News

A safe workplace is everyone’s responsibility—and being mindful of your surroundings is a big part of it. Slips, trips, and falls remain the most common type of workplace injury, but the good news is they are also the most preventable.

Slips, Trips and Falls

During summer cleaning, our custodial teams thoroughly prepare school buildings for
the new year. Please be mindful that floors may be freshly waxed or polished. As
always, walk carefully, especially in areas near cafeterias, entryways, and water
fountains, and report any spills or concerns immediately. Custodial staff will continue to
place “Wet Floor” signage and take precautions to maintain safe walking conditions.

Factors Leading to Slips/Trips/ Falls

The following are common factors that can all contribute to slips, trips and falls:

• Not paying attention
• Carrying large/unwieldy loads which impair your vision
• Using a cell phone while walking or using stairs
• Running/walking quickly
• Ignoring “wet floor” signs
• Wearing sandals/flip flops/shoes with worn tread

Slip/Trips/Fall Prevention

• Always be aware of your surroundings
• Observe condition of ground/floors, going from wet pavement to tile, uneven terrain, etc.
• Clean up potential hazards, clutter or straighten any bumps in a carpet/rug/mat
• Take the initiative – clean up any spills you see
• Or notify the custodial crew so action can be taken
• Wear slip-resistant shoes
• Walk; do not run
• Watch your step; observe hazards or “wet floor” signs

Remember taking minor precautions can help to keep the workplace happy, safe and injury-free.

Maintaining strong cybersecurity practices is essential to protecting our systems, data, and community. To support this effort, all staff are required to complete the Cybersecurity Awareness Training located in Vector. This training is designed to help you recognize threats, follow secure practices, and understand your role in safeguarding HCPSS digital resources.

! Call to Action !

• Please complete the Cybersecurity Awareness Training by navigating to https://howard-md.safeschools.com/login
• Additionally, help strengthen our cybersecurity posture by taking the following actions:
  • Report Suspicious Emails: If you receive a suspicious or phishing email, forward it immediately to abuse@hcpss.org for review.
  • Practice Good Digital Hygiene: Always lock your devices when unattended, avoid sharing passwords, and be cautious when handling sensitive information such as student records or internal documents. 

If you have questions or need assistance, contact Technology Support at TechSupport@hcpss.org or 410-313-7004.

The HCPSS Get To Know series was created to help staff learn more about system leaders in schools and offices with whom they may not typically interact. HCPSS leaders answer a mix of personal and professional questions in an effort to let all employees get to know them better. Please use this form to nominate an HCPSS leader to be featured in the series.
 

Why did you choose to work in education?
While in high school, I had teachers and coaches who played a major role in my growth. These mentors helped me gain a love for education and a desire to work in the field after college. I always enjoyed the positivity they brought and try to bring the same positivity each day.

What is the best professional advice you've ever received?
"You can't take care of others without taking care of yourself first."

What is something you like a lot that would surprise people?
I’ve loved collecting sports cards and memorabilia since childhood. Over the years, I’ve built a large collection that includes autographs from professional athletes and historical figures. What makes the hobby even more special is that both of my sons share my passion and enjoy collecting with me; it’s something we truly enjoy doing together.

What is on your bucket list?
​​I’ve always wanted to visit Alaska. When I get the chance, I’d love to go fishing, pan for gold, and explore the region’s historical sites and incredible wildlife.

What is the most interesting place you’ve ever been?
The most interesting place I’ve ever visited is Ireland. I’ve been there twice, and each trip has deepened my appreciation for the country. From the incredible scenery and historic castles to the warm, welcoming people and vibrant music, Ireland is an unforgettable experience. It’s also where my wife and I got engaged, which makes it even more special and meaningful to me.

The following is shared on behalf of the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE):

MSDE will be conducting a statewide election in accordance with Code of Maryland Regulation (COMAR) 13A.07.13 to fill the upcoming teacher member vacancy on the State Board of Education. The term for the next elected teacher member begins on July 1, 2026. Eligibility Requirements are included in this memo (Google login required).

Questions about the election may be directed to Alexandra Cambra, Director, Division of Educator Effectiveness, at alexandra.cambra@maryland.gov.

The following information is applicable to teachers, administrators, school psychologists, school counselors, liaisons, student engagement teachers, social workers, pupil personnel workers, community school site coordinators, related service providers, paraeducators and student assistants.

A commitment to improving and restructuring professional learning was called for in the HCPSS Strategic Plan and necessitated by several additional factors, including the evolving professional learning demands from the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, the Maryland State Department of Education’s System of Professional Learning, and changes in Maryland licensure requirements.

During the 2025-26 school year, HCPSS staff will engage in 18 hours of high-quality systemic professional learning referred to as “Unified By Design.” This job-embedded professional learning will enable educators to co-create instructional coherence through strong Tier 1 instruction for all learners — centered on multilingual learners and students with disabilities — supported by evidence-based strategies, data-informed decisions and meaningful professional discourse.

These sessions will be held during HCPSS countywide systemic professional learning days on Aug. 18 and 20, Sept. 17, Nov. 12, Jan. 22, Feb. 4, March 3, and April 15; and, on a date identified by each principal during a school-based session in October, December, March and May.

