CCPS Press Releases

Richmond receives several accolades to honor his career

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 10:10:00 -0400

Superintendent of Schools James E. Richmond received several honors during the Board of Education's June 11 meeting, including the presentation of a citation from Gov. Martin O'Malley, to highlight his 47-year career in education with Charles County Public Schools, and contributions he has made for children in the Charles County community. Pat Foerster, education policy advisor with the governor's office, presented a citation to Richmond on behalf of Gov. O'Malley and the state of Maryland to recognize the successes the school system has experienced under his leadership. During her introductory comments, Foerster specifically acknowledged the reading program in Charles County and the high participation rate of the school system in the TELL Maryland survey. "You leave behind a legacy for the school system of putting programs in place that put children first. The people of Maryland celebrate your passion and vision," she added. Richmond was humbled to accept the citation and thanked the Board members and staff for helping him make the school system successful. "I have to thank the staff and Board members who have supported me all of these years. Without the support of everyone and their dedication to the goals of the school system, we would not have experienced the successes we have seen over the years," Richmond said. In addition to the citation presentation, Richmond was also honored during two additional presentations at the Board meeting. Col. David Reilly, a JROTC instructor at Thomas Stone High School, presented Richmond with a plaque from the Charles County Junior Reserves Officers Training Corp (JROTC) program. The award was presented by Reilly on behalf of the JROTC faculty and student cadets, and honors Richmond for his efforts in establishing the program in all Charles County public high schools. In introducing the award, Board member Col. Donald Wade fought back tears as he expressed how proud he is of the contributions Richmond has made to the JROTC program. "As a son of Charles County, I have seen the area transition from back woods farms to cultured learning. That is where we are today as a result of programs such as the JROTC," Wade said. As he presented Richmond with the plaque, Reilly said he was first hired by the school system about 20 years ago when the JROTC program was introduced at Stone and is thankful for the opportunity to work with cadets in training. The plaque honors service members for their contributions to JROTC programs. Wade worked with Reilly to make the surprise plaque presentation to Richmond at the Board meeting. During the meeting, Richmond was also honored by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) local union with a surprise donation to a community organization in his honor. AFSCME President Bill McLaughlin, who is an electrician with the school system, along with Guy Genovese, a Council 67 union representative for Charles County Public Schools, partnered with LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc. to sponsor a $1,000 donation in Richmond's name. During the presentation, McLaughlin applauded Richmond's continuous support of education and for keeping employees a top priority. "Your vision and path of success has changed education in Charles County," he said. LifeStyles is a non-profit organization that provides support and programs to the Charles County community. LifeStyles Executive Director Sandy Washington accepted the donation during the presentation, and Richmond thanked both AFSCME and LifeStyles for their support of the school system. "We could not ask for better partners than our employee unions and the community organizations that support the school system. Our supporters need to know how important they are and I thank you for honoring me in such a giving way," Richmond said. Richmond's fourth and final term as superintendent of schools comes to a close at the end of this month. He started his career with Charles County Public Schools in 1966 as a classroom teacher at La Plata High School. He transferred to Thomas Stone High School in 1969 when it opened and became principal at Stone in 1973. He served there as principal until 1985 when he was appointed director of supervision and curriculum. He next served as director of school administration beginning in 1987, and then became the regional administrator for the southern region schools until being appointed as interim superintendent. He was appointed to his first term as superintendent in 1997. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Board signs contracts with employee groups for next school year

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:45:00 -0400

The Board of Education and its two employee groups – the Education Association of Charles County (EACC) and the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) – signed contracts Tuesday for the 2013-14 school year. The contracts include a one-step increase for eligible employees, but do not include a cost-of-living adjustment. Costs for health care insurance will not increase, but will be re-examined in January when the benefit period renews itself for the January through December calendar year. Any recommended changes will begin in January 2014. Highlights from the EACC contract include:

All eligible employees will receive one step, and includes teachers, and administrative and supervisory staff.
Any employee not eligible for a step or is at the top of their pay scale will receive up to a $1,000 one-time payment by mid-November. Employees can also choose to put the one-time payment in a tax-deferred account.
Compression of the teacher salary scale will continue.
Rates on the extra duty pay scale increase by 2 percent.
A committee is planned to study administrative and supervisory scales in comparison to other counties and the current pay scale structure. Results will be forwarded to the Board of Education and the Superintendent of Schools.

Highlights from the AFSCME contract include:

All eligible employees will receive a one-step and grade increase.
Any employee who is at a step 16 and above will receive a one-time payment of up to $300 by mid-November. Only employees hired as of June 30, 2013 are eligible for the one-time payment. No support staff hired on or after July 1, 2013 is eligible.
A committee is planned to study certifications support employees can obtain to enhance their work skills above the requirements for their position, and will examine possible salary enhancements associated with the certification, if funding is available.

