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2021 PGCEA General Election Guide

PGCEA’s governance structure is similar to the state (MSEA) and national (NEA) affiliates.

Each organization conducts its own election. The PGCEA Nominations, Elections and

Credentials Commission (NECC) holds general elections annually in which the members

choose their board officers, directors, delegates and union policies.

On the following pages, you will find the information presented as written by the candidates

for President (one seat avaialble, serving a three year term – 2021-2024), Vice President (one seat avaialble, serving a three year

term – 2021-2024), and Board of Directors-At-Large (four seats available, each serves a two year term - 2021-2023). Also,

included is a list of candidates for NEA Delegates (52 seats available) and MSEA Delegates (113 seats available). See PGCEA By-

laws, Policy Handbook and Fair Campaign Practice Code for details.

is composed of one elected officer.

is composed of one elected officer.

(BOD) is composed of three

elected officers (president, vice president, and treasurer) plus

eight elected at-large members.

The Board is responsible for the fiscal affairs and general

management of the Association, the interpretation of policies,

the preparation of the proposed budget, and much more. The

PGCEA Board of Directors sets the course for PGCEA and

decides how to use its staff and resources.

represent PGCEA’s interests

at the annual state (MSEA) and national (NEA) Representative

Assemblies. There are three types of delegates; two are

elected in the PGCEA General Election:

Election Delegate

PGCEA (Jan-

Feb)

PGCEA MSEA Delegates discuss and

vote on proposed bylaw amendments,

new business items, and resolutions for

MSEA.

PGCEA (Jan-

Feb)

PGCEA NEA Delegates adopt the

strategic plan and budget, resolutions,

the legislative program, and other

policies of NEA.

MSEA (Jan-

Feb)

MSEA Delegates to the NEA

Representative Assembly and

Convention (70 elected) elect the

executive officers, Executive Committee

members, and at-large members of the

NEA Board of Directors, as appropriate.

The PGCEA Bylaws are the governing document of

the Association. They may only be changed once a year by a

super majority of 66% of those casting a ballot.

There are no proposed Bylaw amendments on the ballot.

.

PGCEA, MSEA and NEA collectively

advocate for educators employed

by the public school system. They

are the educators’ protector in

employment related matters,

wages and benefits watchdogs and

organizers who fight for fair

funding. PGCEA is one of the top twenty largest locals in the

country and the second largest in Maryland. Unified PGCEA

members have a powerful voice throughout the organization.

This begins with members choosing colleagues to govern and

represent the interests of the union at the county, state and

national levels.

From January 25 – February 19, 2021 @5:00 pm

On January 25, 2021 a link to your ballot will be sent to your

personal email address. The system allows one ballot casted

per person. All you do is:

• Open your PGCPS email from Election America, 2021

PGCEA General Election should be in the title.

• Click on the link that takes you directly to your ballot

questions.

• Select your answers and then cast your vote (you can only

cast your ballot one time).

If you do not receive the email:

1) Check your QUARANTINE Summary emails and your

JUNK or SPAM folder for a message from Election

America.

2) Go to www.pgcea.org and click on Verify Memberships,

click the link to your ballot.

VOICE OF THE PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY EDUCATORS’ ASSOCIATION

VOICE OF THE PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY EDUCATORS’ ASSOCIATION

January 2021

February 2013

February 2013

February 2013

February 2013

February 2013

February 2013

February 2013

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Presidential Candidate 1 of 6

Donna Christy believes in our collective strength and that together we can create

an environment that unleashes our enormous amounts of energy, dedication, and

power. She is a leader of PGCEA with more than 20 years of experience in

education policy, labor organizing, and lobbying. When elected President, Donna

will work to build our organization as a unified force on behalf of our members.

As PGCEA President, Donna will be tenacious, not letting go until a solution is

achieved. She will find innovative solutions to what others see are insurmountable

problems. She will be responsive to the needs and concerns of the members.

Donna will be courageous and speak truth to power, even when it is inconvenient. Donna is trustworthy

and will protect members from administrative retaliation.

Under Donna’s leadership, PGCEA will be inclusive of all member classifications. PGCEA will be family

friendly and accessible for wherever you are in your personal and professional life. We will be

welcoming when you need a place to belong. Inspirational when you need to be lifted.

Through her leadership experience, Donna has collaborative relationships with the other union leaders

around the state. Together, we will build coalition partnerships to achieve common goals, such as racial

and social justice, increased educator salaries, and better working conditions.

With a doctoral degree in public policy and administration, Donna will use her expertise to influence the

policy process with the voices of our stakeholders. Donna has proven effectiveness to communicate

with policy makers and lobby for the changes we need.

Donna currently holds the elected positions of PGCEA Treasurer, MSEA Director, MSEA Delegate, NEA

Resolutions Committee member, and NEA Delegate. In these roles, Donna is serving as chair, lead,

governance lead, board liaison, representative, and member of 15 committees, councils, teams,

assemblies, and task forces, all while working full time and raising her daughter as a single parent.

As your President, Donna will work tirelessly to build the strength and power of PGCEA.

