New HCPSS Organizational Alignment

June 6th, 2024

The following message was issued by Acting HCPSS Superintendent William J. Barnes on June 6, 2024:

As the 2023-2024 school year soon ends for all students, my work as Superintendent is just beginning. And while the transition of leadership will, in many ways, result in incremental changes, there are many improvements that must be made without delay to benefit our students and staff, and align our organization to the priorities and challenges before us.

At today’s Board of Education meeting, I presented a change to the organizational structure of our district. (Remarks and presentation are available online.) The adjustments I am implementing were finalized based on my experience in the district, conversations with Board of Education members and many HCPSS staff, and even consultation with other districts around the State. Each decision and adjustment was made with considerable thought and deliberation, and to establish a foundation for the important work before us as we prepare for the 2024-2025 school year. They allow our Central Office to be set up in a way that provides greater support for our students and school-based staff. These changes to the organization will occur throughout the summer, building through multiple phases before the school year starts. Our intent is for these changes to take place on August 1.

This reorganization marks a new day for our school system. It reflects a commitment to strategic planning and accountability. It reflects a commitment to equitable practices, structures, and systems. It marks a shift toward greater collaboration and less siloed thinking. And I am excited to get these teams installed so we can begin achieving better outcomes for our students as soon as possible.

I am focused on developing a dynamic, innovative, dedicated team of individuals under this new structure that align with the beliefs and values that will guide my work over the next four years, all with a keen focus on encouraging instructional excellence, removing barriers for students and ensuring that every student will graduate with their dreams intact.

We all have very important work before us, and there is no other place I would rather be leading this work than Howard County. Thank you.