BOE Names Winners of Business, Community and School Service Awards
The Montgomery County Board of Education has named the winners of this year’s Business Partner, Community Partner and School Service Volunteer awards. These awardees are being recognized for making a lasting impact on the educational experience within the county. They are:
Business Partner
A dedicated advocate for the hospitality industry and its future workforce, David Child, general manager of the North Bethesda Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, is honored for his exceptional contributions to public education in Montgomery County, particularly in supporting the Foundation for Hospitality and Restaurant Management (FHRM).
In 2018, he helped establish the FHRM within MCPS, and has served as its president since 2021. An industry leader with over 30 years of experience, Child understands the critical need for a skilled workforce in the field. He has worked to bridge the gap between local businesses and MCPS, recruiting companies to support the FHRM and promoting educational opportunities for students interested in pursuing hospitality careers.
David’s leadership has helped create a high school-to-career pipeline for MCPS students. Through his efforts, the FHRM provides immersive experiences for students, including annual events such as the Crossvines Golf Tournament, where students plan and execute hospitality services. These real-world experiences help students build resumes, gain skills and explore career opportunities.
Beyond his executive leadership, David is deeply committed to ensuring that students have access to meaningful career experiences. He has secured field trip opportunities for FHRM students to explore Marriott properties throughout the region, providing students with valuable exposure to the hospitality industry.
David also plays a pivotal role in advocating for modernizing educational spaces within MCPS. He was directly involved in reviewing and providing feedback on the design of the Restaurant Management classroom and kitchen at Watkins Mill High School, ensuring it closely mirrors professional industry standards.
Community Partner
The Parent Encouragement Program (PEP) Family Resiliency Program (PEP-FRP) has been a transformative force in supporting MCPS families, especially those from underrepresented communities. Since its inception, PEP has built strong partnerships with MCPS, providing vital resources that help parents and caregivers create supportive and nurturing home environments for their children. Through culturally responsive and accessible programs, PEP empowers families to engage in their children’s education and development, fostering academic success and emotional well-being. Kathy Hedge has been PEP’s executive director since 2014.
PEP’s programs strengthen family relationships by offering parents tools and strategies to improve communication, reduce stress, and support their children's academic and emotional needs. Since the fall of 2022, PEP has made a remarkable impact, reaching 1,592 parents and caregivers in 155 MCPS schools, positively affecting the lives of more than 3,100 students. The PEP-FRP is offered in English, Spanish and Amharic, with plans to expand to French.
The program’s success is evidenced not only in the high participation and retention rates but also in its demonstrable impact on the families it serves. In the 2023-2024 school year alone, PEP surpassed its enrollment goals, serving 752 parents and caregivers. The program’s ability to adapt to the needs of the community, from in-person to online cohorts, has been instrumental in building trust and engagement with families. Additionally, the program’s focus on mental health awareness, family resilience, and creating a culturally supportive environment has led to positive testimonials from parents and MCPS staff, reflecting its transformative effect on family dynamics and student success.
School Service Volunteer
Bridget Calhoun has been a cornerstone of the Winston Churchill High School community for seven years, dedicating her time and energy to supporting student athletes, fostering school spirit and strengthening community involvement. As the president of Churchill’s Athletic Booster Club for the past three years, Calhoun has transformed the club into a powerful force for supporting over 1,200 student athletes annually. Under her leadership, the Booster Club has raised more than $300,000 to enhance the athletic program, improving facilities, equipment and student athlete support. Her efforts have not only bolstered the school's athletic programs, but also fostered a culture of inclusivity, ensuring all students have access to opportunities and support regardless of their background or sport.
She has also served as a team parent for several years, organizing fundraisers, team meals and transportation, and building a sense of camaraderie among students, parents and coaches.
Calhoun has actively supported Booster Clubs across the county, collaborating with the Department of Athletics to mentor new presidents, ensuring that the spirit of community and support for student athletes thrives across Montgomery County. Her selfless dedication has made her a trusted advisor to school administrators and a source of inspiration to parents and volunteers.
Calhoun creates an environment where parents feel welcomed and valued, inspiring them to contribute to the success of the athletic program, even in areas outside their children's specific sports. Her ability to bring people together and motivate them to support all student-athletes has been crucial to the success and growth of Churchill’s athletic programs.
These awardees are among the honorees who will be recognized at the Distinguished Service to Education Honors celebration on Tuesday, May 6 at The Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane in North Bethesda. Make plans to join us at this free event celebrating the power of public education! The entire community is welcome. Doors open at 6:15 p.m.; the program begins at 6:30 p.m.
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