Vote for Dr. Donna Christy for PGCEA President

Presidential Candidate 2 of 6

I am Michele Clarke, an Early Childhood Special Education Classroom Teacher

who has been a Strong Advocate fighting to get improved salaries and working

conditions for ALL PGCEA members by establishing Strong and Respectful

working relationships with state and local leaders. I have taught in PGCPS and

been a PGCEA Member for 16 years, and I moved to Prince George’s County

14 years ago to become a member of the community where I teach. I have

dedicated my time and energy to advancing the policy agenda of PGCEA and

representing YOU, the members of PGCEA at all levels of government,

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trainings, community forums, hearings etc. and am ready to lead PGCEA into an even brighter and safer

future post COVID. I was a member of the PGCEA Bargaining for the Common Good and Contract

Action Teams during our last negotiations and helped our team negotiate historic restoration of steps

along with a step and a COLA in each year of the agreement. This is my sixth year serving you, our

members, on the PGCEA Board of Directors. I am a member of the MSEA Minority Caucus and the

Grassroots Organizing (GO) Team. Locally I am an active member of the Government Relations,

Minority Affairs and Special Education Committees. As a Board Member I have worked on projects

with the Membership, Public Relations, Bylaws and Community Partners Committees, have served on

the Strategic Planning work group for the past 3+ years; and am the Board Liaison to the Special

Education Committee. I also serve on the Special Education and Elementary Planning Task Forces. I

am the Chair of the PGCEA GO team and have worked hard to help many of our endorsed candidates

get elected. I have testified at County Council and School Board budget hearings and other Meetings

for increased teacher salaries, smaller class sizes, recovering lost steps, community schools, restorative

practices, trauma informed instruction, etc. for the past 4+ years. I have led Lobbying Teams to lobby

State Senators and Delegates on passing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, Fixing the Fund, Passing

the down payment for Kirwan funding, and Implementing Community Schools, etc. I have been a

delegate to the MSEA RA 12 times and a delegate to the NEA RA 8 times. Since joining the Board I

have attended All the Representative Council Meetings and have attended all but 1 regularly scheduled

Board Meetings. I believe ALL our students should receive the best education possible, and I will

continue to advocate for equity within our school system and the state of Maryland. As President of

PGCEA I will continue to fight for a bully free workplace, for higher salaries, and for better working

conditions for ALL PGCEA MEMBERS.

Presidential Candidate 3 of 6

SCHOLASTIC BACKGROUND:

College: Bachelor of Arts (Political Science/Economics);

Juris Doctor units (2 years-University of the Philippines)

Postgraduate: MBA (40 credit units) - Ateneo de Manila University

Philippines

Masters’ Degree in Special Education and Educational

Leadership at Notre Dame of Maryland University

Advanced Professional Certificate (APC)

Data Wise Workshop – Harvard University, Cambridge, MA,

Administration I Certification

WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Special Educator– PGCPS - June 2008 to Present

• Navy Federal Credit Union – September 2007 – June 2008

• LEGISLATIVE STAFF – Md General Assembly House of Delegates 2007

ORGANIZATIONS:

• Board Chair – Multicultural Philippines Center, Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, MD

• Board of Director - Prince George's County Educators Association (PGCEA)

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• Multicultural Commissioner - Prince George's County State Attorney's Office

REFERENCES:

• Kris Valderrama - Delegate, District 26, Md General Assembly

• Aisha Braveboy - State's Attorney - Prince George's County

• Adelaide Blake - Principal, C. Elizabeth Rieg Regional School

SKILLS/STRENGTHS:

• Possesses People Skills, Team Player, Technology/Computer Literate, Multi-cultural/Diversity

Skills, Passion for Teaching and Learning, Positive Mental Attitude, Innovative, Collaborative,

Visionary & Proactive staff member of PGCPS by helping/assisting other teachers in my school

building; teacher mentoring (new teachers); Interacting with parents, community partners &

business partners.

Presidential Candidate 4 of 6

Chrystie Lynch is a passionate union leader and activist that believes in the

power of the Union and collective bargaining to transform our careers, schools,

and communities. She was born and raised in the Bronx, New York, and

attended high school in Manhattan where she graduated from Fiorella

LaGuardia High School of Music and the Arts. Upon graduation, she attended

Howard University in Washington, D.C. where she received a Bachelor of

Business Administration degree. She subsequently received a Master of

Educational Leadership from Concordia University, Portland, OR. Chrystie has

taught elementary grades 3 through 6 and has been teaching middle school

for the last 12 years. She is currently a Middle School Math Special Education

Teacher.

Chrystie serves as the PGCEA Government Relations Committee Chairperson and the Endorsement

Committee Chairperson. She serves as a delegate to MSEA and NEA. She has also served as PGCEA

Faculty Advisory Chair and Building Representative consistently holding the administration accountable

for honoring negotiated planning times and safe working conditions. In 2019, she served on the

Bargaining for the Common Good Contract Negotiation Team which successfully negotiated multi-step

salary increases.

Chrystie’s exposure to activism came as a child influenced by the election of her mother’s good friend,

Shirley Chisolm to the House of Representatives who then later, boldly against all odds, launched a

campaign for the US Presidency. Chrystie witnessed the power of a woman exercising her voice. This

early influence has made it easy for her to raise her voice against injustice and speak up for the rights

of others. Chrystie has testified before the Prince George’s County Council in support of funding and

the PGCPS School Board for appropriate allocation of funding to support educators’ salaries. She

lobbied the state legislature to support passing the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and to put a lockbox

on casino funds to ensure funds are available for education.

Chrystie is a strong advocate of Restorative Practices, Black Lives Matter, Teacher Autonomy,

Professional Pay for Educators, Community Schools, and improving Special Education. Chrystie

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continues to lobby and hold elected officials accountable for serving our education system by ensuring

that educators have the resources that they need to serve our students and the community.

Presidential Candidate 5 of 6

Dr. Rainya P. Miller currently serves as the National Board-Certified Teacher

Coordinator for Prince George’s County Public Schools. She has taught in

Prince George’s County for 26 years in the capacity of Head Start Educator,

Preschool Educator, Kindergarten Educator, First Grade Educator and

Continuing Professional Development Liaison to MSDE. Rainya has served as

a PGCEA Board of Director Member at Large, Professional Development and

Leadership Committee Co-Chair, MSEA Leadership and Development

Committee Member, MSEA Strategic Planning Committee Member,

Endorsement team member, and Government Relations member. She has

lobbied on Annapolis, marched for Education and continues to be an advocate

for school change and professional reform.

Presidential Candidate 6 of 6

Inspirational, Realistic, Creative

“Following your passion while living out your purpose is the ultimate life goal.”

