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Herndon honors retiring Clearview principal and proclaims June Pride Month
Summary
Mayor LeBlanc honored Clearview Elementary Principal Stephanie Almquist for 27 years of service and read a proclamation declaring June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Herndon, while community members and local groups praised the gesture during public comment.
Mayor LeBlanc opened the May 26 Town Council meeting by recognizing Stephanie Almquist, the outgoing principal at Clearview Elementary, for more than 27 years of service to Fairfax County Public Schools and the Herndon community. “Stephanie has dedicated her life to helping young people grow not only academically, but personally and emotionally as well,” the mayor said during the tribute.
Almquist, invited to address the council, thanked the town and attendees for the surprise recognition and the support she has received across her career. Several council members and members of the public later offered personal tributes during the public-comment period.
The council also read a proclamation designating June 2026 as LGBTQ+ Pride Month for the Town of Herndon. The mayor framed the proclamation as a reaffirmation of inclusion and visibility in the town: he said Herndon “proudly celebrates the many contributions of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and other LGBTQ+ individuals to the social, cultural and civic life of our community.”
Members of the public who spoke in support included Chuck Hall, president of Dulles Triangles, who thanked the council “for recognizing the importance of visibility, inclusion and community” and noted the organization’s regional reach. Sabrina Bruce, a local resident, said the proclamation and the town’s response had personal meaning after she experienced discrimination in military service and found Herndon to be welcoming.
Why it matters: The tribute and proclamation underscored the council’s emphasis on community inclusion and civic recognition of local leaders. The council used the moment to highlight upcoming community events and to celebrate volunteerism, schools, and civic participation.
The council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for June 23; the public-comment portion of this meeting included many additional community items that the council will address going forward.
