LA PLATA, Md. (Oct. 20, 2008)—The Board of Education honored four exemplary Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) employees at its monthly meeting held Tuesday, Oct. 14. Honored were Dawn Williamson, Janet Malherek, Kimberly King and Michael Swann.
Williamson is a third-grade teacher at Gale-Bailey Elementary School. She was honored for the contributions she has made to the school community, teachers and her students. Her contributions to the Gale-Bailey community include serving as the school yearbook sponsor, the third-grade team leader, the Destination Imagination sponsor and co-chair of the school-based reading committee. Williamson also participates in professional growth opportunities, including work with the FISH! Philosophy, coordinating Maryland State Department of Education staff visits and working with Maryland School Assessment (MSA) reviews. Gale-Bailey Principal Carrie Richardson said Williamson demonstrates continuous professional growth as a teacher and is always willing to volunteer her spare time to helping with extracurricular activities. "It is with great pleasure that the staff of Gale-Bailey Elementary School recognizes Dawn Williamson for the many contributions that she has made and continues to make our school community," Richardson said in a nomination letter.
Malherek is the secretary to the principal at Mary H. Matula Elementary School. She was honored for her professional skills and for demonstrating an exemplary work ethic and pride in her work. Principal Timothy Rosin said Malherek has been essential in helping staff new to the school, including him, adjust. "Mrs. Malherek has immensely assisted my vice principal and me, who are both new to Matula this school year, in familiarizing is with how business has been conducted at Matula in the past and offered us her wisdom as to how proposed changes might be received by various stakeholders," Rosin said in a nomination letter. Malherek arrives early each day and stays after hours to make sure the needs of teachers, students, parents, bus drivers and administrators are attended to. Rosin said he also nominated Malherek because she thinks proactively. "She is in a class of 'angels' by herself - a top-notch class of school secretaries who consistently demonstrates initiative above and beyond the call of duty," Rosin said.
King is an instructional specialist at Milton M. Somers Middle School. She was honored for being a dedicated staff member, going out of her way to help others and for serving as a leader and school cheerleader for Somers. Principal Stephanie Wesolowski said 95 percent of the Somers staff recommended King for recognition by the Board. "She is an exceptional asset to our school in her role as the instructional specialist. She is highly visible in the classroom and at extracurricular events, where she proudly cheers on our students and staff," Wesolowski wrote in a nomination letter. King provides staff development, facilitates book studies, participates with the CCPS minority achievement committee, mentor students and works with the school's Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) team. Included in her nomination packet where comments from King's colleagues that spoke to her character. "Kim King is the Somers number one cheerleader. She is so wonderful to work with and makes a positive impact on our school," wrote a Somers staff member.
Swann is an algebra teacher at Maurice J. McDonough High School. He was honored for his dedication to help students succeed and for instilling students with an admirable work ethic. Swann works with students to prepare them for the algebra I High School Assessment. He enjoys the challenges of his job and his desire for excellence inspires his students. McDonough Principal Jervie Petty said Swann is an outstanding teacher that deserves special recognition. "He makes every student feel like he has something to contribute, even if the answer is incorrect. The students do not mind trying again; in fact, they are eager to impress him," Petty wrote in a nomination letter. Swann demonstrates a high degree of pride in his work and is exemplary in his work ethics. His lessons are well planned and structured. Petty said Swann is a patient teacher and encourages students to work a little harder. "In my discussions with Swann, he constantly shares his determination, his drive for excellence and the enjoyment he feels when his students are learning," Petty wrote in a nomination letter.
The Board recognizes several exemplary employees each month.
Source: Charles County public school system