HCPS 411 Update

HCPS will begin utilizing Open Gate weapons detection systems in our schools over the next several weeks. They will primarily be seen and used at high schools and can also be moved to middle and elementary schools, as needed.

Take a moment to watch the video below explaining the Open Gate Weapons Detection System.

Please note that when the system is set up and in use, visitors of any age, staff, and students will need to go through the system. Please be prepared to follow staff instructions as we all work to ensure the safety of our schools.

Are you a first-year teacher with HCPS?

Interested in collaborating with system leaders and experts?

SHINE U is for YOU!

Don’t miss TONIGHT'S session of SHINE U at Patterson Mill High School.

Tonight, learn and grow with:

• Instructional Coaches as they share student engagement strategies that can be replicated the next day!
• Andrew Renzulli, Director of CIA, as he shares wisdom for fostering a strong final quarter with an eye towards the future!

Use the QR code to register now! Or, click: https://forms.office.com/r/WNLEmYgMS9.

Secondary teachers begin at 4:00 p.m.; Elementary teachers begin at 5:00 p.m.

See you TONGIHT at Patterson Mill High School!

Graduate Certificate in Professional Spanish

Non-tenured teachers who wish to resign from HCPS without prejudice must submit their letter of resignation prior to May 1, 2025, effective June 30, 2025. The Notification of Separation form is available by clicking here: Notification of Separation or Retirement

If you have any questions, please contact the Talent Management Department at 410-588-5238.

The Visionary Voices are lucky to have one another because of their common goal to help students succeed. Each week, during the month of March, we’re excited to showcase how “lucky” students are to have the many supportive people that make up the HCPS family. Their mentorship, encouragement, and commitment in and beyond the classroom, they inspire our students each and every day. We invite you to join us in celebrating everything that makes our community so special.

**Please help share this information with students.**

The next Board of Education of Harford County’s Engage for Education listening session is for HCPS Students ONLY on Thursday, March 27, 2025, 5:30 to 7:30 in the Board Room at Central Office.

Following the student-only session, the next public session is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Havre de Grace High School.

For International Women's Month, Ms. LaBelle's class learned about amazing women throughout history. Students worked collaboratively to make a quilt together to show how all women, with their different stories and talents, are connected like the threads in a beautiful piece of fabric. It's a colorful reminder of how strong and wonderful women are when they come together!

The North Harford High School Science National Honor Society held its Annual STEM Night last week. High school students organized and planned the entire night, including approving projects and managing their peers to create hands-on science activities for elementary students.

Feeder elementary school students were invited to get them excited about science and coming to high school at North Harford. Elementary students could also tour the NRAS Magnet program barns, aquaculture lab, and greenhouse.

It was an incredible and successful event!

The society's officers included:

• Waverly Iriarte, President
• Mason French, Vice President
• Brooke McElwain, Treasurer
• Liliana McGraw and Natalie Barndt, Secretaries
• Justin Collins, Public Relations Officer

Very special thanks to the society's advisors, Christine Jestel, Patty Massetti, and Kim Harris, and the supporting faculty, Greg Murrell, Aimee Densmore, and Laura O'Leary.

Ring Factory Elementary School is proud to share their school participation in the Read-a-Thon Fundraiser. The Read-a-Thon online platform is not just about raising money but providing students with meaningful reading experiences that help them grow and prepare for the future.

The school would like to extend a heartfelt THANK YOU to its community. They are incredibly proud and grateful for the support, which made their fundraiser a success. The remarkable dedication and commitment shown Ring Factory Elementary students is evident in the impressive total of 163,927 minutes of reading. More than $16,000 was raised to enhance the school's reading instructional resources, technology, materials, and student incentives.

A big shout-out to 5th Grader Matilda Collins as the top fundraiser schoolwide. Another big shout-out to 3rd Grader Carter Tisch for his top minutes read schoolwide.

To celebrate the success of all students reading at Ring Factory, Principal Parfait Awono was slimed by the top readers and fundraisers.

“I am impressed by the interest in reading that our students showed. I hope that interest never stops. Students, keep on the spirit of reading! Sliming me was just a simple reward for all your hard work,” said Mr. Awono.

On Monday, March 17, sixteen students from the Harford County Regional Association of Student Councils (HCRASC) traveled to Annapolis to participate in the "Fund our Future" event. The rally brought together students, educators, and families to demand full funding for education in Maryland and to protect critical programs that support student success.

