Kilsys Batista, Rock View

I moved to Maryland from Florida with my identical twin sister to serve students in education in MCPS. I look forward to working alongside the Rock View community.

Olivia K. Bailey, Maryvale

During my undergraduate studies, I joined the Army Reserve and attended military mortuary school in Petersburg, VA, before eventually becoming an educator.

Jessica Bay Graber, Clearspring

I finished the one and only New York City Ironman Triathlon and also sang the national anthem at the start of the race, on a barge, in the middle of the Hudson River.

Iraida A. Bodre-Woods, East Silver Spring Elementary School

My undergraduate degree is in theatre/dance. I have taken dance classes since I was 6 years old and still participate in dance related classes when I go to the gym.

Natasha D. Bolden, Stedwick Elementary School

I am an aspiring DJ, a sneaker enthusiast, and a lover of all things hip hop and hip hop culture.

Lavina N. Carrillo, Rock Creek Forest Elementary School

I love the thrill of roller coasters—the excitement of the ups and downs—and I’m passionate about exploring different cuisines from around the world. It is that adventurous spirit that I carry into our school as I strive to spark curiosity and create new experiences with our students every day.

Arienne M. Clark-Harrison, Chevy Chase Elementary School

During my sabbatical year, I had the grand opportunity to go to both the U.S. Open and Australian Open! Tennis is my happy place!

Kurshanna J. Dean, Greencastle Elementary School

I’m an Eagle Scout mom and former scout leader also known as the Queen of Glamping! I can turn any camping outing into a luxury experience.

Ryan T. Graves, Carderock Springs Elementary School

This summer on June 24, 2024, I sang the national anthem at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, along with members of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia fraternity from the Xi Omega chapter at Frostburg State University (which I was a member of as an undergraduate student). This is a yearly tradition of the members and alumni of the Xi Omega chapter of Phi Mu Alpha, going back over 10 years.

Cassandra E. Heifetz, Ritchie Park Elementary School

My first teenage job was as a gas station attendant and I would walk across a corn field each day to get to and from work!

Raythorne L. Henderson, Lake Seneca Elementary School

I love to read. My goal is to read at least one book per month.

Kimberly A. Henriquez, Germantown Elementary School

My husband and I host an annual "Iron Chef" style cooking competition in our neighborhood every year, where the prizes are coveted golden spoons!

Cynthia A. Houston, Woodfield Elementary School

I will officially be an "empty-nester" this fall. I am looking forward to spending lots of time getting to know my new Woodfield Eagles flock.

Nadia J. Kline-Taylor, Potomac Elementary School

Over the past 22 years, I’ve lived and worked in three states and three school levels. In my free time, I enjoy relaxing with my five under five at home.

Jae W. Lee, Rock Creek Valley Elementary School

Before becoming a teacher in MCPS, I worked as the head projection manager at the Regal Movie Theater in Rockville for 10 years, "splicing" movie reels and maintaining and servicing projectors. As part of my responsibilities, I watched all the Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings series in private viewings with my friends and family.

Pamela R. Parker, Montgomery Knolls Elementary School

During COVID/virtual learning, I was known as DJ Special P. I hosted the best online dance parties for kids! Everyone was trying to get on my calendar!

Travis A. Payne, Brooke Grove Elementary School

I served as the Towson University mascot, Doc the Tiger, for promotional events for prospective students.

E. Julian Pineda, Roscoe R. Nix Elementary School

I’ve visited almost 40 countries and have lived in four different ones. My passion for travel has allowed me to experience diverse cultures, cuisines and languages firsthand!

Stacey F. Rogovoy, North Chevy Chase Elementary School

One of my favorite adventures was skiing down the majestic slopes of the Austrian Alps—an experience filled with thrilling runs and breathtaking views!

Tamisha L. Sampson, William B. Gibbs, Jr. Elementary School

I find great escape in reading and listening to audiobooks. I usually read historical fiction, but recently I've fallen in love with mystery thrillers!

Yvonne L. Sanya, College Gardens Elementary School

Before becoming an educator, I visited Australia and New Zealand. While in New Zealand, I went skydiving and jumped out of a plane at 15,000 feet.

