Message From the Superintendent: New Student Personal Device Policy Takes Effect on March 3

The following message was sent to the HCPSS community by HCPSS Superintendent William J. Barnes on Feb. 4, 2025: For several years, I have heard from countless school staff and parents who identify personal student technology devices as having a significant detrimental impact to the learning environment. The Board of Education took a significant step […]

Board of Education Virtual Policy Committee Meeting, Feb. 5, 2025

The Board of Education Policy Committee will hold a virtual meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 5 at 3:30 p.m. The meeting may be accessed live online.

Black Lives Matter at School Week of Action Board of Education Resolution

At the Board of Education meeting on Jan. 30, 2025, the Board approved a resolution to recognize the Black Lives Matter at School: Week of Action. In February, Black History Month, and the Black Lives Matter at School: Week of Action are wonderful catalysts to highlight, uplift and affirm the rich history and contributions of the Black community and Black leaders.

Howard County Schools to Restrict Student Personal Device Access

On Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, the Howard County Board of Education approved adjustments to Policy 8080 – Responsible Use of Technology, Digital Tools, and Social Media, and the Student Code of Conduct that is intended to reduce the use of personal devices by students during the student day. The policy changes will take effect on Monday, March 3, 2025.

New Partnership Supports Students with College Planning and Financial Aid

HCPSS recently signed a partnership agreement with college planning advisor and software developer College Aid Pro.

HCPSS Superintendent Launches New Strategic Plan

On Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) Superintendent, Bill Barnes, presented the school system’s new strategic plan that will guide the system through 2029.

Bollman Bridge ES Math Teacher Wins Presidential STEM Teaching Award

Bollman Bridge Elementary School (BBES) math specialist Kate Sandoval has been named a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation’s highest award for K-12 teachers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Sandoval is one of six educators, and one of only two math teachers, in Maryland […]

March2Future Planning for After High School Webinar Series

March2Future is a post-secondary webinar series provided to HCPSS students and families to assist them in preparing for life after high school. The series runs on select Wednesday evenings and covers a wide range of topics. Wednesday, Feb. 5, 7 p.m.: Standardized Testing Are you confused about standardized testing and how it fits with the […]

2025-2026 Middle School Course Registration, Jan. 30 – Feb. 12, 2025

Middle school course selection for the 2025-2026 academic year will open for current 5-7 grade students Thursday, January 30, 2025 at 8:00 a.m., and run through Wednesday, February 12, 2025 4:00 p.m.

Multilingual Parent Leadership Program Application Deadline February 18, 2025

HCPSS’ Spring Multilingual Parent Leadership Program (MPLP) will begin on March 4, 2025. The six-week program is designed to help international parents navigate the school system and develop the confidence to serve as advocates for their children. The program also provides training for international parents to assume leadership roles in schools and the community.