CHARLES COUNTY, Md., May 15, 2025 — The Board of Education of Charles County recognized eight exceptional educators and staff members at its May 13 meeting for their significant contributions to teaching and learning within Charles County Public Schools (CCPS). The honorees, representing various schools across the district, were celebrated for their dedication, innovation, and impact on students and colleagues.
The recognized individuals are Shannon Berghoefer of Indian Head Elementary School, Ebony Fowlkes Harley of Westlake High School, Carllisa Jordan of Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School, Helen Reed of Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School, Sarah Rose of the Early Learning Center in La Plata, Chelsey Short of William B. Wade Elementary School, Christopher Smith of Billingsley Elementary School, and Christine Turner of Theodore G. Davis Middle School.
Shannon Berghoefer, a fourth-grade teacher at Indian Head Elementary, was praised for her reflective teaching style and commitment to student success. “She is one of the most reflective teachers I have ever worked with,” said Shane Blandford, principal of Indian Head. “She is always looking at student data and adjusting her teaching accordingly.” Berghoefer’s dedication was evident when she collaborated with staff to support a struggling student, leading to a successful classroom placement. “Shannon and her special education teacher’s dedication to this student were the reason he was able to get what he needed,” Blandford added. Her strong work ethic includes arriving early, staying late, and preparing extensively for instruction.
At Westlake High School, history teacher Ebony Fowlkes Harley was honored for her engaging instruction and relationship-building. “She finds ways to relate instruction to real world situations and student interests,” said Westlake Principal Dana Fenwick. “She takes the time to build positive relationships, and her students not only trust her, but look forward to attending her class.” Harley maintains open communication with parents, ensuring students are accountable and prepared for lifelong learning.
Carllisa Jordan, a versatile staff member at Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary, was recognized for her tireless contributions. “Ms. Jordan contributes significantly to the success of Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School by going above and beyond in her role,” said Principal Louis D’Ambrosio. Jordan’s efforts include running intervention groups, substituting, and supporting school events. “She is hardworking, never stopping and constantly moving between various tasks to ensure the school runs smoothly,” D’Ambrosio said.
Helen Reed, a kindergarten teacher at Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary, was celebrated for her proactive and positive approach. “She will do whatever it takes to make sure they all have what they need,” said Principal Portia Parker. Reed chairs the Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) program and contributes to community events. “She is by far the most outgoing, fun loving, hardworking team leader I have ever had the privilege of working with,” Parker said.
Sarah Rose, a staff member at the Early Learning Center in La Plata, was honored for her work in the kitchen. “She has held down the kitchen preparing breakfast and lunch for the students all by herself,” said Coordinator Candace Vallandingham-Adam. “No student goes hungry with Mrs. Rose around.” Rose also engages students with nutrition-focused activities, enhancing the center’s welcoming environment.
Christopher Smith, an administrative instructional assistant at Billingsley Elementary, was recognized for his flexibility and mentorship. “His commitment to student success starts before the school day even begins,” said Principal Sabrina Robinson-Taylor. Smith supports tutoring, classroom management, and socio-emotional needs, making him “an irreplaceable part of the Billingsley Elementary family.”
Chelsey Short, a third-grade teacher at William B. Wade Elementary, was commended for her leadership and innovation. “Mrs. Short is a leader throughout the building,” said Interim Principal Sonia Blue. Short earned National Board Certification and uses strategies like Zones of Regulation to support student self-regulation. She mentors colleagues and participates in the PBIS team.
Christine Turner, a reading resource teacher at Theodore G. Davis Middle School, was honored for her leadership and expertise. “She is always in the classroom,” said Principal Robert Griffiths. “She never sits still and consistently works in English language arts classrooms, observing, coaching, training and mentoring teachers of all levels.” As the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) coordinator, Turner supports student placement and contributes to the school’s culture.
The recognition highlights the diverse roles these educators and staff play in fostering academic and personal growth. Each honoree has demonstrated a commitment to going beyond their job descriptions, whether through innovative teaching, student support, or operational excellence. The Board of Education’s acknowledgment reflects CCPS’s ongoing efforts to celebrate those who make a difference in the district’s 27,000 students.