With education budget cuts threatening vital services—including behavioral health programs, career and college readiness initiatives, and community school resources—students took a stand to highlight the devastating impact on their schools and communities. These cuts disproportionately affect students in underserved areas, limiting access to essential educational opportunities and increasing challenges in the classroom.

One of the event’s key moments was a powerful speech by Gabrielle Moore-Brooks, HCRASC SLACer and 11th grader from Aberdeen High School, who spoke passionately about how budget cuts have negatively impacted Harford County Public Schools (HCPS). She emphasized the consequences of reduced funding, including the loss of over 160 teacher positions this year alone, leading to larger class sizes and diminished educational resources for students.

During their visit, HCRASC members also had the opportunity to meet with Sam Deschenaux, Legislative Director for Senator Mary-Dulany James. In this discussion, students voiced their concerns about the budget cuts to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and gained valuable insight into the legislative process. This meeting provided students with a platform to engage directly with policymakers and advocate for the funding necessary to support their education.

Under the leadership of Regional Advisor Mrs. Jennifer Kelley, HCRASC remains committed to amplifying student voices across Harford County. By participating in advocacy efforts like this rally, student leaders continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of education in Maryland.

A delegation of 78 students and eight advisors from nine Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) middle and high schools joined nearly 1,000 student leaders from across Maryland at the 2025 Maryland Association of Student Councils (MASC) Convention. Held at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center from March 11-13, the convention provided an enriching experience focused on leadership, advocacy, and networking.

Throughout the convention, student delegates participated in a variety of impactful activities, including:

• Electing the 2025-2026 MASC officers.
• Hearing from nationally recognized motivational speaker Ed Gerety.
• Attending engaging, peer-led leadership workshops.
• Taking official stances on youth-related bills from the Maryland General Assembly.
• Engaging in legislative action during General Assemblies.
• Enjoying evening recreation activities, including a talent show, dance, karaoke, and a photo booth.
• Networking with student leaders from across the state.

HCRASC Recognized with Prestigious Awards

The Harford County Regional Association of Student Councils (HCRASC) and its representatives earned significant recognition at the convention’s awards banquet:

• HCRASC Regional Advisor Mrs. Jennifer Kelley, HCRASC President Trae McVicker, and Havre de Grace High School Advisors Mrs. Jeffries, Ms. Feist, and SGA President Lauren Nelson were honored for hosting a successful Fall Leadership Conference, with over 600 student leaders in attendance from across the state.
• Gabrielle Moore-Brooks, an Aberdeen High School Junior and HCRASC SLACer, was awarded the HCPS Student Leader of the Year award for her outstanding contributions to student leadership and advocacy.

A Growing Legacy of Student Leadership

HCPS participation at the MASC Convention has increased by 400% over the last three years, demonstrating a growing commitment to student leadership and civic engagement. Looking ahead, HCRASC aims to have at least one student representative from every HCPS secondary school at next year’s convention.

HCRASC remains dedicated to empowering student voices and fostering leadership opportunities for students across Harford County.

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.

This March, let’s get inspired to fuel our bodies in ways that help them thrive at work and in life during National Nutrition Month.

This month is a time to focus on how nutrition impacts our overall health. The food we eat fuels our bodies, sharpens our minds, and supports long-term well-being. Make nutrition a priority by building healthy eating habits and making mindful food choices that will help energize and sustain you. Click here to learn more.

March CareFirst Wellbeing Challenge: Healthy Breakfast Challenge

Join the March Start Your Day Off Right Healthy Breakfast Challenge and track your healthy eating habits throughout the month. Track your diet for at least 21 days in March to help kickstart your healthy eating habits in 2025. Click here to learn more.

NOW AVAILABLE FOR MEMBERS: CareFirst WellBeing Unwinding Program

Unwinding isn’t your average meditation app.

Unwinding is more than just nice videos or disconnected medications. This app offers short, practical tools to deal with stress, anxiety, overeating, anger, and more. It teaches you how your mind works and how to use mindfulness to manage stress and unwanted behaviors.

Available through CareFirst WellBeing, Unwinding is a digital resource that helps you build resilience and create a more focused, aware, and mindful approach to life and work. This app offers on-demand, in-the-moment tools to ease stress throughout the day. Members can log in or sign up through carefirst.com/wellbeing or by downloading the CareFirst WellBeing app. 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.

