The Lighthouse
Volume 2 / Issue 3
Off to a Great Start!
Our CLF 2022-2023 Year-End Report detailed several accomplishments of the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer Mr. Yilmaz Ak. This school year has kept the past year's momentum.
On the CLF Welcome Back to School boat ride, participants identified and reflected upon their role in building a culture of achievement and participated in networking and celebrating the beginning of a new school year. The Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation Board and Central Office Staff opened seven schools in August under the leadership of our principals and their leadership teams. We proudly celebrated Chesapeake Science Point Elementary, our newest school, opening its doors to scholars for the first time.
We have launched our systemwide SY 2024 Professional Development Series, boasting topics on Applying Reports, Responsive Planning, Goal Setting, Collaborative Spaces, Support for Success, Mathematics, and STEM Integration. Our school leadership teams are engaging professionally with a focus on continuous improvement.
We’ve purchased and refinanced leases, resulting in substantial financial savings. We’ve continued our educational partnerships with PGCPS, AACPS, MD Charter School Alliance, and Bowie State University as we continue to address teacher shortages, choice school lotteries, and mentoring college practicum students in several of our schools. We launched our TEACH Service Grant application to support CLF alumni pursuing an education degree.
In addition to our signature after-school clubs and Saturday Academy programs, CLF partnered with Carnegie Learning this school year to provide high-dosage weekday and weekend tutoring to over 840 students across our Prince George’s County schools.
Why our Board Members Serve
Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation Schools remain indebted to an esteemed and dedicated number of professionals who volunteer to serve on the Chesapeake Lighthouse Board.
Francis Xavier Hawkins is the CLF Board Secretary and Operations Supervisor- Order Process and Management, Voice/Data Operations Division of Information Technology, at the University of Maryland, College Park, MD.
He has been employed at the University of Maryland, College Park, in the Division of Information Technology, Operations, and Field Support for over 27 years. Every day, he interacts with Students, Parents, Faculty, and Staff, and he loves working in this atmosphere! My son Joseph is a 2018 Chesapeake Math and IT Middle School and High School graduate. From Preschool through High School, I ensured I was involved in his education. I was the PTA President at his elementary school. I always attended every field trip and volunteered as much as possible. Also, I served as the Chair of Saturday Academy at Chesapeake Math and IT North. I encourage all parents to be present and involved with every aspect of their child’s education; it will make a difference. Being a Board Member at CLF over the last four years is a privilege and honor, allowing me to serve all the stakeholders that are invested in the successful education of all our CLF students.
Leaders Who Make A Difference
During October, National Principals Month, we celebrated our Principals! School leadership requires an immense amount of dedication and commitment. Our principals shared how their schools were better because they led them.
Dr. Darrian Borden-McCarter is dedicated to academic excellence and school improvement and has created data-driven systems to build the capacity of teachers and increase student outcomes. As a result, CMIT South MS/HS students experienced gains on every MCAP assessment for the Spring 2023 administration. He is committed to school culture and student experiences outside of core content. In his short tenure, Dr. Borden-McCarter has increased the arts program through Digital Studio Art, Drama, Business Law, and Entrepreneurship courses. The school has added four new sports teams and celebrated its first Homecoming earlier this year.
Andrew Brauer, Chesapeake Math and Instructional Technology North Middle School has recruited, retained, and cultivated a team that believes in the CMIT vision and is dedicated to creating a supportive and progressive learning environment.
Tabatha Camacho, Chesapeake Science Point Elementary, is an inspiring leader for many reasons. Her leadership style invites all stakeholders to the table when discussing matters important to the operation of our building and the instruction of students. Whether we agree or disagree on any given subject, I feel valued and heard. Not only does she put students first, but she also values their families and the community that surrounds them. She has initiated Family Dinner Nights, where we gather as a family for fellowship and fun. No strings attached, just time to gather as a family, eat, and enjoy each other's company. We have had staff members fall on hard times (illness, family deaths, and homelessness), and each time she has reached out to community members to arrange assistance, guidance, and resources to meet the needs of our staff. She has high expectations for students and staff, and I am grateful for the experience of learning and growing alongside Ms. Camacho while she leads us to becoming a five-star school! - Sarah Schlegel, Assistant Principal, CSP.
Dwight Jefferson - CSP Middle/High School is better because he gives teachers and students a voice, includes them in the decision-making process, is intentional about everything we do, and holds everyone, including himself, accountable for ensuring we meet the needs of our students.
Ronald A. Miller Jr. has truly illuminated the way for excellence in education at CMIT South Elementary School. His leadership during the challenging times of a global pandemic, his commitment to a consistent curriculum, the integration of cutting-edge technology, academic success, community engagement, and staff development have all contributed to making CMIT South Elementary a place of learning and growth for students, staff, and the entire school community. Under his guidance, the school has reached new heights of achievement and stands as a beacon of educational excellence.
Ms. Gonul Ozturk - CMIT North High School
school climate and culture is positive
over 65 clubs are offered, including student lead clubs
after school and weekend tutoring
no major discipline problems
100 percent graduation rate
95 percent college acceptance rate
established community partnerships
established a teacher support program
in-person home visits
three-step hiring process to get the best teachers on the team
Dr. Tenika Fryson has been the principal of CMIT North Elementary for several years. When asked to write about my leadership, I believed it would be best for the people I lead to answer this question.