Keith Hettel, assistant superintendent of human resources, said the negotiations with both groups went smoothly. "Both negotiating teams were very fair and understood the constraints the Board of Education is under because of minimal funding. It was the Board's objective not to fall further behind with employee steps and to make sure everyone received compensation, either one-time or permanent," Hettel said. The cost of a step increase is $4.4 million and covers both the EACC and AFSCME contracts. Also included is the two percent increase for extra-duty pay and scale compression for the EACC contract and the one-time payment for both employee groups. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Stone’s McCormick named 2013 Vice Principal of the Year

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:18:00 -0400

Susan McCormick, a vice principal at Thomas Stone High School, was recently named the 2013 Charles County Public Schools Vice Principal of the Year. McCormick has been an educator with the school system for the past 32 years and a vice principal at Stone since 2005. Her nomination was a surprise and McCormick said she is honored to be selected from among a strong group of school system administrators. "There are so many great vice principals in the county, I was surprised I was selected. This award is not just about me. I could never have received this honor without all the support of everyone at Thomas Stone. It is great to work with a community focused on student success. I am sincerely thankful for this award," McCormick said. She was nominated for the award by the administrative team at Stone, including Stone Principal Michael Meiser, Vice Principals Bryan Craley, Ryan Erickson and Carl Pascarella, and Aeronita Dillard, an administrative assistant at Stone. McCormick is known as the "go to" person at Stone with any questions related to the educational setting, and offers assistance and advice to all of her colleagues. She is the vice principal on staff that is in charge of instruction and serves as a role model for instructional leadership. Her passion for education and Stone is evident in all that she does. McCormick's nomination describes her as a strong leader who focuses on promoting a positive climate for students and staff, and an environment structured for learning and growth. She maintains an open-door policy for students and staff and is highly visible in the school. Her focus on academic rigor and personal responsibility is clear among students and staff are eager to meet her high, yet realistic, expectations. For the past six school years, McCormick has developed the master schedule through collaboration with teachers and administrators. She approaches the schedule with "what is best for students" in mind and utilizes data from testing, student interests and the school improvement plan to create a successful schedule. McCormick is also responsible for ensuring that Stone meets testing requirements associated with the High School Assessments (HSA). She monitors all dynamics of testing and meets with students individually and in groups to reinforce what they hear in the classroom. She also checks on the status of students who are working with the Bridge Program to meet HSA requirements. Stone Principal Michael Meiser said McCormick is a key member of his administrative team and is dedicated to the success of Stone. "During the past six years the members of the administrative team have changed frequently. McCormick has been very flexible in working with new team members and has served as a mentor to new team members. She works hand in hand with all levels of the school to ensure that Thomas Stone High School can be the best it can be," Meiser wrote in a nomination letter. Seaton Fisher, a school counselor at Stone, said he regularly receives praise from parents and students about McCormick's professionalism, level of service and her commitment to ensuring all issues and questions are handled appropriately in a timely manner. Fisher also said McCormick serves as an indirect mentor to several Stone staff members, himself included, and is an integral part of the school community. "The educational leadership possessed by Sue is phenomenal. She is a hard-working, top-performing vice principal. I truly believe that she has a home within the school because of the amount of time she spends working," Fisher wrote in a nomination letter. McCormick said that the staff at Stone truly understands the meaning of being a team. "I have learned so much from my mentors, Mr. Martin, the former principal and Mr. Meiser. The other administrators are true team members and always help me out. The teachers and all of the support staff work as a family and are always willing to go the extra mile for the students," she added. In addition to her role as vice principal, McCormick has participated in several professional development opportunities including the Aspiring Principals Leadership Institute and College Board Advanced Placement (AP) workshops, as well as worked on the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and School Improvement teams. To assist with the coordination of school-related events, McCormick also works with parents and parent groups to coordinate activities such as Back-to-School Night, AP Night and New Student Orientation. Additionally, McCormick is a member of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) and is active in the organization. McCormick began her career with Charles County Public Schools as a health and physical education teacher at John Hanson Middle School. She also held teaching positions at the Adult Services Center and Westlake High School and served as a health resource teacher at the Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building. She became a vice principal at Stone in 2005. She has a bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland College Park and a master's degree from Towson University. McCormick was honored by the Board of Education on June 11. The Board honors one outstanding vice principal each year. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Pictured above is Susan McCormick, a vice principal at Thomas Stone High School and the 2013 Charles County Public Schools Vice Principal of the Year. She was honored by the Board of Education June 11.

Board honors outstanding employees

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:04:00 -0400

The Board of Education honored six Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) employees with Outstanding Personnel Awards on June 11. Honored were:

Ricky Rawls, building service assistant manager, C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School;
Charles Ford, food service manager, North Point High School;
Mary Long, computer technology instructional assistant, Piccowaxen Middle School;
Joseph Dorsey, general maintenance worker, Radio Station Road Annex Building;
Dorothy Johnson, secretary, General Smallwood Middle School; and
Tak Cheng, network engineer, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building.

Rawls is the 2013 Outstanding Building Service Employee. He is the building service assistant manager and has worked at Barnhart since 1997. Rawls was nominated by Barnhart staff, including Principal Amy Hollstein, Vice Principal Troy Barnes and Joseph Adams, the building service manager. In his award nomination letters, Rawls is described as dedicated, courteous, trustworthy, polite and professional. "He is willing to do whatever it takes to accommodate the needs of staff as well as ensuring building security, safety and cleanliness. Rawls demonstrates a deep understanding of his job, the requirements of his job, a desire to learn and leadership," Barnes wrote in a nomination letter. Rawls goes above and beyond to assist staff in any way necessary and has established cooperative relationships with students, colleagues and the community. He also ensures that the building is safe and well-maintained on a daily basis, and strives to follow through on all tasks. Hollstein said Rawls is most worthy of recognition. "The main reason that Ricky is deserving and worthy of this great honor is his 'whatever it takes' attitude. He finds a way to solve every problem and is always positive in his interactions with staff and students. I have never asked Ricky for something that he does not find a way to accomplish and is genuinely happy to help," Hollstein wrote in a nomination letter.

