Howard County Board of Education Names Acting Superintendent

December 14th, 2023

The Howard County Board of Education announced at a public meeting on Dec. 14, 2023, that Howard County Public School System Chief Academic Officer Bill Barnes will serve as the HCPSS Acting Superintendent beginning Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024. Current Superintendent, Dr. Michael J. Martirano, recently announced his retirement effective Jan. 10.

As the HCPSS Chief Academic Officer since 2017, Barnes oversees the departments of Special Education, Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, and Program Innovation and Student Well-Being. He has prioritized recruiting, developing and retaining leaders throughout those departments. He began his career with HCPSS in 2008, serving as the Coordinator of Secondary Mathematics and Director of Secondary and PreK-12 Curricular Programs. Prior to that, he served as a high school math teacher. Throughout his extensive career in education, he has held multiple leadership roles on state and national committees, panels, and groups; primarily focused on mathematics education. He has committed his entire career to enhancing educational outcomes for all students. As a teacher, Barnes received National Board Certification and was awarded Maryland’s prestigious Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching in 2003, the highest award bestowed upon a mathematics teacher in Maryland.

“The Board is pleased that Mr. Barnes has agreed to lead our school system for the next several months,” said Jennifer Swickard Mallo, Board of Education Chair. “When we thought about what was best for the students and staff right now, the Board agreed that Mr. Barnes’ history and experience could lead our system well. Mr. Barnes knows the system, people, and culture of Howard County schools and students. His leadership and teaching experience will help him seamlessly transition into this role.”

The Board will conduct a thorough nationwide search for a permanent Superintendent, working diligently to ensure a smooth transition and a bright future. There will be opportunities for all stakeholders to provide input into this process as we move forward.