

Header Right

Mobile Toggle ( don't delete )

Breadcrumb

Leadership Team

Meet our Principal and Assistant Principal

Suzanne M. Hess
Principal

Mrs. Hess embodies a steadfast commitment to education, rooted deeply in the inspirational legacy of Mrs. Brooks' motto, "Bloom where you are planted." Her journey as an educator within the ACPS system spans over two decades, marked by a profound dedication to fostering academic excellence and equity for all students.

Beginning her career in 2001 at John Adams Elementary School, Mrs. Hess quickly established herself as a dynamic educator. Over her 13-year tenure at John Adams, she taught across multiple grade levels, demonstrating versatility and a passion for nurturing young minds. Her leadership abilities shone through various roles, culminating in her position as an English Learners specialist and Department chair, where she championed inclusive practices and student success.

In 2015, Mrs. Hess embraced a new challenge as she was appointed assistant principal at Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School. Located in a community she holds dear, Mrs. Hess has dedicated herself to the growth and well-being of her students and their families. Her role extends beyond administrative duties; it reflects her unwavering belief in the transformative power of education to uplift communities.

Mrs. Hess's academic journey is marked by a commitment to lifelong learning and professional growth. She holds a Master of Educational Leadership in Administrative Supervision and Instruction K-12 from George Mason University, complementing her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. Her credentials include professional licenses and endorsements from the State of Virginia in Early/Primary Education, ESL PK-12, Elementary Grades K-6, and Administrative Supervision and Instruction Pre-Kindergarten-12th Grade. Fluent in both Spanish and Italian, Mrs. Hess embraces linguistic diversity as a bridge to connect with students and families.

Reflecting on her mission, Mrs. Hess emphasizes collaboration, motivation, and support as cornerstones of her educational philosophy. She envisions a school environment where every member—students, educators, and staff—can thrive with passion, energy, and dedication. Her leadership is defined by a relentless pursuit of excellence and equity, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed in a diverse and ever-changing world.

"I am deeply committed to empowering our students to become not only learners but also leaders who surpass expectations and embrace resilience," Mrs. Hess affirms. Her vision extends beyond the school walls, envisioning a positive ripple effect that enriches the broader community.

As Principal Hess continues to inspire and lead within the ACPS system, her legacy is intertwined with Mrs. Brooks' timeless wisdom: to bloom and thrive wherever life plants us. Her journey stands as a testament to the transformative impact of dedicated educators who sow seeds of knowledge, compassion, and determination in the hearts and minds of future generations.

Email: suzanne.hess@acps.k12.va.us

Courtney Carrico
Assistant Principal

Courtney Carrico has been the assistant principal at Naomi L. Brooks Elementary School (Naomi Brooks) since 2021. Mrs. Carrico has over 10 years of experience in education, teaching in grade levels K-6. Mrs. Carrico has also been a Talented and Gifted (TAG) teacher at Naomi Brooks and in Fairfax County Public Schools. In addition, she has served as the data coach and testing coordinator at Naomi Brooks. In addition, she has been the facilitator of Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and professional learning communities for teachers. Mrs. Carrico has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, K-6 and a master’s degree in educational leadership K-12 from George Mason University. She also has gifted and talented certification from the College of William and Mary.

Preferred Pronouns: She/Her/Hers.

Email: courtney.carrico@acps.k12.va.us