The Board of Education at its Dec. 9 meeting honored employees who make Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) a welcoming place to learn and work.

Recognized were Kelly Carlson of T.C. Martin Elementary School, Victoria Langley of Maurice J. McDonough High School, Genie Scott of Gale-Bailey Elementary School, Cella Sipos of Mary H. Matula Elementary School and April Thompson of Milton M. Somers Middle School.

Carlson is a kindergarten teacher at Martin where she has created an engaging classroom that supports academic and emotional growth among her students. “She greets every student at the door, ensures they feel safe and valued, and celebrates individuality through initiatives like ‘Star of the Day,’” Martin Principal Ethel Hosendorf said. “These consistent acts foster a strong sense of belonging and community.” Carlson blends evidence-based instructional practices with creativity and individualized support which results in her students consistently demonstrating academic and social-emotional growth. Carlson mentors new teachers, is a team leader, takes part in professional learning and helps develop resources to aid colleagues. “Ms. Carlson leads with kindness, empathy and positivity,” Hosendorf said. “She models calm problem solving, fairness and joy in learning.”

Langley began her career with CCPS in 1986. She left the area for North Carolina before returning to the school system as McDonough’s assistant food service manager. She was named food service manager at two other CCPS schools before coming back to McDonough as food service manager in 2022. Langley works with administrators and other school staff to ensure all students have an opportunity to receive a meal if they want one. “Ms. Langley communicates with the school and team to make sure every student receives a high quality, delicious lunch every day,” Kathy Perriello, acting principal at McDonough, said. If students are out of school for a field trip or attending classes at an alternate location, Langley makes sure students have a chance to order a boxed lunch. This year, Langley is coordinating and preparing meals at the satellite kitchen at the Robert D. Stethem Educational Center. Langley is a RAM Nation fan, supporting students by working at athletic events.

As a reading interventionist at Gale-Bailey, Scott exemplifies dedication, professionalism and a commitment to students. “Her impact as a reading interventionalist extends far beyond targeted instruction — she empowers students to believe in their abilities, builds students’ reading capacity and fosters a culture of literacy excellence throughout our school,” R. Demetri Sermons, Ed.D., Gale-Bailey principal, said. Scott seeks out instructional reading strategies and integrates best practices to ensure every student receives the support they need to thrive as readers. She is a meticulous planner and is an encouraging presence at Gale-Bailey. Scott has developed literacy initiatives that have strengthened students’ confidence. “She truly embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner, a leader and an advocate for student growth and success,” Sermons said.

Sipos, a second-grade teacher, serves as a model for many teachers at Matula where she is as an anchor mentor. "As both a classroom teacher and new teacher mentor, she models best practices with patience, clarity and genuine enthusiasm," Davita Itsuokor, Matula's principal, said. Itsuokor said Sipos speaks her "educational love language" of providing excellent instruction. "Her commitment to her students is evident in every lesson she teachers," Itsuokor said. Sipos adapts and modifies work for each student to meet individual learning needs, ensuring every child has equitable access to success. She is considered a trusted and invaluable member of the staff and inspires learning through perseverance and curiosity.  

Thompson is the social studies department chair at Somers where she supports students and colleagues. “She is always available to clarify questions, offer insightful lesson ideas and provide valuable guidance to improve teaching practices within the department,” Somers Principal Gary Lesko said. Recently, Thompson guided students through a research project that extended their learning beyond the standard curriculum. “This initiative not only deepened their understanding, but also inspired them to engage in independent critical thinking,” Lesko said. Thompson engages her students and holds them to high standards. She is creative, fun and enthusiastic, and often collaborates with coworkers not just in social studies, but across the curriculum.

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides 27,904 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 38 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.

The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mike Blanchard, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event. 

CCPS provides nondiscriminatory equal access to school facilities in accordance with its Use of Facilities rules to designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts).