The Board of Education for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) recently honored five outstanding employees who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the students and the school community. This monthly recognition underscores the pivotal role that dedicated educators and staff play in fostering an enriching and supportive environment for students. The five staff members acknowledged at the recent meeting were Brian Chase, Maria Farnham, Christopher Howard, Erin Rhodes, and Brandi Youmans. Their individual achievements highlight their commitment to maintaining high standards of education and school maintenance.
Brian Chase, the building service manager at Gale-Bailey Elementary School, has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and dedication to the school’s upkeep. His efforts have consistently earned his team the Green Thumb Award for two consecutive years, a testament to the outstanding maintenance of school grounds. This award, given by the CCPS office of operations and supporting services, acknowledges the exceptional care Chase and his team take in maintaining the school environment. With a strong work ethic, reliability, and leadership skills, Chase has significantly contributed to the positive culture at Gale-Bailey Elementary.
Leadership and Commitment in School Maintenance
Chase has made a notable impact by overseeing numerous projects that ensure the school remains both clean and safe for everyone. Gale-Bailey Principal Tangie Scales commended his commitment to cleanliness, safety, and the overall school atmosphere, noting how Chase’s efforts create a welcoming and secure environment for students and staff alike. By taking charge of the school’s maintenance project by project, Brian Chase exemplifies the essential role that dedicated maintenance personnel play in the school community, ensuring a conducive atmosphere for learning and growth.
Maria Farnham, a kindergarten teacher at Mary H. Matula Elementary School, stands out for her relentless commitment to her students and their parents. By going above and beyond her regular working hours, she ensures that her kindergarteners receive the necessary support to thrive academically and personally. Principal Carrie Richardson praised Farnham’s dedication, emphasizing her tireless efforts that extend well beyond the school day. Farnham’s influence as the kindergarten team leader is evident in her drive to find innovative and engaging opportunities for her students, like her collaboration with the Humane Society of Charles County.
Fostering Strong Relationships with Students and Parents
This collaboration educates children on the importance of caring for animals, enriching their overall learning experience. Her dedication to staying connected with students, even after they progress to higher grades, demonstrates her genuine care. For instance, Farnham’s efforts to keep in touch with her students through simple gestures, like sending postcards during summer breaks, profoundly impact the students and their families. Farnham’s approach shows that fostering strong relationships between educators, students, and parents is integral to the students’ overall well-being and educational success.
Christopher Howard, the building service manager at Maurice J. McDonough High School, has played an instrumental role in ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the school during extensive renovation projects over the past three years. His exceptional coordination and management skills have been critical in navigating the challenges of an active construction site. Principal Darnell Russell highlighted Howard’s role in achieving three consecutive years of perfect scores on pre-opening inspections, underscoring the importance of his meticulous attention to detail and dedication to high standards.
Managing School Operations During Renovations
Howard’s commitment to maintaining these high standards, coupled with his extended working hours and continuous training, showcases his unwavering dedication to the school community. His ability to effectively optimize his team’s strengths and adapt to new systems, such as the Oracle data management platform, has ensured that McDonough High School remains a well-maintained and efficient educational environment. Howard’s integral involvement in the renovation process highlights his critical contributions to the school’s success and the smooth operation of the academic year despite ongoing construction.
Erin Rhodes, a science teacher at Milton M. Somers Middle School, is celebrated for her leadership and her willingness to support her colleagues continuously. As the chair of the science department, she plays a vital role within the school’s leadership team. Her voluntary efforts in training teaching staff on Canvas, the learning management system adopted by CCPS, reflect her commitment to professional development and her collaborative spirit. Principal Gary Lesko acknowledged Rhodes’ single-handed effort in creating and facilitating school-wide professional learning sessions, demonstrating her proactive approach to enhancing the teaching experience.
Leadership and Professional Development in Teaching
Rhodes’ dedication to improving the educational tools and supporting her colleagues has significantly contributed to the school community’s development and success. Her initiatives have underscored the importance of continuous professional development in fostering effective teaching and learning practices. By implementing new educational tools and providing training sessions, Rhodes has offered invaluable support to her fellow instructors, enhancing the overall quality of education at Somers Middle School. Her leadership and dedication exemplify how committed educators can drive significant improvements in academic environments through professional development.
Brandi Youmans, a special education teacher at Arthur Middleton Elementary School, has shown a steadfast commitment to her students and colleagues over her 17-year tenure. Her transition from teaching general education to special education underscores her dedication to her professional growth and the success of her students. Youmans’ involvement in various training sessions, including those focused on special education, assessment, and intervention, highlights her dedication to her students’ success and her continual enhancement of her teaching skills.
Commitment to Special Education and Student Success
Youmans’ active participation in ongoing training shows her commitment to the latest developments in special education practices. Her principal, Sandra Taylor, praised her ability to form strong connections with her students, which fosters an engaging and supportive learning environment. By engaging in professional development and adopting innovative teaching methods, Youmans has significantly impacted the educational trajectories of her students, particularly those who require specialized educational support. Her dedication to her profession and her students’ success underscores the vital role of special education teachers in fostering inclusive and effective learning environments.
The Board of Education for Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) recently recognized five distinguished employees for their remarkable dedication to students and the school community. This monthly acknowledgment highlights the crucial role that committed educators and staff play in creating an enriching and supportive educational environment. The five honored staff members were Brian Chase, Maria Farnham, Christopher Howard, Erin Rhodes, and Brandi Youmans, each exemplifying high standards in education and school maintenance.
