HCPSSNews Stories
A Message from the Superintendent on Belonging
March 19th, 2025
The following was sent to the HCPSS community by HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes on March 19, 2025.
Excused Absences for Religious Observances
March 3rd, 2025
In alignment with Howard County Board of Education Policy 3000 Religious Observances, a student absence for observation of a religious holiday is considered a lawful absence.
Superintendent Update on the Special Education Program Review, Feb. 20, 2025
February 21st, 2025
The following message was sent to the HCPSS community by HCPSS Superintendent William J. Barnes on Feb. 20, 2025: In November, Research Triangle Institute (RTI) was approved to perform the program review, and their work has been progressing. They have had several conversations with staff and developed a staff survey which was distributed and received […]
Special Education Careers Virtual Open House, March 12, 2025
February 21st, 2025
The HCPSS Office of Human Resources and Department of Special Education will host a free, virtual event Wednesday, March 12 from 4-5:30 p.m. for attendees to learn more about a career in special education with Howard County public schools.
HBCU College Fair, March 15, 2025
February 20th, 2025
Students, parents/guardians, educators, and counselors are invited to attend an HCPSS college fair focused on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) on Saturday, March 15 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Guilford Park High School, 8500 Ridgely’s Run Rd, Jessup.
Update to Student Access to Spotify, Effective Feb. 14, 2025
February 13th, 2025
Effective Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, HCPSS will block access to Spotify on the HCPSS instructional (student) network and on student Chromebooks. The change stems from parent concerns about students’ access to Spotify, a music and podcasting service that includes songs with explicit content. Staff determined that service is not integral to the HCPSS instructional program, […]
New Options for Reporting Hate Biases Now Available
February 13th, 2025
The Howard County Public School System is committed to providing safe and inclusive learning environments for all students. When harmful incidents occur in schools, it is important that those incidents are appropriately investigated and responded to.
Bollman Bridge ES Math Teacher Wins Presidential STEM Teaching Award
January 29th, 2025
Bollman Bridge Elementary School (BBES) math specialist Kate Sandoval has been named a recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST), the nation’s highest award for K-12 teachers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Sandoval is one of six educators, and one of only two math teachers, in Maryland […]
Cultivating Belonging for Every Student
January 28th, 2025
The following was sent to staff and the HCPSS community by HCPSS Superintendent Bill Barnes on Jan. 28, 2025:
Aspiring Administrator Seminars, Feb. 5 & 11, 2025
January 27th, 2025
The HCPSS offices of Human Resources and Leadership Development will offer optional seminars to support individuals considering applying for Principal, Assistant Principal or Athletics & Activities Manager positions in the Howard County Public School System for the 2025-2026 school year. Virtual Application Seminar Wednesday, Feb. 5, 5-6:30 p.m. Link provided upon registration This seminar is […]