WALDORF, Md. — The Board of Education of Charles County recognized eight outstanding employees for their dedication and impact on students and staff during its April 8, 2025, meeting. Honorees included educators, support staff, and administrators from various schools, each praised for their unique contributions to the school system.
Amy Adams, a behavior specialist at F.B. Gwynn Educational Center, has served Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) for 13 years. Starting as a special education teacher at J.C. Parks Elementary, she transitioned to Gwynn’s SOAR program before becoming a behavior specialist. Adams supports multiple schools, including the Early Learning Center, La Plata, and Phoenix International School of the Arts. She analyzes data to create behavior intervention plans and trains staff in crisis prevention, Ukeru behavioral healthcare, and supporting students with adverse childhood experiences. “She monitors the behavior interventions plans for many students in multiple buildings,” said Todd Wonderling, Gwynn’s principal. “Mrs. Adams not only has an impact on the buildings she serves, but she also has an impact across the county.” Wonderling noted her commitment to building relationships, adding, “She builds meaningful relationships with peers, students and families.”
Shevonne Butler, a special education teacher at Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary School, brings over 20 years of experience. As a lead teacher for four years, she mentors colleagues, tutors students, and advocates for community engagement. Butler leads workshops on individualized education plans and student behavior strategies. “She provides a clear vision for student success,” said Principal Kevin Jackson Sr. “She shows empathy by building and fostering relationships with students and families.”
Dana Claassen, secretary at J.P. Ryon Elementary School, ensures a welcoming and efficient front office. She reorganized the office layout to improve traffic flow and prioritize student safety. Principal Nick Adam said, “She juggles the constant flow of daily demands with grace and somehow manages to prioritize the additional tasks I often ask of her.” Claassen’s dedication shone when she volunteered to assist during a busy summer program day, staying four hours to ensure students were safely dismissed.
Dianne Claggett, an instructional assistant at Thomas Stone High School, supports the SOAR program. “Her patience, adaptability and deep understanding of each student’s unique needs have made a lasting impact,” said Principal Shanif Pearl. Claggett helped a student build confidence using visual aids and structured routines, enabling academic and social growth. “This success story is just one of many that reflect Ms. Claggett’s extraordinary dedication,” Pearl added.
Tiana Dukes, a special education teacher at General Smallwood Middle School, has transformed the department. “From the moment Ms. Dukes joined our team, it was clear that her dedication to her students and colleagues was exceptional,” said Principal Orlena Whatley. Colleagues describe her as reliable and caring. “We found out this year that she was everything we needed for this department and then some,” said special education teacher Coretta Brown.
Sandra Hoover, principal’s secretary at William A. Diggs Elementary School, keeps operations running smoothly. “Ms. Hoover keeps William A. Diggs Elementary School running and covers many of the behind-the-scenes areas no one knows about,” said Principal Ben Harrington. She mastered the district’s Oracle software and mentors others without seeking recognition.
Paula Letto, building service manager at the Early Learning Center, Waldorf, ensures a clean and safe environment. “Mrs. Letto stays on top of her responsibility,” said coordinator Ashley Valenzuela-Carrington. Letto trains staff, creates resources, and builds relationships with families, knowing every student by name.
Heather Yake, a language arts teacher at Matthew Henson Middle School, has taught for 20 years. She is developing a journalism curriculum, inviting professionals to engage students in creating newsletters and podcasts. “During a time when Henson was unable to fill a vacancy, Ms. Yake often volunteered her time to cover the class regularly,” said Principal Christina Caballero.
The recognition highlights the diverse roles that contribute to CCPS’s success. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, such awards foster morale and retention in education. The honored employees reflect the commitment to excellence within Charles County’s schools.