Paulo Coelho, The Alchemist

Zena Whitworth is the prime definition of a teacher; she works year-round, sponsors

clubs, and coaches to make ends meet. In 1997, Zena was recruited from Washington

D.C. Youth Service Administration; she worked as an Educational Technician,

Youth Counselor, and DCPS teacher for adjudicated youth. PGCPS selected her to

serve as an English instructor for Maryland’s Tomorrow program for At-Risk

Students at DuVal High School. Zena accepted the opportunity because she was

determined to address and end the prison-school pipeline and to make a difference

in the lives of students facing extraordinary circumstances in PGCPS. In addition to teaching At-Risk youth,

Professor Whitworth was also a very active member of the Fraternal Order of Police and DC Teachers Association

organizing and advocating for the rights of educators teaching in correctional institutions. So, it was a natural

progression for her to join PGCEA to serve the best interests of staff and students here as a resident and a graduate

of PGCPS. Her own two children attended and graduated from PGCPS and went on to complete college with the

University of Maryland, College Park.

Zena Whitworth, currently an English, Journalism, and Speech teacher, do after-school tutoring for athletes and

serves as both the varsity girls lacrosse coach and sponsor for Jaguar Voices (news club). This year, after two

students were lost to suicide, Ms. Whitworth stepped up and started the GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance). Professor

Whitworth has lent her talents in teaching and after-school sponsorship across the County (teaching- C.H.

Flowers, Bladensburg, Fairmont, Duval, Community Based Classroom, Northwestern/Crossland Evening High

School, & Summer School; coaching- Eleanor Roosevelt, Potomac, Central, Largo, Surrattsville, Suitland).

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The concerns of overworked, undervalued, and underpaid teachers are constant common denominators

throughout the nation, and Zena has been an advocate and voice for students and teachers when it comes to

injustice and social justice. Whitworth considers herself to be a warrior for change.

After witnessing and experiencing years of injustice towards members and recovering from being placed on

Administrative Leave, Professor Whitworth said, “Enough is Enough,” and decided to accept the invitation to

MSEA Spark. Through the SPARK program, Whitworth continued her journey from classroom teacher,

journalist, athletic coach, CSTEM program coordinator, Instructional Leader, and Advanced Placement

Coordinator to an organizing leader.

The Spark Emerging Leader program provided Whitworth with the training and tools to master non-profit

leadership and organizing opportunities. This led to her work as PGCEA Public Relations Chair; Go Team

Member; PGCEA, MSEA, NEA Delegate; and PGCEA Board of Director (2018-2020). Professor Whitworth has

participated in caucuses; organized protests, marches, and rallies; and attended board meetings where she spoke

up publicly for all members. We are living in a “Brave New World” and need leaders who are visionaries and

believe in change; Zena is this leader.

“Riots are the language of the unheard,” MLK. Let Ms. Zena Whitworth be your voice!

Vice Presidential Candidate 1 of 4

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. I served in the United States Army for 24+

years. I am a graduate of the United States Army’s Sergeant Majors Course,

highest enlisted course. I am a recipient of the following awards: Meritorious

Service Medal; the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, for actions under combat;

the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, individual award for action under combat;

the Purple Heart, for being wounded during combat; and various other medals

and awards.

From August 1997 through August1999 I taught Middle school Science in the

Federal Republic of Germany, under the Department of Defense Dependent

Education Activity

(DODEA), Department of Defense Dependent Schools (DODDS). During that time, I was a member of

the local, which was a National Educators Association NEA.

From August 1999 through August 2007, I taught middle and high school mathematics, middle school

science, and special education. During that time, I served as Member, Social Committee, Building

Representative, and the Vice President of the Harris County Educators Association.

From August 2007 through December 2013, I taught mathematics at both the high school and middle

school levels. During that time, I also served as the Vice President for one (1) term and, subsequently

as President of the Muscogee Association of Educators, Columbus, Georgia for two (2) two (2) year

terms. I also served throughout my service as a member of the Georgia Association of Educators. While

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a member, I served on the Resolutions Committee, Elections and Credentials Committee, and a member

of the Georgia Educators Association Board of Directors for two terms.

Upon retirement from the Georgia School Systems, I immediately came to Maryland and

secured a position as a teacher at Benjamin Stoddert Middle school in Temple Hills, where I currently

teach 6th grade science. I have served the Prince George’s County Education as a member, Association

Representative, and currently a member of the PGCEA Board of Directors.

Finally, I have been a member of the National Educators Association NEA from 1998, until now. My

service to NEA included Elected Delegate for all except seven (7) years, member of the Black Caucus,

member of the Democrat Caucus, and an active participant in the debate process. In 2009, I authored

and presented two (2) Legislative Amendments on behalf of the Black Caucus. Both amendments

passed on the NEA Representative Assembly floor without objection.

It is my goal to continue to serve you with the vigor, selflessness, tenacity, and an unwavering integrity.

I seek your vote for continued dedication to you, my colleagues as we endeavor to persevere the powers

who cheapen and degrade our profession.

ELECT ME, ALBERT KIRK BARNES JR. AS YOUR NEXT VICE PRESIDENT.

Vice Presidential Candidate 2 of 4

Please vote Philimena Owona, for V ice-President of PGCEA. I count

on your support. Why? I’m a 20-year elementary Reading teacher from

Maya Angelou French Immersion. Currently, I serve on PGCEA Board

of Directors and MSEA Board of Directors and work as MSEA Board

Liaison for the Human and Civil Rights Committee. I was selected as

NEA Leaders of Color Pathway Program Member representing

Maryland. My service includes PGCEA BOD SPARKS’ Liaison

(SPARKS is an Educator Leadership Program). As part of our

Government Relations team, I serve a GO Team member, on policy and

legislative priorities. I was asked to represent PGCEA negotiation team

members to share school based advocacy/organizing strategies to MSEA-SLC leadership; I also

serve the PGCEA Minority Affairs Committee member. I joined PGCEA leadership to share

our success in Bargaining for the Common Good with MCEA for their Open Bargaining

Negotiations.

