Parent Handbook - Harford County Public Schools

2011-2012
Parent-Student Handbook and Calendar
Harford County Public Schools

Board of Education of Harford County
NOTE: All Board of Education meetings listed in this calendar are handicap accessible and are open to the public.
Leonard D. Wheeler, Ed.D.
President, Appointed-
Member-at-Large
Francis F. “Rick” Grambo, III
Vice President, Elected Member
Councilmanic District D
Alysson L. Krchnavy
Appointed Member-at-Large
Joseph A. Hau
Appointed Member-at-Large
Nancy Reynolds
Appointed Member-at-Large
Ronald G. Browning
Appointed Member-at-Large
James D. Thornton
Appointed Member-at-Large
Robert L. Frisch
Elected Member,
Councilmanic District A
Cassandra R. Beverley
Elected Member,
Councilmanic District B
Anthony B. Cofrancesco
Student Representative
Robert M. Tomback, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Board of Education members as of July 1, 2011. For updated information on the Board of Education, visit http://www.hcps.org/BOE/Default.aspx.
ON THE COVER
Top: Parents and students taking part in the W.A.T.C.H. Dogs program at William Paca/Old Post Road Elementary School.
About fifty spring athletes and coaches from Edgewood High School (EHS) gathered at Harford Community College for the Inspiration 5K Run/Walk to support Special Olympics in Harford County.
Teacher of the Year, Christian Slattery, Sr., teaching students at Hall’s Cross Road’s Elementary School.
Nurse of the Year, Sarah Cushen, along with John Archer students and staff.
Bottom: Fountain Green Elementary School during the school’s Third Annual Reading Day Celebration to promote literacy. Students and staff were in high spirits as they arrived dressed up as their favorite children’s book
characters to show their love of reading.
Bel Air High School emerges victorious in the Great Can Clash of 2011. The event was a recycling competition between Bel Air and C. Milton Wright high schools to see which school could collect the largest amount of
aluminum cans in a one-month time period. The competition was a joint effort between the two schools, the Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) Facilities Department and the HCPS Resource Conservation Manager. The
goal was to promote recycling in the schools and communities for environmental awareness.
Carson Scholars Fund (CSF) staff selected seven students from Southampton Middle School as Carson Scholar winners. The Carson Scholars Fund is a nonprofit public organization that was founded by Dr. Benjamin Carson,
pediatric neurosurgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and his wife, Candy, in 1994. 1st time Carson Scholar Winners: Sarah Davis, Taylor May, James Natoli, Alyssa Chalmin, Mark Duemmel, Jessica Fritz and Kevin Matthews.
Items listed in this handbook are subject to change without notice after the July 1, 2011 printing date.

Dear HCPS Community:
This handbook is published each year to provide parents, students, and
employees of Harford County Public Schools with essential information. It
includes the school system rules and regulations, school calendar, and other
pertinent information, as well as artwork by some of our outstanding students. I
trust you will find the contents of this handbook to be informative and useful.
On the inside back cover, there are instructions on how to get answers to
questions or concerns that may arise. Additional assistance may be obtained by
calling 410-838-7300 and by logging on to the HCPS website at
www.hcps.org. Also, the school system and individual schools will continue to
employ a rapid telephone notification system this year to convey emergency and
other important information to parents. The school system will also continue an
email information system which you can opt in to by listing a valid email address
on the emergency card that comes home with your child on the first day of
school. More information on the email system may be obtained by logging on to
our website.
I wish your child and you a successful 2011-2012 school year.
Sincerely,
Robert M. Tomback, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
HCPS 2011-12 Teacher of the Year
Christian S. Slattery, Sr.- Hall’s Cross Roads Elementary, Grades K-5 Vocal Music
The year 2008 was a momentous year for Christian
Slattery’s career, as he was named the recipient of the
prestigious National Milken Educator’s Award and achieved
National Board Certification in early to middle childhood
music. Mr. Slattery mentors Harford County teachers
through the National Board process and frequently serves
as a demonstration teacher for new and veteran colleagues.
Using his research and data in tracking student growth, Mr.
Slattery has conducted professional development at the
county level. Mr. Slattery also served on the Curriculum
Awards Committee for two years. Mr. Slattery graduated
Summa Cum Laude from West Chester University with a
Bachelor of Science in Music Education in 2002. Currently,
Mr. Slattery is completing his master’s degree in Leadership Teaching at the College of
Notre Dame of Maryland. Visit www.hcps.org for details on HCPS Teacher of the Year
and check out his blog!
Harford County Public Schools
About 39,000 students are enrolled in Harford County’s public schools. The school
system has the eighth largest student enrollment of the 24 public school systems
in Maryland. Approximately 5,500 people are employed by the school system
to provide the necessary educational programs and supporting services for the
students.
Currently, in the Harford County public school system, there are 33 elementary
schools, nine middle schools, nine comprehensive high schools, the John Archer
School (a special school for students with disabilities), Harford Technical High School
and the Alternative Education Program -- making a total of 54 schools.
Based upon firm beliefs in the value of youth and the obligations of public
education to educate each of them effectively, the Harford County public school
system provides a comprehensive instructional program and related student
activities for the youth who are currently enrolled. Prekindergarten classes are
available for four-year-olds at 17 of the Harford County public elementary schools.
A system-wide kindergarten program begins public education for the five-year-old
with all 33 elementary schools offering all-day kindergarten. A carefully planned
and appropriately sequenced curriculum extends learning from the primary and
intermediate grades of elementary school through middle school and high school
grades to graduation. Special programs and services are provided to accommodate
the unique needs of each student, including those who possess exceptional
abilities, talents, and/or disabilities.
Mission
The mission of the Harford County Public Schools is to promote excellence in
instructional leadership and teaching and to provide facilities and instructional
materials that support teaching and learning for the 21st century. The Harford
County Board of Education will support this mission by fostering a climate for
deliberate change and monitoring progress through measurable indicators.
Vision
Harford County Public Schools will be a community of learners in which our public
schools, families, public officials, businesses, community organizations, and other
citizens work collaboratively to prepare all of our students to succeed academically
and socially in a diverse, democratic, change-oriented, and global society.
The Harford County Public School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex,
age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disability in matters affecting employment or in
providing access to programs. Inquiries related to the policies to the Board of Education of Harford
County should be directed to the Manager of Communications, 410-588-5203.

