HCPSSHanover Hills ES’ Jeff Leard Named Howard County School Psychologist of the Year
February 16th, 2022
Hanover Hills Elementary School (HHES) Psychologist Jeff Leard has been named School Psychologist of the Year by the Howard County School Psychologists Association (HCSPA).
“We are fortunate to have many great school psychologists in the county, but Jeff is a standout,” says HCSPA President Mary Nalepa. “He is integrated into the fabric of the school. [He] relies on data-based decision making and engages his colleagues using data and data fidelity to inform decisions. He also is helping to mold the next generation of school psychologists as an intern supervisor. Jeff is a countywide Crisis Team Leader and may be seen supporting a crisis response at any HCPSS school.He strives to ensure best practices in this area and consistently goes above and beyond to provide crisis supports to school teams.”
HHES Principal Troy Todd also sings Leard’s praises: “Mr. Leard has been an integral part of the successful opening of Hanover Hills and in helping to create a warm and positive learning environment. It is quite evident that he will stop at nothing to help all students reach academic success and meet all their goals. Mr. Leard has high expectations for himself, as well as for others, and serves as an exemplary role model for our school. Mr. Leard is a dedicated, devoted, and enthusiastic leader. His positive outlook, sense of humor, and natural ability to connect with people benefits our students, our school, and our community. This is such a well-deserved award for Mr. Leard, and I am so happy he is part of our team!”
HHES Assistant Principal Shari Lorch adds, “Mr. Leard always goes the extra mile to support students and help address issues that may be affecting their academic and social-emotional well-being. He regularly checks in on staff and student family members as well. Mr. Leard has a wit and sense of humor that helps him to instantly connect with others and a sense of calm that helps others feel safe to engage.”
Leard was honored with a surprise celebration at HHES on Feb. 14. He will also receive a plaque from HCSPA recognizing his achievement. As the HCSPA winner, Leard is a candidate for the Maryland School Psychologist of the Year award.
The annual award is given to a school psychologist with at least five years of experience who works directly with students to provide a full range of psychological services, and who excels in each area of the National Association of School Psychologists Practice Model. Leard was nominated by administrators, counselors, and fellow school psychologists at HHES and his previous school. His and other nominations were reviewed by the HCSPA Recognition Committee, which subsequently voted Leard the winner of this year’s award.
The Howard County School Psychology Association is the local organization of school psychologists represented at the State level.
Additional information about HCPSS school psychologists is available online.