In my building, I served as Building Rep/FAC Chair, who brought 100 percent PGCEA

membership/Sick Leave Bank, I currently serve as FAC member and as the Parent University

Coordinator (a program that builds/liaises parent-teacher relationship/leverage their support) I

serve as my school’s PBIS Coordinator (PBIS, is Positive Behavioral Interventions and

Supports, a framework for schoolwide support of students’ academic and behavioral success),

with that leadership, Maya Angelou is now a Maryland State recognized PBIS school.

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That’s a bit about me, and why I ask you to vote for Philimena Owona as PGCEA Vice-

President. I have served with commitment, dedication, and passion. But what’s most important

is the vision for building PGCEA, and the collaborative educator-focused lens I bring to you for

the work AHEAD of us as an organization. It’s not enough to rest upon our laurels, but rather to

use those wins to propel us into even greater advocacy/organizing achievements. Who, but us,

can lead our profession? Who, but us, most understand/recognize struggles our students face?

Who, but us, have the most effective solutions for our profession? Collectively, we must

demand to be heard on the local, state, and national level.

PGCEA is the second largest local in the state of Maryland. That makes us one of the largest in

the Country. How do we leverage that position? We must dictate/demand change! As your

Vice-president, I will listen to your concerns, voice your concerns and work to have issues

resolved. Some of those issues include Safely Reopening the Schools Students and Educators

Deserve; Organizing/Advocating to Override the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Veto;

Overriding the HBCUs Settlement Veto; Building Educator’s Leadership Capacity; Override

the Veto of Build to Learn Act; Promoting BLM/Culturally Responsive

Curriculums/Restorative Practices; Community Schools/AROS; Broadband Internet Access;

Provide More School Counselors/Trauma-Resources; Leverage PTA Partnership; Conditional

Teachers Issues; and many more.

Vote Philimena Owona, PGCEA-VP to support building educator’s leadership capacity,

support our legislative issues of emphasis. PGCEA must remain strong! Let’s rise together!

Thank you.

Vice Presidential Candidate 3 of 4

Dr. Suzanne Windsor is a Pupil Personnel Worker completing her 28th year

as an educator in Prince George’s County. While serving students,

colleagues, and the community in this capacity, she has been fortunate to

have worked with many talented school staffs throughout the County. Dr.

Windsor began her career as a teaching intern at Largo HS and Kenmoor

MS before becoming an English teacher at Crossland HS. While serving as

an English teacher for seniors at Crossland, Dr. Windsor frequently assisted

colleagues by serving as a substitute teacher at nearby elementary schools

during crises. From these experiences assisting colleagues and students,

Dr. Windsor decided to become a Professional School Counselor and her

internship included work in early childhood education, elementary education, and secondary study.

After serving as a Professional School Counselor, Dr. Windsor went on to become the Chairperson for

her department where she advocated for counselor working conditions in accordance with the

Negotiated Agreement.

Suzanne was raised on and still maintains her family’s farm in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. She attended

PGCPS and graduated from Gwynn Park High School before earning both her bachelor’s and her

master’s degree from one of the nation’s oldest HBCU’s, Bowie State University. Additionally, she

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completed her doctoral studies at Capella University, earning a DBA with a concentration in Strategy

and Innovation.

Dr. Suzanne Windsor comes from a long line of activism for social justice with her great-grandparents

owning one of the first stores to serve people of color. Her grandparents then fulfilled their dream of

seeing a thriving Black community by selling land to African American families. Her parents were also

activists and participated in boycotts. Dr. Windsor picked up the mantle of activism at an early age and

desegregated the TAG program at her elementary school. While in high school, she fought against

racial and implicit bias on sports teams to remove caps and quotas on team membership.

Suzanne has been a part of the Union since she was hired in 1993. She has served as a member of the

FAC, the FAC Chairperson, and a building representative before being elected to the Board of Directors.

She holds certifications in English, Guidance, Pupil Personnel, Admin I, Supervisor of Guidance, and

Supervisor of Pupil Services. Dr. Windsor also completed Superintendent Training with the former

(SUPES Academy).

To round out her leadership experience, Dr. Windsor is also state and nationally certified as a school

disciple hearing officer and a judge through National Association of Hearing Officials (NAHO). She has

held the positions of Treasurer with Maryland Association of School Discipline Hearing Officers

(MASDHO); Secretary for Maryland Association of Administrative Law Judges (MAALJ), and Co-chair

of the Ethics Committee for Maryland Association of Pupil Personnel (MAPP).

Notably, Dr. Windsor currently serves on the MSEA President’s Advisory Council, MSEA Women’s

Concerns Committee, MSEA Minority Caucus, Co-Chair for the Joint PGCPS-PGCEA Caseload

Taskforce, and as the Board Liaison to the PGCEA Grievance Committee.

Suzanne will courageously fight for you!

Vice Presidential Candidate 4 of 4

I am Donna Yearwood, a High School Professional School Counselor. I have

been a Professional School Counselor for more than 20 years, and prior to

that I taught Middle & High School Special Education for 5 years. I previously

served on the PGCEA Board of Directors prior to 2010, and this is my second

term since returning to the Board. I have been a Delegate to both the NEA &

MSEA Conventions for past 15+ years and served on the MSEA NBI

Committee at the NEA Representative Assembly. I served as the PGCEA PAC

Chair for 5 years. As the PAC Chair I served as a member of both the MSEA

and PGCEA endorsement committees, and I worked with the MSEA State PAC

Committee to raise funds for the Maryland Fund for Children.

Prior to being reelected to the Board of Directors, I served on the Nominations, Elections and

Credentials Commission (NECC) for over 4 years. As a Board of Directors, Member-At-Large I

organized High Point High School staff to picket in front of our school on Teacher Unappreciation Day.

I was a bus captain and organized members to attend the March for Our Schools. I was even able to

organize enough PGCEA members and student leaders to fill 2 buses leaving from High Point High

School. I am currently the Board Liaison to the Social Committee.

