Leonardtown, MD, April 26, 2025 — St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) Superintendent Dr. J. Scott Smith announced the 2025 award recipients for their exceptional contributions to the school system, recognizing educators and support staff who foster student success and community engagement. The honorees, representing diverse roles across SMCPS, will be celebrated during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-9, at the Staff Recognition Ceremony on May 6.

Mallory Evans, Front Office Secretary at Spring Ridge Middle School, and Vivian Johnston, Contract/Fiscal Specialist in the Department of Design and Construction, were named Educational Support Professionals of the Year. Established in 2009, this award highlights the critical role of support staff in creating positive learning environments. Evans, with five years at SMCPS, is known for her welcoming presence, while Johnston, employed for seven years, ensures fiscal efficiency in school infrastructure projects.

Tylita Butler, an 8th-grade science teacher at Esperanza Middle School, was selected as SMCPS’s representative for the Maryland Teacher of the Year program. With seven years at SMCPS, Butler will compete against educators statewide. She holds a Master’s in Elementary Education from St. Mary’s College of Maryland and a Bachelor’s in Health Science from Norwich University. “Ms. Butler’s innovative teaching inspires curiosity and critical thinking in her students,” Smith said.

Hunter Martin, a Band/Fine Arts teacher at Leonardtown High School, was chosen as SMCPS’s representative for the Washington Post Teacher of the Year program. Employed for 10 years, Martin was a finalist in the regional competition, facing educators from public and private schools in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. He holds a Master’s in Music Education from the University of Florida and a Bachelor’s in Music Education from Frostburg State University. His dynamic band program has elevated arts education at Leonardtown.

Dr. Deborah Dennie, Principal of Leonardtown Middle School, was selected as SMCPS’s representative for the Washington Post Principal of the Year program. With 24 years at SMCPS, including nine as principal, Dennie was a finalist in the tri-state competition. She holds a Doctorate in Administrator Leadership from Walden University, a Master’s in Elementary Education from Towson University, and a Bachelor’s in Economics from St. Mary’s College of Maryland. Dennie’s leadership has fostered a collaborative school culture.

Kelly Bridges, Assistant Principal at Leonardtown High School, received the Leader of Excellence award, established in 2018 to honor administrative staff who strengthen school-community ties. With 16 years at SMCPS, including three as assistant principal, Bridges holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction from McDaniel College and a Bachelor’s in English from St. Vincent College. She is pursuing an Ed.D. in Literacy Studies at Salisbury University. Her initiatives have enhanced parental involvement and student support programs.

“As we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week, May 5-9, 2025, we thank our teachers, principals, and administrative and support staff. Every employee makes an important contribution to the success of our students,” Smith stated. The honorees, along with other nominees for Educational Support Professional of the Year and Outstanding Educator awards, will be recognized at the May 6 ceremony. A full list of nominees is available at https://www.smcps.org/offices/strategic-initiatives/award-nominations.

SMCPS, serving over 17,000 students across 27 schools, relies on its dedicated staff to maintain academic excellence and community trust. The recognized educators and professionals exemplify the system’s commitment to fostering innovation, inclusivity, and student achievement. As Butler, Martin, and Dennie advance in their respective competitions, they carry St. Mary’s County’s pride on a broader stage.

The annual recognition underscores SMCPS’s emphasis on celebrating all roles within the school system, from front office staff to principals, whose collective efforts shape the future of Southern Maryland’s youth. The May 6 ceremony will highlight these contributions, reinforcing the community’s appreciation for its educators and support professionals.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

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