MSEA Convention Workshops

Dr. Yvette Thomasson

Dr. Yvette Thomasson is a licensed therapist and professional school counselor with 28 years of service in Prince George’s County Public Schools. She is the founder of Foremind LLC, a behavioral wellness company focused on social-emotional learning, mental health, and educator well-being. She has authored 11 books available on Amazon, including Rooted in Grace & Gratitude. In 2025, she was honored as the MSEA Ethnic Minority Recognition Awardee. Her workshops blend neuroscience, SEL, and lived experience to empower educators and communities to thrive.

Edwin A. Pérez

Edwin A. Pérez is an award-winning veteran educator and dedicated community leader. A 2025 inductee into the Maryland Commission on Hispanic Affairs – Hispanic Heroes Hall of Fame, and the 2024 Latinx Education Collaborative’s national Latinx Educator of the Year, he empowers Black, Latino, immigrant, and multilingual students and families through arts-centered, service-based, and community-driven initiatives. His leadership includes participation in the National Education Association’s Leaders for Just Schools program and mentoring for MSEA’s  Minority Leadership and Women’s Leadership training programs.

Robin Keys

Robin Keys is a passionate and experienced science educator with over 40 years of service in public education. For 20 years, Robin taught in Prince George’s County, along with seven years in Baltimore City Public Schools and 20 years in DCPS as a science inclusion teacher, where they specialized in adapting curriculum and instruction to meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities in general education science classrooms. In 2023–2024, Robin continued their commitment to inclusive and hands-on science education as a teacher at Cardozo Education Campus and Cleveland Elementary in Washington, D.C., where they also led an afterschool science program for students in grades 2–5. In 2024–2025, Robin returned to Cardozo to teach high school science courses, including anatomy and physiology, biology, chemistry, environmental science, lab techniques, and general explorations. They are the facilitator of the S.M.A.R.T. Girls Science Club and the NEA Book Club on Disabilities, using both platforms to champion equity, STEM access, and student voice. Robin brings a culturally responsive lens to all their work, striving to build strong school-community partnerships and empower students to explore science as a tool for understanding—and transforming—the world around them.

Portia Deal

Portia Deal is an English teacher at Parkdale High School in Prince George’s County. She serves on the Faculty Advisory Council and as an association representative, and has also been a Special Education and Student Services/Related Services Committee Member. She has also been a PGCEA/PGCPS Special Education Task Force member, an MSEA Women’s Concerns Committee member and mentor, an MSEA Women’s Leadership Training member and mentor, and the founder and chairperson of the MSEA Caucus for Educators of Exceptional Children.

Alison Jovanovic

Alison Jovanovic serves as the social studies program coordinator and professional development site coordinator for Social Studies Education, where she oversees the internship experience for the undergraduates, teaches the corresponding seminar and methods courses, and maintains relationships with community partners. In association with this role, she is also a coordinator for secondary/middle school/P-12 education.  As an extension of her work with pre-service teachers, Alison is serving as a principal investigator for the UMD Do Good edTerps CARES Network and an affiliate with the Artificial Intelligence Interdisciplinary Institute at Maryland (AIM). In the recent past, she has served as a principal investigator for the Difficult History Project-Teaching with Primary Resources and a collaborator in the UMD Supervising Mentor Teacher Academy.

Alejandro Pérez Belda

Alejandro Pérez is an assistant clinical professor and the world language/dual language programs coordinator at the University of Maryland-College Park. A former dual language schoolteacher, Alejandro earned his PhD in Multilingual Education at the University of Iowa. He also has an MA in Applied Linguistics (Universidad de Jaén) and an MA in Hispanic Linguistics (University of Iowa). At his previous institution, Alejandro taught and supervised for the Division of World Languages and the College of Education at the University of Iowa. Alejandro was also responsible for the preparation of professional development workshops designed to improve instruction and support emergent bilinguals in the state of Iowa. At the University of Maryland, Alejandro coordinates the Bachelor of Arts in World Languages Education, where students complete a double major in World Languages Education with PreK-12 certification and a language of choice (e.g., Spanish, at the School of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures-SLLC).

Wendy Gray

Wendy Gray is a veteran educator and educational consultant who partners with schools, teachers, and families to raise awareness and improve students’ executive functioning skills (EFS). With 29 years of classroom experience and a personal journey of understanding executive function, Wendy brings both professional expertise and heartfelt insight into her work. She knows firsthand that when students struggle with executive function deficits, the key to their success lies in early awareness, targeted strategies, and strong partnerships between home and school. Wendy promotes the importance of early and transitional-year EFS implementation, knowing that these years can profoundly impact both academic performance and social development. Wendy is certified in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Reading. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Howard University and a Master’s in Education from Northcentral University.