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Elect me Vice-President so I can continue to advocate for change. We need to ensure our Union and

our School System works together to improve working conditions for ALL of us. I believe in William

Clay’s philosophy “There are no permanent enemies, and no permanent friends, only permanent interests.” As PGCEA Vice-President I pledge to always put the interests of ALL PGCEA members

before my personal self-interest.

Vote Donna Yearwood for PGCEA Vice-President.

Board of Directors Candidate 1 of 11 No Bio & picture submitted.

Board of Directors Candidate 2 of 11 No Bio submitted.

Board of Directors Candidate 3 of 11

I am in my seventeenth year of classroom teaching here in Prince Georges

County. I am certified to teach Mathematics, Technology, and Computer

Science. I am currently teaching Computer Science classes at Charles

Flowers High School.

My overall ambition, concerning running for a position on the PGCEA Board

of Directors, is to work toward making a significant positive contribution to a

more perfect PGCEA organization. Moreover, I have some specific ideas and

goals regarding better working conditions for classroom teachers with

respect to (but not limited to):

• Classroom maintenance requests procedures and fulfillments.

• Teacher student discipline protocols and procedures to enhance classroom discipline and safety.

• Unit one Member services improvements and outreach to bring in more involvement of unit one

members by better addressing their issues and concerns.

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Board of Directors Candidate 4 of 11 No Bio submitted.

Board of Directors Candidate 5 of 11

I am Annett Jones, an Elementary School Educator. I am reintroducing myself to you

as a candidate for the PGCEA, Board of Directors.

I have been your advocate for the past four years on the PGECA Board of Directors.

I have been a member of the of PGCEA since 2006. During this time, I have been

sincerely active on being the voice for our teachers. I have also worked as the chair

of Read Across America, Minority Affairs Committee, Liaison for the Social

Committee and presently representative on the State MSEA Minority Affairs

Committee and an Incumbent Board of Directors Member.

During my advocacy, I have lobbied for the Fix the Fund Legislation, Blueprint for

Maryland, a fully elected School Board and participated in marches as it relates to

issues for teachers. I was also able to lead a group of teachers to voice how unappreciated we were on Teachers’

Day. In addition, I have testified to the School board urging them to rescind the three grades that were mandated

per week and, also, for the Board of Education to reorganize the time frame and requirements needed to complete

field trips.

Every year the MAC committee of which I am a co-chair brings awareness to the Martin Luther King Day through

Essay Writing and Art Competition. Furthermore, I am also involved with the planning and offering of

Scholarships to High School Seniors in collaboration with the PGCEA Foundation. Each year we are able to offer

approximately 30 Scholarships.

With my experience and drive to advocate and fight for us as teachers, I am offering myself as your voice.

It is my endeavor to continue to advocate that every educator in every school receive what is needed to empower

and to execute his or her job in a fearless manner.

Please vote Annett Jones, Board of Directors.

Board of Directors Candidate 6 of 11 No Bio & picture submitted.

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Board of Directors Candidate 7 of 11

Dr. Mary E. Proctor is a native o f North Brentwood, Maryland and currently

resides in Fort Washington, MD.

Dr. Proctor has been a Special Educator in Prince George’s County for

approximately 5 years. She received her Bachelor’s in Elementary and

Special Education, a Master’s in Instructional Technology from Grand

Canyon University. Dr. Proctor has several Religious degrees to include a

Doctorate in Divinity. Dr. Proctor is currently enrolled in a program of study

at Grand Canyon University (Educational Doctorate in Organizational

Leadership with an Emphasis in Higher Education).

In addition to being an Educator, Dr. Proctor was gainfully employed with the Washington Metropolitan

Area Transit Authority where she served in numerous positions to include serving as campaign manager

and active union member for local 689 where she remains a union member and after 28 years of service,

Dr. Proctor retired.

Dr. Proctor is an esteemed conference, seminar and workshop speaker, notable former radio host

(WOL and WUST), former Boy Scout of America certified Scoutmaster and a former Assistant Club

Master (Clinton, MD).

Currently, she serves as Special Education Intervention Teacher for both Reading and Math at Ernest

Just Middle School. Dr. Proctor has served as a former Vice President of a local College/University for

5 years as an administrator. She has been a PGCEA Unit 1 member for five years (including this year).

Currently, she serves as PGCEA Rep Council FAC member, FAC Chair and FAC Regional Coordinator

for the Central Region. Finally, Dr. Proctor is the proud mother of four children and proud grandmother

of nine grandchildren.

Board of Directors Candidate 8 of 11 No Bio & picture submitted.

Board of Directors Candidate 9 of 11

Five years ago, I came into Prince George’s County Public Schools with no

prior teaching experience and no degree in education, but a desire to teach

students and be a strong presence in each child’s life. Although I had no

knowledge of teaching pedagogy, no classroom management skills, and no

idea the daily challenges I would face as an educator, I also had no idea how

extremely rewarding this career would be. After a year of dedicated teaching

in Prince George’s County, I got an email about doing union summer with

PGCEA. Little did I know, this was my opening into the union world. I

remember meeting President Dudley and our energy just seemed to click

together; she said “You have to be a SPARK; you’ll be perfect for it! Want to

come to Ocean City in October for the convention?” Meanwhile, I had no idea how perfect the union

Page 13 of 17 | U P D A T E D J A N . 1 9 , 2 0 2 1

would be for me. President Dudley gave me the leadership opportunities necessary to propel me

forward into union involvement.