Admission Into Prekindergarten/Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Early Entrance Into Kindergarten. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Gradual Entrance For Prekindergarten/Kindergarten . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Advanced Placement Into First Grade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Alcohol/Metal Detectors & Surveillance Cameras . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Alternative Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Attendance Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Aligning Enrollment With Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Boundaries (Attendance Areas) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Boundary Exceptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Child Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
“Child Find” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Discipline Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Behavior Which Has Taken Place Off School Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Verbal Or Physical Threat And/Or Physical Attack On Staff, Dangerous
Weapons, And Arson/Fire Policies And Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Student Possession, Use, Or Transference Of Controlled Dangerous
Substances, Medicines, And Alcohol. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Use Of Tobacco Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Meaning Of Key Words And Phrases In Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Penalties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Discrimination/Harassment Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Sexual Harassment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Prohibition of Gang Related Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Portable Communication Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Drug Detecting Dogs In Secondary Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Educational Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Eligibility Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Food & Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Graduation Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Exceptions To The Regular High School Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Health Services Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Guidelines For Medications For Students While In School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Home And Hospital Instruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Homework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Hours Of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Inclement Weather Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Integrated Pest Management And Notification
Of Pesticide Use In A Public Building And On School Grounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Notification Of AHERA Inspection & Management Plan Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Notification Of Planning For Incidents At The Peach Bottom Power Station . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Notification Of Sampling For Lead In Drinking Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Parent/Community Involvement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Personal Property . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Policy For Instructional Grouping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Handbook Table of Contents
Policy For Internet Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Preparedness Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Privacy Rights Of Parents And Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Policy And Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Privacy And Disclosure Rights... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..16
Notification of Rights Under the Protection Of Pupil Rights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Maintenance Of The Educational Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Inspection And Review Of Educational Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Additional Rights Of Parents Of Children With Disabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
FERPA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Directory Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Promotion And Retention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Registering Your Child For School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Immunization Compliance Criteria For Maryland Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Proof Of Residency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Reporting Student Progress . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Rights And Responsibilities of Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Use Of School Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Religion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Patriotic Exercises . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Dress Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Student Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Student Search And Seizure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Grievance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Student Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Corporal Punishment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Nondiscriminatory Practices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Parking Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Student Lockers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Student Backpack Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Special Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Student Accident Insurance Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Student-Parent Survey To Identify Federally-Connected Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Student Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Student Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Transportation Rules For Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
Discipline Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Parental Transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Responsibilities Of Parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Title IX Complaint Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Visiting Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Wellness Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Where To Get Answers To Your Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Telephone Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..25
The contents of this handbook are meant as a summary of frequently used Board of Education policies. For a detailed list of Board policies, please access the Board Policy Manual on our website, www.hcps.org.

Admission Into Prekindergarten/Kindergarten
Age of School Attendance
Prekindergarten programs are provided to support qualified four-year-olds with formal schooling. A child admitted to the
prekindergarten program in the public schools shall be four years old on or before September 1st of the school year in which
he/she applies for entrance. Prekindergarten is not a mandatory program in the State of Maryland; it is an application process
based on low socioeconomics. Interested families may pick up an application at any Harford County elementary school. For the
application to be considered, proof of income must accompany the application.
For entrance to kindergarten, children admitted to the kindergarten program in the public school system shall be five years
old on or before September 1st of the school year in which they apply for entrance. Exceptions to the age entrance policy are
considered only in very extraordinary circumstances. The standards are rigorous to ensure that children are not frustrated by the
advanced placement.
The request for early admission into kindergarten may be made beginning the first Friday in May through the first Friday in June.
Parents should communicate with the school to obtain the specific procedures for initiating the early admission process.
Early Entrance Into Kindergarten
Although not encouraged, exceptions to the age of entrance policy are granted by Harford County Public Schools when
it is clearly evident that the precocious four-year-old will be effectively served by a rigorous, standard-based curriculum in
kindergarten. A child with exceptional abilities may be considered for early entrance into the kindergarten program upon the
request of a parent/guardian. Exceptional abilities refer to your child being able to read the newspaper, magazines or books. For
mathematical ability, word problems should be solved without prompting. Word problems indicate the child’s ability to construct
abstract thought.
The procedure for early entrance into kindergarten is as follows:
1. For the child to be eligible for early entrance into kindergarten assessment, the child must turn five years old by October
15th and be a resident of Harford County.
2. The application process begins the first Friday of May and ends the first Friday in June. Assessments will be administered
in May and June of the current school year.
3. Obtain the Early Entrance into Kindergarten packet from the attendance area school and complete the Parent Information
Profile and other forms. The parent/guardian composes a letter stating reasons for consideration and obtain a letter of
recommendation from a professional (pediatrician) qualified to judge the child’s developmental capabilities. If the child has
attended a preschool program or special program, a letter from the school teacher is required. Employees of HCPS may not
supply a recommendation or reference for this process.
4. Send this information to the Executive Director of Elementary School Performance, 102 S. Hickory Ave., Bel Air, MD 21014.
Upon review of the Parent Information Profile and related documents, the Executive Director will forward the application
package to the Office of Early Childhood for a response to the parent/guardian.
5. If the information provided indicates that a child is to be considered for early entrance into kindergarten, a specialist will
contact the parent/guardian to schedule a language and mathematics assessment.
6. For early entrance consideration, the child must achieve a score of at least 90 percent on both parts of the assessment.
Assessments are administered by the specialist without parent/guardian presence and lasts approximately two hours. A
child may be assessed only one time for early entrance determination. *It is important to note that if early entrance is
denied, the denial is not an automatic acceptance into the prekindergarten program.
7. If early entrance is recommended, the principal or designee of the attendance area school will schedule a conference with
the parent/guardian to discuss the request. At this conference, the parent/guardian should be prepared to share information
about the child’s previous group experiences and special strengths and needs. A plan for early entrance will be developed
at that time.
8. Placement will be for a 30 day probationary period pending the child’s satisfactory social-emotional adjustment as
determined by the classroom teacher.
9. Upon completion of the probationary period, a final letter of placement will be sent to the parent/guardian from the Office of
Early Childhood. If acceptance into kindergarten is recommended, all
relevant kindergarten policies and procedures will apply including daily
school attendance.
The intent of the above procedure is to make kindergarten available to
younger students who are capable of working in a classroom setting with
children one year older. The standards for entrance to the program are very
high to ensure that children are not frustrated by the advanced placement.
Gradual Entrance For Prekindergarten & Kindergarten
Gradual entrance for prekindergarten and kindergarten is a procedure that
began with the addition of these programs to the educational continuum.
There are two purposes for gradual entrance: (1) to provide time for parents
to meet their children’s teachers and learn about the program, and (2) to
provide the opportunity for children to adjust to the school setting. The
procedure for gradual entrance for prekindergarten and kindergarten is the
same; however, prekindergarten will begin TWO DAYS AFTER the opening
of school.
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. - One-half of the kindergarten class will attend.
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Remainder of the kindergarten class will attend.
Children will be accompanied by parents; NO BUS TRANSPORTATION WILL
BE PROVIDED.
SECOND DAY OF SCHOOL
Regular schedule for all kindergarten children. BUS TRANSPORTATION
WILL BE PROVIDED; the professional staff will assist children in getting on
the buses.
THIRD DAY OF SCHOOL
9:00 - 10:15 a.m. - One-half of morning prekindergarten children will attend.
10:15 - 11:30 a.m. - Remainder of morning prekindergarten children will
attend.
1:00 - 2:15 p.m. - One-half of afternoon prekindergarten children will attend.
2:15 - 3:30 p.m. - Remainder of afternoon prekindergarten children will
attend.