Ford is the 2013 Outstanding Food Service Employee. He has worked at North Point as a food service worker for the past five years and was nominated for the award by North Point staff, including former Principal Kimberly Hill, Acting Principal Michael Simms and Tony Mast, administrative assistant. He was nominated for demonstrating a positive attitude, for being dependable and hard-working, and for doing what is necessary to get his job done effectively. "Ford strives daily to ensure that students are offered the freshest meals possible and encourages staff to be welcoming and friendly toward students. His loyalty toward his job and the school is one of his best qualities," said Kim Wojnar, a food service worker at North Point, in a nomination letter. One of Ford's biggest accomplishments was helping to transition the school to a one-hour lunch model, which presented the challenge of feeding more than 2,200 students in a short amount of time. Ford worked creatively with staff to meet this challenge, and adapts well to day-to-day school schedule changes from testing and other events. He is accommodating and resourceful in utilizing his staff and time to prepare food accordingly. "Mr. Ford faces the toughest challenge of any school I have worked at due to the large student population and our one hour lunch program. However, he never complains about his working environment and always maximizes his results," North Point Vice Principal Brian McCarthy wrote in a nomination letter.

Long is the 2013 Outstanding Instructional Support Employee. She has worked for Charles County Public Schools for 17 years and was nominated by school staff, including Piccowaxen Vice Principal Charmaine Young-Waddy, and teachers Sandy Chisholm and Kerri Loyd. She is an instructional assistant in the media center and splits her time between the front office and school library. She was nominated for her positive attitude and her willingness to help faculty, students, and parents with anything they need. She pays attention to detail and has excellent organizational skills that allow her to multitask and cover her various duties. When working with students in the media center, Long guides students conducting research and keeps them on task. Principal Kenneth Schroeck said Long is an example of a top-quality individual. She is always there to lend a helping hand when a student is in need of help in our media center. "Compassionate, dedicated and high-energy individuals are the cornerstone of any top quality educational system. Ms. Mary Long is one such person. She is one of the most outstanding professionals with whom I have had the pleasure to work," Schroeck wrote in a nomination letter.

Dorsey is the 2013 Outstanding Maintenance Employee. He has worked for Charles County Public Schools for the past six years and was nominated for the award by Wesley Guntow, a school system foreman with the facilities department. He was nominated for demonstrating good character and a strong work ethic. Dorsey consistently strives to better himself and his quality of work is exceptional. He helps to maintain maintenance department sensitive inventory and assists daily with work orders. Dorsey also takes on extra duties and is willing to help whenever he is needed. Guntow said Dorsey is an instrumental member of his department and a stand-out employee in his department. "The quality of work, the time in which he finishes assigned tasks, his overall concern for his fellow workers and CCPS as a whole has always been evident. In short, Mr. Dorsey is a team player," Guntow wrote in a nomination letter.

Johnson is the 2013 Outstanding Secretary and has worked for the school system for the past 30 years. Her nomination was a group effort and coordinated by Smallwood Principal Kathy Perriello. Johnson was nominated for her kind demeanor, positive rapport with staff, students and the community, and for her commitment to helping where she is needed. She always arrives early and stays late to ensure all tasks on her schedule are complete and the school is ready for the next day of business. Johnson is well known at Smallwood for her friendly personality and her ability to foster relationships with students and the community. She also assists the Parent-Teacher-Organization (PTO) with anything they need and often goes above and beyond her duties to get things done in an organized and efficient manner. Perriello said that Johnson is essential in setting the tone at Smallwood. "The truth is General Smallwood could not operate without Ms. Johnson. She performs all of her duties, and those of others, in the most effective and efficient manner. The front office sets the tone of the building, and I am confident that anyone who enters the main office feels welcomed, appreciated and respected," Perriello wrote in a nomination letter.

Cheng is the 2013 Outstanding Information Technology employee. He has worked for the school system for the past 17 years, and has been a network engineer at the Starkey Building since 2008. He was nominated for the award by technology staff for his commitment to ensuring that all school and system building servers are operating normally, assisting others by providing technological support and advice, and for his dedication to his position. Cheng takes a great deal of pride in his work and displays a professional and competent demeanor. He is the head of the local area network (LAN) team and helps manage all servers throughout the county. He also provides support to computer analysts and ensures that all staff members who work with technology are properly trained. Cheng also serves as a mentor to others in the technology department and is often sought out for assistance with technical difficulties. Lora Bennett, the information technology manager for CCPS, said Cheng is a true asset to the school system. "Tak is focused on making our school system and the technology work better for our staff and students. He takes great pride in his work and the work of our entire department, often going out of his way to make sure any obstacles are addressed immediately," Bennett wrote in an award nomination letter.

