The Charles County Board of Education recognized five exceptional students at its Jan. 14 meeting for their achievements in academics, personal responsibility, and career readiness. Honorees ranged from elementary to high school students, highlighting their dedication to learning, leadership, and overcoming challenges.
Recognizing Academic Achievement
Alissa Jackson-Hernandez, a fifth grader at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School, earned recognition for her outstanding academic record. A consistent high achiever, Jackson-Hernandez has maintained straight A’s since third grade and frequently appears on the principal’s honor roll. In 2024, she scored in the Distinguished range on the Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) and recorded exceptional progress in i-Ready assessments, showing 300% and 165% improvement in different areas.
“If you’ve ever met Alissa, you’d remember her as someone who’s always smiling and goes out of her way to make others feel loved and valued,” said Barnhart Principal Carrie Burke.
A talented writer, Jackson-Hernandez had a poem published in the 2024 Young American Poetry Digest. She is also a member of the school’s math team and enjoys gymnastics, rollerblading, and arts and crafts outside of school. Her aspirations include earning a Ph.D. and becoming a pediatrician.
Leslie Dyches, a fifth grader at Dr. Gustavus Brown Elementary School, was recognized for his focus and enthusiasm in the classroom. Described as someone who loves to make others laugh, Dyches is a role model who excels academically and brings innovative ideas to class discussions.
“His friends describe him as someone who loves to laugh, tell jokes and bring joy to those around him,” said Karen Lewis, principal of Dr. Brown Elementary.
Dyches participates in the school’s math team and student government. Outside of academics, he enjoys football, basketball, drawing, and painting. He dreams of attending South Carolina State University to play football and pursue a career as an NFL quarterback, with art as his backup plan.
Avianna Voudouris, a fifth grader at T.C. Martin Elementary School, was honored for her academic achievements. Identified for gifted services in reading and mathematics, she consistently scores in the Distinguished range on MCAP assessments and is a member of the school’s math team. Voudouris also participated in Martin’s school rededication ceremony. Outside of school, she enjoys playing soccer.
“She works through any challenges and strives toward her personal best on any task,” said Martin Principal Ethel Hosendorf.
Career Readiness Spotlight
McKenzie Hayes, an eighth grader at John Hanson Middle School, received recognition for her career readiness and determination. Teachers describe her as driven and unstoppable when facing challenges. Hayes has demonstrated consistent improvement in academics, becoming a model student in her classes.
“McKenzie has become an exemplary student, changing her focus to achieving greater success with each completed class,” said Charles Jones, an instructional assistant in her math class.
Hayes plans to pursue a career in education, hoping to become a teacher and eventually a school leader. She is a member of Stella’s Girls Inc., a nonprofit empowering young women, and enjoys interior design, coloring, and spending time with family and friends in her free time.
A Remarkable Turnaround
Neyko Silver, a senior at Henry E. Lackey High School, was honored for his significant personal growth. Starting high school virtually during the pandemic, Silver struggled academically and behaviorally, earning no credits his freshman year. However, he turned his life around after realizing the need for change following a personal setback.
“Neyko has completely turned himself around,” said Cheryl K. Davis, Lackey’s principal.
Now an honor roll student, Silver has earned all A’s and B’s this school year and has maintained exemplary conduct for over a year. He was invited to join a youth advisory council, where he shared his experiences with Superintendent Dr. Maria V. Navarro and Charles County Sheriff Troy Barry. Silver plans to graduate with honors this spring, a testament to his determination and resilience.
Celebrating Student Success
The Board’s recognition of these students highlights their dedication to fostering academic excellence, personal growth, and career readiness in Charles County Public Schools. These young individuals serve as shining examples of the potential within their communities.