Children will be accompanied by parents; NO BUS TRANSPORTATION
WILL BE PROVIDED.
FOURTH DAY OF SCHOOL
Regular schedule for all prekindergarten children. BUS TRANSPORTATION
WILL BE PROVIDED; the professional staff will assist children in getting on
the buses.
Advanced Placement Into First Grade
Although not encouraged, exceptions to the age of entrance policy are
granted by Harford County Public Schools when it is clearly evident that
the precocious five-year-old will be served more effectively in the first
grade rather than in kindergarten. A child with exceptional abilities may be
considered for advanced placement to first grade upon the request of a
parent/guardian.
The procedure for advanced placement into first grade includes the
1

following steps:
1. For the child to be considered for advanced placement to first grade, the child must
turn six years old by October 15th and be a resident of Harford County.
2. The application process begins the first Friday of May and ends the first Friday in June.
Assessments will be administered in May and June of the current school year.
3. Obtain a packet for Advanced Placement into First Grade from the attendance
area school and complete a Parent Information Profile and other forms. Complete
the profile packet and return it to the Executive Director of Elementary School
Performance, 102 S. Hickory Ave., Bel Air, Maryland 21014. For consideration, all
information must be complete with parent signatures.
4. After reviewing the information you provide, the Executive Director will make a
decision to honor or decline your request and notify you. If your request is honored,
the information will be kept on file until the child completes the assessment part of
the application packet.
5. If you wish to pursue advanced placement for your child, (s)he will be given a
reading and language arts assessment as well as a mathematics assessment. A
specialist will contact the parent/guardian to schedule the assessment.
6. In order to be considered for advanced placement, your child must score at least
90 percent on both parts of the assessment. Assessments are administered by the
specialist without parent or guardian presence and lasts approximately two hours. A
child may be assessed only one time for advanced placement determination.
7. If advanced placement is recommended, the principal or designee of the attendance
school will schedule a conference with the parent/guardian to discuss the request.
Be prepared to talk about your child’s previous group experiences and special
strengths and needs as you have described them on the Parent Information Profile.
8. Placement will be for a probationary period of 30 school days pending the child’s
satisfactory social-emotional adjustment as determined by the classroom teacher.
9. Upon completion of the probationary period, a final letter will be sent to the parent/
guardian. If acceptance into first grade is recommended, all relevant school policies
and procedures will apply including daily school attendance. However, if the child is
denied advanced placement into first grade, the child will be placed in kindergarten.
The intent of the above procedure is to make the first grade program available to younger
students who are capable of working in a classroom setting with children one year older.
The standards for advanced placement in first grade are very high to ensure that children
are not frustrated by the advanced placement.
Alcohol/Metal Detectors & Surveillance Cameras
As a means of further enhancing school safety and security, school administrators have
been trained in the use of a device that detects the odor of alcohol and in the use of
hand-held metal detectors. With reasonable suspicion, students may be subject to the
use of the alcohol-detecting device or the metal detector during the school day or at after
school events on school property. Also, some schools and buses may be equipped with
surveillance cameras. These cameras are placed in interior common areas and outdoor
locations surrounding the building to help monitor student behavior.
Alternative Education
A program of alternative education is provided at the Center for Educational Opportunity.
Secondary school students who have long-term suspensions from school are eligible
to enroll in the alternative education program and will receive credit for satisfactorily
completed work. In addition, secondary school students whose educational, emotional, financial, physical, or other
needs are such that they cannot be met in the regular school program are eligible to apply for admission to the
alternative program.
Attendance Policy
The Harford County Public Schools’ Student Attendance Policy is based on the overriding premise that success
in school is dependent upon continuous and consistent classroom instructional experience. In addition to
participating in educational experiences that cannot be duplicated outside the school atmosphere, students
need opportunities to develop an appropriate sense of self-worth and to establish satisfactory peer relationships.
Schools are being held accountable not only for effectiveness in teaching state selected curricula, but for the
regular attendance of students.
• Students should be expected to attend school and all classes regularly and to be punctual. Upon returning to
school from an absence, a student is required to bring a written note from his or her parent/caretaker stating
the reason for each absence.
• There is a significant relationship between regular attendance and academic achievement and completion of
a school program.
• Regular attendance assists students in the development of self-discipline and good work habits. These
habits generally remain with the students as they enter the world of work. It is essential to teach the benefits
of and encourage good attendance and punctuality during a student’s educational career.
• Regular attendance is a shared responsibility by the community, the home, students, and school personnel,
and we must work together to promote it to the fullest extent possible.
Rules, Regulations, and Procedures
I. General Regulations Attendance
A. Each child who resides in this state and is five years old or older and under 16 years of age
shall attend a public school regularly during the entire school year unless the child is otherwise
receiving regular, thorough instruction during the school year in the studies usually taught in the
public schools to children of the same age.
B. A student is considered in attendance at school when participating in school-sponsored activities
during the school day, and when that participation is approved by the local superintendent of
schools or the school principal, or their designees.
C. Students Scheduled for a Full Day - A student is counted present for a full day if the student is
in attendance four hours or more of the school day. A student is counted present
half day if in attendance for at least two hours of the school day, but less than four hours.
A student is counted as tardy to school if the student is absent less than 2 ½ hours in
the morning. A student is counted as early dismissal if the student is absent less than 2 ½ hours
before dismissal.
D. Modified School Day (due to inclement weather or elementary planning day) - A student is
counted present for a full day if absent no more than 30 minutes of the school day. A student
is counted present for half day if present for at least two hours. A student is tardy to school if
absent less than 30 minutes in the morning. A student is counted as early dismissal if absent less
than 30 minutes before dismissal.
E. Modified Student Schedule - A student scheduled for less than a full day is to be counted present
based on the amount of time he/she is scheduled. Example: A student scheduled for a two hour
block of time will be counted present for a full day if the student is in attendance for that entire
block of time. If the student is absent for that entire block of time, the student will be counted
absent for a full day. A student scheduled for a two hour block of time will be counted present for
1/2 day if the student is in attendance for one hour.
2

II. Lawful/Unlawful Absences and Tardiness
Lawful Absences
A. Death in the immediate family. The immediate family shall include parent, siblings, grandparents, a person who is
the primary care provider, or anyone who lives regularly in the household of the student and others as determined
by the school principal.
B. Illness of the student. The principal may require a physician’s certificate from the parent(s)/caretaker(s) of a student
reported continuously absent for illness. (Continuously absent means either a number of consecutive absences
or a total absence in excess of the standard for regular attendance for which, in the principal’s judgment, medical
documentation is required.)
C. Court Summons.
D. Hazardous weather conditions. Hazardous weather conditions which would endanger the health or safety of the
student when in transit to and from school.
E. Work approved or sponsored by the school, the local school system, or the State Department of Education,
accepted by the local superintendent of schools or the school principal, or his/her designees, as reason for excusing
the students.
