WALDORF, Md.,- The Board of Education of Charles County recognized 36 volunteers as finalists in the 2025 Be the Difference Awards program during a ceremony at North Point High School. The awards, launched in 2018, celebrate volunteers who enhance teaching and learning in Charles County Public Schools (CCPS).
Principals and administrative teams nominated volunteers from elementary, middle, and high schools. A subcommittee of Board members selected overall award recipients in each category: Antonio and Melissa Mateo for elementary schools (Berry Elementary), Shahara Rogers for middle schools (Theodore G. Davis Middle School), and Jose Pereira for high schools (Robert D. Stethem Educational Center).
The Mateos, parents at Berry Elementary, were recognized for their dedication and active involvement in improving the educational experience for all students. Rogers supports Davis Middle School’s library/media center, organizing collections, arranging the space for instruction, and creating displays for student clubs. She also assists with the annual career fair. Pereira, general manager at Flagship Carwash, supports Stethem’s automotive CTE program by providing donations, internships, and afterschool jobs for students.
The 36 finalists included 22 elementary school volunteers: Pat Stokes (C. Paul Barnhart), Antonio and Melissa Mateo (Berry), Chante Stephens (Billingsley), Carolyn Simmons-Kidd (Dr. Gustavus Brown), Betsy Graves (Dr. James Craik), Nianni Dixon (William A. Diggs), Jeremy Gray (Gale-Bailey), Darrell and Renee Bramer (Dr. Thomas L. Higdon), James Tabourne (Indian Head), Darius Jackson (Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer), Hannah Sensabaugh (Malcolm), Susie Morgan (T.C. Martin), Rachel Settle (Mary H. Matula), Amber Banks (Arthur Middleton), Adrian Tewell (Walter J. Mitchell), Mark and Lauren Galgan (Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy), Jakisha Gray (Dr. Samuel A. Mudd), Tiffany Emmons (Mary B. Neal), Tina Clapsaddle (J.C. Parks), Keith Elkins (J.P. Ryon), Maria Kane (Eva Turner), and Anastasiya Regennitter (William B. Wade).
Eight middle school finalists were named: Shahara Rogers (Davis), Kimberly Mack (John Hanson), Jeneen Davis (Matthew Henson), D’Nifra Figaro (Mattawoman), Shelly Tucker (Phoenix International School of Arts), Carrie Holt (Piccowaxen), Leigh Falkler (Milton M. Somers), and Sarita Lambert (Benjamin Stoddert).
Six high school finalists were recognized: Joanne Broussard (Henry E. Lackey), Theresa Shasho-Clark (La Plata), Jonathan Moore (Maurice J. McDonough), Debbie Hall (North Point), Dawn Inscoe (Thomas Stone), and Jose Pereira (Stethem).
The Be the Difference Awards highlight the critical role volunteers play in supporting CCPS students and staff. The program encourages community involvement and recognizes contributions ranging from classroom assistance to career mentorship.
