HCPS 411 Update

Did you miss the Monthly Minute with Dr. Bulson last week? Click below to watch his latest message.

To view a complete archive of all past Monthly Minute videos, visit the Monthly Minute page on our website by clicking here.

The 2024 Holiday Payroll Submission Information communicates when payroll information must be received by the Payroll Office to pay employees accurately and timely on December 6, 2024, and January 3, 2025.

Questions regarding this information should be directed to your payroll coordinator. Click Here to find the payroll coordinator for your location.

Not sure who to contact? Send your question to the general email at Payroll@hcps.org or call the general number at 410-588-5241.

Thanks for your cooperation, and Happy Holidays!

Everyone has a vested interest in the new payroll system, which is why the Oracle project team is super diligent about getting it right. The project team has started a series of lengthy and rigorous payroll testing cycles to ensure every HCPS paycheck is accurate when the system goes live next July.

Oracle will introduce a few changes related to payroll.

• Managers will be asked to review time daily and approve time weekly
• Replacing a paper-based process with digital timecards will allow employees to get their overtime pay sooner
• Easier access to compensation related documents like pay slips and tax preferences

As mentioned in the HCPS 411 Update last month, most hourly employees will “punch” or tap in and out each day using their HCPS badge. Expect to see time punch kiosks being installed as early as January 2025.

Questions can be directed to Ben Richardson at Benjamin.Richardson2@hcps.org or Amanda Henck at Amanda.Henck@hcps.org.

Don't miss your chance to apply for Spring 2025! Join Loyola’s School of Education for their final Virtual Information Session of the Spring 2025 application cycle. This session will allow you to explore their programs; learn about scholarships, school district cohorts, and financial aid; and the Jesuit values that guide our community. Plus, your $60 application fee will be waived for attending! Whether you're ready to apply or just curious, this session is a great opportunity to ask questions and get personalized advice. Register today and take the next step toward your future at Loyola! See flyer

Join Goucher College for an informative virtual session to explore Goucher College's graduate programs in education on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Their Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) program is designed for those seeking initial licensure in Maryland. Learn about our innovative curriculum, hands-on teaching experiences, and pathways to enhance your career as an effective educator.

Their Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Certificates with nine specializations tailored for professionals in K-12 settings enhance your skills and advance your career in education.

During this session, you will:

• Gain insights into program structure and requirements
• Hear from faculty and current students about their experiences
• Get answers to your questions about admission and financial aid

Whether you are a traditional recent graduate or a conditional seasoned professional, Goucher's graduate programs can help you achieve your goals in education. We look forward to seeing you there!

Cohort program flyer

The Spring 2025 CPD course catalog is now available. Registration for these MSDE credit courses is available in HECTOR. Register early for the best course selection.

Need assistance HECTOR?

• Registering for courses
• Checking Registration and History
• Changing or Canceling Registration

Please see the Instructions for HECTOR.

Please click here to access the latest issue of the HCPS EL Journal newsletter.

Just in time for the holidays, Moreland University is offering a $500 Thankful for Teachers Scholarship to support the dedication and hard work of U.S. educators.

This scholarship, open from now until December 20, 2024, provides a $500 award to both current and aspiring U.S.-based teachers pursuing full certification through one of Moreland’s alternative pathways: the TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program or Master’s in Education with teaching credential.

Please see this link for more information or join one of their upcoming information sessions to learn more about how they can support you in your certification journey.

The Education Code of the Annotated Code of Maryland requires the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to survey science and social sciences educators annually. Survey results are used to document instructional time spent on science and social studies instruction, the availability/use of instructional resources and teaching technology in science and social sciences classrooms, and the availability/use of professional learning for science and social studies educators in Maryland.

All surveys will be confidential, identified only by school system and grade level (elementary, middle, high school). The survey will close on December 6, 2024. Completion should require fewer than 10 minutes.

Please use this link to access the survey. The survey results will be compiled and reports will be posted on the MSDE Science and Social Sciences websites.

Questions regarding this information should be directed to:

• Diane Engelman, Supervisor of Science, at Diane.Engelman@hcps.org or 410-588-5296.
• Erin Lange, Supervisor of Social Sciences, at Erin.Lange@hcps.org 410-588-5222.

The window is now open to nominate your favorite Harford County Public Schools employee from this year or years past for the 2025 Celebration of Excellence in Education (CEE)!

Once again, this year we will celebrate all aspects of education in Harford County Public Schools, in addition to the Teacher of the Year! At the 2025 CEE, we will honor a principal, assistant principal, custodian, facilities employee, food services staff member, support professional and technology employee.

Visit hcps.org and click on “learn more” in the banner on the main page to share a few sentences on why you are nominating a deserving HCPS staff member!

