LEONARDTOWN, Md., June 6, 2025 — The St. Mary’s County Public Schools Board of Education approved new administrative appointments and a transfer during its June 4 meeting, as announced by Superintendent Dr. J. Scott Smith. The changes, effective July 1, 2025, include a new principal for Esperanza Middle School, a charter director for Chesapeake Public Charter School, and a transfer within the Department of Special Education.
David Chilson was appointed principal of Esperanza Middle School. Chilson, currently an assistant principal at George Washington Carver Elementary School, holds a master’s degree from Towson University and a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York at Brockport. His experience in educational leadership at the elementary level positions him to guide Esperanza’s middle school students and staff.
Jennifer Surber was named charter director at Chesapeake Public Charter School. Surber, who serves as the school’s academic dean, earned a master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma and a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University. Her background in academic administration will support the charter school’s mission to provide innovative education to its students.
The board was also informed of an administrative transfer. Honora Batelka, currently principal at Ridge Elementary School, will move to the role of Comprehensive Coordinated Early Intervening Services (CCEIS) coordinator in the Department of Special Education. This transfer reflects the district’s focus on strengthening support for students with special needs.
“These appointments and transfer will become effective July 1, 2025,” Smith stated, emphasizing the district’s commitment to placing qualified leaders in key roles. The changes align with the school system’s strategic goals to enhance educational outcomes across its 27 schools, serving approximately 17,000 students in St. Mary’s County.
Chilson’s appointment fills a critical leadership role at Esperanza Middle School, which serves students in grades six through eight. His prior work at George Washington Carver Elementary focused on fostering student engagement and supporting teacher development. Surber’s new role at Chesapeake Public Charter School, which emphasizes project-based learning, will leverage her expertise in curriculum and instruction to advance the school’s academic programs.
Batelka’s transfer to the CCEIS coordinator position will involve overseeing early intervention services to address academic and behavioral challenges before they require special education classification. Her experience as an elementary school principal equips her to collaborate with educators and families to implement effective strategies for student success.
The St. Mary’s County Public Schools system, headquartered in Leonardtown, is one of the largest employers in the county. Its leadership transitions are part of ongoing efforts to maintain high standards in education while adapting to the needs of a diverse student population. The board’s decisions reflect input from community stakeholders and aim to ensure continuity in school operations.
These administrative changes come as the district prepares for the 2025-2026 school year, with a focus on improving student achievement and supporting professional growth for educators. The new appointees and transferred administrator will begin their roles at the start of the fiscal year, allowing time for a smooth transition.