After attending the convention as a SPARK, I realized I wanted to pursue this path of leadership in the

union and fight for policy change in public education. I have been a delegate every year since and

attended many life changing conferences with my union family. Fast forward two years into my teaching

career, and since then I have completed the Prince George’s County Resident Teacher Program, a

leadership course through the University of Maryland, pursued my National Board Certification during

a pandemic (waiting for results coming in January!), started a one-year TESOL program at the University

of Maryland, remained FAC chair for the second year in a row, and participated in committees such as

community schools and early career educators. I say all this to show that I am passionate about

everything education, particularly the impact that I can have as a leader in the union. This year, during

unprecedented times with virtual learning, I have taken the position of chair for the Early Career

Educators and reformed the committee with the amazing help of our UniServ director Devin Nixon. The

members of our committee are invigorated and excited for the work that lies ahead of us. We even had

our first event in December 2020 about certification and met so many new union members who want

to be involved! I desire to be an example of an early career educator who has used tenacity and grit to

show other early career educators that it is possible to thrive in the union, have your voice be heard,

and stand up for policy changes. I will be a fearless leader in the union no matter what it takes and blaze

the trail for other educators to follow in these footsteps. Please elect me as the youngest member on

the PGCEA/MSEA board of directors to provide an opportunity for representation of new and early

career educators.

Board of Directors Candidate 10 of 11

Blessings! I am Ms. Ariel Stone, English educator extraordinaire. (On December

18, 2020, I will ‘flip the switch’ and be Mrs. Cheng)! The reason I breathe is to

educate! I am honored and humbled God saw fit to assign me to assist with the

educational journeys of many through instruction or professional development.

It is a charge I do not take lightly! I would be honored to continue this work as a

member of the PGCEA Board of Directors, MSEA delegate, and NEA delegate!

Ariel Stone has an unparalleled passion for teaching and learning. Ariel attended

‘The Real HU’, Howard University, where she obtained degrees in English,

Political Science, and Psychology. While she has been teaching most of her life,

Ariel has taught professionally in Prince George’s County for the past seven years. She received her

teaching certification after completing the Prince George’s County Resident Teacher Program in 2015

and has collaborated with the Prince George’s County Office of Talent Development through the

delivery of professional development since 2015. In addition to teaching high school English, she

thoroughly enjoys supporting teachers through professional development in many capacities. Ms. Stone

teaches and has developed continuing professional development courses for the district. She is

presently pursuing her Masters in SPED and Early Childhood Education after receiving a full scholarship

to Bowie State University and serves as the district site coordinator for National

Board Certification.

Page 14 of 17 | U P D A T E D J A N . 1 9 , 2 0 2 1

Board of Directors Candidate 11 of 11

My name is Dr. Elie Tcheimegni and I am an educator with 29 years of

teaching in a variety of position couple with several international expertise in

the field of education and administration, including infusion of technology and

efficient management of budget. I also hold besides a Ph.D. an Advance

Professional Studies (Ed.S) in District Leadership

Certification/Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction. I estimate that I

have enough experience to understand and value all our members’

contributions and to be a beacon to our leaders in the process of education

reform that is real, effective, and that works for our students, teachers,

parents, and stakeholders.

After attending a National and State Conference, I learned so much more about the national association.

I am ready to get in the game and make some major plays for this organization. My involvement with

NEA/MSEA is driven by my unshakeable belief that I possess the necessary qualities to demonstrate

“we are the future of education”. Being involved has helped me realize the big picture of what I want

to do in my future, to be an advocate for each child.

Education is the foundation for each child’s future, the only tool that can encourage action, change of

attitude, can lift spirit of the will and self-reliance. In fact, “it is our primary weapon in the war on poverty

and the principal too for building a Great Society”, (President Johnson, 1965), and that is why I chose

to enter the education field to help children gain knowledge to have a successful future. My other

priority is to educate members on current issues facing educators, as well as providing opportunities

for service and professional development. Throughout my time in the classroom as well as attending

the 2015-2017 NEA conferences and 2015-2017 MSEA conventions. I have been able to meet great

people who have inspired me to act on behalf of all involved in public education. My experience with

the NEA, MSEA and PGCEA has enhanced my leadership experiences in education, and I am ready to

work on making sure that teachers cannot be left behind in regards of what works to reach the goal of

career and college readiness for our students, and it must consider salaries, benefits, working

conditions, and job security they deserve.

I have learned that we are stronger together. I know by using my background in the education field and

in the Association, I can help continue the great work of those who came before me by building new

initiatives, advocating for the resources, required by our faculty and students, and help prepare PGCPS

for future generations.

I look forward to working with you to produce the kind of positive changes that really make a difference.

Thank you in advance for all the many, many kindnesses you have showered on me.

Page 15 of 17 |

DOMINIQUE BIVINS, RIVERDALE ES OLIVE LENNOX, PERRYWOOD ES RAOUL J. DAGGETT, CROSSLAND HS STEPHANIE MASSEY, HIGH POINT HS LAUREN HYDUCHAK-RYAN, JUDITH HOYER MONTESSORI - CHEVERLY VERONICA MONROE, CMIT ACADEMY SOUTH MS/HS PCS

CHARLES DICARA, CROOM VOC HS ARIEL STONE, BOWIE HS ANNETT JONES, PERRYWOOD ES DR. RAINYA MILLER, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG DR. DONNA CHRISTY, JUDY HOYER FLC - PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES CRYSTAL BASKIN, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY DR. ELIE TCHEIMEGNI, POTOMAC HS ANTHONY HART, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC JUNE BENNETT, GWYNN PARK HS DR. ELIZABETH LAZARO, BUCK LODGE MS JUSTIN HERBERT, G JAMES GHOLSON MS MICHELE CLARKE, KENMOOR ECC LA'SHORE REDMOND, FRIENDLY HS MOZARELLA BERNARDO, FAIRMONT HGHTS HS TALITHA SIMEONA, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR BERI NDI, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS THELMA SHUMAKER, GLENN DALE ES FELIXBERTO LAZARO, C. ELIZABETH RIEG REGIONAL DEBORAH NEAL, CROSSLAND HS LENORA SCOTT, PARKDALE HS JENNIFER FINDLATER, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG Dr. RHONDA SCOTT, WILLIAM S SCHMIDT WANDA KNOTTS, CROSSLAND HS VALORIE WHITE-JONES, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG KHERRY GUY, APPLE GROVE ES ZOE RHEINGOLD, EDWARD FELEGY ES ELEANOR KELLEY, DEERFIELD RUN ES CANDICE HERRON, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC VERDA PETERKIN, HIGH POINT HS DR. WILLIAM LEON WARD, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS SHARI FLYNN, MT RAINIER ES PATRICIA MACKALL, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY STEPHANNY POWELL, MELWOOD ES GREG A. BROWN, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS DR. ROSE MARY BUNAG, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC LESLIE TEJANO, MONTPELIER ES ARNETTA WEST, BRADBURY HGHTS ES JANICE JEFFERSON, JUDGE S W WOODS ES