The Board each year honors exemplary support staff in six different job categories. The goals of the awards are to recognize exemplary employees in the areas of building services, food services, maintenance, secretarial services, instructional support, and information technology to encourage employees to provide creative and quality services that support the effective and efficient operations of the school system.

Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Pictured above are staff honored by the Board of Education with Outstanding Personnel Awards on June 11. Pictured from left are: Dorothy Johnson, secretary, General Smallwood Middle School; Tak Cheng, network engineer, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building; Ricky Rawls, building service assistant manager, C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School; Charles Ford, food service worker, North Point High School; and Mary Long, instructional assistant, Piccowaxen Middle School.

Board approves high school redistricting plan

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 18:43:00 -0400

The Board of Education today approved the plan for the high school redistricting, which creates an attendance zone for St. Charles High School and relieves overcrowding at the six existing high schools. The Board approved Superintendent of Schools James E. Richmond's recommendation of Proposal B with a modification with a vote of 6 to 1 at its monthly meeting. During discussion on the vote, Board Chairman Roberta S. Wise emphasized that the high school redistricting process is necessary. "All of us know that this is not an easy decision to make. If we could have opened St. Charles High School in 2011, we would not be in this situation today. But we are, and we have a decision to make," she said. In addressing concerns about exemptions for specific students to remain at their current schools, Board member Jennifer Abell made the point that the decision needed to be equitable for all students. The approved plan takes effect in August 2014 and moves incoming 9th, 10th and 11th graders, which are students in grades 7, 8 and 9 this school year. St. Charles is opening with grades 9, 10 and 11 and seniors in the Class of 2015 will finish at and graduate from their current school. The modification allows for current eighth- and ninth-grade students who live in Block 3750 and were required to change from Theodore G. Davis Middle School to Matthew Henson Middle School as a result of redistricting to remain at North Point High School with transportation until they graduate. There are 76 students eligible for the modification. Current seventh graders living in Block 3750 will be required to attend Maurice J. McDonough High School in school year 2014-15. The approved plan opens St. Charles High School with 956 students, with 649 transferring in from Maurice J. McDonough, La Plata and Thomas Stone high schools. Attendance zone changes in the plan also alleviate overcrowding at the six existing high schools. The changes include the following:

The St. Charles High School zone consists of former areas included in McDonough, La Plata and Stone attendance areas.
Areas of the Henry E. Lackey High School attendance zone move to the Maurice J. McDonough High School zone. McDonough also gains students from North Point and Westlake high schools as part of the plan.
North Point is currently the most overcrowded high school in Charles County. The redistricting plan moves attendance areas from North Point to Westlake and McDonough, and provides immediate relief to the school, which is almost at 141 percent of its 1,600 state-rated capacity. Students accepted in the Science, Technology and Industry (STI) programs are not included in the redistricting.
The plan also moves students from Westlake to Thomas Stone and adds areas from North Point into the Westlake attendance zone.

The high school redistricting takes effect in August 2014, when St. Charles opens for the 2014-15 school year. Maps and complete descriptions of the areas affected by redistricting are posted on the school system website at www.ccboe.com. Click on the High School Redistricting link under resources. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

School system, county agencies sponsor summer food program

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 14:27:00 -0400

Charles County Public Schools, in partnership with other county agencies, is offering the summer food service program from June 24 to Aug. 9. The program is free and is provided by multiple Charles County agencies and organizations, and through the Federal Meals program. Acceptance and participation requirements for the summer food service program are the same for all, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. Lunches are served Monday through Friday and times and locations vary. The following sites are participating in the program at the times listed, and all lunches must be consumed on site:

Henry E. Lackey High School, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; and
Westlake High School, 11 to 11:45 a.m.

Meals will also be distributed at the following mobile sites at the times listed from June 24 through Aug. 9: Waldorf mobile sites

Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School, 10 a.m. to 10:15 a.m.;
Eva Turner Elementary School, 10:20 to 10:35 a.m.;
Wakefield Community Center, 10:45 to 11 a.m.;
Children's Aid Society, 11:10 to 11:25 a.m.;
Tri-County Youth Services, 11:30 to 11:45 a.m.;
Ell Lane Apartments, 11:50 a.m. to 12:05 p.m.;
Idle Wood Trailer Park, 12:10 to 12:25 p.m.;
Elite Gymnastics, 12:30 to 12:45 p.m.;
Master Suites, Old Washington Road location, 12:50 to 1:05 p.m.;
Holly Tree Lane Apartments, 1:10 to 1:25 p.m.; and
Mattawoman Middle School, 1:40 to 1:55 p.m.

Nanjemoy mobile sites

12050 Lovers Place, 10:45 to 11:05 a.m.;
10890 Rising Sun Place, 11:20 to 11:40 a.m.;
3235 Naomi Place, 11:55 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.;
10805 Gethsemane Hall Place, 12:30 to 12:50 p.m.;
4205 Apricot Place, 1:05 to 1:25 p.m.;
13137 Walnut Grove Place, 1:40 to 2 p.m.; and
2402 Maryland Point Road, 2:15 to 2:40 p.m.

Indian Head mobile sites

Potomac Heights, 2 Cypress Place, 11:30 to 11:50 a.m.;
Riverside Run, 41 Jameson Court, 12 to 12:30 p.m.; and
Woodland Village, 99 Thompson Lane, 12:40 to 1:10 p.m.

