Bio Sketches and Names were printed exactly as they were submitted. Candidates are listed below alphabetically.
Bio sketches for HCEA Officer were limited to 100 words. Board of Director, MSEA, and NEA Delegate were limited to 55 words.
Voting begins online on January 30th and ends February 17th.
Please visit the MSEA election webpage for more information on the candidates for MSEA and NEA positions.
HCEA Secretary & Delegate to the MSEA Assembly: 1 (one) seat- (August 1, 2025 -July 31, 2028)*
Julia Carter
As an English teacher for 22 years and building representative for the last 5, I am dedicated to our members and hope to increase clarity and communication at all levels of involvement. I’ve been a leader in improving morale, communication, and activism in my building; volunteered for Apple Ballot distribution during each election; marched for the Blueprint; and held signs at every BoE hearing during negotiations. I’m also an HCPSS resident, graduate, and mom of two current students, so my investment in education and respect for teachers here is immense.
John Wallace
Born and raised in Howard County. Father was a MoCo teacher- 30 years. BA/MA in Education from University of New Mexico. Educator 2001-present. WLHS Building Rep 5+ years, Current HCEA Secretary and Organizing committee Co-Chair. Union Staffer – Albuquerque Teachers Federation and Maryland Professional Employees Council (2013-2018). Represented educators and MD state employees through contract negotiations and enforcement, arbitrations, impasse, in NM and MD state Legislatures. Organized schools around pressing building issues. Priorities: serving educators and students; livable salaries; accurate notes; smaller class sizes; electing pro-education candidates; be involved and serve as a force for good in our community
HCEA Treasurer & Delegate to the MSEA RA: 1 (one) seat- (August 1, 2025 -July 31, 2028)
Sarai Gray
I’m a Library Media Specialist at LWES, current HCEA Treasurer, two terms HCEA Secretary, past chair of HCEA elections, delegate to the MSEA convention for 10+ years, delegate to the NEA for 7 years, and co-chair of the MSEA election committee at the NEA for 5 years. I am also the treasurer for Western Tech HS PTSA. As treasurer I have worked closely with MSEA and HCEA to make sure our organization is being fiscally responsible and doing what is best for our members. With your vote I hope to continue serving with the best interests of all HCEA members.
HCEA Board of Directors & Delegate to MSEA Rep Assembly: 4 (four) seats- each a two year term (August 1, 2025-July 31, 2027)
Matt Braddock
High school math teacher for the past 12 years. Currently a building representative at Guilford Park High School. Member of the organizing committee and negotiations team. Attended MSEA and NEA leadership conferences. Committed to working towards bettering our profession for both current members and future educators.
Daniel Cortes
With 16 years in the Howard County Public School System as a paraeducator, I support students and work with teachers to create inclusive learning environments. As an active HCEA member, I serve on the ESP and Special Education committees. My passion for education, advocacy, and student success drives my commitment to our community’s growth.
Kathleen MacLaughlin
I’m asking for your vote for re-election to the HCEA Board of Directors, and to be a delegate to our state and national conventions. I’ve been a teacher at The Homewood Center for 10 years. I bring my experience working with special education, and my professionalism as an NBCT. Please vote for me!
Jen Wilson
Please vote for me to continue serving you on the Board of Directors. I am a member of the Organizing Comm & helped get our ESPs laptops, as a co-chair of the Gov’t Relations Comm I worked to nominate & elect candidates that support us. I will advocate for you. Thank you for your vote.
HCEA Delegate to the MSEA Rep Assembly: Ocean City, MD October 17 & 18, 2025 (17 funded seats)
Matt Braddock
High school math teacher for the past 12 years. Currently a building representative at Guilford Park High School. Member of the organizing committee and negotiations team. Attended MSEA and NEA leadership conferences. Committed to working towards bettering our profession for both current members and future educators.
Krystal Campbell
Hello, My name is Krystal Campbell. I am a Special Educator with Bellows Spring ES. I joined HCPSS in 2022 with 10+ years of experience, after moving to Columbia. I am proud to say I work with an amazing group of educators. I hope to positively represent and advocate for us all!
