In a heartfelt ceremony held at North Point High School on June 13, the Charles County Board of Education celebrated the dedication and contributions of several volunteers as part of the 2024 Be the Difference Awards program. The event highlighted the significant impact these individuals have on enhancing the educational experience within Charles County Public Schools (CCPS).
The Be the Difference Awards, established in 2018, aim to acknowledge the essential role volunteers play in supporting teaching and learning. The program allows school staff to nominate volunteers across five categories: elementary school parent volunteer, middle school parent volunteer, high school parent volunteer, Charles County business volunteer, and community organization volunteer.
The Board of Education of Charles County on June 13 honored several Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) volunteers as part of the 2024 Be the Difference Awards program. During the recognition ceremony held at North Point High School, the Board recognized several award nominees for their contributions to the school system. April Crowley, middle school parent volunteer at Matthew Henson Middle School.
Recognizing Excellence in Volunteerism
This year, a subcommittee of Board of Education members reviewed numerous nominations and selected overall award recipients in each category. The 2024 award winners are:
- April Crowley, middle school parent volunteer, Matthew Henson Middle School.
- Keith Elkins, Charles County business volunteer, Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer Elementary School.
- Timothy Jones, community organization volunteer, Westlake High School.
- Adeeb and Chanelle Parkar, elementary school parent volunteers, Berry Elementary School.
- Erin Reif, high school parent volunteer, Maurice J. McDonough High School.
Celebrating Individual Contributions
April Crowley was recognized for her pivotal role in revitalizing the Parent-Teacher-Student Organization (PTSO) at Matthew Henson Middle School. Her efforts led to the establishment of a fully functioning PTSO board, fostering a strong partnership between the community and the school.
Keith Elkins serves as a coach and mentor through the Helping Everyone Respect Others (HERO) program at Jenifer Elementary and other CCPS schools. Elkins meets with students weekly, teaching leadership and collaboration skills. His consistent presence and encouragement significantly impact the students, who eagerly anticipate his visits.
Timothy Jones, known as Brother Jones at Westlake High School, has made substantial contributions through the Elite Black Men mentoring group. Jones engages students in literacy activities by having them analyze and annotate song lyrics they enjoy, making reading and writing more accessible and enjoyable for high-school male students.
Adeeb and Chanelle Parkar have been dedicated volunteers at Berry Elementary School for five years. Their involvement includes leading programs, volunteering for field trips and classroom activities, participating actively in the PTO, and managing the school store. Their efforts have significantly promoted student learning and engagement.
Erin Reif has been a volunteer at McDonough High School since 2016, supporting the school's sports teams and various other activities. She runs the concession stand at home games and films the "fRAMily Impact" awards presentations for teachers. Reif's dedication and leadership have made her an integral part of the student-athlete experience, earning her appreciation from the entire school community.
The Impact of Volunteering
The Be the Difference Awards not only recognize the outstanding contributions of these volunteers but also highlight the importance of community involvement in education. Each of the honorees has demonstrated a unique commitment to their respective schools, providing invaluable support to students, teachers, and the broader school community.
In her nomination, Crowley's dedication to establishing a robust PTSO was emphasized as a key factor in enhancing the school's community engagement. Elkins's HERO program, which focuses on leadership and collaboration, has been transformative for many students, instilling confidence and a sense of importance in their roles as future leaders.
Jones's innovative approach to literacy through music has resonated deeply with students, making learning a more enjoyable and relevant experience. The Parkars' ongoing involvement in various school activities has set a standard for parent engagement, while Reif's unwavering support for McDonough's sports teams and other initiatives underscores the critical role of volunteers in enriching the student experience.
The 2024 Be the Difference Awards ceremony was a testament to the power of volunteerism in education. The Charles County Board of Education's recognition of these dedicated individuals serves as a reminder of the positive impact that committed volunteers can have on the educational journey of students. Their efforts not only support academic success but also foster a sense of community and collaboration within the schools they serve.
Finalists in the awards program
Elementary School Parent Volunteer
• April Cave, nominated by Dr. Thomas L. Higdon Elementary School.
• Tina Clapsaddle, nominated by J.C. Parks Elementary School.
• Keishia Duckett, nominated by William A. Diggs Elementary School.
• Kisha Flagg, nominated by Billingsley Elementary School.
• Jennifer House, nominated by Mary H. Matula Elementary School.
• Don'te and Erica Kelley, nominated by Dr. James Craik Elementary School.
• Mary Frances Kenion, nominated by Arthur Middleton Elementary School.
• Krystal Magana, nominated by Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School.
• Kahla Manriquez, nominated by C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School.
• Susan Morgan, nominated by T.C. Martin Elementary School.
• Abigail Navarro, nominated by J.P. Ryon Elementary School.
• Arman Niklas, nominated by Malcolm Elementary School.
• Danielle Owens, nominated by Dr. Samuel A. Mudd Elementary School.
• Adeeb and Chanelle Parkar, nominated by Berry.
• Debbie Poyner, nominated by Gale-Bailey Elementary School.
• Sarah Teel, nominated by Higdon.
• Jared Willemin, nominated by Eva Turner Elementary School.
• Melanie Winfrey, nominated by Mary B. Neal Elementary School.
Middle School Parent Volunteer
• Anissa Banks, nominated by Phoenix International School of the Arts (PISOTA).
• April Crowley, nominated by Matthew Henson Middle School.
• Stephanie Distler, nominated by Mattawoman Middle School.
• Lindsay Funkhouser, nominated by General Smallwood Middle School.
• Peter Halikman, nominated by Benjamin Stoddert Middle School.
• Shahara Rogers, nominated by Theodore G. Davis Middle School.
• Tracy Vasquez, nominated by Milton M. Somers Middle School.
• Nikki White, nominated by Piccowaxen Middle School.
High School Parent Volunteer
• Dana Alexander, nominated by North Point High School.
• David and Victoria Kelly, nominated by La Plata High School.
• Rita Osborne, nominated by Thomas Stone High School.
• Erin Reif, nominated by McDonough.
• Patricia Rodriguez, nominated by Henry E. Lackey High School.
Community Organization Volunteer
• Jessica Conjour, nominated by Mt. Hope/Nanjemoy Elementary School.
• Timothy Jones, nominated by Westlake.
• Cpl. Terril Lawrence, nominated by Higdon.
• Pastor Jenn Legacy, nominated by Indian Head Elementary School.
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.- Nu Zeta Omega Chapter, nominated by Smallwood.
Charles County Business Volunteer
• Keith Elkins, nominated by Jenifer.
To learn more about becoming a volunteer with CCPS, visit https://www.ccboe.com/parents/volunteer-information.
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