F. Observance of a religious holiday. The absence of a student to participate in the observance of a major religious
holiday shall not prevent him or her from achieving a “Perfect Attendance” certificate or other appropriate
recognition for attendance. Major tests, field trips, the taking of student pictures, and similar activities should not,
insofar as possible, be scheduled during religious holidays.
G. State emergency.
H. Suspension.
I. Lack of authorized transportation. This shall not include students denied authorized transportation for disciplinary
reasons.
J. Other emergency set of circumstances which, in the judgment of the superintendent or designee, constitutes a good
and sufficient cause for absence from school.
Family Vacation or Family Trip. A family vacation or a family trip during the school year is strongly discouraged as the
loss of class time may have a negative impact on the student’s academic progress and record. It is also recognized that,
on some occasions, working parents have little control over the time of the year when vacations or trips may be taken.
However, a parent/caretaker must submit the request to have a student’s absence lawfully excused to the principal or
designee in writing at least 10 school days in advance of the proposed absence.
In making the determination as to whether the request shall be approved or denied, the principal or designee will review
all relevant facts to include the student’s attendance and academic record.
If approved, the maximum number of lawful days for family vacations and family trips for any school year shall not
exceed five (5). If a family vacation or family trip is not approved, the parent may follow the appeals process in Section
VIII. Requests that exceed five days per year may be approved by the superintendent’s designee.
Unlawful Absence
A. An absence, including absence for any portion of the day, for any reason other than those cited as lawful are
presumed to be unlawful and may constitute truancy.
B. Truancy- A truant is a student who is absent without lawful cause as defined above from such attendance for a
school day or portion thereof.
C. Habitual Truant- A student is a habitual truant if he or she is unlawfully absent from school for a number of days or
equivalent days in excess of six percent of the school days within any marking period, semester, or year.
1. Repeated unlawful absences will require a school conference between the appropriate school personnel and
parent(s)/caretaker(s) and may result in a referral to the pupil personnel worker.
2. Any student who meets or exceeds five (5) days of unlawful absence in a quarter must be referred to the pupil
personnel worker.
Tardiness
Any student/s arriving up to two hours late to school shall be considered late
to school. Two hours or more late would be considered absent one-half day.
Students arriving with less than two hours remaining in the school day would be
considered absent the entire day. Students leaving school with more than two
hours remaining would be considered absent one-half day.
III.
Standard for Regular Attendance and Actions or Consequences for Not
Meeting the Standard
The standard for regular attendance is the minimal requirement for student
attendance in order to foster continuity in the instructional program. The
standard includes both lawful and unlawful absences within a marking
period, semester, or school year. The minimal standard is no more than
four (4) total days absence per quarter.
The actions taken when the standard is not met should reflect a continuum
of consequences for increasing absenteeism. School officials may waive
these actions when they are aware of circumstances beyond the student’s
control such as documented chronic illnesses, etc.
A. All Schools
1. Beginning with the fifth absence and/or tardiness, the
parent will be notified in writing.
2. Continuing absence and/or tardiness of the student will
result in the initiation of one or more of the following
actions:
• Conference with the parent, student, and the principal
or designee.
• Referral to student services team and/or the pupil
personnel worker for appropriate intervention.
• Probationary time period - verbal agreement.
• Written contract.
• After-school detention.
• Saturday school (nonteaching day attendance).
• Removal of school privileges.
• Restriction of extracurricular activities.
• In-school suspension (due process procedures
followed).
• Consideration of the Alternative Education Program.
• Referral to Student Services for possible outside referral
to court for violation of the compulsory attendance law
or to Juvenile Services for intake services.
B. High Schools
1. Following the second day of unlawful absence in a
semester course, the parent will be notified in writing of
the imminent danger of loss of the one-half credit for the
course. On the fifth day of unlawful absence, the student
loses credit for the semester course. Parents will be
notified in writing of the loss of credit and made aware of
the appeals process.
2. Following the sixth day of unlawful absence in a full-year
3

course, the parent will be notified in writing of the imminent danger of
loss of the full one credit for the course. On the eleventh day of unlawful
absence, the student loses credit for the full-year course. Parents will
be notified in writing of the loss of credit and made aware of the appeals
process.
C. Elementary and Middle Schools
Students who have been absent 20 days by the end of the third quarter
must be reviewed for possible retention during promotion/non-promotion
conferences.
IV. Procedures to Monitor Attendance and Verify Absences/Tardiness
The principal of each school shall review the prescribed procedures in the Harford County Public
Schools’ Administrative Handbook, page 1611 (REV. 1994). These procedures are the minimal
expectations related to student accounting.
A. Student Accounting on a Daily Basis
Accurate and close checking of student attendance requires attention, period by
period. The two keys to successful accounting of students are (a) the teacher and (b)
the direction or plan given by the principal. The following procedures may be used to
facilitate accurate student accounting.
1. At the beginning of the day, the homeroom teacher will send a list of all
absentees to the office.
2. The office will issue, by the end of period one, a list of all absentees for the
entire school.
3. Each period the teacher will check his/her class roll against this office list. Any
student absent from class and not included on the list from the office will be
recorded on the appropriate school form. This form should be returned to the
office at the end of the day.
4. The follow-up checking on absentees will be handled by the principal, assistant
principal, or some other administrative assistant who has been assigned this duty.
5. Further reporting of chronic absenteeism will be made to the pupil personnel
worker. (Chronic absence means recurring, not necessarily consecutive,
absence over time; i.e., habitual absence.)
B. Attendance - monitoring procedure
1. Record-keeping format
All schools will collect attendance data in terms of race, sex, and grade level. A
systemwide attendance keeping format to comply with state and school system
policy and regulations has been developed and will be incorporated in the
student database.
2. Reporting absences
a. A daily attendance record will be maintained of each student’s tardiness or
absence from school and all classes.
b. A record of each student’s lawful and unlawful absences from an individual
class will be recorded and maintained.
c. Upon returning to school from an absence, a student is required to bring
a written note from his or her parent/caretaker stating the reason for each
absence.
d. Each course grade received by a secondary school student will include a
report of his or her absence(s) for that course.
3. Intervention strategies and procedures for dealing with absenteeism
a. Recognition of problem by teacher, administrator, or data processing.
b. Student referred to guidance counselor.
c. Parent conference.
d. Referral to school pupil services team.
e. Referral to Pupil Personnel Worker.
f. Referral to appropriate agencies.
C. Each school shall develop additional procedures to verify absences and tardiness. A copy of each
school’s current procedures must be on file with the Director of Student Services. In developing
these procedures, consideration might be given to the following:
1. Place the burden of verification for any absence or tardiness on the part of the student and
parent(s)/caretaker(s).
2. Establish a maximum time limit that a student and parent/caretaker can have to verify an
absence/tardiness after which the absence/tardiness is coded as unlawful or truancy.
3. Specify a time limit that a written explanation will be acceptable upon a student’s return from
an absence.
4. Require a written explanation of a student’s tardiness from the parent/caretaker or eligible
student the next school day following the tardiness.
