Welcome to the Mathematics Department!
Department Chair: Dr. Johnson
Graduation Requirements for Students Entering 9th Grade during or Prior to 2019-2020
- 3 Mathematics Credits
- Must be enrolled in a Mathematics course each year of high school
- You must successfully complete Algebra 1, Geometry, and a nontrivial math course (Algebra 2 strongly recommended).
- PASS Algebra 1 MCAP Exam
Graduation Requirements for Students Entering 9th Grade during or Prior to 2020-2021
- 4 Mathematics Credits
- Must be enrolled in a Mathematics course each year of high school
- You must successfully complete Algebra 1, Geometry, and two additional math courses
- PASS Algebra 1 MCAP Exam
Classes Offered
- Algebra 1
- Geometry
- Honors Geometry
- Algebra 2
- Honors Algebra 2
- GT Algebra 2
- SAT Math Prep
- Pre-College Mathematics: Advanced Algebra
- Trigonometry with Algebra
- College Algebra
- Honors Pre-Calculus
- GT Pre-Calculus
- AP Calculus
- AP Statistics
Message From the Department/DC
The Mathematics Department is excited to welcome you to Woodlawn High School. We are committed to promoting college and career-readiness by providing rigorous mathematics instruction in an active and engaging learning environment. Students should expect to think critically, problem solve, and work independently and collaboratively in all of their mathematics courses.
Dr. Frances Johnson - Mathematics Department Chair
fjohnson@bcps.org
College Attended: Rutgers University (BS), Sacred Heart University (MBA), UMBC (MA)
Bio: My name is Dr. Johnson and I am the Mathematics Department Chair. I have been at Woodlawn for over 15 years. However, I have been a teacher for over 20 years. My teaching career began in the Science Department and transitioned to Mathematics. I truly enjoy my role as an educator, and I am ready to begin the best year ever! My hobbies include gardening, travelling and spending time with family. Also, I completed my doctoral degree in Educational Psychology and Technology at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. This program provided me the opportunity to participate in a Study Abroad Program in South Africa in 2017. Teaching is truly inspirational
Mr. Michael Braswell - Mathematics Teacher
mbraswell@bcps.org
College Attended: Catholic University
Bio: I was born in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. I have two younger brothers. I am the oldest. Both my parents were Teachers. I received my undergraduate degree at the University of Cape Town, in South Africa. I met Nelson Mandela when he was President of South Africa. I received my master’s degree from Catholic University. I worked the POTUS and FLOTUS for the Clintons when they visited South Africa. My favorite job was being the Ambassadors Self Help Coordinator at the United States Consulate in Cape Town, South Africa. In my free time I enjoy playing frisbee golf, softball, tennis, pickleball, horseshoes and corn hole. Looking forward to one of my last years in education. Anticipating seeing everyone tomorrow. Be safe, stay healthy and enjoy life
Mr. Michael Carter Jr - Mathematics Teacher
mcarter7@bcps.org
College Attended: Stevenson University (BS)
Bio: My name is Mr. Michael Carter, Jr. and I am in the Special Education Department, with a focus on Math. I am a graduate of Paul Laurence Dunbar HS, class of 2012. I look forward to meeting everyone and having a fun learning experience this school year. Hobbies: Coaching Football (Poet Pride), Video Games, Enjoying time with family
Rebecca Harro - Mathematics Teacher
rharro@bcps.org
College Attended: Binghamton University (BS), Wheaton College (MAT)
Bio: I started my teaching career in 2012 at an American school in East Jerusalem. Most of my students were Palestinian, and I really enjoyed practicing Arabic and learning about cultural similarities and differences during my four years at the school. When I returned to the US, I spent a couple of years tutoring and earning my Masters of Arts in Teaching Secondary Mathematics. After three years of teaching in a school just outside Chicago, I moved to Maryland to live with my best friend. Everywhere I have worked, my favorite part of teaching is how dynamic each class is with the individual students personalities, needs, and talents.
Ms. Tujuana G. Hinton - Mathematics Teacher
mbraswell@bcps.org
College Attended: Stanford University (BS Mech. Eng.) University of MD, Baltimore County [UMBC] (BS Mathematics) UMBC (MAT)
Bio: My name is Mrs. Tujuana Hinton and I am in the Mathematics Department. I been at WHS for over 15 years. Additionally, I am the Advisor to the Woodlawn Chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers, Jr. (NSBE). If you are interested in science, technology, engineering, or math then NSBE is the club for you. When I am not in school, I’m spending time with my husband, daughter, and the rest of my family. I love traveling and reading.
Ms. Sommer Joe - Mathematics Teacher
sjoe@bcps.org
College Attended: Howard University (BS) University of MD, College Park (MS)
Bio: My name is Ms. Joe and I am in the Mathematics department and the Engineering Magnet Coordinator. I have been at WHS for over 15 years.
Ms. Donna Jones - Mathematics Teacher
djones3@bcps.org
College Attended: Coppin State University, Morgan State University Towson University
Bio: Greetings! My name is Ms. Jones and I’m a dedicated educator working in the Mathematics Department at Woodlawn High School. For over 20 years, I have been teaching here at WHS and in the Baltimore County Public School System. In addition, I’m also a proud Woodlawn High School Alum, Class of ‘88. Throughout my years at WHS, it has been my devotion to empower my students and all youth to become positive role models (leaders in their school and community), culturally aware, community service oriented, self-aware, and conquers in their education. Moreover, than being a teacher in the classroom, I’m also the co-chair of a few organizations within our school: The 100 Strong Male and Female Role Models, Advisor to the Class of 2023, and DECA. My motto is quoted from Fredrick Douglas, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress,” with the belief, we can do all things. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family, mentoring and ministering to youth and women, shopping, solving puzzles, playing competitive board and online games, watching sporting events (basketball, football and soccer), attending social gatherings and culturally enriched events, watching movies (comedy, action, mystery and crime), as well as finding resources for others. Since, I haven’t any children of my own, every child that I have an opportunity to build a relationship with becomes a child of mine. I look forward to our welcoming experiences together, through this journey of education and empowerment.
