HCPS 411 Update

On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Harford County Public Schools is hosting a Community Safety Meeting at Patterson Mill Middle/High School.

This meeting is an opportunity for parents, guardians, HCPS staff, and members of the Harford County Sheriff’s Office to come together in small groups to discuss school safety and develop potential ideas and solutions to maintain and improve school safety.

To most efficiently discuss ideas during the event, attendance is limited to 100 individuals and pre-registration is required. To register, click here.

Individuals who are interested in sharing ideas but sign up after the event has reached capacity will be able to provide feedback and ideas and pose questions using the same link.

The Annual Harford’s Most Beautiful People Awards were held on October 3 in Bel Air to celebrate the meaningful contributions made by unsung heroes who give their time and talents to those in need throughout the county.

Hosted by County Executive Bob Cassilly and the Harford County Department of Housing and Community Services, this year’s awards ceremony was held at the Bel Air Church of the Nazarene. The event was emceed by WMAR-TV’s Kristy Breslin and drew more than 200 attendees, including the nominees and the citizens who nominated their fellow community members.

This year, Harford’s Most Beautiful nominations were also open to groups.

The Harford’s Most Beautiful Group award was presented to the Harford County Public Schools’ Special Education Administrative Leadership Team. Members of the team include Mary Germand, Kim Heeter, Jeffrey Hoffman, Shannon Holley, Kim Manzo, Robin Meyer, Carey Reise, Melissa Romano, Colleen Sasdelli, Stephani Swisher, and Pauline Timmons who were nominated by Cheryl Mele for their support of the ARC Northern Chesapeake Region’s Adopt-A-Home program, which provides corporate volunteers the opportunity to connect with individuals supported by the ARC NCR who have very limited occasions to celebrate during the holidays.

Congratulations to the HCPS Special Education Administrative Leadership Team!

Are you a current HCPS Education Support Professional (ESP) seeking an undergraduate degree in Elementary/Special Education? HCPS has partnered with Towson University Northeastern (TUNE) to offer qualified candidates a tuition-free opportunity to obtain their degree in under three years. Employees must be eligible for HCPS’ GET More Program. Space is limited!! Please see the flier and contact Maranda Scott, at maranda.scott@hcps.org, for more information.

If you have not yet connected with our Canvas site or received information about our 2024-2025 support session offerings, enroll here: https://harford.instructure.com/enroll/T4FLEL. All candidates are eligible to take part in our HCPS National Board community, whether you are receiving the HCPS/MSDE scholarship or are self-funding.

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.

On October 9 at the APGFCU Arena, Harford Community College, in partnership with the HCPS Counseling Office and HCPS Parent Academy, welcomed 2,462 students to the Harford County College and Career Fair. These students and their families interacted with representatives from 70 top schools, industries, government, and military organizations to begin planning their futures. The event helped advance the mission of both HCC and HCPS to expand access and opportunity for our students.

Pictured below on the left are Gina Re, HCPS Assistant Supervisor of School Counseling; Hans Cooper, HCC Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management; LaWanda Brown, HCPS Supervisor of School Counseling; and Joseph A. Giuffre, HCC Associate Vice President for Student Development.

We are excited to announce the Harford County Regional Association of Student Councils

(HCRASC) CommUNITY in Motion 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run on Sunday, October 27, at Harford Technical High School. HCRASC is the governing and advocacy body representing all HCPS students.

Event Details:

Date: Sunday, October 27, 2024

Location: Harford Technical High School

Gates Open: 9:00 a.m.

Race Start: 10:00 a.m.

Event Ends: 12:00 p.m.

Tickets:

https://harford.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/14885/351/False/True

Pricing:

• $25 for adults 5K run

• $15 for child 5K/Family Fun Run

• Free for children under 5

There will also be Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Kona Ice, games, and other activities for participants and their families. Additionally, 25% of the profits from the event will be donated to the Klein Family Harford Crisis Center to support their ongoing efforts in the community.

Help support this event by spreading the word in your community!

The HCPS Human Resources Staff and Labor Relations Team plays a crucial role in ensuring that all employees, contractors, and volunteers working within Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) meet strict standards for safety and compliance. One key member of this team is Jennifer Marchsteiner, the HR Specialist and Background Technician. Jennifer's responsibilities include managing the critical processes of background checks, fingerprinting, I-9 verification (which confirms eligibility for employment), Child Protective Services (CPS) clearances, and badge issuance for all personnel.

These background checks and fingerprinting services are essential to maintaining a safe and healthy environment within the HCPS system. Jennifer oversees these processes for a wide range of individuals, including new hires, re-hires, volunteers, coaches, student interns, and contractors. Each year, she ensures that hundreds of employees and volunteers are properly vetted before working for HCPS.

Fingerprinting appointments are limited to HCPS new hires or individuals who have been specifically notified by the Office of Internal Investigations to have their fingerprints re-taken for clarification.

The Human Resources Contact List provides a complete overview of HR Teams and supports provided.

Towson University is pleased to offer spring 2025 programs for educators interested in developing equity-centered, culturally responsive leadership skills. Their hybrid, synchronous, and asynchronous programs offer reduced tuition, and some students may be eligible for direct billing. Participants receive the MSDE Admin 1 credential through the M.S. Transformational Educational Leadership or post-Master's Educational Administrator 1 program.