Local businesses and community members continue to play an integral part in showing our appreciation for our educators. We look forward to celebrating with everyone again this year! If you know of a business that would like to support the program this year, please reach out to joyce.jablecki@hcps.org for more information.

Nominations are due by January 3, 2025. Don't delay; submit your nomination here as soon as possible.

Join us in celebrating the following HCPS employees:

• Cynthia Bond, Administrative Support Technician – Facilities Maintenance, Facilities
• John Curtis, School Safety Liaison, Bel Air Middle School
• Kenya Davis, Administrative Support Specialist – School Based, Aberdeen High School
• Nadi Garcia, Paraeducator, Abingdon Elementary School
• Amy Grant, Administrative Support Technician – Accounts Payable, Business Services
• Charles Gross II, Fleet Maintenance Specialist, Transportation
• Caitlynn Lewis, Satellite Kitchen Assistant – Homestead/Wakefield Elementary School
• Michele Martin, Administrative Support Specialist – School Based, Fallston Middle School
• Jeffrey Norris, Technology Systems Integrator, Office of Technology
• Linda Puto, Chief Custodian Level I, Churchville Elementary School
• Rachel Sellman, Administrative Support Technician – School-Counseling, C. Milton Wright High School
• Shamira Thompson, Paraeducator – Special Education Classroom, Aberdeen Middle School
• Candy White, Administrative Support Technician – School-Counseling, North Harford Middle School
• Johnnie Wright, Paraeducator, Meadowvale Elementary School
• Bonney Zangla, Chief Custodian Level I, Havre de Grace Elementary School

This employee recognition program is an opportunity for HCPS stakeholders to recognize support services employees. Nominations were accepted during September/October 2024. Then a panel of judges reviewed all nominations submitted and identified a list of finalists to recommend to the Superintendent of Schools. The winners were notified during a surprise office visit and check presentation on November 20, 2024 – Education Support Professionals Day.

APG Federal Credit Union (APGFCU) is the proud financial sponsor of HCPS Support Services Superstar Awards. The 15 award recipients received $250 each, and their supervisors were given $100 to host a celebration for the recipient at their work location.

APGFCU understands that teachers and school staff are vitally important to the communities they serve. So, they make it a priority to support them. Their exclusive U Educate Member Rewards Program* can help educators and support services staff save money through specialized products, discounts, preferred rates, and reduced fees. See the APGFCU website for a complete list of rewards. APGFCU U-Educate Program

The awards were based on nominated employees demonstrating at least one of the following criteria:

• Exemplary performance, outstanding achievements, or accomplishments.
• Exemplary role model to include outstanding customer service, collaboration, and positive attitude.
• Cost savings or ideas that contribute to increased efficiency.
• Design and implementation of new systems or processes.

All HCPS regular support staff employees (clerical support, custodial support, facilities support, food and nutrition support, instructional support (Paraprofessionals, Inclusion Helpers, etc.), technology support, transportation support) who have successfully completed one year of continuous service with the organization are eligible for the annual award.

The HCPS Limelight program celebrates school-based employees who consistently demonstrate outstanding service to others. Honorees are nominated by their administrator. HCPS Limelight events are held virtually once a month during the school year and are sponsored by a different community business partner each month.

Congratulations to all of the October honorees highlighted below for serving in a BIG (Bold, Invested, Genuine) way this month!

A special thank you to this month's Limelight sponsor, APGFCU.

The HCPS Bowtie recognition program celebrates Central Office employees who consistently serve others in a BIG (Bold, Invested, Genuine) way and go above and beyond in their roles. Honorees are nominated by colleagues to attend Superintendent Bulson’s virtual event held each month.

Join us in celebrating our awesome HCPS staff!

And a big shout out and thank you to Freedom Federal Credit Union for sponsoring this program for us each year.

Governor Wes Moore this week announced appointments to the District 4 Trial Courts Judicial Nominating Commission representing Harford County. Trial courts are charged with issuing clear judgments rooted in fact, law, and precedent. The Judicial Nominating Commission for Harford County plays a key role in ensuring that those elevated to the bench will uphold that standard.

HCPS General Counsel Kimberly Neal was named as one of 13 of Governor Moore's appointees to this commission. Her contributions will help bring Harford County one step closer to realizing the promise of equal justice under law.

Prior to joining the school system, Kimberly was the chief legal officer of the Children’s Guild, Inc., a non-profit organization that provides educational and psychological services to children and families. She previously worked as a business litigation attorney with Pessin Katz Law and was a business and insurance defense attorney with Niles, Barton & Wilmer, LLP. She earned her J.D. from the University of Baltimore School of Law.

Congratulations to Kimberly Neal on this well deserved honor!

Congratulations to the Bel Air Elementary School Bulldogs for celebrating our veterans in school and in the community. Fifth grade students at Bel Air Elementary learned about Veteran’s Day this month and created and delivered homemade cards of appreciation to our veterans at the American Legion on Hickory Avenue in Bel Air.