La Plata mobile sites

Thunderbird Apartments, 11 to 11:20 a.m.;
Relax Inn, 11:30 to 11:50 a.m.; and
Phoenix Run, 12:10 to 12:30 p.m.

Any child who is 18-years-old and under is eligible to receive a lunch at one of the sites. Lunches are prepared by the Charles County Public Schools Food Services department and may consist of a sandwich, fruit, vegetable and milk, and will vary each day of the week. Children receiving lunches at the school sites will be served along with those participating in summer camps through the Recreation Division of the Charles County Department of Community Services. These sites are staffed by the Recreation Division, and LifeStyles Inc. of Maryland is providing program support at several locations. Limited Van Go passes for transportation to and from camp locations are available. Call 301-934-7326 or 301-609-9900 to obtain a pass. Homeless children, identified by Charles County Public Schools and the Department of Social Services, who are 12-years-old and older and are a CCPS student, are eligible to receive free pool passes. County agencies involved are the Charles County Department of Community Services – Recreation Division, the Charles County Department of Social Services, the Charles County Advocacy Council for Children, Youth and Families, and LifeStyles, Inc. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Student Board member selected for 2013-14 school year

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:56:00 -0400

Amit Patel, a rising senior at Maurice J. McDonough High School, is the student member of the Board of Education of Charles County for the 2013-14 school year. He will be sworn in to the position by Board of Education Chairman Roberta S. Wise at the June 11 meeting, which begins at 1 p.m. As the Student Board Member, Patel will work with a student liaison committee throughout the school year. The following students were selected as members of the student liaison committee:

Kim Jacks, rising junior, Henry E. Lackey High School liaison;
Katherine Snee, rising senior, La Plata High School liaison;
Katelyn Turner, rising senior, Maurice J. McDonough High School liaison;
Thomas Lilly, rising senior, North Point High School liaison and alternate student board member;
Maher Bousaba, rising senior, Thomas Stone High School liaison; and
Susan Duncan, rising senior, Westlake High School liaison.

Each high school is required to have a student liaison and may be selected by methods approved by the school's Student Government Association (SGA) and principal. Each liaison can apply as a candidate for the position of Student Board Member. Candidates are required to submit an essay regarding a student concern and a detailed possible solution. The essays are evaluated and candidates are interviewed by a committee composed of students and advisors. The liaison with the highest combined score on the essay and the interview is named the Student Board Member. Additionally, student members of the Charles County Association of Student Councils (CCASC) recently elected new officers for the 2013-14 school year. The new officers are:

Oluwatomike (Tomi) Adeboyejo, rising senior, president, Westlake;
Isabelle Browning, rising senior, first vice-president, McDonough;
Joseph Perriello, rising freshman, second vice-president, North Point;
Amanda Hobgood, rising sophomore, secretary, Lackey; and
Cole Smith, rising seventh grader, middle school representative, Matthew Henson Middle School.

Each year, CCASC officers are elected by student delegates in the spring. Schools develop their own methods for selecting CCASC student delegates. Each high school sends 15 delegates to monthly meetings; middle schools send 10 delegates. The CCASC is an organization consisting of student leaders from the county's six high schools and eight middle schools. These students meet throughout the year to discuss issues and concerns, as well as provide input to school system leaders on programs and policies. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Board of Education announces June 11 agenda

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 15:26:00 -0400

The Board of Education's next monthly meeting is Tuesday, June 11, at the Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building on Radio Station Road in La Plata. The public portion of the meeting begins at 1 p.m. and recognition begins at 4:30 p.m. The meeting is televised live on Comcast Channel 96 and Verizon FiOS Channel 12, and is rebroadcast throughout the week. Schedules for Channel 96 are available on the Charles County Public Schools website at www2.ccboe.com/publicinfo/channel96/schedule.cfm. Executive Session – 12 p.m.

Call to order – 1 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance – North Point High School's JROTC Unit

Swearing-in of new Student Board member – Amit Patel, Maurice J. McDonough High School

Recognition of high school athletes

Superintendent's update

Recognition

Pat Foerster, Maryland State Governor's office
James E. Richmond Leadership Award
LifeStyles – Bill McLaughlin, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME)

Reports of officers/boards/committees

Correspondence/Board member updates
Student Board Member update
CIP update
Credit recovery
Budget update

Unfinished business

New business and future agenda items

New business
Future agenda items

Recognition - 4:30 p.m.

Outstanding vice principal award
Outstanding support staff awards
Resolution – Charles County Teacher of the Year – Mary Bailey, Reading Recovery teacher, Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School
Resolution – Washington Post Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award – Crystal Harney, mathematics teacher, Westlake High School
Employee retirement resolution

Public Forum – 6 p.m.