5. Require that the parent/guardian call the school on the morning of the absence(s) followed
up with a written explanation.
6. Establish a procedure for a medical verification of long term, consecutive, or repeated
absences due to illness.
7. Establish a procedure to accept an absence/tardiness verification from an eligible student
(18 years or older) who lives with parent(s)/caretaker(s) or lives independently.
8. Establish procedure for appropriate school staff when excessive absence/tardiness is verified
as unlawful or truancy.
9. Establish a process to ensure that all students and their parent(s)/caretaker(s) are informed
of the procedure to verify absence/tardiness.
V. Make-up Work Requirements
A. There shall be no make-up work given to students who have been unlawfully absent.
B. The make-up policy for short term (five days or less) lawful absence shall be:
1. It will be the responsibility of the student/guardian to request missed assignments.
2. Students will be given the number of days equal to the number of days absent to turn
in completed make-up work. Assignments may be provided when possible in advance
of a lawful absence if requested by parent/caretaker at least five days in advance of
the absence and approved by the principal or designee. Submission of the make-up
work provided in advance is required upon the return of the student to school unless
extenuating circumstances have been documented.
C. The make-up work policy for extended (six days or more) lawful absence shall require that
the parent/caretaker request designated school officials to arrange for make-up work.
1. The teacher will provide the required make-up work in a method chosen by the teacher
and will collect and correct the make-up work. A reasonable timeline for the completion
of the work will be established. It is recommended that this exchange of completed and
newly assigned work be done on a weekly basis.
2. The student will be accountable to complete all assigned make-up work.
D. All make-up work will be graded in accordance with the regular classroom grading policy as
long as it is completed within the established timeline.
E. It is the responsibility of the student and the parent/caretaker to initiate the request and obtain
work from the teachers and return the completed work within the allocated time frame.
VI. Attendance Recognition
Each school shall establish strategies to encourage regular school attendance.
4

VII. Information Dissemination
Students and parents/caretakers will be provided information regarding the Student Attendance Policy at the opening of
school each year. Procedures will include:
• a student attendance policy brochure developed for systemwide use which outlines the “Student Attendance Policy.”
• information to be included in parent/student handbook, school handbooks, newsletters, school announcements,
bulletin boards, etc.
• articles and news releases in local newspapers.
VIII. Appeals Process
Procedures for parent(s)/caretaker(s) in order to appeal attendance violation decisions related to the “Student
Attendance Policy” at both the school and central office level:
Step I.
Step II.
Step III.
Step IV.
Step V.
The parent(s)/caretaker(s) contact the school principal to arrange for an appointment to discuss
their concern.
If the problem is not resolved at Step I, the parent(s)/caretaker(s) contact the appropriate
director to discuss the matter.
If differences still exist, the parent(s)/caretaker(s) may elect to submit a written appeal to the
Superintendent of Schools.
If parent(s)/caretaker(s) are not satisfied with the Superintendent’s decision, they may submit a
written request within ten days of receipt of the decision of the Superintendent of Schools for a
hearing before a committee of the Board of Education.
The decision of the Board of Education will be final.
Aligning Enrollment With Capacity
The Board of Education of Harford County believes that it is in the best interest of students for the system to balance
enrollments with capacities in order to: assure the quality of educational experiences; provide consistency in curriculum,
instruction, and programs; and maintain safe schools and promote the uniform and efficient use of school facilities and
resources. With the advice of the Superintendent, the Board of Education shall annually review options for better matching
school enrollments with the established state rated school capacities.
Each year, the Superintendent will prepare a report that contains an analysis of enrollment relative to state rated capacities.
The report will contain recommendations and alternatives, with rationales, for addressing imbalances; and the report will be
presented to the Board of Education in October. The Board of Education may direct the Superintendent to develop additional
information and/or develop other alternatives for its consideration, or the Board of Education may propose other specific
alternatives. (The complete policy is available on the HCPS website, www.hcps.org.)
Boundaries/Attendance Areas
The attendance area for each public school in the county is designated by the Board of Education. Students must attend
the school in the area in which they reside. The residence of the student is considered to be the same as the residence
of his/her parent, legally- appointed guardian, or caretaker. If there are questions concerning the boundaries of a school’s
attendance area, log on to the HCPS website (www.hcps.org) to access the “School Locator”/Attendance Area Boundary
maps or call the school system’s Transportation Office at 410-638-4092.
Boundary Exceptions
The Board of Education recognizes that circumstances may arise that cause parents or legal guardians to request
permission for a student to attend a school outside their home attendance area. The Superintendent of Schools will develop
and implement administrative guidelines for evaluating boundary exception and school transfer requests.
The Superintendent of Schools shall submit the Administrative Guidelines for Evaluating Boundary Exception/School
Transfer Requests along with recommended changes to the Board of Education for review on an annual basis. The review
will occur each winter prior to the March 1st application period for the next school year.
Child Abuse
The Maryland child abuse and neglect laws mandate that any person who
believes or has reason to believe that a child may have been abused or
neglected must report such reasons both orally and in writing to the Department
of Social Services or to a local law enforcement agency within 48 hours.
Educators (teachers, school counselors, or other professional employees of the
school system), as well as volunteers working in the schools, are also required
to report the incident to the principal of the child’s school.
Those reporting in good faith are immune from any civil liability or criminal
penalty.
MD Code Ann.Fam.Law Section 5-701 defines child abuse as “the physical or
mental injury of a child by any parent or other person who has permanent or
temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of a child, or by any
household or family member, under circumstances that indicate that the child’s
health or welfare is harmed or at substantial risk of being harmed; or sexual
abuse of a child, whether physical injuries are sustained or not.”
According to the law, “neglect means the leaving of a child unattended or
other failure to give proper care and attention to a child by any parent or other
person who has permanent or temporary care or custody or responsibility for
supervision of the child under circumstances that indicate: that the child’s health
or welfare is harmed or placed at substantial risk of harm; or mental injury to the
child or a substantial risk of mental injury.”
The law also defines sexual abuse as “any act that involves sexual molestation
or exploitation of a child by a parent or other person who has permanent or
temporary care or custody or responsibility for supervision of a child, or by any
household or family member. Sexual abuse includes: incest, rape, or sexual
offense in any degree; sodomy; and unnatural or perverted sexual practices.”
The law defines a child as any person under the age of 18 years.
Experts who regularly work with abuse problems are concerned by the
increased incidents of child sexual abuse. This type of abuse may occur with
strangers or within the family structure, which further complicates the prompt
identification, care, and treatment for both the abused and their offenders. The
Protective Services Division of the Department of Social Services can provide
assistance and should be contacted by calling 410-836-4713.
“Child Find” A Search For Children In Need Of Special Education Services
“Child Find” is the name given to the Harford County Public Schools’ campaign
to locate children who are in need of special education.
This special project is designed to identify all children from birth through the
age of 20 who have special education needs and to provide them with special
education and related services. Children’s needs are identified through a variety
of evaluation procedures.
