LA PLATA — The Charles County Board of Education recognized five staff members Dec. 9 for creating supportive, inclusive environments that help students and colleagues thrive.
Honored during the board’s monthly meeting were kindergarten teacher Kelly Carlson of T.C. Martin Elementary School, food service manager Victoria Langley of Maurice J. McDonough High School, reading interventionist Genie Scott of Gale-Bailey Elementary School, second-grade teacher and mentor Cella Sipos of Mary H. Matula Elementary School, and social studies department chair April Thompson of Milton M. Somers Middle School.
Kelly Carlson greets every kindergartner at the door each morning and uses initiatives such as “Star of the Day” to celebrate individuality. “She leads with kindness, empathy and positivity,” T.C. Martin Principal Ethel Hosendorf said. Carlson serves as a team leader, mentors new teachers and develops resources for colleagues while blending evidence-based instruction with creative, individualized support that drives academic and social-emotional growth.
Victoria Langley returned to Charles County Public Schools in 2022 as food service manager at McDonough after more than three decades with the system. She coordinates daily meals, boxed lunches for field trips and classes at alternate sites, and this year manages the satellite kitchen at the Robert D. Stethem Educational Center. “Ms. Langley communicates with the school and team to make sure every student receives a high quality, delicious lunch every day,” acting principal Kathy Perriello said. Langley also supports RAM Nation by working athletic events.
Genie Scott, reading interventionist at Gale-Bailey Elementary, designs targeted literacy support while fostering school-wide reading confidence. “Her impact extends far beyond targeted instruction — she empowers students to believe in their abilities,” principal R. Demetri Sermons said. Scott integrates best practices, plans meticulously and encourages students and staff alike. “She truly embodies what it means to be a lifelong learner, a leader and an advocate for student growth and success,” Sermons added.
Cella Sipos teaches second grade at Mary H. Matula Elementary and serves as an anchor mentor for new teachers. “As both a classroom teacher and new teacher mentor, she models best practices with patience, clarity and genuine enthusiasm,” principal Davita Itsuokor said. Sipos differentiates instruction for every learner and inspires perseverance and curiosity among students and colleagues.
April Thompson chairs the social studies department at Milton M. Somers Middle School. “She is always available to clarify questions, offer insightful lesson ideas and provide valuable guidance,” principal Gary Lesko said. Thompson recently led students through an extended research project that promoted independent critical thinking. Known for creativity and cross-curricular collaboration, she holds students to high standards while keeping lessons engaging.
The employee recognition segment occurs regularly at Charles County board meetings. Schools nominate staff who exemplify the district’s core value of creating welcoming, supportive learning and working environments.