Dr. Fryson is a great principal. I have been working with her since she was a third-grade teacher here. She has always put the students' learning first at our school. Her communication with the staff here has always been apparent. She is always looking for teachable moments for both herself and others.
Eric Trippe-4th grade teacher; Served 10 years with Dr. Fryson
I am sincerely grateful for Dr. Fryson's leadership as our principal. Her years of experience as a teacher have given us the tools to develop best practices and help our students succeed.
She has particularly helped us in the area of data collection and analysis. She has taught us how to use data to identify students' needs and to develop targeted interventions to help them reach their full potential. Dr. Fryson also encourages us to use data to reflect on our teaching practice and to make necessary adjustments.
In addition to her expertise in data-driven instruction, she is a highly motivating and encouraging leader. She creates a positive and supportive work environment where we feel comfortable sharing ideas and seeking feedback. She is also always willing to listen to our concerns and to work with us to find solutions.
Overall, Dr. Fryson is a fantastic leader and principal. I am so grateful to have her as my mentor and role model. I am confident that our school will continue to thrive under her leadership, and our students will continue to achieve great things.
Ms. Cooper- 4th Grade Teacher; Served 3 years with Dr. Fryson
Dr. Fryson has elevated excellence in education she incorporates communication with families by having events for parents and then relays the information to teachers, who then enhance their instruction and classroom management. Many times Dr. Fryson will provide constructive feedback to teachers in a way that is positive and enables teachers to feel valued and grow professionally. Her leadership has been a great example and means to further inspire teachers and staff to go above and beyond when needed. All in all, Dr. Fryson has led CMIT North E.S. to achieve a 5-star rating which is a testament in itself!
Mrs. Major -Kindergarten Teacher; Served 3 years with Dr. Fryson
Dr. Fryson is a fantastic leader! She is caring, and compassionate and has an understanding of the school community and staff. She is always striving to better our school, students, and staff. Dr. Fryson helps push others to be better leaders and helps us come out of our comfort zone. Dr. Fryson cares deeply about the school community and wants everyone to succeed.
Mrs. Richardson-3rd Grade Teacher; Served 10 years with Dr. Fryson
Our school is better due to Dr. Fryson's initiatives during her years as a classroom teacher which are still useful to this day. The culture of CMIT North is always her utmost priority. Dr. Fryson understands that students thrive in an environment where teachers are supported and committed to ensuring that every student is positioned for success. She believes in learning and growing for the students and staff alike.
Mrs. Brooks-Curry-Assistant Principal; Served 6 years with Dr. Fryson
We had some fun with our principals as we got to know them better. Watch their 'Getting to Know You’ videos.
Club Showcases Set the Bar High!
The red carpet was rolled out for all with the 2024 Club Showcases and Digital Galleries! Each school highlighted its various clubs in person and virtually with excellence. Our families were enthralled with the number and variety of extended learning opportunities available to their children this school year. Whether they were eagerly anticipating the lottery links to drop, were guided to the table of the club their child was interested in, or were given clear directions as to which clubs were a go, our parents had to be overjoyed that their scholar wished to continue to learn beyond the school day!
After-school clubs are a signature component of the Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation Model. As such, our stakeholders ensure extended learning opportunities for our scholars each year. Several of our schools boast over 20 clubs that inspire students to become STEM innovators and responsible global citizens.
United Against Bullying
Growing Enrichment Program Numbers
CLF’s Enrichment Program serves our CLF schools (CMIT and CSP schools), grades K-12, by offering structured time in a safe and productive environment before and after school hours, giving families more flexibility with scheduling and transportation. The program provides an opportunity for academic support and social growth through supervised study sessions, homework assistance, organized recreation, games, and peer interactions. At our five locations, CLF serves over 654 students.
At CLF Schools, Reading is FUNdamental!
As October is National Book Month, CLF Outreach Specialist Adam Dartici, facilitated an opportunity for our school staff to share their love of reading with others via our social media channels. Our schools supported the endeavor by providing books and readers. Each of the readings is featured on The Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation YouTube channel. The books selected allowed listeners to explore, discover, and experience intriguing topics, people, careers, and cultures.
At CSP Elementary, the basketball goals have been installed, and students will soon be able to play ball. Plans are also underway for the covered walkway installation.
The CMIT South M/H Canopy and Seating Area Project has been completed, and there has been considerable progress made on the football field.
Celebrating Fall
Consider joining us as we celebrate Fall this Saturday at our Fall Festivals. Each festival will provide fun, food, fellowship, and entertainment. We are excited to see you there.
October 28, 2023
Fall Festival (Noon-4 pm)
CMIT South ES - 9601 Fallard Terrace, Upper Marlboro
https://cmitsouthelementarypto.ticketspice.com/fall-festival
Health Awareness and Fitness Day/Fall Festival (11:30 am-2:30 pm)
CMIT North ES - 6151 Chevy Chase Drive, Laurel https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ilMoYhEneI0OyHSujWgPCouZBDDVn2VGYri7ojc_eY0/edit?usp=sharing_eil_se_dm&ts=652d4079
- Fall Festival Fall Festival (10 am - 2 pm)
CSP Elementary - 1501 Sweitzer Lane, Hanover
Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation was established in 2003. In 2005 the first of seven STEM focused schools was established. Chesapeake Science Point MH Charter School in Anne Arundel County, and the Chesapeake Math & IT Academy Public Charter Schools, Prince George's County, remain among Best Schools (US News). The newest and 7th school, Chesapeake Science Point Elementary Public Charter School, opened in 2023.