Julia Carter
As an English teacher for 22 years and building representative for the last 5, I am dedicated to our members and hope to increase clarity and communication at all levels of involvement. I’ve been a leader in improving morale, communication, and activism in my building; volunteered for Apple Ballot distribution during each election; marched for the Blueprint; and held signs at every BoE hearing during negotiations. I’m also an HCPSS resident, graduate, and mom of two current students, so my investment in education and respect for teachers here is immense.
Ed Chrzanowski
It has been a privilege to represent HCEA at the MSEA convention the last two years, and I have learned so much from my experiences. Please allow me to serve you again next year, so that I can continue my advocacy for all members of HCEA.
Kathy Chrzanowski
Thank you for trusting me to represent HCEA at the MSEA convention the last two years. It has been an opportunity for me to learn more about myself and how the union works. I would love to have your vote again this year and continue my representation of HCEA next year.
Daniel Cortes
With 16 years in the Howard County Public School System as a paraeducator, I support students and work with teachers to create inclusive learning environments. As an active HCEA member, I serve on the ESP and Special Education committees. My passion for education, advocacy, and student success drives my commitment to our community’s growth.
Erika Goldsmith
As a dedicated educator with many years of experience, I am passionate about fostering inclusive, innovative learning environments. I have participated in policy discussions and educational reform initiatives, striving to improve outcomes for all students. I seek to represent educators’ voices and be elected again to represent you at the NEA Convention. Thank you.
Sarai Gray
I’m a Library Media Specialist at LWES, current HCEA Treasurer, two terms HCEA Secretary, past chair of HCEA elections, delegate to the MSEA convention for 10+ years, delegate to the NEA for 7 years, and co-chair of the MSEA election committee at the NEA for 5 years. I am also the treasurer for Western Tech HS PTSA. As treasurer I have worked closely with MSEA and HCEA to make sure our organization is being fiscally responsible and doing what is best for our members. With your vote I hope to continue serving with the best interests of all HCEA members.
Elizabeth Greer
I am very active in bringing coworkers into the union circle. I have represented my coworkers for years and bringing back alot of valuable information. I would be honored to be given the chance to represent all of ypu again. Thank you for the consideration and your truat in me.
Lauri Hornicek
I would like the opportunity to represent HCEA at both the MSEA convention and the NEA convention. I would appreciate your vote, so that I can continue to work with others by listening and advocating for our students, schools, and ourselves. Thank you.
LaToya Jackson
My name is LaToya Jackson. I have been working in the school system for seven years. I am passionate about supporting students, staff, and fostering a collaborative environment. I enjoy learning new things and sharing knowledge with others. My experience and dedication to education and advocacy make me eager to contribute further as a delegate.
Danielle King-Beard
My involvement at the local, state, and National level for 20+ years, connections around the state, and as a related arts teacher, make me a great candidate for delegate to our NEA and MSEA conventions again next year.
Kathleen MacLaughlin
I’m asking for your vote for re-election to the HCEA Board of Directors, and to be a delegate to our state and national conventions. I’ve been a teacher at The Homewood Center for 10 years. I bring my experience working with special education, and my professionalism as an NBCT. Please vote for me!
Rebecca Otte
24 years in HCPSS; former 4th and 5th grade teacher, currently elementary GT resource teacher; active HCEA member since 2014. Co-chair of Government Relations Committee since 2017, member of HCEA Board of Directors since 2020.
Christina Rosendorf
I have been a HCPSS high school science teacher for 25y and the building rep at my school for 10y. I have only been to ONE RA and that was cut short (in Philadelphia this past July). I would love to be elected to go to another RA this year! I need your vote. Thanks!
Anna Rowe
I’m Anna Rowe, and I’m seeking reelection. This is my third year teaching 7th grade science and my fourth year working in public education. I’m a building representative and GSA advisor. Last July, I served on the NEA RA Maryland Delegation Legislative Policy Committee. I’m passionate about teaching and organizing. Thank you for your vote.
Maxine Salah
I’ve been an HCEA/MSEA/NEA member for 24 years and I have been representing you for 22 years. I enjoy meeting new members from all the different states and enjoy talking association business. I would appreciate your vote so that I can once again be your voice. Thank You!
