The Board of Education of Charles County recognized six outstanding Charles County Public Schools students at its May 12 meeting for their achievements in academic excellence, personal responsibility and career readiness.
The honorees represent a range of ages and schools across the district, from prekindergarten through high school. Their recognition highlights the strong character, dedication and leadership that define student success in Charles County Public Schools, which serves more than 28,000 students in a growing region that includes Waldorf and surrounding communities.
Ryder Turner, a prekindergarten student at the Early Learning Center in Waldorf, was recognized for personal responsibility. Despite being only four years old, Turner consistently follows school-wide commitments. Center Coordinator Ashley Valenzuela-Carrington said, “She consistently follows our school-wide commitments: using listening ears, walking feet, a big voice and helping hands.” Turner’s teacher, Kristen Kibler, noted that she listens the first time, follows routines independently and takes care of her classroom and materials. “Even more impressive, she consistently does the right thing, even when no one is watching,” Valenzuela-Carrington said. Turner is a thoughtful classmate who helps others without being asked.
Faith Glover-Monroe, a student at the F.B. Gwynn Educational Center, was recognized for personal responsibility. Gwynn Principal Todd Wonderling said Glover-Monroe has shown remarkable growth. In math, she went from not participating to describing strategies she uses to complete assignments. In reading, she has raised three reading levels in a year, and her writing skills have flourished. “In schoolwork, Faith went from a student who always needed adult support right by her side to a student who works independently, will redo assignments that she feels didn’t meet her standards and is a hard worker while advocating for herself,” Wonderling said. She has also developed skills to cope during stressful situations.
Holland Anderson, a fifth-grade student at J.P. Ryon Elementary School, was recognized for personal responsibility. Ryon Principal Nick Adam said Anderson makes an immediate, positive impression on everyone. “Over time, that impact has only grown,” Adam said. “She continues to uplift and inspire those around her.” Anderson is committed to academics, participates in advanced math with John Hanson Middle School students and is a member of Ryon’s math team. She is a classroom ambassador and a member of the school’s cheerleading team. “Holland takes great ownership of her learning,” Adam said. “She stays organized, closely monitors her progress and proactively seeks feedback and opportunities to improve.” Anderson is known for kindness, respect and compassion.
Bryce Muschette, a fifth-grade student at William A. Diggs Elementary School, was recognized for academic achievement. Diggs Principal Ben Harrington described Muschette as an “intellectual” student who grasps concepts with ease. “He is often a ‘go-to’ for other students, especially in [advanced] math,” Harrington said. Muschette is identified for gifted and talented services in both reading and math and has been part of the accelerated math program. His extracurricular activities include the mathematics, engineering and science achievement (MESA) team, the fifth-grade math team, safety patrol and the All-County Band. Outside of school, he plays flag football and soccer.
Se’Maja Bello-Barksdale, an eighth-grade student at Glymont Middle School, was recognized for career readiness. Glymont Principal Orlena Whatley said Bello-Barksdale demonstrates a willingness to learn and engage with instruction. “Se’Maja has been a positive influence in her Algebra I class,” math teacher Sean Anderson said. “Se’Maja is a peer expert in algebraic topics and assists her peers in order to establish a better understanding.” Bello-Barksdale has worked extremely hard in all classes and is willing to take academic risks. She participates in track, the National Junior Honor Society and bakes with her mom. “Se’Maja naturally leads through her actions,” Whatley said. “She advocates for herself and her classmates, ensuring that everyone feels heard and supported.” Bello-Barksdale hopes to enter the medical field or become a teacher.
Michel Bose-Cruz, a senior at Thomas Stone High School, was recognized for personal responsibility. Stone Principal Shanif Pearl said Bose-Cruz is committed to academics, leadership and service. He has maintained a strong academic record, earned principal’s honor roll recognition and carried a 4.0 or higher GPA while completing rigorous coursework, including Advanced Placement classes, dual enrollment and JROTC leadership courses. He is active in VEX Robotics, the JROTC drill and Raider teams, the National Honor Society and community service efforts. “During a recent food drive sponsored by Thomas Stone’s National Honor Society and Key Club, Michel helped manage and organize food for the event,” Pearl said. Bose-Cruz has also participated in the Naval Energetics Technology Apprenticeship Program.
These recognitions reflect the high standards and collaborative spirit that define Charles County Public Schools. The district continues to prioritize student achievement and character development as it serves a rapidly growing region.
