St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ employees honored

Wauchilue Adams named Distinguished Educational Leader

Mrs. Wauchilue Adams, Principal of Green Holly Elementary School, has been selected as St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ recipient of The Washington Post Distinguished Educational Leadership Award.

The Distinguished Educational Leadership Award was established in 1987 by The Washington Post Company Educational Foundation to honor principals who go beyond the daily responsibilities of their position to create an exceptional environment through dedicated leadership.

Mrs. Adams was nominated by a several members of her faculty for this award as well as some students.  “Mrs. Adams’ work ethic is legendary.  She is dedicated, committed, and happy in her work.  Her experience, talents and skills qualify her as an exceptional candidate for this prestigious award,” said Kelly Hall, Executive Director of Elementary Schools and Title I Programs. 

Mrs. Adams holds two Bachelor degrees from Hood College in Sociology and Spanish along with a Master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.  She is currently pursuing a Doctoral degree from the University of Maryland College Park.  She taught Spanish in Somerset County Public Schools for 10 years prior to moving into administration.  She has served as an Assistant Principal in both Somerset County and Wicomico County.  She began her tenure as a principal in 2002 in Wicomico County before joining St. Mary’s County Public Schools in 2009 as principal of Green Holly Elementary School.

“Mrs. Adams leads a vibrant school community striving for excellence in multiple programs,” said Interim Superintendent of Schools, Mr. J. Scott Smith.  “Mrs. Adams is a professional in every aspect and works with the students, staff, parents and community to provide a safe, positive, and inviting learning environment.”

Mrs. Adams and other recipients, representing local public and private schools throughout Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, will be recognized on Tuesday, May 5, 2015 at a ceremony hosted by The Washington Post.

Denny given Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award

Mr. Michael Denny, a Social Studies teacher at Leonardtown High School was recently named St. Mary’s County Public Schools’ recipient of The Washington Post 2015 Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award.

The Agnes Meyer Outstanding Teacher Award was established in 1983 by The Washington Post Company Educational Foundation to recognize teachers who exemplify excellence in teaching and is named after Agnes Meyer, a staunch supporter and defender of public education, and the wife of Eugene Meyer, who purchased the paper in 1933.

“Mr. Denny has a wonderful rapport with people of all ages, especially students.  His ability to connect with his students and his talent at teaching rigorous concepts are truly superior,” wrote Leonardtown High School Principal Maureen Montgomery in her letter of support for Mr. Denny.  “He is a most valuable member of our staff and is a consummate professional.”

Mr. Denny earned his Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education from University of Maryland College Park and currently holds an Advanced Professional Certification for teaching by the Maryland State Department of Education.  Mr. Denny began his teaching career in 1976 as a Social Studies teacher in Charles County Public Schools.  Since joining St. Mary’s County Public Schools in 1981, he taught for 7 years at Chopticon High School before moving to Leonardtown High School in 1988.  Mr. Denny has coached various sports including football, basketball, tennis and lacrosse.  He has also been recognized for his dedication to the Model General Assembly, Model Congress, Model United Nations and various other student organizations throughout his tenure with St. Mary’s County Public Schools.

“Mr. Denny is an integral part of education not only at Leonardtown High School, but also throughout the school system.  He encourages students to strive for excellence both in the classroom and outside the classroom,” said Interim Superintendent of Schools, Mr. J. Scott Smith.  “Mr. Denny is very deserving of this award and we are very fortunate to have Mr. Denny as part of our school system.  I applaud his continued dedication to his students.”

Mr. Denny and other recipients, representing local public and private schools throughout Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia, will be recognized on Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at a ceremony hosted by The Washington Post.