March 25 at 4:45 p.m. – Dining Out the Healthy Way

Join CareFirst and the HCPS Wellness Committee for a 15 to 20-minute conversation to explore strategies for resisting temptation and making responsible, healthy choices when dining out.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/F0lWaBsLSguecrgFf0z_Vg.

With the CareFirst Blue365 wellness discount program, you can find great deals for every aspect of your life—like 20% off at Reebok.com, discounted nutrition products, or a gym membership for only $28 a month. To take advantage of Blue365, register now at carefirst.com/wellnessdiscounts. This online destination features healthy deals and discounts exclusively for CareFirst members.

Just have your CareFirst member ID card handy and use your member ID number on your medical card to register for Blue365. If you are not enrolled in the medical plan but carry one of the other CareFirst coverage options, enter 233 instead of a member ID number. You will be registered and ready to shop in a few minutes. Blue365 will send a special deal to your email inbox every week. Click here to get started.

Join BurnAlong this March as they help you search for harmony in work, life, and movement. Join the Burnalong team for three inspiring events designed to help you cultivate a balanced mindset, fuel your body with the proper nutrition, and embrace flexibility in all aspects of life. To help get started, BurnAlong is hosting live events, which are recorded and posted for later viewing as well, throughout March:

• March 27 at noon: Strength in Your Values: Embracing Flexibility for a Balanced Life

Looking for More Class Recommendations? Click on the calendar below to access suggested classes for March:

Have you registered for your Burnalong account yet?

Congratulations!!

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.

Join MetLife for a two-day Financial Planning event: Invest in Yourself.

Tuesday, April 8, and Wednesday, April 9, 4:30 – 6:00 p.m.

By taking a holistic view of your financial needs, you can learn to make informed decisions and Invest in Yourself for a better financial future. This workshop series is divided into different parts, each providing an overview of the importance of having a comprehensive financial plan. In this workshop, participants will dive deeper into Financial Planning Basics, the Portfolio Construction Process, and Protection and Risk Management.

Click here to register: https://web.cvent.com/event/48b30ff4-5984-4d37-b85c-7f6d3e3a54d9/summary?environment=P2.

April 29, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

As you approach retirement, it's time to start thinking about what you need to do to make your money last. In this virtual workshop, participants will learn:

• How to turn your assets into income,
• The five common retirement risks and how to best manage them and
• Steps you can take today to cover both your needs and wants in retirement.

Please note that this session is not affiliated with the MD State Retirement and Pension System and is intended to provide a general overview of retirement planning.

Click here to register: https://web.cvent.com/event/48b30ff4-5984-4d37-b85c-7f6d3e3a54d9/summary?environment=P2.

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.

Body to Brain: Harmony in Motion

Did you know that moving your body can calm your mind? Physical activity is more than just a way to stay in shape; it is a powerful tool for maintaining mental health. Regular movement helps to reduce stress, improve mood, boost energy, and enhance focus. In this session, learn how physical activity is a key tool for mental health and share strategies to incorporate exercise into daily life for balance and harmony. You can learn more by clicking here.

Date: Available on demand beginning March 18, 2025

Broadcast Length: 60 minutes

How to Access Webinars

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.

"A huge SHOUT OUT and THANK YOU to the Special Education Team at Bakerfield Elementary School for going above and beyond to provide families of students with special needs a night tailored to their needs. Each special educator and our behavior coach picked an area of expertise or content to share with our families. Sessions on fact fluency, how to learn the syllable types with candy bars, and how to address Social Emotional Learning (SEL) at home, among others, were offered. Our team spent countless hours preparing and hosting the event. Thank you, Courtney Bennett, Saige Phoebus, Kelly Borowiak, Samantha McBee, Jennifer Nice, Stephanie Correll, and Jessica Merlette for your dedication and support for our families!

In addition, thank you to Megan Fitzgerald from Partners for Success and Jeanne Erdley from Special Education Citizens Advisory Committee (SECAC) for partnering with our school and attending this family event. Many of our families stopped by to learn about the programs and supports offered by these amazing organizations!"

-Caitlin Sieracki, Assistant Principal, Bakerfield Elementary School

"A massive, heARTfelt shout-out to Dawn Stone! The art show at the Bel Air Armory last weekend was an absolute triumph, and it's all thanks to Dawn's incredible hard work and dedication. The hours she poured into making it amazing were truly evident. Thank you, Dawn, for creating such a beautiful and successful event!"

-Beth Markley, Art Teacher, Fallston Middle

Email: HCPS.411@hcps.org