HCPSSStaff Focus
A world-class educational system fully leverages the talent, energy and creativity of highly engaged staff. Staff engagement is a prerequisite to student engagement so we foster a culture that brings out the best in our employees.
Ann Barnhouse, Principal’s Secretary, Clemens Crossing Elementary School
Clemens Crossing Elementary School Principal’s Secretary Ann Barnhouse is known for providing “service with a smile.” As a lifelong Elkridge resident, she’s embraced Howard County and its school system as an alumna, parent, volunteer and staff member. In her two years in her current role, Barnhouse said she loves that she’s “involved in everything at the school.”
Jenny Geilfuss, Health Education Teacher, Lake Elkhorn Middle School
In her second year teaching Health Education at Lake Elkhorn Middle School, Jenny Geilfuss is already an HCPSS model teacher for health instruction. Previously, Geilfuss taught fitness and environmental science related subjects in such settings as an island with a population of two and a school system’s outdoor school. She continues to explore incorporating the […]
Nena Hupp, Grade 2 Instructional Team Leader, Worthington Elementary School
Worthington Elementary School Grade 2 Instructional Team Leader Nena Hupp brings a wealth of experiences to the classroom from teaching a wide range of student populations in multiple locations and school systems. In over 20 years as an educator, she’s become known for her proactive communications, her math and other leadership contributions, and her openness […]
Tim Beall, Band Director, Northfield Elementary School
Beall is inspired by the enthusiasm of beginner students. His students say he makes music fun! Watch more about Tim in this Staff Focus video.
Demetrius Ball, Social Studies Teacher, Howard High School
Howard High School Social Studies teacher Demetrius Ball has immersed himself in school leadership roles since joining the staff in fall 2012. Ball, a West Point educated army veteran, brings a unique perspective to his U.S. History and Leadership classes. Even though Ball knew from an early age, while growing up in Findlay, Ohio, that […]
Ty’Nisha Armstead, 4th Grade Teacher, Cradlerock Elementary School
Seasoned early education teacher Ty’Nisha Armstead embraced a new school system and new curriculum, teaching 4th grade for the first time, when she joined Cradlerock Elementary School this year. Armstead said she’s “loving” the 4th grade as she’s trying out new ideas, saying “This county is big on hands on and technology learning. I can […]
Galen Monti, Boiler/Burner Specialist 2, Office of Building Services
Galen Monti has diligently maintained and repaired boilers and burners for the HCPSS for two decades. He services and monitors all aspects of boiler and burner installation, cleaning, replacement, inspection and tests for 54 boilers and associated equipment in 26 buildings throughout the county. Over the past 10 years, he’s also assisted in the review […]
Shalonda Holt, Biology Teacher, Centennial High School
HCPSS Teacher of the Year and Centennial High School biology teacher Shalonda Holt relishes the opportunity she has as a teacher to make a significant impact on her students. Holt’s flipped classroom allows students to work at their own pace and gives more time in class for labs and work. Her students say the flipped […]
Michael Bracco, Art Teacher, Ellicott Mills Middle School
Ellicott Mills Middle School art teacher Michael Bracco is a professional illustrator who brings his love of art and personal studio practices into the classroom. He fosters the students’ artistic process by developing their technical, observational and problem solving skills, as well as their ability to communicate about their own art and the work of […]
Tracy Sanders, 5th Grade Teacher, Deep Run Elementary School
Deep Run Elementary School 5th grade teacher Tracy Sanders is a dynamic young educator full of ideas and open to trying new practices. She explained her teaching philosophy with, “The students are the most important part of what I do, so everything should be centered on what they’re showing me or not showing me.” Sanders […]