Join an upcoming virtual information session* to learn more!

• October 16, 7:30 p.m.
• October 24, 6:30 p.m.

*Zoom meeting details in the flier below, or click here.

The Harford County Education Foundation is excited to announce the Everyday Hero Award, which honors extraordinary teachers in Harford County Public Schools who go above and beyond in their commitment to students. These educators inspire through innovative instruction, foster a love of learning, and give tirelessly to our community’s children.

Principals are invited to nominate a teacher from their school for this prestigious recognition, which will be celebrated during the Everyday Hero Awards Dinner on Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at the Maryland Golf and Country Club from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The reception is a wonderful opportunity to recognize the outstanding contributions of our local educators.

Eligibility:
Nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Employed by Harford County Public Schools for at least five (5) years
• Work directly with students in these areas: classroom teachers, special area teachers (art, music, media, special education, physical education), and school counselors

Please take this opportunity to shine a light on a teacher who exemplifies dedication, innovation, and inspiration. Nominations can be submitted online at https://form.jotform.com/harfordeducation/everydayheroes by Friday, October 18, 2024. The online application will request a headshot of your Everyday Hero. A school badge photo works!

We look forward to celebrating your school's Everyday Hero!

Questions may be directed to Deb Merlock, Harford County Education Foundation

Founder and President, 260 Gateway Drive, Suite 21A, Bel Air, MD 21014 or 410-322-7743.

www.harfordeducation.org

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.

The Board of Education of Harford County will hold Engage for Education listening sessions throughout the 2024-2025 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.

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.

Harford County Public Schools announces a pre-retirement webinar for HCPS employees and their spouses through the Maryland State Retirement Agency and the Community College of Baltimore College. This webinar provides vital retirement information to all members and is recommended for those within eight (8) years of retirement, whether normal service or early retirement. Discussion topics include:

• HCPS Retiree Benefits
• State Retirement Pension Benefits
• Legal Consideration
• Social Security Benefits
• Financial Planning

This year's pre-retirement session will be held virtually on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Watch future HCPS 411 Updates for more information on registering and obtaining a day of event link.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women worldwide, with more than two million new cases diagnosed each year. Let's come together during Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October to “Think Pink” and make a meaningful difference. By joining forces, we can raise awareness, support early detection, and promote treatment for breast cancer to help bring attention to this cause and contribute to the fight against breast cancer. 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.

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.

Cultivate balance through mindful eating, work-life harmony, and holistic well-being practices for a healthier, more balanced life.

Join BurnAlong for a month dedicated to exploring wellness in balance. During October, enjoy events that will help guide you towards a balanced lifestyle, enhancing your overall well-being. Don’t miss this opportunity to find your equilibrium and healthiest life! To help get started, BurnAlong is hosting live events throughout October:

• October 3 at 12:00 p.m.: Embrace Mindful Eating
• October 16 at 12:00 p.m.: Beyond Moderation
• October 24 at 12:00 p.m.: Achieve Balance

Have You Taken a Mental Health Break Today?

All you need is a few minutes. BurnAlong has created a playlist of 15 classes, all focused on mental health. Take time for your mind, and scan the QR code below to view the classes on the playlist, or click here to view the playlist online. Recommended classes on the playlist include:

• 3 min: Getting Grounded Under 30 Seconds – Powerful tips to ground yourself during the workday.
• 8 min: Self-Acceptance Meditation – Strengthen your feelings of acceptance within yourself.
• 12 min: Body Scan Medication – Close your eyes and listen to this guided body scan medication.

Looking for More Class Recommendations?

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

Have you registered for your Burnalong account yet?

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

In this session, discover the art of trying new things, from exploring uncharted territories to diving into fresh hobbies that ignite your passion. In this session, find inspiration to break free from routine. Click here to learn more.

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, or you can search for them by title.

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

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

Presented by Acentra Health Employee Assistance Program

One of the most significant transformations we encounter is our parents' aging. The transitions that come with this can be challenging, but they offer opportunities that deepen our relationships. In this session, discover strategies to help manage the pressure of fulfilling these roles. Click here to learn more.

Date: Available on demand beginning October 15, 2024

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.

Balance, the newsletter provided by Acentra Health, our Employee Assistance Program provider, is designed to help employees maintain a healthy work-life balance. This quarter's newsletter features tips for managing financial stress, the topic of resilience, family and children matters, and other helpful tips. Click here to read more.

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

"HUGE THANK YOU to Lisa Jones with the Help Desk. Lisa is always friendly and helpful, and incredibly knowledgeable. But this time, she completely went above and beyond to help us! I had an informational question, which she answered. It was not what we needed, and asked if she could help further. I explained our situation, assuming there was nothing more that could be done, and thanked her. She then proceeded on her own, dug deeper and researched, and came back with exactly what we were looking for! She took the time to investigate, and how she found the information is beyond me. But she went out of her way to help us….taking extra steps and not settling for the typical response of “Sorry, I don’t know” that most people will give and then be done. Lisa, you are amazing, THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO and for going above and beyond!!!!"

-Christine Yost, Administrative Support Specialist, Bel Air High School

Email: HCPS.411@hcps.org