Action items

Minutes
Personnel
Educational facilities master plan
High school redistricting
FY 2014 budget
Common Core curriculum
Education Association of Charles County/AFSCME contract signing

Adjournment Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Northern High School principal to head school administration

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 13:38:00 -0400

Kimberly Hill, Charles County Public Schools next Superintendent, announced her first administrative appointment on June 3, naming Northern High School Principal Sylvia Lawson, Ph.D., as assistant superintendent of school administration. Additionally, Hill said Keith Hettel, assistant superintendent of human resources, is moving to the position of assistant superintendent for supporting services. Later this month, Hill plans to announce other changes to the administrative team, which she is reorganizing under four assistant superintendents. Assistant superintendent positions include instruction, school administration, supporting services and finance, with different departments placed under the appropriate leadership, Hill said. A number of top-level positions are open due to the retirements of key leaders. The Board of Education approved the appointment of Lawson, Calvert County's 2011-12 Principal of the Year and a former Charles County Public Schools principal. Lawson served as a principal, vice principal and teacher in Charles County before moving to Calvert County Public Schools in 2007. "I am thrilled to have Dr. Lawson as a member of our leadership team. She is an enthusiastic, student-centered leader who will have an immediate and positive impact on our school district. Her responsibilities will include working with our principals and vice principals as they carry out the vital day-to-day work of leading our schools. I am confident that under her guidance our school leaders will thrive and our students will reach even higher levels of achievement," Hill said. Lawson started her career in education in 1981 as a health and physical education teacher at McColl High School in South Carolina before relocating to Charles County as a health and physical education teacher at Maurice J. McDonough High School, where she also served as a head women's basketball and softball coach. Lawson's experience includes serving 11 years as a middle school principal, at Southern Middle School in Calvert County and Benjamin Stoddert Middle School in Charles County. She also worked as a vice principal from 1993 to 2000 at John Hanson Middle School, McDonough and Thomas Stone High School. "I am extremely appreciative to Mrs. Hill for giving me an opportunity to return to Charles County as a member of her executive team. I know that Mrs. Hill is a visionary leader and her dedication to the students and communities within Charles County is unquestionable. I share her passion and commitment to ensuring that all students are provided with a wealth of quality educational opportunities and experiences. I look forward to the upcoming school year with tremendous excitement and great expectation," Lawson said. Lawson has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Instructional Leadership for Changing Populations from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland. Additionally, she earned a certificate of advanced studies in education from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, a Master of Administration from Western Maryland College, a Master of Education from East Carolina University in North Carolina and a Bachelor of Science from Pfeiffer College in North Carolina. Hill replaces James E. Richmond, who is retiring at the end of June after 17 years of service as superintendent. Lawson and Hettel begin their new positions on July 1, and Paul Balides, assistant superintendent of finance, remains in his current position. Connie Armstead, executive director of human resources, will manage human resources, which moves under the direction of the assistant superintendent of finance. The school system is advertising for an assistant superintendent of instruction. Hill said the organizational structure is strategically designed to optimize the efficiency of operations and to fully engage the talents of central office personnel. "Aligning human resources with the finance department provides for an effective exchange of information between human resources, budget and finance and payroll. As the executive director of human resources, Connie Armstead's experience has given her the background and skills needed to lead this department. Keith Hettel's new role as assistant superintendent for supporting services will leverage his ability to build relationships and will serve us well as we continue to maintain and update our facilities. I appreciate the support and expertise that all of our executive staff members have provided to ensure a smooth transition," Hill said.

Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Pictured is Sylvia Lawson, Ph.D., who was named assistant superintendent of school administration by incoming Superintendent Kimberly Hill. Lawson's appointment was approved by the Board of Education June 3.

CCPS seniors receive $57 million in scholarship offers

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 13:05:00 -0400

Charles County Public Schools honored 2,114 seniors on June 3 and June 4 during graduation ceremonies for six high schools. Students in the Class of 2013 were offered more than $57 million in scholarship offers, up almost $5 million from 2012. Valedictorians and salutatorians were announced last week at awards ceremonies. These positions are determined by students' grade point averages and represent the top academic achievers at each school. Henry E. Lackey High School's valedictorian is Paul Warren of White Plains and the salutatorian is Steven Bode of Nanjemoy. Warren plans to attend Stanford University to study computer science and mechanical engineering. Bode plans to study engineering at the University of Maryland College Park. La Plata High School's valedictorian is Alexander Smith of La Plata. La Plata has two co-salutatorians – John "Jake" Bayer of La Plata and Suzanne Cahn of Hughesville. Smith will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the fall to study mathematics. Bayer plans to study political science at Clemson University in the fall, and Cahn is attending St. Mary's College of Maryland to study Biology. Rachel Jezek of Pomfret is Maurice J. McDonough High School's valedictorian. She is attending the University of Maryland Baltimore County in the fall to study Biology on a pre-medical school track. Erin Albrecht is the salutatorian at McDonough and will attend the University of Maryland College Park in the fall to study environmental engineering. North Point High School's valedictorian is Henry Buntz of Waldorf. He will attend the University of Maryland College Park and plans to study mechanical engineering. North Point's salutatorian is Alphonso "Gaston" Lopez of Waldorf. Lopez plans to attend Carleton College in the fall to study Physics. Representing Thomas Stone High School are Stacey Kramer of Waldorf as valedictorian and Alexis Rossetti of Waldorf as salutatorian. Kramer has not declared a major, but will attend the University of Maryland Baltimore County. Rossetti plans to study international relations, but has not yet decided where she will enroll. Westlake High School's valedictorian is Alyssa Kepner of Waldorf and salutatorian is Samantha Wood, also of Waldorf. Kepner plans to major in mathematics at the University of Maryland College Park. Wood will also attend the University of Maryland College Park and plans to study biochemical bioengineering. 2013 graduation numbers by school Henry E. Lackey High School