If you know of any child from birth through age 20 who may be in need of special
education services, call 410-638-4386 and ask for the “Child Find” contact.
5

Discipline Policies
The Board of Education has established the following policies and procedures to regulate (1)
verbal or physical threat and/or physical attack on staff; (2) dangerous weapons; (3) arson/fire;
(4) controlled dangerous substances, medicines, alcohol, and inhalants or other intoxicants;
(5) wireless communication devices; (6) tobacco products; (7) sexual harassment; and (8)
other matters of student behavior which will apply to all students in every school. These
policies and procedures are in effect while students are on any property of the Harford County
Public Schools or while they are participating in any school-sponsored event.
In addition to these policies, the school principal has the right and authority to discipline
students including suspension and referral to the Superintendent of Schools for further
action for other behaviors including but not limited to physical attack on a student, verbal
or physical threat to a student, fighting, extortion, bullying, sexual assault, sexual activity,
false alarms/bomb threats, explosives, disrespect, insubordination, harassment, classroom
disruption, inciting or participating in a disturbance, class cutting, tardiness, truancy, academic
dishonesty/cheating, theft, trespassing, unauthorized sale or distribution, vandalism/
destruction of property, and refusal to obey school rules.
The Superintendent may deny attendance to any student who is currently expelled from
another school system for a length of time equal to that expulsion. Also, information relating
to the discipline of a student, including information on an expulsion of a student, will be
forwarded to another school system upon request.
Behavior Which Has Taken Place Off School Property
Further, students may be disciplined, including suspension or expulsion, for behavior
which has taken place off school property and/or beyond the school day. If the behavior is
determined by the principal to impact the educational environment of the school, the safety
and/or welfare of other students and/or staff, and/or the maintenance of school order and
discipline, the principal may suspend the student for up to ten school days. If the nature and
severity of the off-school property behavior warrants it, the principal may refer the student to
the office of the Superintendent of Schools with the recommendation for further disciplinary
action. If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, a long-term suspension/
expulsion may be imposed.
Behavior which has taken place off school property and/or beyond the school day for which
a student may be subject to school disciplinary procedures includes, but is not limited to:
committing or attempting to commit murder, rape, assault with a deadly weapon, a serious
assault, robbery, threat or extortion, arson, distribution and/or sale of controlled dangerous
substances or alcohol, other criminal actions, or other actions which could be subject to
criminal prosecution by law enforcement or juvenile authorities whether prosecution has or
does take place.
Restitution-if a student is determined to have violated these discipline policies or a school
regulation and in the course of that violation damaged or destroyed school property or the
property of another on school property, the principal shall require the student or the student’s
parent to make restitution. The restitution may not exceed $2500. The principal may assign
the student to a school work project if the principal determines that this is an appropriate
means to provide restitution for all or a part of the damage to property.
Definitions
School-Sponsored Event-all curricular and extracurricular activities which are a part of the
school’s overall program. These activities include field trips; athletic, music, and theatrical
events; club meetings; conferences; dances; class trips; and all other activities for which the school provides
supervision.
Suspension-means that a significant period of school time will be lost by the student. Depending on the length
of the suspension, the student will either be permitted to make up work lost during the suspension period or, in
the case of secondary students, be required to enroll in and satisfactorily complete the Harford County Public
Schools’ Alternative Education Program. A suspension late in the school year, if of significant length, could
possibly be extended to the next school year.
Expulsion-student has been excluded from school for at least the remainder of the school year and no
alternative education services are provided. The student may be required to repeat the school year. High school
students cannot earn credits for any subjects in which the student is enrolled at the time of expulsion (see next
column for reference to Gun-free Schools Act of 1994).
Verbal Or Physical Threat And/Or Physical Attack On Staff, Dangerous Weapons, And Arson/Fire
Policies And Procedures
All students and employees and agents of Harford County Public Schools have a right to expect that reasonable
safeguards, policies, and procedures will be established to protect their health and safety while on the property
of Harford County Public Schools, at school-sponsored or supervised events, and while riding a school bus.
Certain student offenses such as verbal or physical threat and/or physical attack on staff directed toward
employees or agents of the school system, possession and/or use of a dangerous weapon, and/or acts of arson/
fire jeopardize the health and safety of not only individuals but the student population and staff in general.
A. Verbal Or Physical Threat And/Or Physical Attack On Staff
Verbal Or Physical Threat- means either verbal or physical conduct which places a school employee in
reasonable fear of a physical attack as defined below whether or not such physical attack occurs.
Physical Attack- means an intentional harmful or offensive physical touching of a school employee or touching,
whether intentional or unintentional, of a school employee who is intervening in a fight or other disruptive activity.
If the principal of a school determines that a student has committed an act of verbal or physical threat and/
or physical attack on staff toward an employee or agent of Harford County Public Schools, the principal will
suspend the student for ten school days and refer him/her to the office of the Superintendent of Schools with the
recommendation for further disciplinary action. If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal,
a long-term suspension/expulsion will be imposed after considering the nature and severity of the behavior and
other factors related to the student’s school record. In addition, the appropriate police agency will be notified
promptly.
B. Dangerous Weapons
Any object which reasonably could cause physical harm or injury to a person, or an object which is represented
to be and a reasonable person would conclude was a dangerous weapon, and for which there is no reasonable
or legitimate cause for the student to possess or use on the property of the Harford County Public Schools.
Dangerous weapons shall include, but are not limited to, the following: any firearm of any kind, whether loaded
or unloaded, operable or inoperable, including any object which is a look-alike of a firearm, even though
incapable of operation; knives of any kind (including, but not limited to, a switchblade knife, a star knife, a
dirk knife, a hunting knife); a straight razor; a spiked glove, spiked wristband, or spiked ring; metal knuckles;
nunchaku; explosive devices; chemical mace, tear gas, or pepper spray.
If the principal of a school determines that a student has or has had in his/her possession or has used a
dangerous weapon on school property, the principal will suspend the student for ten school days and refer him/
her to the office of the Superintendent of Schools with the recommendation for further disciplinary action. If
the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, the Superintendent may extend the suspension
or expel the student after considering the nature and severity of the behavior and other factors related to the
6

student’s school record. In addition, the appropriate police agency will be notified promptly.
Further, in compliance with the Gun-free Schools Act of 1994 and Section 7-305 of the Annotated Code of Maryland, a student
who has been determined by the Superintendent of Schools to have brought a firearm onto school property may be expelled
for a minimum of 365 consecutive days. For purposes of enforcement of the penalty required in this paragraph only, a firearm
means a firearm as defined in 18 U.S.C. 921, that is:
• Any weapon which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;
• The frame or receiver of any weapon described above;
• Any firearm muffler or firearm silencer;
• Any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas, including a bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four
ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or similar device;
• Any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of a propellant, and which
has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter;
• Any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive device
described in the two preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled.