Christina Santos-Nurse
Melissa Schmitt
I have been an elementary teacher for 14 years. As a HCEA building representative, I find it very fulfilling to work with my colleagues to improve our school and district. Attending MSEA RA and NEA RA allows me to use my voice to help educators at the state and national levels.
John Wallace
Born and raised in Howard County. Father was a MoCo teacher- 30 years. BA/MA in Education from University of New Mexico. Educator 2001-present. WLHS Building Rep 5+ years, Current HCEA Secretary and Organizing committee Co-Chair. Union Staffer – Albuquerque Teachers Federation and Maryland Professional Employees Council (2013-2018). Represented educators and MD state employees through contract negotiations and enforcement, arbitrations, impasse, in NM and MD state Legislatures. Organized schools around pressing building issues. Priorities: serving educators and students; livable salaries; accurate notes; smaller class sizes; electing pro-education candidates; be involved and serve as a force for good in our community
Samuel Walters
WLHS Science Paraeducator, MSEA ESP Organizing Committee which developed ESP Bill of Rights, HCEA- BoD 2019-24, Negotiations 2019-22, NEA RA 2020-23, NEA ESP Conference 2019-2023, MSEA’s RA 2020-24. ESP Pay Equity and Living Wage presentations 20-24 at CBC, SLC , HCR, NEA NCESP, MSEA ESP Conference and 13 BOR Organizing sessions throughout Maryland.
Cindy Waugh
Jen Wilson
Please vote for me to continue serving you on the Board of Directors. I am a member of the Organizing Comm & helped get our ESPs laptops, as a co-chair of the Gov’t Relations Comm I worked to nominate & elect candidates that support us. I will advocate for you. Thank you for your vote.
Odessa Windear
I am a special education teacher at Wilde Lake Middle School. I am passionate about literacy and inclusion for everyone. I hold 2 Master’s degrees and also hold my advanced professional certificate. I would like to be a delegate to MSEA to be a partake in important decisions that positively affect HCEA teachers and employees.
HCEA Delegate to the NEA Convention: Portland, OR July 2-6 2025
Krystal Campbell
Hello, My name is Krystal Campbell. I am a Special Educator with Bellows Spring ES. I joined HCPSS in 2022 with 10+ years of experience, after moving to Columbia. I am proud to say I work with an amazing group of educators. I hope to positively represent and advocate for us all!
Daniel Cortes
With 16 years in the Howard County Public School System as a paraeducator, I support students and work with teachers to create inclusive learning environments. As an active HCEA member, I serve on the ESP and Special Education committees. My passion for education, advocacy, and student success drives my commitment to our community’s growth.
Colleen Cotton
This is my 27th year as an educator. My role as a resource teacher and National Board Candidate Support Provider allows me to spend time supporting teachers.
Brian Donoughe
As a dedicated educator with many years of experience, I am passionate about fostering inclusive, innovative learning environments. I have participated in policy discussions and educational reform initiatives, striving to improve outcomes for all students. I seek to represent educators’ voices and be elected again to represent you at the NEA Convention. Thank you.
Erika Goldsmith
As a dedicated educator with many years of experience, I am passionate about fostering inclusive, innovative learning environments. I have participated in policy discussions and educational reform initiatives, striving to improve outcomes for all students. I seek to represent educators’ voices and be elected again to represent you at the NEA Convention. Thank you.
Sarai Gray
I’m a Library Media Specialist at LWES, current HCEA Treasurer, two terms HCEA Secretary, past chair of HCEA elections, delegate to the MSEA convention for 10+ years, delegate to the NEA for 7 years, and co-chair of the MSEA election committee at the NEA for 5 years. I am also the treasurer for Western Tech HS PTSA. As treasurer I have worked closely with MSEA and HCEA to make sure our organization is being fiscally responsible and doing what is best for our members. With your vote I hope to continue serving with the best interests of all HCEA members.
Elizabeth Greer
I am very active in bringing coworkers into the union circle. I have represented my coworkers for years and bringing back alot of valuable information. I would be honored to be given the chance to represent all of ypu again. Thank you for the consideration and your truat in me.
Lauri Hornicek
I would like the opportunity to represent HCEA at both the MSEA convention and the NEA convention. I would appreciate your vote, so that I can continue to work with others by listening and advocating for our students, schools, and ourselves. Thank you.