Total graduates: 282
Total scholarship money offered: $5,000,000

La Plata High School

Total graduates: 354
Total scholarship money offered: $9,972,130

La Plata's scholarship offers increased by more than $3 million this year. Maurice J. McDonough High School

Total graduates: 302
Total scholarship money offered: $13,212,076

McDonough's scholarship offers is a record high for the school and more than doubled from last year's $6.5 million. North Point High School

Total graduates: 551
Total scholarship money offered: $15,078,274

Thomas Stone High School

Total graduates: 287
Total scholarship money offered: $6,060,000

Westlake High School

Total graduates: 338
Total scholarship money offered: $8,314,965

Charles County Public Schools Totals

Total graduates: 2,114
Total scholarship money offered: $57,637,445

Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Teams compete at global DI, North Point places among top 10

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 12:36:00 -0400

Ten Charles County Public Schools teams competed at the global Destination ImagiNation tournament held May 22-25 in Knoxville, Tennessee. The AC/DI team from North Point High School placed among the top five teams at the secondary level in the In the Zone challenge. More than 45 high school teams competed in the In the Zone challenge at the secondary level, and the North Point team received a fifth-place award. Team members are Nick Essing, Noah Gibson, Abby Richman, Armando Rivera, Sean Schultz, Anna Schierlmann and Ashlynn Stanley. Team managers are parents Michael and Cathy Gibson. The DI Like Donuts team from John Hanson Middle School earned 16th place out of 49 competing middle school teams in the In the Zone challenge. Team members are Rya Nelson, Adam Park, Adam Roberts, Luke Roberts, Kaitlyn Vance and Alzandra Williams. Team manager is parent Steven Roberts. Other teams that participated in the global challenge were:

Kinetic Inventors from Dr. James Craik Elementary School;
Clever Dragons from William A. Diggs Elementary School;
Mustacheo Girls from Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School;
Straight Jacket Ninjas from Theodore G. Davis Middle School;
Little Rascals of Lackey from Henry E. Lackey High School;
Breaking Wind from Milton M. Somers Middle School/La Plata High School;
Dirty Bubbles from La Plata; and
Out With a Bang from Maurice J. McDonough High School.

Hanson's DI Like Donuts team also represented Maryland in the event's opening parade, and the Mustacheo Girls team from Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy was invited to have lunch during the event with Chuck Cadle, the CEO of Destination of ImagiNation. Additionally, graduating seniors from the McDonough and North Point teams were eligible to participate in the global finals graduation ceremony, in which they were recognized for their participation in the program. The competition is divided into elementary, middle and high school team competitions, and features six challenge categories: In the Zone, Wind Visible, In Disguise, Change in Realitee, Twist-O-Rama and Real to Reel. More than 1,000 teams competed at the global level, and included schools from 42 states and 14 countries. For more information, and detailed event results, visit http://www.globalfinals.org/info/about. Destination ImagiNation is a creative problem-solving program for students in grades kindergarten through college and is active in 50 states and more than 40 countries. Teams of up to seven members work to solve different challenges and present their solutions to a panel of judges. Students compete at the regional, state and global levels. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Two students receive outstanding safety patrol awards

Thu, 30 May 2013 10:41:00 -0400

Two Charles County Public Schools students – Ally Parr and Kyra Smith – were recently named Outstanding School Safety Patrol Award recipients by the Mid-Atlantic Foundation for Safety and Education and the American Automobile Association (AAA). Award recipients are nominated by their schools and recognized for excelling in the areas of leadership, dependability and academics. Parr is a fifth grader at T.C. Martin Elementary School. She was nominated by Carrie Burke, vice principal at Martin, for serving as a role model for her peers and for demonstrating outstanding behavior, academic achievement and personal responsibility. Safety patrols are selected annually among fifth graders who school administrators believe would best represent their schools, and handle all tasks associated with the position. For her leadership skills and commitment to personal responsibility, Parr was a clear choice for school administrators at Martin. "Although we knew Ally would perform this job well, we didn't know that Ally would surpass our expectations for leadership. Each day she shows maturity, composure, and responsibility well beyond those of most 10-year-olds," Burke said in a nomination letter. As a patrol, Parr is tasked with ensuring all classes have left the school building in the afternoon before buses are allowed to leave for their routes. She is also responsible for verifying that all other patrols have boarded their buses. Additionally, Parr works with teachers and school staff to account for any missing students who may not have boarded their bus or are staying after school for an extra-curricular activity. Parr is also an honor roll student and receives numerous accolades during school award ceremonies. In addition to serving on the safety patrol, she is active in the Just Say No Club at Martin and plays soccer in her community. Smith is a fifth grader at Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School. She was nominated for the award by Toni Bateman, a physical education teacher at Brown, for leading by example, going above and beyond with her classwork, and for being dependable and responsible. Smith also stood out among her peers to serve as a safety patrol. Bateman coordinates the patrol program at Brown and said Smith is a hard-working student who shines among her peers.