Special Shout-out to the proud principal, Ms. Jeanna Gentile, for sharing how her school honors our nation’s heroes in our own back yard. Way to go, Bulldogs!!!

The Deerfield Elementary School Dolphins celebrated Native American Heritage Month by creating an Interactive Bulletin Board showcasing various Native American tribes and the beautiful Dreamcatchers created by Ms. Daniel’s 4th grade class.

Special Shout-out to Ms. Shakilah Daniel and her talented students showing that Deerfield Dolphin pride!!

Human Resources introduces Human Resources Information Systems, more commonly known as the HRIS Team.

The HRIS Team is responsible for the accuracy of electronic HR records for all current and former employees. This includes employee personal information, salary administration, time and leave accrual, as well as systems such as SmartFind Express and TalentEd. HRIS generates annual salary compensation letters and is responsible for employment verifications.

HRIS Administrative Support Technician, Hilary Bomert, processes staffing changes and employee updates received from HR team members. She also supports employment verifications, HCEA sick leave bank, pre-employment physicals, and data integrity and auditing activities. For general inquires, feel free to email HRIS@hcps.org. Hilary will be more than happy to field your questions.

The chart below provides a listing of just some of the services provided by HRIS.

HCPS Human Resources consists of five teams prepared to assist you with various employment-related needs, as described in the Human Resources Contact List. Please do not hesitate to contact their team with your questions. They will be happy to assist you or connect you with someone best able to provide assistance. A complete list of HR Team members can be found at HR Published Phone Lines.

Questions regarding this information should be directed to HRIS at HRIS@hcps.org or 410-588-5225.

During this season of giving, Harford County Public Schools will once again partner with United Way of Central Maryland to kick off our annual fundraising campaign to help create a region where families are financially stable, individuals achieve good health, and students succeed in school.

This year’s campaign kicks off November 7th and runs through November 22nd. The first payroll deduction will be taken from December 6, 2024, pay, and the last deduction will be taken June 20, 2025 (14 pays). Don’t want to deduct from your pay? You can also make a one-time donation.

To make your gift to the 2024 HCPS United Way Campaign, see the steps below.

HCPS Employee Electronic Pledging Instructions Login:

• Access your campaign donor site with the following address: https://epledge.uwcm.org/epledge/Begin.jsp
• Type your Username, which is your work email address
• Type your Password, which is 5 digit employee ID

New donors (not employed with HCPS during the 2023 campaign) can use the pledge form 2024_DonationForm2pg_FINALSept11_GTN-1.pdf and email to Jennifer.Crosson@UWCM.org.

We believe strongly in our commitment to the community, and we hope you will join us in supporting United Way. United, we can do more in the community, help more families, and create more long-term change. Donations of all sizes do make a difference.

On behalf of Harford County Public Schools, United Way of Central Maryland, and those who benefit from your generosity, thank you!

At the Monday, September 23, 2024, Board Business Meeting, the 2025-2026 HCPS Draft Calendar options were presented to the Board of Education. You are encouraged to complete the survey below to give your feedback. If you have additional comments, there is an opportunity to share them at the end of the survey. The survey will be available through Friday, November 22, 2024.

HCPS staff are asked to complete the survey here via an HCPS device or after logging into your HCPS account.

Have you filled out the Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) FY26 Budget Input Survey?

If not, please make sure you do before the survey closes on December 2, 2024.

Your answers to these difficult questions can help us navigate the $60 million shortfall County Executive Bob Cassilly has told us to expect. This equates to more than $1,500 in funding per HCPS student. Given this financial challenge and our unwavering commitment to serve all students, we invite you to participate in the survey.

To take the survey, click here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx...

The Board of Education of Harford County holds Engage for Education listening sessions throughout the school year. These listening sessions are an opportunity to ask questions and share your thoughts on the future of education in Harford County with members of the Board of Education.

The next session is scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at North Harford High School. No pre-registration is required to attend or speak.

For more information, or to provide feedback directly to the Board if you are unable to attend one of the sessions, please visit the Engage for Education page on hcps.org.

Join us at Patterson Mill High School on Tuesday, December 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This is an opportunity to participate in a HCPS Staff Only session with Board President Poynton

Vice President Hahn.

Did you know the Board of Education of Harford County asks for public feedback when new policies or revisions to existing policies are presented and discussed at Board business meetings? Provide your feedback to the Board on a specific policy by the deadline listed on the webpage: https://hcps.org/boe/hottopics/default.aspx.

The Office of Student Services is accepting nominations for the STUDENT SERVICES STANDOUT AWARD (S.T.A.R. AWARD). This award is presented once per semester (biannually) to a nominated member of the Student Services staff.

