From Teacher to Principal: Loni Charnock’s Journey at TCS

BY MILES LAYTON

Good news!

Loni Renee Charnock passed an important exam administered by Salisbury University that will allow her to serve as Principal at Tangier Combined School when the time is right. Congratulations!

“To become an administrator you have to hold a Master’s degree, teach for at least three years, take course work in School Law, Special Education, and Supervision and Evaluation of Instruction,” Charnock said. “I also had to work closely with the building supervisor, Marjorie Rosati, who taught me more than any course ever could. It is also essential to pass the School Leadership Exam.”   

Let’s take a step back to learn more about Charnock, who was born and raised in Tangier, TCS Class of 2000. She started teaching at TCS fresh out of college in the fall of 2005. 

“I have been teaching Special Education for the past 20 years at TCS,” she said. “For the past five years, I have also been helping out a lot in the general education elementary classrooms teaching Reading and Math. For the past two years, I have been taking on administrative duties as well.”

Charnock said teaching is a job that really matters. 

“Every day, I know I am making a difference by helping students learn to read or write or even deal with life’s struggles,” she said. “I will often see the students that I have taught over the years and it’s rewarding knowing that I helped to get them where they are. Some of my students hold high positions on the tugboat, others are teacher assistants, teachers, social workers, etc.”  

TCS is a great place for students to receive an education – 41 students – with a student-teacher ratio of 5-1.  

“The student-teacher ratio is like no other school. It is really like the students are getting a private school education. Teachers have a deep connection with their students because they not only work with them all day in school, but are with them in church and at community events. Some of your students are cousins, nieces or nephews, or your friends’ children.”

Now this would be a parent’s dream – teaching your own children in school.  If you haven’t seen the banner in town, know this — Charnock’s daughter Alona was valedictorian, TCS Class of 2024.

“I am even fortunate enough to teach where my own five children attend school,” Charnock said. “TCS is a great place for the staff too. My home is probably 300 feet from the school. I do not have to get in my car to get to work. I get to teach each day with my aunt, best friends, cousin, and sisters-in-law.” 

Charnock said she is excited about the next chapter in her life.  

“I am both excited and nervous to take this next step,” she said. “I feel like I am well-prepared, but I also know that there will be super high expectations. I want to ensure that we keep up the momentum academically while also keeping our traditions and special events and activities alive.”    

If you have news tips about Tangier, please send them to mlayton1969@gmail.com