The Board of Education of Charles County recognized outstanding students Dec. 9 during its monthly meeting.

Honored were fourth-grade student Kayla Hawley of Mary H. Matula Elementary School, fifth graders Oscar Cornelio Chicas of Gale-Bailey and Chloe Morse of T.C. Martin elementary schools, Sofia Morris, an eighth-grade student at Milton M. Somers Middle School, and Cori Avent, a Maurice J. McDonough High School senior.

The students were recognized for academic achievement, career readiness and personal responsibility. 

While she is a fourth grader, Hawley attends a fifth-grade math class. She puts her knowledge to the test as a member of Matula’s math team. Hawley was honored for personal responsibility. “She is an extremely driven student who not only meets expectations but regularly exceeds them,” Matula Principal Davita Itsuokor, said. “Kayla approaches every assignment with curiosity and purpose, actively seeking ways to make her work her own and extend it beyond what is required.” Outside of school, Hawley is a competitive swimmer.

Chicas was recognized for academic achievement who maintains As and Bs on his report card. “Oscar is the embodiment of excellence — an avid soccer player, a talented musician and an academically outstanding scholar whose determination, curiosity and character truly stand out,” R. Demetri Sermons, Ed.D., principal of Gale-Bailey, said. Chicas has an aptitude for math, using problem-solving skills and logical reasoning in the classroom. In language arts, he approaches assignments with thoughtfulness and creativity. Chicas has a genuine curiosity about the world that lends itself to his interest in social studies and science. “He gives his best effort and goes above expectations,” Julie Whitney, Chicas’ teacher, said. “He serves as a role model to his peers.”

At Martin, Morse has earned straight As in third and fourth grades and continues academically excelling as a fifth grader. “Her dedication to learning is matched by her ambition,” Martin Principal Ethel Hosendorf said. “Chloe aspires to become a CEO, attorney, dermatologist or professional golfer in the future.” Her future aspirations resulted in Morse being honored for career readiness. Morse is a member of Martin’s safety patrol serving as an afternoon bus check-in monitor, and is a member of the school’s cheerleading team. Outside of school, Morse has been a Girl Scout since she was 5 years old, and is currently a second-year junior in Scouts. Through her troop, she has participated in numerous service projects, including preparing and serving meals for community members in partnership with Our Place Waldorf, creating Valentine’s Day cards for seniors in long-term care facilities and honoring veterans through the wreath-laying ceremony at Cheltenham Veterans Cemetery. “Her drive, compassion and commitment to excellence make her a shining example of career readiness and a true inspiration to her peers,” Hosendorf said.

Morris was honored for academic achievement. “Throughout her time at Somers, Sofia has consistently demonstrated outstanding academic performance, leadership and character, earning multiple awards and distinctions,” Somers Principal Gary Lesko said. Identified as gifted in both reading and math, Morris is enrolled in honors classes at Somers and approaches every assignment with diligence while exemplifying resilience and perseverance. “Her determination is matched by her kindness,” he added. “She willingly assists peers with patience and encouragement, inspiring others to believe in themselves.” Morris is the secretary for the school’s National Junior Honor Society, is part of the stage crew for the drama club and takes part in many school clubs. 

Avent is in the Top 10 of McDonough’s Class of 2026, a contributing factor to her being recognized for academic achievement. She is the captain of the school’s It’s Academic team and is a member of the polyglot team. “Her academic excellence is matched by her ambition; she hopes to attend Princeton University and pursue a degree in engineering after graduation,” Kathy Perriello, acting principal of McDonough, said. Avent authored the Spanish-language children’s book, “Mar la Estrella: La Estrella Perdió,” with illustrations by Cynclair Wilson, a fellow McDonough senior. Avent is one of two non-native Spanish speakers enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish and in her junior year, earned the Maryland Seal of Biliteracy. In addition to Spanish, Avent takes three other AP courses. “Cori leads every day with kindness,” Perriello said. “Her actions inside and outside the classroom reflect genuine care for others and respect for diverse viewpoints.”

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).