Real People. Real Stories: The Faces of AACPS

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.

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Meet the Faces of AACPS

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

Jordan Potter, Annapolis High School, Class of 2011

Jordan always knew he loved working on cars. So after two years in the Automotive Technology Program at CAT South and with the support of the AACPS Internship Program, he became an intern at Tiff’s Foreign Car Care, a specialty care shop that focuses on high-end vehicles, during his senior year of high school. Years later, Jordan is still at Tiff’s, now as the Service Manger & Mechanic and still loves what he does.

My Incredible Experience in Robotics

"My robotics team 1111 (the Power Hawks) and the FIRST organization have provided me with so many skills and experiences that have changed who I am today. I joined the team last year, for the 2015-2016 season, and it was honestly one of, if not the greatest year of my life." -- Shannon, Grade 12