Katherine A. Schwartz, Sligo Creek Elementary School

I have visited 44 states in the U.S. As a child, my family visited 17 states in one, six-week summer vacation.

Alison L. Serino, Bannockburn Elementary School

I’ve played tennis for 17 United States Tennis Association (USTA) teams in the last 12 months. Watch out for my inside out forehand.

Ahmed A. Adelekan, Benjamin Banneker Middle School

Before becoming an educator, I worked on the set of films and commercials in Hollywood as a location scout and production assistant.

Patrick H. Bilock, Silver Spring International Middle School

My advice for students (and anyone, really!) is to explore as many things as you can! You never know where your interests will take you that can lead to a lifelong passion.

Dr. Natasha H. Booms, Odessa Shannon Middle School

I was born in Alaska. Prior to entering the education field, I was a legal assistant with the federal government for nine years. I am 25 years into my second career!

Shenice N. Brevard, Shady Grove Middle School

As we start this new school year, I encourage each of you to embrace and celebrate your authentic self. Our unique qualities and perspectives are what make our community strong and vibrant. Be true to who you are, and let's create an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Samuel G. Levine, John T. Baker Middle School

Welcome back students, staff and families! I wish you the very best this school year!

Daniel Miller, Ridgeview Middle School

I took flying lessons at the age of 14 and learned how to fly a plane before I could drive a car. I never got my pilot's license, but plan to one day!

Stephanie W. Nesmith, Briggs Chaney Middle School

Stay positive and embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. Maintaining a positive can-do attitude will prevent you from giving up when schoolwork or friendships become difficult. Stay the course ... with a smile!

Stephen Reck, Rosa M. Parks Middle School

As a new teacher, I worked part-time at the Apple store. This led to a career transition from social studies teacher to instructional technology specialist and helped launch my school leadership career. More importantly, I also met my wife there.

Dr. Sofia M. Grant-Dewitt, Gaithersburg Middle School

I'm a huge dog lover! My husband and I have two pit bulls named Shaq and Diesel, as well as two French bulldogs named Rosie and Rocco.

Nicole M. Walker, Westland Middle School

In my free time, I enjoy renovating and restoring furniture.

Christopher J. Ascienzo, Col. Zadok Magruder High School

After being promoted from Rockview Elementary School and Sligo Middle School and graduating from the Albert Einstein High School Class of 1994, I’ve been a teacher and administrator at six different MCPS schools. I’m MCPS born, raised and educated!

Ricardo E. Hernandez, Seneca Valley High School

I am a career changer who has been in education for 22 years now. I taught physical education for 10 years before becoming an administrator.

Pamela W. Krawczel, Wheaton High School

I have been a fitness instructor for the past 35 years and continue to teach several fitness classes every week.

Brittany T. Love-Campbell, Gaithersburg High School

I have grown fond of running, and I wish I had run track in high school. If you're a track runner, invite me to a meet!

Gregory Miller, Walt Whitman High School

My advice for new students: Be courageous in your pursuits. Get involved in extracurricular activities (sports, clubs, instrumental music, drama productions, etc.). As someone who played both high school and college football, I know the power sports and these activities can have on your life.

Nicole J. Morgan, Walter Johnson High School

Take advantage of every opportunity—explore new interests, step out of your comfort zone and embrace new experiences and friendships. Most importantly, have fun!

Anita R. O’Neill, Clarksburg High School

While serving in the United States Air Force, I had the opportunity to “co-pilot” an F-16 over the Sea of Japan. It remains one of the most thrilling experiences I have ever had – 9 Gs and all!

Dr. Shawaan T. Robinson, Paint Branch High School

I'm a licensed esthetician specializing in brows!

Bradley W. Rohner, Damascus High School

During a summer in college, I worked as a seasonal maintenance worker for the National Park Service-George Washington Memorial Parkway. I started my teaching career as a social studies teacher in New Jersey, and I continue to call the beach the "shore" and ask for "jimmies," not sprinkles, on my ice cream cones.

Kevin D. Yates, Montgomery Blair

During college, I rode a bicycle across the country to raise money and awareness for people with disabilities. That trip changed my life. I'm still an avid cyclist and I'm riding from New York City to Albany, N.Y. this September with the same organization, The Ability Experience.