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.
Yoko Fines, Paraeducator, Cedar Lane School
Fines’ dedication to her students comes from a place of warmth: “I instruct them, motivate them and encourage them to find their success.”
Kevin Lee, Pupil Personnel Worker, Oakland Mills Middle School and Oakland Mills High School
Lee realized his calling was to help students and families in need. Now he is out front removing barriers, so student can come ready to succeed in classrooms.
Michael Martirano, Interim Superintendent
Dr. Michael Martirano returned to the Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) in May as acting superintendent, and was recently named interim superintendent. A former HCPSS parent and director of school administration, Martirano looks forward to “getting back to the root of what I do–working with kids–at a place I love.”
Pete Merson, Carpenter Supervisor
Merson, a lifetime Howard County resident and alumnus, has worked in HCPSS for 24 years. As carpenter supervisor, he and his team ensure every school’s learning environment is at its best.
Amy Fuller, Kindergarten Teacher, Centennial Lane Elementary School
Fuller has quickly established herself as a leader in teaching kindergarten, and is one of a handful of teachers piloting the Early Childhood Demonstration Teacher Initiative.
Ronald Bowman, Instrumental Music Teacher, Gorman Crossing Elementary School
Bowman’s unwavering passion for music instruction has spread to the entire school community, where almost every student is involved in a music class – an almost unheard of participation rate.
Jacquie Sica, Health Teacher and Related Arts Team Leader, Burleigh Manor Middle School
Burleigh Manor Middle School’s Jacquie Sica “provides a safe space for all students. The kids respond to her practices in the health classroom, which leads to good relationships and a general comfort level.
Jon Dupski, Mathematics Teacher and Varsity Baseball Coach, Atholton High School
Atholton High School mathematics teacher and varsity baseball coach Jon Dupski played baseball as a student at Centennial High School. He enjoys instilling baseball’s life lessons, such as goal setting and teamwork, in his players.
Jennifer Speace, English Language Arts Teacher, Folly Quarter Middle School
Folly Quarter Middle School’s Jennifer Speace “embodies the idea that teaching is not what you do, it’s who you are. She has a quiet power about her. It’s the value she sees in her students as individual people,” said Michele Doyle-Wetzelberger, Folly Quarter assistant principal.
Helen Yi, Music Teacher, Phelps Luck Elementary School
Phelps Luck Elementary School music teacher Helen Yi applies one of her favorite mottos, “appreciate all styles,” to both music and people.