Newark, MD, April 14, 2026– Today, the Worcester County Board of Education confirms that former Chief Academic Officer (Gr. PK-8) Denise Shorts has been charged with multiple offenses arising from alleged financial misconduct involving Board funds.
The school system first became aware of potential irregularities through the legislative audit process, which began in the fall and audited the period beginning July 1, 2019, through June 30, 2025. On December 13, 2025, a search and seizure warrant was executed on Shorts’ office within the Board of Education building. At that time, Shorts was immediately placed on administrative leave. On February 23, the Department of Legislative Services issued its initial audit findings, referencing, “identified questionable purchases by a management employee which we referred to the Office of the State Prosecutor (OSP),” and that a full report on this matter is forthcoming.
Throughout both the audit and concurrent investigation, school system officials have cooperated fully, and the Finance Department has implemented additional financial oversight measures.
“We take our responsibility to safeguard public resources extremely seriously,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Annette Wallace. “Any misuse of funds intended to support students and staff is unacceptable, and we are committed to full accountability.”
Because this is an active legal matter, the Board of Education cannot comment further on specific details.
"Our community places its trust in us to act with integrity,” Board of Education President Todd Ferrante said. "We are committed to strict oversight, learning from this situation, and implementing stronger safeguards to ensure it does not happen again."
Shorts submitted her intent to vacate her position with the school system on March 26, 2026. The Board is anticipated to act on this separation at the April 21, meeting.