WALDORF- Nicole Hawkins, principal of Arthur Middleton Elementary School in Charles County, has been named the Charles County Public Schools Principal of the Year for 2026. She also serves as the district nominee for The Washington Post Principal of the Year program.
The announcement highlights Hawkins leadership in fostering collaboration, mentoring educators and launching innovative programs at the school. Hawkins began her career in Charles County Public Schools as a special education teacher at Malcolm Elementary School after graduating from Bethany College in Bethany, W.Va. She advanced through roles teaching fourth and fifth grades and serving as a learning resource teacher at Malcolm before transitioning to administration.
Hawkins held assistant principal positions at C. Paul Barnhart, Gale-Bailey and Dr. Samuel A. Mudd elementary schools. She became acting principal at Arthur Middleton Elementary in 2022 and principal in 2023. Under her guidance, Middleton became the first CCPS school to host a dual language program offering instruction in English and Spanish. She collaborated with McKenna Lewis, Ed.D., director of elementary education, the English Language Development office and staff to implement the program successfully.
Courtney Gandee, principal of Eva Turner Elementary School, praised Hawkins approach. Mrs. Hawkins serves as a trusted mentor, guiding new and experienced leaders alike with wisdom, empathy and practical strategies. Her ability to balance high expectations with genuine support has created a culture of growth across the school system.
Hawkins emphasized teamwork in her leadership. I believe that student success is best achieved when educators, families and community stakeholders work together with a common purpose. She built structures at Middleton that promote collective responsibility and mutual support while mentoring new principals and joining a cohort focused on school culture, climate and instructional practices.
Stacy A. Burkheiser, a reading resource teacher at Middleton, pointed to the dual language program as a key achievement. Helping shepherd the dual language program is one of Hawkins most remarkable accomplishments reflecting a vision of equitable and inclusive education. Burkheiser added, Mrs. Hawkins leads with integrity, empathy and vision.
Students and staff described a positive environment under Hawkins direction. Journi Harrison, a fifth-grade student at Middleton, said, She creates a positive, safe learning space. She jumps into action and makes things fun. Hawkins remains visible in hallways and classrooms, often stepping in to lead instruction when substitutes are unavailable and using strategies such as Tag, youre it, which allows teachers short breaks while she teaches for 15 minutes.
Stefanie Marcuse, a third-grade teacher at Middleton, highlighted staff support. One of the most defining qualities of Mrs. Hawkins is her steadfast belief that a school thrives when its staff is supported, valued and empowered. She consistently puts her staff first, not as a slogan or leadership trend, but as a deeply held philosophy. Marcuse noted that Hawkins leadership focuses on responsibility rather than authority. Every decision she makes, whether large or small, is guided by a deep sense of purpose and a genuine desire to create the best possible environment and growth. She understands that a school is more than a building it is a community.
Maria Real, parent of two Middleton students, appreciated the family engagement. She communicates openly with parents, listens to concerns and works collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for all students. Her presence at school events and daily interactions reflects her deep commitment to the Arthur Middleton community.
The recognition underscores ongoing efforts in Southern Maryland to strengthen elementary education through dedicated leadership and inclusive programs. Hawkins will be recognized by the Board of Education of Charles County as the 2026 CCPS Principal of the Year at the May 12 board meeting. This honor reflects her contributions to building supportive school cultures that benefit students, educators and families across Charles County.
The story aligns with broader priorities in Southern Maryland public schools to promote equity, collaboration and student-centered learning environments. Hawkins career path from classroom teacher to principal demonstrates the value of internal growth and experience within the district.
