Administration
Somer Snider, Principal 
Content/Departments/Programs Supervised
- Administrative & Core Team
- School Improvement Planning
- Content Specialists PLC (Lead)
- Super TAC (Lead)
- Staff Development Teacher & PD
- School Library Media Program
- AEIST & ITSS
- Staffing & Payroll
- School Finances & Budget
- Faculty/Parent Newsletters
- CSST/Student Well-Being Team
- Community Partnerships
- PTSA & Field Trips
Message to the community:
Hello, Cabin John Middle School community! This school year will be my fifth year as the principal of Cabin John Middle School and my 8th year as a Cabin John Cougar. I am originally from Pocono Pines, Pennsylvania, and moved to Maryland back in 2005 to continue my career in education. This will be my 20th year as an educator in MCPS. Before becoming an administrator, I served as a Mathematics Teacher, 8th grade Team Leader, Mathematics Content Specialist, and an Instructional Specialist supporting schools with math instruction and writing curricula. I started my journey in educational administration at Roberto Clemente where I was the Assistant Principal supervising the magnet programs for 3 years. After leaving Roberto Clemente, I came to Cabin John where I was an Assistant Principal for 3 years before becoming the Principal.
As principal of Cabin John Middle School, I am committed to providing an individual, unique experience for every student who enters our classrooms. An innovative, high quality school community relies on the ability and desire of the entire staff to spark a love of learning in all students. This is the vision that I exemplify and communicate to the Cabin John Middle School community every day.
My husband and I have four amazing children, 8 year old twins, a 7 year old, and a 4 year old. We are always busy and living our dream!
Zachary Morris, Assistant Principal
- 6th Grade Lead Administrator
- Reports to Principal
Content/Departments/Programs Supervised
- Social Studies
- World Languages
- Observations/Evaluations
- PE/Health Education
- 6th Grade Team
- Extra-Curricular Activities
- Transportation/Activity Bus Coordinator
- Lockers
- Outdoor Education
- Testing Coordinator
Message to the community:
I am ecstatic to begin my 8th year at Cabin John Middle School and my first year as an Assistant Principal. The Cabin John Community is most supportive of any school I have experienced, and the opportunity work closer with all of you is a true highlight of my year. While I spent the majority of my career as an English teacher in Charles County and Montgomery County, I have also served as the Cabin John Restorative Approaches Coach, Related Studies Teacher, and Team Leader. Each of these roles has strengthened my passion for equitable and high-quality instruction, restorative and respectful school culture, and collaborative efforts to give students the school experience they deserve.
Outside of the educational realm, I am a husband and father of two girls, and I spend the majority of my time away from school with them. I am also a dedicated Pittsburgh sports fan who enjoys playing tabletop role playing games and hitting the golf course whenever time allows.
Each school year presents a new journey for all stakeholders, and I am thrilled to be working with all of you on the 2026-2027 adventure.
Cherin Hershkowitz, Assistant Principal
- 8th Grade Lead Administrator
- Reports to Principal
Content/Departments/Programs Supervised
- Grade 8
- Mathematics
- Academic Support Center (ASC)
- Chaperon & Duty Schedule
- Safety & Security Team
- Testing Coordinator
- Grading and Reporting
- On-Site Emergency Team
- No Place for Hate
Message to the community:
I'm thrilled to be joining the Cabin John Middle School community this year! Over the past 23 years in MCPS, I’ve had the privilege of serving in a variety of roles including teacher of grades K–8, Math Content Specialist, Magnet Coordinator, and Assistant Principal. All of my experience has deepened my passion for supporting students and families. At the heart of my work are the core values of empathy, integrity, and kindness, which guide everything I do.
When I’m not at work, I love spending time with my husband and our three boys, who are in 9th, 7th, and 7th grades. We enjoy hiking, cooking together, reading, and finding any excuse to be near the beach. I’m truly excited to partner with you this year to help our students grow, thrive, and feel supported every step of the way.
Jennifer Wingate, Assistant School Administrator 
- 7th Grade Administrator
- Reports to Principal
Content/Departments/Programs Supervised
- • 7th Grade Team
• English, Reading, and English Language Development
• Science
• Counseling
• CSST/SWBT
• Building Services
• Parent Volunteer Coordinator
• Transportation/Activity Bus Coordinator
Message to the community:
Hello, Cabin John Middle School community! This is my fourth year at CJMS, and I am excited to be a part of this amazing school community. I was born and raised in South Carolina. I am a proud South Carolina State University Bulldog! I moved to the area for graduate study at The George Washington University. I have taught science at the middle and high school levels. I was a Science Content Specialist for 15 years before becoming a school administrator. I value building and sustaining positive relationships, equity in education, and providing students with tools to reach their highest potential. I enjoy hiking around local parks, watching movies, and dining out. I am looking forward to a stellar school year!