LaToya Jackson
My name is LaToya Jackson. I have been working in the school system for seven years. I am passionate about supporting students, staff, and fostering a collaborative environment. I enjoy learning new things and sharing knowledge with others. My experience and dedication to education and advocacy make me eager to contribute further as a delegate.
Danielle King-Beard
My involvement at the local, state, and National level for 20+ years, connections around the state, and as a related arts teacher, make me a great candidate for delegate to our NEA and MSEA conventions again next year.
Kathleen MacLaughlin
I’m asking for your vote for re-election to the HCEA Board of Directors, and to be a delegate to our state and national conventions. I’ve been a teacher at The Homewood Center for 10 years. I bring my experience working with special education, and my professionalism as an NBCT. Please vote for me!
Kelli Midgley
As a past MSEA/NEA delegate, past MSEA representative on the Maryland Professional Standards for Teachers and Education Board, past HCEA Board member, and NEA/MSEA/HCEA member for 32 years, I would be honored to serve you again as a Representative at the National Convention.
Rebecca Otte
24 years in HCPSS; former 4th and 5th grade teacher, currently elementary GT resource teacher; active HCEA member since 2014. Co-chair of Government Relations Committee since 2017, member of HCEA Board of Directors since 2020.
Christina Rosendorf
I have been a HCPSS high school science teacher for 25y and the building rep at my school for 10y. I have only been to ONE RA and that was cut short (in Philadelphia this past July). I would love to be elected to go to another RA this year! I need your vote. Thanks!
Anna Rowe
I’m Anna Rowe, and I’m seeking reelection. This is my third year teaching 7th grade science and my fourth year working in public education. I’m a building representative and GSA advisor. Last July, I served on the NEA RA Maryland Delegation Legislative Policy Committee. I’m passionate about teaching and organizing. Thank you for your vote.
Maxine Salah
I’ve been an HCEA/MSEA/NEA member for 24 years and I have been representing you for 22 years. I enjoy meeting new members from all the different states and enjoy talking association business. I would appreciate your vote so that I can once again be your voice. Thank You!
Christina Santos-Nurse
Melissa Schmitt
I have been an elementary teacher for 14 years. As a HCEA building representative, I find it very fulfilling to work with my colleagues to improve our school and district. Attending MSEA RA and NEA RA allows me to use my voice to help educators at the state and national levels.
Anisha Thompson
Anisha Thompson is a creative and energetic student achievement liaison with the Black Student Achievement program. She is currently assigned to Howard high school and is entering her seventh year with HCPSS. Anisha would be honored to represent and lift the voices of HCEA members as a delegate to NEA. Let’s be great together!
John Wallace
Born and raised in Howard County. Father was a MoCo teacher- 30 years. BA/MA in Education from University of New Mexico. Educator 2001-present. WLHS Building Rep 5+ years, Current HCEA Secretary and Organizing committee Co-Chair. Union Staffer – Albuquerque Teachers Federation and Maryland Professional Employees Council (2013-2018). Represented educators and MD state employees through contract
Samuel Walters
WLHS Science Paraeducator, MSEA ESP Organizing Committee which developed ESP Bill of Rights, HCEA- BoD 2019-24, Negotiations 2019-22, NEA RA 2020-23, NEA ESP Conference 2019-2023, MSEA’s RA 2020-24. ESP Pay Equity and Living Wage presentations 20-24 at CBC, SLC , HCR, NEA NCESP, MSEA ESP Conference and 13 BOR Organizing sessions throughout Maryland.
Cindy Waugh
Jen Wilson
Please vote for me to continue serving you on the Board of Directors. I am a member of the Organizing Comm & helped get our ESPs laptops, as a co-chair of the Gov’t Relations Comm I worked to nominate & elect candidates that support us. I will advocate for you. Thank you for your vote.
Odessa Windear
I am a special education teacher at Wilde Lake Middle School. I am passionate about literacy and inclusion for everyone. I hold 2 Master’s degrees and also hold my advanced professional certificate. I would like to be a delegate to MSEA to be a partake in important decisions that positively affect HCEA teachers and employees.
