Get to Know Shaun Powell, Manager, Custodial Services

January 5th, 2026

The HCPSS Get To Know series was created to help staff learn more about system leaders in schools and offices with whom they may not typically interact. HCPSS leaders answer a mix of personal and professional questions in an effort to let all employees get to know them better.

Why did you choose to work in education?

I enjoy being a part of something much larger than me. I have two kids of my own and I understand the importance of a good educational experience for everyone. I was interested in having the opportunity to have an impact on students’ learning experiences as they progress through the Howard County Public School System.

What is your role within HCPSS?

I am the Manager of the Office of Custodial Services. I look to ensure that our operations improve as it relates to the alignment of HCPSS educational objectives, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives thrive to support our community of learners. This is achieved through close collaboration with Central Office leadership, school leadership and our custodial teams.

Additionally, I continuously strive to optimize our operational efficiencies through evaluation of procedures and prospective equipment. Doing so helps bolster the abilities of the 431 staff members who make up our custodial teams and allow them the best opportunity to clean our schools in the most effective manner.

What is the best professional advice you’ve ever received?

“Come to the table with solutions.” It is easy to identify problems or challenges. Leaders and colleagues value individuals who take ownership, collaborate, and help move work forward by offering solutions, even if they are not perfect rather than simply highlighting challenges.

What is something you like a lot that would surprise people?

I really enjoy sailing. My father and I had a couple different sail boats on the Chesapeake Bay over the course of the last decade, and many great memories were made over that time. It was a passion of my father for much of his younger years, and I am glad he introduced me to it and that we were able to share a lot of great days out on the water together.

What is on your bucket list?

I aspire to write a non-fiction book. I have been inspired by a lot of what I read. I have several different ideas of what I would like to write about but I am still refining the focus and direction that I would want to pursue.

What is the most interesting place you’ve ever been?

The most interesting place I have been is the Dominican Republic as it relates to having the privilege of experiencing a different culture.

With that said, a very memorable and interesting experience was in Colorado when I used to visit there each winter during my college years to snowboard. They have sections of the mountain that are called the “back bowls.” You take a lift to the top of the mountain and then get into a Snowcat to take you even higher up the mountain to a total elevation of 12,500 feet. Here you are left to the elements to find your own way back down the mountain with no trails or runs provided for you. It is just you, 12,500 feet of mountain with several feet of snow and a whole bunch of trees to navigate through. Being in such an isolated environment was a very interesting and raw experience that truly felt like an adventure.

What has your professional journey in HCPSS been like?

I joined HCPSS in November 2022 and have truly enjoyed the journey thus far. During my time here, I have had the privilege to support a variety of programs by serving on interview panels and participating in multiple committees focused on policy review, summer school, and community use of facilities. Additionally, I have been fortunate to collaborate with some great Central Office leadership, including serving as a co-chair on a group advancing HCPSS strategic plan initiatives, and I am currently participating in the Leadership Fellows program which has been a great experience.