Andrea Robinson

Andrea Robinson is a content specialist for English language development in Montgomery County, where she coaches teachers of multilingual learners and co-teaches US History using a functional language approach. Andrea is certified as a reading specialist and holds National Board Certification in English as a New Language and Literacy.

Tomeko L. V. Cook

Tomeko L. V. Cook has 25+ years of instructional experience as a public-school educator. Her instructional experience ranges from elementary school, middle school, high school, and the alternative educational setting. Tomeko serves as a crisis intervention resource teacher for Prince George’s County Public Schools. She is a “Loving Libra” who seeks balance by doting on her family, bettering the community, sharing hugs, investing in self-care, and enjoying premium ice cream!

Michael Gavin

Michael has been working with NEA members throughout the association for 23 years. Originally from Philadelphia (go Birds!), he now resides in Washington, DC. A University of Pittsburgh and Oklahoma grad, Michael and the NEA have been on top of the ever-changing landscape of the federal student loan programs since its inception.

George Kelly

George Kelly is vice president of one of NEA Member Benefits’ strongest advocacy partners. He is here to help you and your family with economic questions and planning for now and the future.

Derrick Blackwell Sr.

Derrick Blackwell Sr. is a computer science teacher at Matthew Henson Middle School located in Indian Head, Maryland, and a Computer Science Adjunct Professor at Towson University. He has over 13 years of teaching experience at the collegiate level and six years at the middle school level. He is also a US Army veteran with over 14 years of computer experience working with the Department of Defense and General Dynamics Information Technology.

Gennie Massey

Genie Massey, a social studies educator engaged in doctoral studies, was the Archdiocese of Baltimore teacher of the year for 2017-2018. She works with the Maryland Civic Education Coalition, supporting strategic initiatives and volunteers with the League of Women Voters and Rotary in Washington County.

Dr. Rainya P. Miller

Dr. Rainya P. Miller, NBCT, is the Managing Partner of the Consortium of Accomplished Educators LLC, bringing her 25 years of experience in education to the team. Her career in Prince George’s County includes various roles, such as head-start educator, preschool educator, kindergarten educator, first-grade educator, continuing professional development liaison to MSDE, non-PDS coordinator, and instructional coordinator. Dr. Miller has also held several leadership positions, including PGCEA Board of Directors 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. As an advocate for education reform, she has lobbied in Annapolis and marched for education.

Dr. Jon Andes

Dr. Andes began his teaching career in Harford County Public Schools. As a high school social studies teacher and coach, Dr. Andes taught for eight years. As a school-based leader, Dr. Andes served as the assistant principal and principal of Havre De Grace High School. After leading Havre De Grace High School to be named a National Blue Ribbon School, Dr. Andes was appointed as the assistant superintendent for personnel and staff relations in Harford County Public Schools. In 1996, Dr. Andes was appointed as the superintendent of Worcester County Public Schools. Serving as superintendent of schools for 16 years, Dr. Andes led the school system to be one of the highest-performing school systems in Maryland. After 36 years in public education, Dr. Andes retired in 2012 and was appointed as a professor of practice at Salisbury University.

Shanelle England

Rhonda McKinney

Kenya Smith

Robert Hickey III

Robert Hickey is a middle school math teacher with over 15 years of experience teaching in public, private, religious, and secular schools. His career began with the Middle Grades Program, inspired by civil rights leader Bob Moses and the Algebra Project, which advocates for every child’s right to math literacy. Rooted in Bantu-Kongo pedagogy and guided by the Ubuntu principle—“I am because we are, and since we are, therefore I am”—Robert’s work centers on fostering community, equity, and shared growth. He is dedicated to creating inclusive learning environments that bridge cultural and socioeconomic divides.

Dr. William Clay

Dr. William “Flip” Clay is a dynamic, internationally acclaimed professional school counselor. Dr. Clay contributed to the 2013 College Board School Counseling Journal Series, Transforming Young Men of Color. He was also recognized as the 2012 National Marcus Forster Distinguished Educator of the Year. In 2023, Dr. Clay was recognized as the 2023 Maryland Minority Educator of the Year, 2023 National Life Group Life Changer of the Year Grand Prize Finalist, and 2023 Prince George’s County Board of Education Unsung Hero. Dr. Clay is the author of Post-Traumatic School Disorder. In 2010, after meeting Dr. Clay, Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor recognized Dr. Clay as an extraordinary role model and leader.

Joseph Rafter

Joseph Rafter is committed to supporting classroom instructors. He served 18 years as a high school English teacher and instructional coach. He currently serves as an instructional and technical designer at Frederick Community College.

Dr. Kris McGee

Dr. Kris McGee is a professor in the Department of Educational Professions at Frostburg State University. She has been sharing her love of teaching and children’s literature with children, preservice, and in-service teachers for 34 years.

