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.
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.
Victoria Castleman, Academy of Health Professions Teacher, Applications and Research Laboratory
Victoria Castleman, an HCPSS alumna and registered nurse, helps students explore the health field as a potential career option through the Academy of Health Professions at the Applications and Research Laboratory.
Jodi Quinn, Student Services Secretary, Long Reach High School
Quinn has made a name for herself as a go-to staff member and is described as the “rock” of Long Reach High School’s Student Services office.
Gwyneth Jones, Media Specialist, Murray Hill Middle School
Not all library media specialists have mission statements, but Murray Hill Middle School’s daring librarian Gwyneth Jones sure does. Jones has dedicated her professional life to defending lifelong learning, supporting intellectual curiosity, and committing herself as a positive change agent at her school and beyond. Internationally recognized in her field, Jones’ efforts are rooted in […]