On July 30, 2025, the St. Mary’s County Board of Education approved several administrative appointments and a transfer, as announced by Superintendent Dr. J. Scott Smith. These St. Mary’s County school appointments, effective in early August, involve leadership roles at Chopticon High School, Chesapeake Public Charter School, Benjamin Banneker Elementary School, and county-wide departments.
Christopher Adams was appointed assistant principal, 11-month position, at Chopticon High School, effective August 1, 2025. Adams, who holds a Master’s and Bachelor’s Degree from St. Mary’s College of Maryland, currently serves as an instructional resource teacher at Esperanza Middle School. His experience in curriculum support will aid Chopticon’s academic programs.
Richard Carey was named academic dean, 12-month position, at Chesapeake Public Charter School, effective August 1, 2025. Carey, with a Master’s from Towson University and a Bachelor’s from West Chester University of Pennsylvania, transitions from his role as a physical education teacher at the same school. His appointment strengthens Chesapeake’s leadership in its unique charter environment.
Ashley Kurtz was appointed supervisor of instruction for early childhood instruction and initiatives, a 12-month role in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, effective August 4, 2025. Holding a Master’s from the College of Notre Dame and a Bachelor’s from Salisbury University, Kurtz moves from her position as an instructional resource teacher at George Washington Carver Elementary School. Her expertise will guide early childhood education strategies across St. Mary’s County schools.
Matthew Rodriguez was appointed assistant principal, 11-month position, at Benjamin Banneker Elementary School, effective August 1, 2025. Rodriguez, with a Master’s from McDaniel College and a Bachelor’s from Kean University, currently serves as an administrative intern at Chopticon High School. His transition to Banneker will support the school’s administrative operations.
The Board was also informed of an administrative transfer: Dr. Laura Carpenter will move from assistant principal at Benjamin Banneker Elementary School to supervisor of special education in the Department of Special Education, effective August 1, 2025. This 12-month role leverages her experience to enhance special education services county-wide.
These St. Mary’s County school appointments reflect the Board’s commitment to placing qualified educators in leadership roles to support student achievement. The changes align with ongoing efforts to strengthen school administration and instructional programs. Each appointee brings relevant academic credentials and experience within the county’s school system, ensuring continuity and expertise.
The St. Mary’s County school appointments were formalized during the Board’s July 30 meeting in Leonardtown, as detailed in the official announcement. These transitions position the school system to address evolving educational needs as the new academic year begins.