Dr. Jodi Welsch

Dr. Jodi Welsch is a professor in the Department of Educational Professions at Frostburg State University. She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in reading literacy foundations, assessment, writing, disciplinary literacy, and leadership.

Amy Kines

Amy Kines brings 30+ years of experience as a teacher, staff developer, and instructional specialist to her company, Ready Aim Teach. Achieving National Boards and a master’s in School Administration, Amy’s unwavering passion for active learning and student engagement permeates every project. Amy and her company provide professional development and coaching to teachers and schools across Maryland and the United States.

Michelle Washington

Michelle Washington is the community school coordinator at Carmody Hills Elementary School, located in Capitol Heights, Maryland. With over 25 years of experience as an educator and a distinguished background as a veteran, she has dedicated her life to service both in education and within her community. Throughout her career, she has served as a paraprofessional, special education teacher, C-STEM teacher, school administrator, classroom teacher at Carmody Hills, and now, as a community school coordinator. As an active and engaged member of Prince George’s County, she has made a lasting impact on the lives of students and families. In her role as community school coordinator, Michelle is responsible for implementing, integrating, and aligning a comprehensive community school strategy.

Damon Felton

Damon Felton serves as associate counsel for MSEA where he has been employed since 2001. He specializes in labor law and assists MSEA members with numerous legal matters relating to their employment.

Dr. Kelli Hickey

Join us for an interactive, hands-on workshop designed to equip classroom teachers with proven techniques to enhance academic outcomes and foster positive classroom environments. Practical Strategies for Academic Success offers actionable approaches that can be implemented immediately to boost student performance and reduce disruptive behaviors. Whether you’re a veteran teacher or new to the profession, this workshop will help you re-energize your practice and create a climate where all students can thrive.

Robert Barnes

Mr. Robert J. Barnes has spent 34 years making a difference as an educator. He holds certifications in Social Studies and Special Education. Over the years, he has worked in both DC Public Schools and Montgomery County Public Schools. At present, he teaches at Rocky Hill Middle School in Clarksburg, Maryland, as an alternative 1 instructor.

Jessica Shiller

Professor Jessica Shiller is the director of the Maryland Center for Community Schools at Towson University. She conducts research and offers professional development for community schools across the state. She also teaches in the educational leadership program in Towson’s College of Education.

Charlene Beyerlein

Charlene Beyerlein is a National Board Certified, award-winning educator with over 16 years of experience in Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Her classroom and school programs have been featured on ABC2 News and in local publications. She has served in a variety of leadership roles focused on closing achievement gaps, including equity lead, MTSS lead, and acting assistant principal. Charlene holds a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University and has designed and delivered professional development at both district and state conferences on topics such as learner engagement, inclusive practices, and school climate. Her work focuses on using data-driven strategies to promote student-centered learning and build inclusive school communities where all students, families, and staff can thrive. Charlene is a lifelong learner, piano player, and bird watcher.

Shonda Pegram

Shonda Pegram is “MVN4WRDbySTEAM”, a well-respected professional educational leader with PGCPS. As a highly qualified veteran, she’s engaging, motivational, passionate, and powerful. Recognized for her many accomplishments, she specializes in building teacher capacity by fully understanding the amazing classroom experience.

Cresta Kowalski

Cresta is the UniServ director for Mountain Maryland, representing both Allegany and Garrett counties. Before joining MSEA, Cresta was a special education teacher for 22 years in Maryland and West Virginia. In her role as a special education teacher, Cresta supported students with low-incidence disabilities, and she worked closely with educational support professionals to create safe, inclusive learning environments for the students. Cresta holds two master’s degrees: one in Special Education and another in Educational Leadership. Currently, she is working on her PhD in Special Education.

Dr. Roclandé White

Affectionately known as Doc Roc, Roclandé White is a passionate educator with a focus on collective impact, equity, inclusion, and transformative community collaboration. Dr. White earned her Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership with a specialization in Urban Education, focusing her dissertation on “Intentional Capacity Building and Community Partnerships within Community Schools.” Dr. White is committed to inspiring the next generation of community school educators and leaders by emphasizing the importance of fostering a sense of community within the framework. Her work prioritizes building capacity and strengthening collaboration among practitioners to create sustainable, impactful changes.

Genelle Hatcher

Genelle Hatcher is an Ed.D. candidate and educational leader with over 20 years of experience teaching and serving as a family liaison and community school specialist for PK–8. She has dedicated her career to serving the most vulnerable families in urban areas and Title I schools. As a community school specialist, Hatcher coordinated community partnerships, organized and implemented school-wide family and student engagement events, and worked with staff to identify needs and provide support services. The purpose of every effort was to strategically uplift and provide community support to improve families’ academic, social/emotional, physical, and financial well-being. She is currently working on her dissertation, “Developing Technical Assistance Supports for the Culturally Responsive Work of Community School Leadership,” which centers on the technical assistance needs of community schools in Maryland.