Staff will receive Professional Development Points (PDPs) towards Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) licensure renewal for each session they attend. Staff must preregister for each session and are required to sign in on the day of the event in order to receive PDPs. Sign-in sheets will be cross referenced against Frontline Professional Learning Management (PLM) system registration to verify attendance, participation and PDPs.

Teachers, administrators, school psychologists, school counselors, liaisons, student engagement teachers, social workers, pupil personnel workers, community school site coordinators, related service providers, paraeducators and student assistants should preregister on Frontline for HCPSS Systemic Professional Learning: Unified By Design (Countywide PL) (15 PDPs) (TPD8511).

Staff will receive more information about the 2025-26 school-based systemic professional learning sessions (3 PDPs) at a later date.

The Instructional Resource Center (IRC) provides equipment and resources needed for staff to laminate, create posters, die cut, create instructional materials, and browse instructional aides. Paper is provided or staff may bring their own supply. There is no charge for paper, supplies, or laminating.

The IRC is located in the HCPSS Logistics Center (9645 Gerwig Lane, Columbia). The IRC can be accessed via the side entrance, and staff will need to be buzzed in. Directional signage is prominently displayed.

Special August Hours

The IRC will be open from 12-3 p.m., Monday, Aug. 11 through Wednesday, Aug. 13. No scheduling will be required to use the laminator and poster maker, with the following restrictions:

• Staff will be limited to 15-minute use of the laminator and poster maker.
• Quantities will be limited to one class set or resources.

2025-2026 Operating Hours

Hours of operation for this year will be Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4-6:30 p.m. The IRC will reopen for the 2025-2026 school year on Wednesday, Aug. 27.

Please note the following:

• The IRC will be accessible to staff during the designated operating hours. For safety and liability reasons, staff may not enter the IRC at any other time.
• If schools are closed due to inclement weather or other unscheduled emergency, the IRC also will be closed.
• When bringing materials to the center to laminate, staff may make materials for one class set.
• IRC resources are to be used by school staff creating instructional resources for students. Central offices staff should work with Print Services for their materials needs.

Additional information on use of the IRC is available onsite.

HCPSS, in partnership with HCEA, is proud to recognize and reward educators who achieve and renew National Board Certification (NBC). Under the Maryland Blueprint for Education, educators in Blueprint-defined “teacher” roles who complete their Maintenance of Certification (MOC) every five years will receive annual financial recognition. These ongoing incentives support instructional excellence and honor your professional achievement.

Please see attached for complete information.

The 2025-2026 salary and step information is now available for employee review. Please use the attached Workday instructions to generate and review the Compensation Review report with your compensation information.  

Contact the Office of Human Resources at salaryinquiries@hcpss.org with questions.

NOTE: Leave balances may be accessed by viewing Time Off in Workday. This information reflects leave balances for the 2025-2026 school year.

The following information is relevant to all certificated staff.

As a reminder, effective April 1, 2024, the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) made changes to their regulations regarding educator certification/licensure. The key changes include:

• An educator certificate is now referred to as an educator license.
• Educator certificates issued prior to July 1, 2024 will continue to be held to the legacy system (6 credits) unless the educator chooses to opt into the new Professional Development Point (PDP) system.
• Educator licenses issued on or after July 1, 2024 will be required to submit 90 PDPs.

In addition, MSDE has transitioned to a new Educator Information System named The Educator Application and Credentialing Hub - or TEACH. Educators will need to submit an application through the portal for any action related to their certificate/license.

How are PDPs calculated? 

• 1 clock hour is equivalent to one PDP
• 1 semester hour is equivalent to 15 PDPs
• 1 MSDE CPD credit is equivalent to 15 PDPs
• 1 continuing education unit is equivalent to 10 PDPs

What else should I know about the new PDP system?

The 90 PDPs submitted must include at least one clock hour in each of the following areas: 

• Content of pedagogy related to an area on the educator’s license
• English as a Second Language, Sheltered English, or Bilingual English
• Strategies for teaching students with disabilities, or differentiated instruction for students with diverse learning needs
• Culturally Responsive Teaching, or diverse student identities in Education

How can I check my license validity period? 

To check your status, go to the Staff Hub, then follow these steps: 

1. Login to Workday.
2. Select your profile picture
3. Select View Profile
4. Select Careers in the left navigation
5. Select the Certifications Tab

Where can I find more information? 

For more information, visit the Continuing Professional Development Canvas page and the MSDE website.

In addition, there will be school-based information sessions in all schools on August 20. Information on how to register will be shared in an upcoming Staff Hub post. You may also reach out to your employee credentialing specialist for assistance.

Just a quick reminder that the next Wired Wednesday Reboot session is this Wednesday, July 2! Earn 1 professional development point/PDP for each session you attend. The Wired Wednesday PDPs will count for the MSDE category of “strategies for teaching students with disabilities or differentiated instruction.” 

Session 2: Canvas Intermediate 

Time: 10:00am
Google Meet 

Session Description: Come learn some tricks and tips to power up your Canvas course and streamline your workload. Some topics we’ll cover as time allows: New Quizzes, Rubrics, Feedback methods, Differentiation settings. 

Sign up in Frontline by searching for Wired Wednesday or just log in through the link above. 

We hope to see you there as we explore ways to make digital learning more dynamic and interactive