Mark Carothers Honored as Statewide Leader in Student Advocacy

Mark Carothers, principal at Poolesville High School, has been named the Wayne Perry High School Principal of the Year by the Maryland Association of Student Councils (MASC). This honor recognizes his outstanding commitment to elevating student voice and leadership.

Carothers received the award at the MASC’s annual awards banquet, celebrating his work to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage in decision-making and leadership at Poolesville High School.

Through initiatives like the Principal’s Leadership Council and the inclusion of a student representative on the Instructional Leadership Team (ILT), Carothers has built structures that ensure student perspectives are not only heard, but also actively shape the school experience. His leadership reflects MASC’s mission to empower students to exchange ideas, develop leadership skills and advocate for their peers.

During a period of school construction and transition to a new building, Carothers remained committed to student inclusion, seeking input and keeping students engaged throughout the process. His communication with students, staff and community encourage the school community to share their ideas, but most importantly Carothers engages student voices in order to better understand their experience and improve it. His willingness to involve students and factor their voices into vital decisions that directly impact them demonstrates his advocacy and dedication. 

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