LA PLATA, Md. — The Board of Education of Charles County honored six outstanding Charles County Public Schools staff members on April 14 for their exceptional contributions to education and school operations.
The recognized employees serve in diverse roles across multiple schools and include Krystle Duehring, principal’s secretary and financial secretary at Phoenix International School of the Arts; Gabriele Goldberg, media specialist at North Point High School; Margaret Grove, second-grade teacher at Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School; Freida Key, fifth-grade teacher at Mary B. Neal Elementary School; Sonia March, Ed.D., academic mentor at Mattawoman Middle School; and Lisa Willis, instructional assistant at the Early Learning Center in La Plata.
Krystle Duehring handles both principal and financial secretary duties at PISOTA. She has strengthened financial oversight by establishing processes that align decisions with staff and student needs. Principal Jasmine Bateman, Ed.D., highlighted her coordination skills. “Her ability to coordinate across teams, monitor key financial processes and maintain clear communication has been instrumental in moving this work forward,” Bateman said. Duehring approaches new challenges openly, seeks guidance and has streamlined practices for long-term success. Bateman added, “[Duehring] is setting a standard for professionalism that inspires those around her. Her pride in her work is evident in the quality of everything she does.”
Gabriele Goldberg has transformed the North Point High School media center since becoming media specialist. Principal Daniel Kaple noted the physical changes. “Ms. Goldberg has physically transformed the media center. She added literature that connects to a wide variety of student interests.” Goldberg updated technology for better accessibility, reconfigured shelving and added suitable furniture. She partners with teachers on curriculum and creates innovative lessons. “These changes have made the space more inviting to students, resulting in increased usage of the media center,” Kaple said. She also leads grade recovery, supports technology staff and works with the Academic Eagles student leadership group.
Margaret Grove, a second-grade teacher at Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School, brings 25 years of experience. She has taught nearly every grade level from prekindergarten to fifth grade, except fourth. Principal Jason Deihl of Dr. James Craik Elementary, where Grove previously served, praised her versatility. “Throughout her career, she has shown exceptional versatility.” Grove creates engaging lessons and fosters a safe classroom environment for academic and personal growth. She credits past instructional assistants and mentors for shaping her teaching style. Deihl said their guidance helped shape her approach to teaching and collaboration.
Freida Key, a fifth-grade teacher at Mary B. Neal Elementary School, builds strong relationships with students and families. Principal Mike Hoffman said parents appreciate her support during transitions. “Families have specifically acknowledged her ability to make students feel welcomed, supported and safe during key transitions.” Key assists with the math team, collaborates on instruction, leads reflections and designs improvement strategies. Hoffman regularly recommends her as a guide for instructional and procedural matters. “Freida demonstrates a strong work ethic and deep pride in her role as an educator,” Hoffman said. “Her contributions extend beyond her classroom through her instructional leadership, student advocacy and collaborative work.”
Sonia March, Ed.D., serves as academic mentor, team leader, bus coordinator and Danielson Framework facilitator at Mattawoman Middle School. She earned her doctorate from Regent University and works as an adjunct professor there. Principal Anthony Carroll described her passion. “Dr. March is the essence of pride. She is passionate about teaching, learning and working with young people.”
Lisa Willis, an instructional assistant at the Early Learning Center in La Plata, steps up wherever needed. She volunteers for extra duties, arrives early to prepare materials and shares ideas with colleagues. Coordinator Candice Vallandingham-Adam said, “Ms. Willis is reliable, dependable and reflective in her role. She always wants to do what is right by students and is willing to learn and adapt.”
The April 14 recognitions reflect the board’s ongoing commitment to acknowledging CCPS employees who strengthen schools and support student success in Charles County, part of Southern Maryland. These staff members demonstrate professionalism, innovation and dedication that enhance learning environments from early childhood through high school. Their efforts help maintain high standards in local public schools serving the region.
Charles County Public Schools operates 38 schools and continues to highlight employees who go beyond daily responsibilities to benefit students and communities. The honored individuals represent the wide range of roles essential to effective education in the area.
