HCPSSCultivating Belonging for Every Student
January 28th, 2025
The following was sent to staff and the HCPSS community by HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes on Jan. 28, 2025:
This Thursday at the Board of Education meeting, I will unveil the new strategic plan for our school system. The plan was developed by first engaging students, staff, parents and community members in a process to establish the values we share as a community. A primary value that was elevated, and a significant foundational component of the strategic plan, is that all students and staff experience belonging while in our buildings or participating in school activities.
As I turn on the news, open my email, or simply engage in conversations with students, staff and community members across our county, there is clear anxiety among many about recent changes in policy and procedure at the federal level and what those changes mean for students and families. There are many students in our schools who are looking for us to provide spaces that are accepting, supportive, and offer a reprieve from the uncertain world around them.
Regardless of an individual’s race, gender, immigration status, political affiliation, or any other identifying component that makes each of us unique, it is my expectation that every person feels welcome and accepted at school. There is a lot in this world and in our community that HCPSS is not able to influence. But we can certainly influence how we treat one another, especially those with whom we disagree. I want to make clear that I will not tolerate words or behaviors that erode a sense of belonging for any person – student or staff – in our schools.
I have directed my leadership team to provide clear and concise communications that detail how we respond when there are changes to federal, state, or local policies or practices. Further, the team is charged to share community resources with students, staff, and families who have concerns or are in need of immediate support.
One such resource was made available by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) on Jan. 27, 2025. MSDE published an online guide for students, families and local education agencies that includes information and resources for those who have questions regarding immigration enforcement actions that are occurring nationally and in our state. In alignment with State law, we do not ask students or families to disclose immigration status. Our focus is on providing supportive learning environments for all students, regardless of immigration status.
As additional information becomes available, we will provide information as part of our weekly HCPSS News newsletter. There are a number of shifts in federal policy and practice that require our awareness, and our team is working with state and local officials to make sure that clear procedures and useful resources are provided. Thank you all for joining me in working to ensure every student and staff member experiences the sense of belonging that our Howard County community elevated as something we value significantly. And, thank you for helping me do everything in our power to ensure every student is fully available for learning when in school.