"The other patrollers were in awe of her character and her gift to react levelheaded in unnerving situations. She is a wonderful student and a joy to teach. She is responsible and dependable beyond expectation," Bateman said in a nomination letter. As a patrol, Smith is in charge of monitoring one of the busier, high-traffic areas on school grounds. She helps monitor the student walkers, other pedestrians, areas near staff and visitor parking, and day care bus pickups and school deliveries. She is also very conscious of her surroundings at all times and always has a polite demeanor when speaking with children and visitors about safety rules. She is an honor roll student and has served as a peer tutor and member of the school band. She is also a top-ranking member of the school math team and takes dance classes ranging from hip hop and jazz to ballet and tap. Both Parr and Smith will be honored with their awards at the Mid-Atlantic Foundation's Outstanding School Safety Patrol Luncheon on May 30 in Baltimore. For more information about the program, visit https://midatlantic.aaa.com/Foundation/SchoolPrograms/SchoolSafetyPatrolAwards.

Stone’s Lee named District 4 Athletic Director of the Year

Thu, 30 May 2013 10:40:00 -0400

The Maryland State Athletic Directors Association (MSADA) recently named Steven Lee, the athletic director at Thomas Stone High School, as the 2013 District 4 Athletic Director of the Year. Lee has been the athletic director at Stone for the past seven years, and has worked in the education field for more than 25 years. The annual award is presented to an athletic administrator who has made significant contributions to the athletic programs in their schools and school systems. Lee's award for District 4 covers Charles, Calvert and St. Mary's counties. Lee was nominated for the award by Aly Khan Johnson, coordinator of student activities for Charles County Public Schools, for his leadership abilities and his dependable and kind demeanor. "Steve will always go the 'extra mile' to improve his performance and the people around him. He is able to encourage and motivate others, as evident in his success as an athletic administrator," Johnson wrote in a letter of recommendation. He is also known among his colleagues as a pleasant, honest and reliable person who has the ability to instill these qualities in others. Lee is heavily involved with the Southern Maryland Athletic Conference (SMAC) and has served as vice president and president elect for the organization. He has several years of experience at the collegiate level, serving in positions as athletic director at Bethany College, Chowan University, Concord University and Waynesburg College. In addition to serving as an athletic director, Lee has also held several college-level coaching positions. He has served as the head football coach at Bethany College, the assistant and head football coach at Chowan University, the assistant football and head baseball coach at Waynesburg College and positions at Fairmont State University and University High School in West Virginia. In addition to serving as a coach and athletic director, Lee also has several years of teaching experience. He taught social studies at the high school level in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and North Carolina, and was also an assistant professor in sport management at Chowan University. Lee has a bachelor's degree in geography and social science from Lock Haven University, and a master's degree in sport management from West Virginia University. He was honored at the annual MSADA banquet held last month in Ocean City. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Board of Education to meet in executive session June 3

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:56:00 -0400

The Board of Education will meet 3:30 p.m., Monday, June 3, at the Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro in executive session as permitted by the Maryland Open Meetings Act, Section 10-508(a) and Section 10-503(c) of the State Government Article to discuss: personnel matters, specifically the Superintendent's recommendations on certificated positions. The session is being held at the Show Place Arena because the Board is attending graduation ceremonies scheduled to take place there on June 3. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

Graduation information; end-of-year calendar reminders

Fri, 24 May 2013 15:50:00 -0400

More than 2,100 students are expected to graduate from Charles County Public Schools next month, and Charles County's six high schools are already planning graduation ceremonies. Ceremonies for Henry E. Lackey, La Plata, Maurice J. McDonough, Thomas Stone and Westlake high schools will be held at the Showplace Arena in Upper Marlboro on June 3 and 4. North Point High School will host graduation ceremonies in the school's gymnasium on June 4.

The following is the graduation schedule for Monday, June 3:

Stone, 9 a.m.;
McDonough, 2 p.m.; and
Lackey, 7 p.m.

The following is the graduation schedule for Tuesday, June 4:

La Plata, 9 a.m.;
Westlake, 2 p.m.; and
North Point, 7 p.m.

School schedules during graduation ceremonies are as follows:

Stone will be closed for students on Monday, June 3;
McDonough will be closed for students on Monday, June 3;
Lackey will have a two-hour early dismissal on Monday, June 3;
La Plata will be closed for students on Tuesday, June 4;
Westlake will be closed for students on Tuesday, June 4; and
North Point will be closed for students on Tuesday, June 4.

The Robert D. Stethem Educational Center will be closed on Monday, June 3 for those students who access transportation to Stethem from Stone, McDonough and Lackey high schools. Stethem will be open June 3 for students who access transportation to Stethem from La Plata, Westlake and North Point high schools. Stethem will be closed on Tuesday, June 4 for students who access transportation to Stethem from La Plata, Westlake and North Point high schools. Stethem will be open for students who access transportation to Stethem from Stone, McDonough and Lackey high schools.

The last day of school for Charles County Public Schools students is Friday, June 14. June 12, 13 and 14 are two-hour early dismissal days. Teachers last day is Monday, June 17. Elementary school report cards will be issued to students on June 14. Report cards for middle and high school students will be mailed on Friday, June 21. Charles County Public Schools provides 26,700 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 35 caring community schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.