The nominee must currently be an employee budgeted under Student Services who is based in a school or Central Office. This would include staff under the offices of School Counseling Services, School Health Services, Psychological Services, Social Workers, or Pupil Personnel Services. Any person, regardless of position or relationship to the nominee, including students, may make the nomination.

The nomination form and supporting narrative must be submitted by December 1, 2024. Please see the links below to access the nomination form and the rubric used by the judges and consider nominating someone today!

Link to Student Services S.T.A.R. Award

Questions regarding this information should be directed to Lawanda Brown, in School Counseling, at Lawanda.Brown@hcps.org or 410-588-5251.

Nominations for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are open. Harford County Public Schools has amazing mathematics and science educators! Let’s nominate those educators and recognize their achievements using the PAEMST Nomination link. Nominate early so nominees have sufficient time to complete the application prior to the deadline on February 6, 2025. When nominating an educator, please notify the educator of the nomination so they know what to expect and can prepare to apply. Check out this link to see previous Maryland Awardees! This year, the application cycle will be for Grades 7-12 educators.

November is Diabetes Cancer Awareness Month

Diabetes affects over 37 million Americans, with an additional 96 million at risk due to prediabetes. This November, we observe National Diabetes Month to raise awareness about reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and supporting those affected by the chronic condition. Diabetes prevention isn’t just about diet or exercise; it’s about making small, lasting changes that improve overall health. Prediabetes rates are higher than ever; now is the time to take action. Click here to learn more.

November CareFirst Wellbeing Challenge: Mindful Eating

As the holidays approach, consider practicing mindful eating to help keep your diet and nutrition on track. Remember to make healthy ingredient swaps and try not to overindulge – you’ll be extra grateful after paying attention to how your food makes you feel. Join the Mindful Eating Challenge running November 4 – 10 to challenge yourself. Click here to learn more.

One-on-One Personal Health Coaching: Easy as 1, 2, 3

You can participate in personal health coaching as part of your CareFirst Wellbeing program. Your health coach will work with you and provide the support, guidance, and encouragement you need to see actual results. Your coaching program is personalized, approachable, and delivered through one-on-one calls and an easy-to-use portal where you can find additional resources, schedule calls with your coach, and more. Click here to learn more about the Personal Health Coach Program available through your CareFirst coverage.

Click the flier to learn more!

Foster positivity and uncover the transformative power of gratitude, enhancing your mental well-being.

Join BurnAlong for a month dedicated to staying grounded in gratitude. During November, enjoy events designed to foster thankfulness and balance. Embrace the season with intention and joy!

November Intention Setting - Gratitude and Giving Back:

What can you do to center your attention on gratitude this month? Reflect on what you are thankful for and give back to your community through acts of kindness. Challenge yourself to set your intentions for November.

Looking for More Class Recommendations?

Click on the calendar below to access suggested classes for November:

Have you registered for your Burnalong account yet?

Visit the Staff Wellness page on the HCPS website by clicking the calendar below to learn about other exciting events and opportunities available to all employees.

Employees who wish to provide feedback on their experience(s) obtaining medications through CVS retail pharmacies are advised to complete the CVS/Caremark Service Reporting Tool, available on SharePoint. This report is monitored bi-weekly by a member of the Benefits Office for further assistance and tracking of member service feedback. To access this form, visit the Harford County Public Schools – SharePoint Home Page.

As always, if there is an immediate need or concern when obtaining medication, please email benefits@hcps.org so that a member of the Benefits Office can assist you more quickly.

Presented by Acentra Health Employee Assistance Program

Did you know that laughing actually creates changes in the body that act as stress busters? Laughter is a universal language that transcends boundaries and connects people on a profound level. To learn more about the power of humor in life, click here.

Date: Available on demand now

Broadcast Length: 60 minutes
How to Access: Go to your EAP website, www.EAPHelpLink.com. Enter your code, HCPS, and look for Online Seminars in the lower left-hand corner of this homepage. You can also search for them by title.

The Employee Assistance Program is available to employees and their families anytime, any day. It is a free, confidential program that helps you balance your work, family, and personal life.

Employees and their family members can call Acentra Health toll-free at (866) 795-5701 24 hours a day, seven days a week, or visit their website at www.EAPhelplink.com.

"I'd like to give a shout out to three people at our school: Cindy Thompson, Mike Rex and Ellen Zaborowski. These three people are fantastic in their TSS roles. We have a system in place at CMW where these three folks service the laptops for over 1,300 students! Our students are aware of the process and familiar with the folks who help them get their laptops in working order again. It is a very busy and sometimes stressful job, one done in the background, and I believe they deserve to have some recognition with a Shout Out for the amazing job they do for our students!"

--Marcia Buckley, Librarian, C. Milton Wright High School

Email: HCPS.411@hcps.org