LA PLATA — Three fifth graders, an eighth grader who started a peer tutoring program and a high school dance team captain were recognized by the Board of Education of Charles County at its November meeting.
The board honored the five Charles County Public Schools students on Nov. 10 for academic achievement, personal responsibility and career readiness, the school system announced. Each was put forward by a principal, whose comments the school system included in its announcement.
Academic achievement
Rose St. Charles, fifth grade, Billingsley Elementary School. Principal Jennifer Pangborn cited St. Charles’ consistent academic success and participation in gifted education programs, along with her kindness and willingness to help classmates. She has joined the school’s chess club and sings in chorus.
Malik Oguje, fifth grade, Indian Head Elementary School. Oguje has attended Indian Head since third grade and has earned A’s in every subject, according to the school system. He took accelerated math in fourth and fifth grades and has been part of the chess club and math team. Principal Shane Blandford said he arrives each day ready to learn and puts full effort into every assignment.
Ka’Laya Hairston, fifth grade, Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School. Principal Louis D’Ambrosio described Hairston as an exceptional student leader because of her dedication to learning, work ethic and example to classmates. She is active in sports and extracurricular activities at the school.
Personal responsibility
Elizabeth Finley, eighth grade, Theodore G. Davis Middle School. Finley carries a rigorous course load while taking part in orchestra, theater, student leadership and service organizations, Principal Tammika Little said. Little credited her with creating a peer tutoring program at the school and said Finley’s “dedication, reliability and positive attitude inspire those around her.”
Career readiness
Madison Harper, senior, Westlake High School. Harper is a captain of Westlake’s Teal Diamonds Dance Team and has been a member all four years of high school. Principal Dana Smoot said Harper has helped shape and strengthen the program and has earned the admiration of peers, teachers and coaches.
The board recognizes students in rotating categories at its monthly meetings. November’s honors came in the same week that La Plata High School won the county It’s Academic competition, with Westlake finishing second.
Also at the Nov. 10 meeting, the board was scheduled to receive a report on student eligibility under a revised policy, which the Chronicle previewed last week.
Charles County Public Schools enrolls 27,904 students in prekindergarten through 12th grade at 38 schools.
