Even in a small community like Talbot County, it’s sometimes easy to think of our public school teachers as a large group rather than individuals. Amid the COVID crisis or with debates about funding for education, there is an instinct to lump them together. Still, by doing so, we lose sight of the extraordinary gifts and commitment these unique human beings bring into their classrooms and the lifelong impact on the children they teach.
The Spy met one of those special people last week. Charlene Caldwell DeShields has been teaching in the Talbot County Public Schools for forty-three years. The daughter of another TCPS teacher, Charlene, has carried on that tradition even though she could have quietly retired many years ago. And the sense of commitment has not waivered during the coronavirus crisis when it would have been an opportune time to call it quits rather than face the frustrations and complexity of online learning.
But more than her dedication to education, it’s clear from her interview with us that DeShields brings to her job a love of her students that reinforces how lucky our community is to have someone who unconditionally has committed herself for more than four decades to the life of Talbot County and its families.
We are fortunate, indeed.
This video is approximately six minutes in length.
Linda Baker says
Charlene Deshields taught while my children were there almost 30 yrs ago. She was easy to talk with, a wonderful teacher, and the children loved her. I can believe she is still teaching because you could certainly tell she enjoyed what she was doing. Endeavoring to make sure all children were on the road to learn and succeed! Thank you Ms. Deshields for your commitment to, and love for the children of Easton Elementary.
Robin Wilson says
Charlene Deshields is the best! She was my son’s first grade teacher over 20 years ago. She was an absolutely amazing teacher and was loved by both her students and, their parents. To this day, when I see her, she still will ask about my son and his family. She is a very special person and Talbot County is blessed to have her on their side, working with our children.
Kelly Griffith says
Absolutely adore this amazing woman!!!!
Wanda says
My grandson had the pleasure of being taught by Ms. DeShields. He along with his friends loved her, she left a great impression on them. To this day when we see her she ask for her babies!
Vickie J. Wilson says
Ms. D is one of the best.
Kay says
Charlene is a gift to her family, children of Talbot, our community and all those who have benefited from her knowledge, enthusiasm , dedication and love. I am blessed to know her as a fellow teacher and mother of her children I taught.❤️
Vicky Lahman says
Best teacher ever. She taught my son 36 years ago. She goes above ad beyond for her students in school and out.