The Superintendent of Schools may specify, on a case-by-case basis, a shorter period of expulsion for a student who has
brought a firearm onto school property. Any student expelled under the provisions of the Gun-free Schools Act of 1994 will not
be permitted to enroll in the Alternative Education Program.
C. Arson/Fire
Definition- attempting to, aiding in, or setting fire to a building or other school property. If the principal of a school determines
that a student has committed an act of arson/fire to a school building or property, the principal will suspend the student for ten
school days and refer him/her to the office of the Superintendent of Schools with the recommendation for further disciplinary
action. If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, the Superintendent may extend the suspension or expel
the student after considering the nature and severity of the behavior and other factors related to the student’s school record. In
addition, the Maryland State Fire Marshal’s office will be notified promptly.
Student Possession, Use, Or Transference Of Controlled Dangerous Substances, Medicines, And Alcohol
School personnel are obliged to ensure the constitutional rights of individual students and to protect the privilege of students
to attend public school and school-sponsored events free of illegal activities. It is difficult to maintain a balance between the
constitutional rights of individual students and the right of students to obtain a free and appropriate education. In recognition
of the problem of drug and alcohol use and demonstration of its determination to deal firmly with offenders and to protect the
rights of other students, the Board of Education instructs its employees, and, in particular, school administrators, supervisors,
and teachers, to implement the following policies and procedures:
1. Students who are suspected to be under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance, alcohol, or an inhalant or
other intoxicant will be referred to the principal of the school. If the investigation of the matter yields no material evidence,
but if the principal has reasonable cause to suspect that the student is under the influence of a controlled dangerous
substance, alcohol, or an inhalant or other intoxicant, the principal will contact the student’s parents/caretakers and a
mandatory conference will be held. The Superintendent of Schools will be advised in writing of the incident and of the
results of the parent conference.
2. Students are not permitted to possess or use prescribed or over-the-counter medication on school buses or on school
property. All medication must be properly registered, stored with, and administered by designated school personnel.
Exceptions to this article, with supporting documentation from the student’s physician, may be granted by the Nurse
Coordinator. Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action to the student, with a parent conference available
immediately to clarify this policy. A second violation will result in a ten-school-day suspension of the student by the
principal and a referral to the Superintendent of Schools with a recommendation for further disciplinary action. If the
Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, a long-term suspension/expulsion will be imposed after
considering the nature and severity of the behavior and other factors related to the student’s school record.
3. If the principal of the school determines that a student is under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance, alcohol,
or an inhalant or other intoxicant, the principal will suspend the student for ten school days and will refer the student to the
office of the Superintendent of Schools for further disciplinary action.
If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, a longterm
suspension/expulsion will be imposed after considering the nature
and severity of the behavior and other factors related to the student’s
school record. In addition, the appropriate police agency will be notified
promptly.
4. A student who has been found to be either in possession of or to be
using a controlled dangerous substance, alcohol, an inhalent or other
intoxicant, or to be in possession of paraphernalia or a substance
misrepresented to be a controlled dangerous substance or alcohol, will
be suspended for 10 school days by the principal and referred to the
office of the Superintendent of Schools for further disciplinary action.
If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, a longterm
suspension/expulsion will be imposed after considering the nature
and severity of the behavior and other factors related to the student’s
school record. In addition, the appropriate police agency will be notified
promptly.
5. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) and the student agree to participate in
a substance abuse evaluation at the Harford County Mental Health
and Addictions/Adolescent Addiction Services and agree to follow the
recommendations for treatment made as part of that evaluation, at
no cost to the Harford County Public Schools, the Superintendent of
Schools will reduce the length of the suspension which would otherwise
be imposed. This option is for a first offense only and will not be offered
for transference or a second offense of the drug and alcohol policies.
Further, this option is contingent upon the continuing availability of
funding to the Harford County Mental Health and Addictions/Adolescent
Addiction Services to enable that agency to provide this service.
6. The second offense for the possession or use of a controlled dangerous
substance, alcohol, or an inhalant or other intoxicant, or for possession
of paraphernalia or a substance misrepresented to be a controlled
dangerous substance, alcohol, or an inhalant or other intoxicant will
result in a suspension for 10 school days by the principal and referral to
the office of the Superintendent of Schools for further disciplinary action.
If the Superintendent concurs with the findings of the principal, the
Superintendent may extend the suspension or expel the student after
considering the nature and severity of the behavior and other factors
related to the student’s school record. In addition, the appropriate police
agency will be notified promptly.
7. Any offense for the actual transference of a controlled dangerous
substance, medicine, alcohol, an inhalant or other intoxicant, or
paraphernalia, or substance misrepresented to be a controlled
dangerous substance, medicine, alcohol, an inhalant or other intoxicant
or paraphernalia will result in a ten-day suspension of the student by the
principal and a referral to the office of the Superintendent of Schools with
the recommendation for further disciplinary action. If the Superintendent
concurs with the findings of the principal, the Superintendent may extend
the suspension or expel the student after considering the nature and
7

severity of the behavior and other factors related to the student’s school record. In addition,
the appropriate police agency will be notified promptly.
8. When a student is determined to be in violation of these drug and alcohol policies,
parent(s)/guardian(s) and the student will be provided with information regarding available
resources in the community and encouraged to seek appropriate evaluation and treatment
for the student.
Use Of Tobacco Products
Definitions
A. Tobacco means products derived in the tobacco plant that are smoked, chewed, sniffed or
otherwise consumed.
B. School property means any building or land owned or leased by Harford County Public
Schools/Board of Education.
C. School day means 12:00 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. of each day of the calendar year.
Use of tobacco products in Harford County Public Schools’ buildings, property, or school buses
(including leased vehicles) is prohibited 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit www.hcps.org for
the entire procedure.
With respect to students who violate this rule, the following disciplinary procedure shall be
followed.
1st
offense
2nd
offense
3rd
offense
a. The school administrator will schedule a required conference with the parent/
guardian during which the student, parent and administrator will discuss the
violation.
b. The student shall receive a one-day suspension.
c. The student shall attend a one-session, (one-hour) tobacco education awareness
program offered or approved by the Harford County Health Department.
d. The student shall provide appropriate documentation of completion of the
tobacco education program.
e. Failure to attend or successfully complete the tobacco education program
shall result in the student receiving an additional four-day suspension.
a. The school administrator will schedule a required conference with the parent/
guardian during which the student, parent and administrator will discuss the
violation.
b. The student shall receive a five-day suspension.
c. The student shall attend a three-session (six-hour) tobacco education awareness
program offered or approved by the Harford County Health Department.
d. The student shall provide appropriate documentation of completion of the
tobacco education program.
e. Failure to attend or successfully complete the tobacco education program
shall result in the student receiving an additional five-day suspension.
a. The student shall receive a ten-day suspension from school and a referral to
the Superintendent of Schools for further disciplinary action. The Superintendent
of Schools shall, thereafter, determine the extent of any additional suspension at
his/her discretion.
