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Staff Focus

Photos of exceptional staff

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.

Staff Focus: Stephanie Geddie, Title I Point of Contact, Laurel Woods Elementary School

Laurel Woods Elementary School Title I Point of Contact Stephanie Geddie has journeyed from homelessness to Teacher of the Year. She channels the support of the strong community she had growing up into her current work engaging families and connecting with students, especially those in similar situations.

Staff Focus: Trina Johnson, Paraeducator, Oakland Mills Middle School

Oakland Mills Middle School paraeducator Trina Johnson uses her experience and passion to support teachers and staff, and to make connections with students to ensure their academic and social-emotional well-being.

Staff Focus: Maddy Halbach, Academy of Finance Instructor, Applications and Research Laboratory (ARL)

Applications and Research Laboratory Academy of Finance Instructor Maddy Halbach helps high school students develop important financial skills and literacy to prepare them for college, careers and life.

Staff Focus: Julia Allan, Kindergarten Teacher, Northfield Elementary School

Northfield Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher Julia Allan has returned to her own Kindergarten classroom to fulfill her dream of teaching in Howard County.

Staff Focus: Sara Wolfson, Reading Support Teacher, Running Brook Elementary School

Running Brook Elementary School Reading Support Teacher Sara Wolfson increases students’ reading capabilities through schoolwide reading and writing programs for both teachers and students.

Staff Focus: Colin Moe, Academic Life Skills Teacher, Centennial High School

Centennial High School alumnus Colin Moe is now an Academic Life Skills Teacher at the school. He works with non-diploma bound students to teach mathematics and other skills to provide opportunities for the students to become positive contributors to the community.

Stacey Storm, Cluster Nurse, Marriotts Ridge High School

Marriotts Ridge High School Cluster Nurse Stacey Storm takes care of students and staff inside and outside the health room.

Nick Vissari, Data Architect and Security Manager

HCPSS Data Architect and Security Manager Nick Vissari designs, builds and manages software applications for the entire Howard County Public School System. He also keeps a watchful eye on cybersecurity threats to protect vital school system information. Known as someone who creates solutions, Vissari’s work directly impacts students, parents and staff every day.

Elizabeth Diaz, Stevens Forest Elementary School Fourth Grade Teacher

Stevens Forest Elementary School Fourth Grade Teacher Elizabeth Diaz works hard to know her students as individuals so she can meet their needs and help them fulfill their potential.

Jessica Church, 2nd Grade Teacher and Instructional Team Leader, Jeffers Hill Elementary School

Jeffers Hill Elementary School teacher Jessica Church has dedicated her life to education. She’s a firm believer in a growth mindset, encouraging her students to develop skills and confidence throughout the year.