Ms. Kalliopi Lessis - Mathematics Teacher
klessis@bcps.org
College Attended: Towson University (BS) Notre Dame of Maryland (MS)
Bio: My name is Kalliopi (Kelly) Lessis and I am in the Math and AVID departments. This is my 4th year at Woodlawn High School. Prior to teaching in Baltimore County, I taught math and science in the Archdiocese of Baltimore for 13 years. I live in Baltimore County with my husband and our 3 children. When not in school, you can find me running after my 4-yr-old, working on home projects, cooking and baking, cross-stitching, and hanging out with friends.
Ms. Martin - Mathematics Teacher
cmartin14@bcps.org
College Attended: Stevenson University (BS, MA)
Bio: My name is Ms. Martin, and I am part of the Math Department at Woodlawn High School, where I also serve as the PBIS Coordinator, a tech liaison, and manage the school website. I was honored as the 2020 Woodlawn HS Teacher of the Year and completed a 2-year research study on flexible seating in my classroom. I am passionate about educational innovation and continually seek out new ideas. I graduated high school at 16, earned my Bachelor's in Business Administration, and a Master's Degree from Stevenson University. Outside of school, I enjoy training and competing in eventing with my horse, Silver, going to the gym, snowboarding, creating social media content, hiking, traveling, renovating houses, drawing, playing guitar, and getting tattooed. At home, I have a cat named Norman. Follow my Instagram @msmartinwhs209
Mr. Lonnie Pugh - Mathematics Teacher
lpugh@bcps.org
College Attended: Michigan State University, Siena Heights University
Bio: Mr. Pugh is a proud graduate of Michigan State University where he obtained an undergraduate degree in Communication. Also, he secured a graduate degree from Siena Heights University with a degree in Leadership with an emphasis in Higher Education. Mr. Pugh competed as a track and field athlete in college and coached several National Champions and All Americans. Mr. Pugh enjoys concerts, stamping his passport, and spending time with his family and friends
Ms. Carolann Sharpe - Mathematics Teacher
csharpe@bcps.org
College Attended: Loyola University (BS) Fontbonne College (MBA) College of Notre Dame (MA)
Bio: I have been teaching in Baltimore County for 26 years. Majority in the Woodlawn community. I graduated High School in New York State and came to Maryland to attend college. After traveling to California and Missouri, I returned to Maryland to live. My four sons attended BCPS schools, three graduated from Franklin High School and one from Westminster High School. I have taught grades 5 to 12 in BCPS. I am an active volunteer in animal and children welfare organizations. I believe volunteering for young adults is an excellent way for them to gain skills that make then a valuable employee and community member. My hobbies include horseback riding, camping, cooking, trying new restaurants, visiting historical places and learning about the people of that community.
Ms. Gianna Splitstoser - Mathematics Teacher
gsplitstoser@bcps.org
College Attended: University of Alaska Anchorage (BS) University of Alaska Fairbanks (MS)
Bio: My name is Ms. Splitstoser and I am a teacher in the Math Department. I enjoy tennis, skiing, hiking, and yoga. I love to travel and have visited 27 states, eight countries and three continents. If you want to get me talking, ask me about growing up in Alaska!
Ms. Diedre Thomas - Mathematics Teacher & IEP Facilitator
dthomas12@bcps.org
College Attended: Morgan State University (BS) Towson University (MAT)
Bio: A c/o 2006 Baltimore Polytechnic Institute graduate. Received my BS in Architecture and Environmental Design from Morgan State University. In the process of receiving MAT in Secondary Math/Special Education from Towson University. My educational career started in Baltimore County as a AAA, then worked for the Children's Guild working with 2nd graders. I then migrated to Baltimore City where I became a long-term substitute. I then became a paraeducator and student teacher. I decided I wanted to only do high school and found a home at Woodlawn High School. I enjoy coaching volleyball and player development, music and movies.
Mr. Augustus Thornton - Mathematics Teacher
athornton2@bcps.org
College Attended: Coppin State University (BS) Grand Canyon University (M.Ed) Towson University (M.S.Ed)
Bio: IMr. Augustus Thornton is a proud graduate of Woodlawn Senior High School, class of 1993. After many years of hard work, Mr. Thornton completed his undergraduate degree from "The" Coppin State University and earned his Master of Education in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Mr. Thornton recently earned a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from Towson University. Mr. Thornton enjoys traveling, reading, listening to music and educating
Ms. Lauren Towson - Mathematics Teacher
ltowson@bcps.org
College Attended: Towson University (BS, MS)
Bio: My name is Mrs. Lauren Towson and I have been in the math/special education department at WHS since 2019. I am married with two kids. Most of my spare time is spent doing things with my family. I love to read and watch documentaries. I also love swimming. I am really looking forward to this year!
Mr. Theodore Wallace - Mathematics Teacher
twallace3@bcps.org
College Attended: University of Maryland College Park (BS) Coppin State University (MS)
Bio: My name is Mr. Wallace. I teach mathematics, and I have been at Woodlawn High School for over 5 years. Previously I taught at Prince Georges County. When I am not working, I like to do anything that keeps me physically active.
Ms. Zoker - Mathematics Teacher
gzoker@bcps.org
SPARC Teacher: Dr. Hunter (See SPARC Page)