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.
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 […]
Alicia Cagnolatti, Regional Program Teacher (Intermediate), Fulton Elementary School
Fulton Elementary School’s Alicia Cagnolatti approaches her role as a regional program teacher with a calling to serve others and a strong interest in understanding social behavior.
Staff Focus: Jarrod Thompson, Manager of Print Services
Jarrod Thompson, manager of print services, joined the print shop “family” over a year ago. With his positive and proactive leadership, the print shop continues to get more efficient with more capabilities to serve HCPSS and its students.
Steve Ammann, 8th Grade English Language Arts Teacher and Instructional Team Leader, Mount View Middle School
It’s no surprise that “positivity” is a top Strength for Steve Ammann when one of his teaching mottos is “Learn it with laughter; learn it for a lifetime.” Getting hired right out of college, he has spent his entire career as a Mount View Middle School 8th grade English Language Arts (ELA) teacher.
Mecah Washington, Special Education Paraeducator, Ducketts Lane Elementary School
Washington has made it her professional mission to build strong connections with all her students, so they can find their voices and receive a quality education.
Staff Focus: Kim Burke, CTE Teacher, Marriotts Ridge High School
Burke believes in creating community to engage her students. Therefore, she is incredibly active at her school, Marriotts Ridge High School.
Anthony Bell, Special Educator, Homewood Center
Homewood Center Special Educator Anthony Bell describes himself as a “cycle breaker.” A Wilde Lake High School alumnus, Bell pushed himself through a winding, decades-long path from community college dropout to HCPSS custodian and now an aspiring assistant principal.
Joan Ogaitis, Occupational Therapy Program Head, Special Education
Joan Ogaitis leads the HCPSS occupational therapy program with a full heart and long-term vision as she works to remove learning barriers for students, so they can succeed in the classroom and ultimately in life.