What is the Faces of AACPS?
Stories are one of the most powerful tools we have for building relationships and connecting with each other. When we share our experience, we help others understand who we are and what we value. In AACPS, these experiences often celebrate opportunities our students, families, and staff have at their schools and recognize the teachers, colleagues, and community partners who make those opportunities possible.
The Faces of AACPS is an online, storytelling platform that gives our AACPS community the space to share positive experiences. From writing a quick note to thank a teacher to sharing a life-changing experience in high school, any experience can become a story and every story is worth sharing.
Meet the Faces of AACPS
“My road to teaching has been a family affair.”
After 25 years in the classroom my father transitioned into another position within the board of education as an Internship Coach. I decided to apply for the Automotive Refinishing Instructor position that my father held for the past 25 years. As a family we were very excited that I was selected for the position… I don’t think I’d be happy doing anything else. You have to find passion in what you do, and I feel that passion. I enjoy going to work every day. There are always going to be problems in any career you choose, but you have to find the joy in it. If there is no joy, there’s no point.
The Students Vote: The Principal is Kind
"Our Student Government Association sponsors a quarterly award where students in grades 1-5 can vote for the Sunshine Award, which recognizes a staff member who is excellent, caring, and supportive of the students...the votes for [Principal] Mr. Gordon show the students think he is kind and supportive."--Barbara Holcomb, School Counselor
From Coaching to Administration–How Principals are Made
“A pertinent question to ask during this month where we recognize administrators is what experience prepared you for the challenges of the position? Of course the numerous workshops, books/articles read and years worked in the classroom helped. But in my particular case, my many years coaching on the sideline provided me with incredible advantages that translated to the skills I would need as an administrator.”—Kevin Buckley, Principal
Shlagel Farms: Bringing the Farm to Our Schools
Russell Shlagel, owner of Shlagel Farms, began his partnership with Anne Arundel County Public Schools in the fall of 2015. With over 100 acres in Waldorf, MD, this farm produces fruits and vegetables for the community and Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Pumpkin, butternut squash, peppers and acorn squash are just a few of the AACPS favorites." ~Russell Shlagel, Local Farmer & AACPS Partner
Mark Chang, Glen Burnie High School, Class of 1994
Mark Chang always had a heart for public service. With the support and encouragement of his teachers and classmates, Mark found his niche in Glen Burnie High School’s Student Government Association. Now, as a Maryland Delegate for District 32, Mark is able to continue following his passion for giving back to the community that gave so much to him.
Finding a Path to College through AVID and the Gates Millennium Scholarship
"As a junior in high school, the thought of college was an overwhelming and stressful one. With my teacher’s guidance through the AVID program, my questions were answered and I began to develop a plan. As senior year rolled around, I had a plan, but no financial means of achieving it. My teachers encouraged me to apply for the Gates Millennium Scholarship. When I received the decision email from Gates a few months later I scrolled down cautiously, only to see, "Congratulations!" and my life has forever been changed. " --Cierra Carter