MALVERY SMITH, OAKLANDS ES HERMINIA KISHIDA, AVALON ES KENISHA MURRAY, CONCORD ES NENA ANYANWU, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS DR. GENEVIEVE CROMER, DREW FREEMAN MS DANIELLE LUCKETT, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC ADRIENNE WESTLAKE, BUCK LODGE MS MONICA GALLOWAY, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS JOSEPH HOUSEY III, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS ERIKA JOHNSON, FORT FOOTE ES SERESA ROGERS, CROSSLAND HS DONTRIECE BLUE, BUCK LODGE MS ALBERT BARNES, BENJAMIN STODDERT MS CHERYL ANDERSON, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY SENETRIA BLOCKER, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR IRENE DE LEON, JOHN HANSON MBUNYA ANYI, NORTHWESTERN HS DEMETRICE BETTIS, MAGNOLIA ES BRIAN GLOVER, BARACK OBAMA ES DR. COURTNEY MOSES, CROSSLAND HS STEPHANIE SHEIMAN, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC CHRYSTIE LYNCH, G JAMES GHOLSON MS HEATHER ANGLIN, STEPHEN DECATUR MS EVERETT HAYES, HIGH POINT HS CYNTHIA CROCHERON, PATUXENT ES LINDSAY CERESNIE, COOL SPRING ES DONNA YEARWOOD, HIGH POINT HS KINYATTI GAKUHI, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR TAMMY O'DONNELL, CMIT ACADEMY NORTH HS PCS SUNTA HARRIS, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS DR. CASSANDRA PETERS-JOHNSON, HIGH POINT HS GARY HUGHES, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS MELANIE MAVINS, THOMAS PULLEN SCHOOL LATANYA YOUNGBLOOD, SPRINGHILL LAKE ES CLAUDETTE CLARKE, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS ELIZABETH DENNIS, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS GARRY DENNIS, NORTHWESTERN HS JESSICA MCNEAL, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC CAREN MCCALLA, ACADEMY OF HEALTH SCI AT PGCC JOY BLACKNELL, BELTSVILLE ES CHARLES BABILA, BLADENSBURG HS J'SHAUN JOHNSON, BARACK OBAMA ES DEVORAH DANIELSON, CENTRAL HS JESSICA OLFUS, BELTSVILLE ES MARK NAYDAN, SUITLAND HS WENDELLA BABB, CHARLES H FLOWERS HS DR. MARY E PROCTOR, ERNEST E JUST MS DEIDRA DANIELS, JAMES MCHENRY ES

Page 16 of 17 | U P D A T E D J A N . 1 9 , 2 0 2 1

PHILIMENA OWONA, MAYA ANGELOU FRENCH IMMERSION DONALD COOKE, ARROWHEAD ES KATURA BROWN, DWIGHT D EISENHOWER MS SHERYL LEWIS, ANNAPOLIS ROAD ACADEMY TONY MARTINET, NORTHWESTERN HS TERI-LYNN ROBINSON, NORTH FORESTVILLE ES GENEVIEVE CLEMENS, TULIP GROVE ES ROXANNE ANDERSON, WILLIAM W HALL ACADEMY ZENA WHITWORTH, CHARLES H FLOWERS HS

KATHLEEN WARONEK, TULIP GROVE ES DR. SUZANNE WINDSOR, DUVAL HS VATESHA BOULER, BARACK OBAMA ES KIMBERLY REECE, CHARLES CARROLL MS DR. HOWARD BRENT, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC DR. CLARISSA SIMMONS, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC ROSALYN MCDONALD, H W WHEATLEY ECC KAYLA MOORE, UNIVERSITY PARK ES

DOMINIQUE BIVINS, RIVERDALE ES OLIVE LENNOX, PERRYWOOD ES RAOUL J. DAGGETT, CROSSLAND HS STEPHANIE MASSEY, HIGH POINT HS LAUREN HYDUCHAK-RYAN, JUDITH HOYER MONTESSORI -

CHEVERLY

VERONICA MONROE, CMIT ACADEMY SOUTH MS/HS PCS

CHARLES DICARA, CROOM VOC HS ARIEL STONE, BOWIE HS ANNETT JONES, PERRYWOOD ES DR. RAINYA MILLER, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG DR. DONNA CHRISTY, JUDY HOYER FLC - PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

CARLA OBENSHAIN, LANG PK MCCORMICK ES CRYSTAL BASKIN, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY DR. ELIE TCHEIMEGNI, POTOMAC HS ANTHONY HART, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC JUNE BENNETT, GWYNN PARK HS DR. ELIZABETH LAZARO, BUCK LODGE MS JUSTIN HERBERT, G JAMES GHOLSON MS MICHELE CLARKE, KENMOOR ECC LA'SHORE REDMOND, FRIENDLY HS MOZARELLA BERNARDO, FAIRMONT HGHTS HS TALITHA SIMEONA, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR BERI NDI, DWIGHT D EISENHOWER MS THELMA SHUMAKER, GLENN DALE ES FELIXBERTO LAZARO, C. ELIZABETH RIEG REGIONAL DEBORAH NEAL, CROSSLAND HS LENORA SCOTT, PARKDALE HS LAURA DOWNEY, CHAPEL FORGE ECC JENNIFER FINDLATER, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG Dr. RHONDA SCOTT, WILLIAM S SCHMIDT WANDA KNOTTS, CROSSLAND HS VALORIE WHITE-JONES, SASSCER ADMIN BLDG PLEASANT BOBBITT, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS

