PE & Exploratory
All seventh and eighth grade students have PE/Health/Fitness and an Exploratory class each day. Eighth grade students are scheduled for PE/Exploratory in the morning, and seventh grade students attend in the afternoon. Exploratory classes rotate each quarter and include Art, Music, Computer Skills, and CTE (Careers & Technology Education). Band and Chorus are offered daily for interested students.
In addition, the Media Center is a busy hub for students and staff, with our Media Specialist helping both teachers and students utilize technology.
Daniel Bennett ~ PE/Health/Fitness
Lydia Miller ~ PE/Health/Fitness
Hello! This is my first year in the Charleston School District. I went to Arthur High School. I attended Eastern Illinois University studying physical education and receiving both undergraduate and graduate degrees in the field. I also received a master's degree in educational administration from Grand Canyon University. This will be my 20th year teaching physical education and I will be coaching volleyball at both CHS and CMS. I am excited to join the CMS team!
Corbin Schwable ~ PE/Health/Fitness
Mr. Schwable is originally from Freeburg, Illinois. He ran cross country and track at Eastern Illinois University and graduated with a Physical Education and Health degree in December 2022. He started teaching at Charleston Middle School in January 2023 and he is the boy's cross-country coach and assistant track coach at the middle school.
Darbie Thompson ~ Art
Hi! I'm the 7th and 8th grade art teacher. I received my BFA from SIU Carbondale and will have my master's in art education from EIU this fall. I started teaching art in 2017 and have worked in the district since 2019.
Kelby Adams ~ Computer Skills
Finding a balance between being a teacher, a mother to 2 young boys, a mother to 3 fur-babies, a wife, and doing all the things I love. I handle it by letting go of what I can’t control and focusing on what I can – food for thought.
Kim Sherwood ~ Careers & Applied Technology (CTE)
My mission is to effectively serve my family, school and community to the best of my ability at the time. Originally from the Pittsburgh area, I attended Charleston schools and participated in band, track and volleyball along the way. EIU was a great choice to continue my education (and track career) for my science, teaching and administrative degrees. After coaching for a few years I began teaching 7th science at CMS in 2001 and transitioned to the new CTE class in 2021. I enjoy my family (husband and 2 girls), pets, good friends, yummy food and playing games. I'm excited for the new school year and growing with your student.
Michael Mellott ~ Music & Chorus
John Wengerski ~ Band
