Fara Dillon has been named the 2025 MCPS Middle School Counselor of the Year. An MCPS alumna, Dillon began her educational journey at Stone Mill Elementary– where she also served as a counseling intern in 2020– then attended Cabin John Middle School and graduated from Wootton High School, where she interned as a counselor in 2019.
Dillon earned her bachelor’s degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida and completed her master’s in school counseling at George Washington University. She credits one of her high school counselors, Mrs. Markiewicz, for encouraging her to pursue graduate studies at GW, a path that ultimately shaped her career.
Her professional career in school counseling began at Gaithersburg Middle School, where she served from 2020 to 2023. Dillon then joined the team at Robert Frost Middle School, dedicating her work to providing support for students navigating academic, social, and mental health challenges. “I have made a personal commitment to make sure all my students have a trusted adult in the building,” she explains, emphasizing her goal of ensuring that no student feels they must face these challenges alone.
Dillon’s approach is characterized by being authentically available and approachable. Her current supervisor, Mr. Reed, has played an important role in her ongoing professional development, contributing to her growth as a counselor. She often cites a favorite quote from Ms. Dillon: “EVERYONE is working on something, even Ms. Dillon. The ONLY thing you should be focused on is what you are working on.” This mindset resonates in her daily interactions along the hallways, where she is known for her friendly demeanor, complete with a signature fanny pack and sneakers.
One memorable moment in her career came when a student created a painting featuring her alongside friends gathered around a trusted adult. When asked about the painting, the student replied, “Ms. Dillon, that is YOU with all of us.” The artwork went on to win first place in the RFMS “Each One, Trust One” poster contest, highlighting the positive impact Moskowitz has on the lives of her students.
As a product of MCPS, Dillon has a deep understanding of the pressures students face. Her dedication to fostering student agency and ensuring access to necessary resources continues to guide her work. Being honored as the 2025 MCPS Middle School Counselor of the Year is a reflection of her commitment to the mental and emotional well-being of the students she serves.