KHERRY GUY, APPLE GROVE ES ZOE RHEINGOLD, EDWARD FELEGY ES ELEANOR KELLEY, DEERFIELD RUN ES CANDICE HERRON, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC VERDA PETERKIN, HIGH POINT HS DR. WILLIAM LEON WARD, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS SHARI FLYNN, MT RAINIER ES PATRICIA MACKALL, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY STEPHANNY POWELL, MELWOOD ES GREG A. BROWN, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS DR. ROSE MARY BUNAG, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC LESLIE TEJANO, MONTPELIER ES ARNETTA WEST, BRADBURY HGHTS ES JANICE JEFFERSON, JUDGE S W WOODS ES MALVERY SMITH, OAKLANDS ES HERMINIA KISHIDA, AVALON ES KENISHA MURRAY, CONCORD ES NENA ANYANWU, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS DR. GENEVIEVE CROMER, DREW FREEMAN MS DANIELLE LUCKETT, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC ADRIENNE WESTLAKE, BUCK LODGE MS MONICA GALLOWAY, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS JOSEPH HOUSEY III, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS ERIKA JOHNSON, FORT FOOTE ES SERESA ROGERS, CROSSLAND HS DONTRIECE BLUE, BUCK LODGE MS ALBERT BARNES, BENJAMIN STODDERT MS CHERYL ANDERSON, SAMUEL P MASSIE ACADEMY SENETRIA BLOCKER, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR IRENE DE LEON, JOHN HANSON MBUNYA ANYI, NORTHWESTERN HS DEMETRICE BETTIS, MAGNOLIA ES BRIAN GLOVER, BARACK OBAMA ES DR. COURTNEY MOSES, CROSSLAND HS STEPHANIE SHEIMAN, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC

Page 17 of 17 | U P D A T E D J A N . 1 9 , 2 0 2 1

CHRYSTIE LYNCH, G JAMES GHOLSON MS HEATHER ANGLIN, STEPHEN DECATUR MS EVERETT HAYES, HIGH POINT HS CYNTHIA CROCHERON, PATUXENT ES LINDSAY CERESNIE, COOL SPRING ES DONNA YEARWOOD, HIGH POINT HS KINYATTI GAKUHI, OXON HILL ST DEV CTR TAMMY O'DONNELL, CMIT ACADEMY NORTH HS PCS

SUNTA HARRIS, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS DR. CASSANDRA PETERS-JOHNSON, HIGH POINT HS GARY HUGHES, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS MELANIE MAVINS, THOMAS PULLEN SCHOOL LATANYA YOUNGBLOOD, SPRINGHILL LAKE ES CLAUDETTE CLARKE, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER MS ELIZABETH DENNIS, DR. HENRY A. WISE, JR. HS GARRY DENNIS, NORTHWESTERN HS

JESSICA MCNEAL, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC CAREN MCCALLA, ACADEMY OF HEALTH SCI AT PGCC JOY BLACKNELL, BELTSVILLE ES CHARLES BABILA, BLADENSBURG HS J'SHAUN JOHNSON, BARACK OBAMA ES DEVORAH DANIELSON, CENTRAL HS JESSICA OLFUS, BELTSVILLE ES MARK NAYDAN, SUITLAND HS WENDELLA BABB, CHARLES H FLOWERS HS DR. MARY E PROCTOR, ERNEST E JUST MS DEIDRA DANIELS, JAMES MCHENRY ES PHILIMENA OWONA, MAYA ANGELOU FRENCH IMMERSION DONALD COOKE, ARROWHEAD ES KATURA BROWN, DWIGHT D EISENHOWER MS

SHERYL LEWIS, ANNAPOLIS ROAD ACADEMY TONY MARTINET, NORTHWESTERN HS TERI-LYNN ROBINSON, NORTH FORESTVILLE ES GENEVIEVE CLEMENS, TULIP GROVE ES ROXANNE ANDERSON, WILLIAM W HALL ACADEMY ZENA WHITWORTH, CHARLES H FLOWERS HS KATHLEEN WARONEK, TULIP GROVE ES DR. SUZANNE WINDSOR, DUVAL HS VATESHA BOULER, BARACK OBAMA ES KIMBERLY REECE, CHARLES CARROLL MS DR. HOWARD BRENT, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC DR. CLARISSA SIMMONS, THOMAS CLAGGETT TLC ROSALYN MCDONALD, H W WHEATLEY ECC KAYLA MOORE, UNIVERSITY PARK ES

The PGCEA Educator is published by the Prince George’s County Educators’ Association, 8008 Marlboro Pike,

Forestville, MD 20747, Tel. (301) 736-2700. PGCEA is affiliated with the Maryland State Education Association

(MSEA) and the National Education Association (NEA). Visit our website for current and previous additions www.pgcea.org .

OFFICERS MEMBERS AT-LARGE PGCEA STAFF Theresa Dudley, President Michele Clarke Jennifer Epps, Executive Director JeFf Wilson, Accountant Yvonne Baicich, Vice President Annette Jones Dorothy Ray, Assistant Executive

Director Melissa Robinson, Office Manager

Dr. Donna L. Christy, Treasurer Felixberto Lazaro Gary Brennan, UniServ Director Adrienne Parks, Executive Assistant Donna Yearwood Randall Mickens, UniServ Director Brianna Nave, Administrative & Communications

Assistant Albert Barnes Stephanie Walters, UniServ

Director Lauren Tallman, Administrative Receptionist

Dr. Suzanne Windsor Devin Nixon, UniServ Director Dr. Rainya Miller Charles Shaffer, UniServ Director Philimena Owona