Meanings Of Key Words And Phrases In Policy
Controlled Dangerous Substance - Controlled dangerous substances include, but are not limited to, the
substances listed in Title 5 of the Criminal Law Article. In addition, substances, and this includes medicine not
registered with the school nurse, which are intended, implied, or are thought to produce the same or similar
effects as substances listed in the Code are also regarded as controlled dangerous substances.
Medicine - Any preparation used in treating disease or illness. This includes prescription and over-thecounter
drugs.
Inhalant or Other Intoxicant - Any compound or substance (such as glue and solvents) which may cause a
loss of self-control or inebriation.
Under the Influence - A principal may suspect or determine, depending on the evidence, that a student is
under the influence when in any setting in which the student’s responsibility is charged to a school authority:
1. Information has been received from another student, a bus driver, a teacher, or any other employee of
the school system that the student had been seen taking the drug, or
2. The principal observes unusual behavior on the part of the student such as drowsiness, dilated or
contracted pupils, motor imbalance, slurred speech, unaccountable excitability, aggressive behavior,
hallucinations, needle marks, vomiting, blank expression, etc., or
3. Evidence shows that the student used or consumed a controlled dangerous substance, drug, and/
or alcohol, except for such drugs as authorized by a physician and which meet the provisions of the
Harford County Public Schools policies on medication.
Material Evidence - Drugs, alcohol, substances misrepresented to be drugs or alcohol, medicine not
registered with the school nurse, and/or paraphernalia used in taking controlled dangerous substances.
Possession or To Be Using - The student has or has had in his/her possession or has used a controlled
dangerous substance.
Possession of Paraphernalia - The student has or has had in his/her possession paraphernalia which
indicates that its presence is for the intended use of a drug. Typical paraphernalia would be pipes for the
smoking of marijuana, manufactured paper, homemade clips or wire-formed devices used for holding
marijuana “roaches,” gelatin capsules, measuring spoons, scales, strainers, and other items as defined by
law.
Substance Misrepresented - A substance which a student misrepresents to be a controlled dangerous
substance, or thinks to be a controlled dangerous substance, implies is a controlled dangerous substance, or
will produce the effects of a controlled dangerous substance.
Transference - To pass to another person or to make reasonably available to another person a controlled
dangerous substance or medicine or alcohol or paraphernalia or a substance misrepresented to be a
controlled dangerous substance.
Remember...
The law protects students who seek help to overcome a drug or alcohol problem. Admission of drug abuse is
not a criminal offense. Students will not be punished for seeking help and school officials are required under
the law to maintain the confidentiality of any information students share with them in their efforts to overcome
the problem.
But...
When it is determined that a student is using, in possession of, or transferring a controlled dangerous
substance, a student will be suspended or expelled from school in accordance with the policies of the Board
of Education.
8

Penalties
Suspension and Expulsion
A. Suspension for not longer than 10 school days.
1. In accordance with the rules and regulations of the county board, each principal of a public school may suspend
for cause, for not more than 10 school days, any student in the school who is under the direction of the
principal.
2. The student or his parent/guardian promptly shall be given a conference with the principal and any other
appropriate personnel during the suspension period.
B. Suspension for more than 10 school days or expulsion. At the request of a principal, a county superintendent may
suspend a student for more than 10 school days or expel him/her.
C. Procedure for more than 10 day suspension or expulsion.
1. If a principal finds that a suspension of more than10 school days or expulsion is warranted, he immediately shall
report the matter in writing to the county superintendent.
2. The county superintendent or his/her designated representative promptly shall make a thorough investigation of
the matter.
3. If after the investigation the county superintendent finds that a longer suspension or expulsion is warranted,
he/she or his/her designated representative promptly shall arrange a conference with the student and his/her
parent/ guardian.
4. If after the conference the county superintendent or his/her designated representative finds that a suspension
of more than10 school days or expulsion is warranted, the student or his/her parent/guardian may (i) appeal to
the county board within 10 days after the determination; (ii) be heard before the county board or its designated
committee; and (iii) bring counsel and witness to the hearing.
5. Unless a public hearing is requested by the parent/ guardian of the student, a hearing shall be held out of the
presence of all individuals except those whose presence is considered necessary or desirable by the board.
6. The appeal to the county board does not stay the decision of the county superintendent.
7. The decision of the county board is final.
Discrimination/Harassment Policy
Harford County Public Schools is committed to providing an educational environment for all students that is safe, optimal for
academic achievement, and free from any form of discrimination or harassment including sexual harassment. Members of the
school community are expected to treat each other with mutual respect.Visit www.hcps.org for specific policy.
Harrassment Reporting Form - If you are the student victim, the parent/guardian of a student victim, or a close adult relative
of a student victim, and wish to report an incident of alleged harassment or intimidation (bullying) on school property, the school
bus, school event or on the way to or from school, you are asked to complete a harassment or intimidation reporting form and
return it to the principal at the student victim’s school. The form is available on the HCPS website
(www.hcps.org) or at any school. Contact the school for additional information or assistance at any time.
Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Intimidation, Bullying, and Retaliation
Harassment, intimidation, bullying, and retaliation are prohibited and not tolerated by the students, volunteers or employees of
the Harford County Public Schools.
If you believe your child has been the victim of bullying, harassment, or intimidation, you are asked to complete a Bullying,
Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form and return it to the principal at the student victim’s school. The form is available on
the HCPS website (www.hcps.org) or at any school.
Prohibition of Gang Related Activities
Definition - Gang means any ongoing organization, association or group of three or more students, whether formal or informal,
having as one of its primary activities the commission of criminal acts or violations of school discipline policies and having a
common name or common identifying signs, colors, or symbols.
Students shall not engage in any act furthering the interest of any gang or gang activity including but not limited to the following:
• soliciting, with or without coercion, membership in or affiliation with any
gang;
• painting, writing, or otherwise inscribing gang related graffiti,
messages, symbols, or signs on school property;
• engaging in violence, extortion, or any other illegal act or other
violation of school discipline policies in furtherance of gang activity;
• soliciting any person to engage in physical violence against another
person in furtherance of gang activity;
• wearing, possessing, using, distributing, displaying, or selling any
clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, or items which evidence
membership in, identification with or affiliation with any gang and/or is
representative of any gang;
• engaging in any act, either verbal or nonverbal, including gestures or
handshakes which demonstrate membership or affiliation in any gang
and/or is representative of any gang.
Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary actions including
suspension pursuant to Section 7-305 of the Education Article.
Portable Communication Policy
Portable communication devices provide the ability to send and receive
information utilizing radio frequencies.
Such devices include, but are not limited to, cell phones, pagers, personal
data assistants (PDA), laptop computers with cellular/phone capability, and
two-way radios.
Instructional use of wireless communication devices in Harford County Public
Schools shall be determined in accordance with the needs of students as
jointly agreed upon by the child’s parent/guardian and school. The parent and
school shall, in accordance with the student’s individual education plan or as
jointly established, agree upon the use of a wireless communication device
by a student with specific educational concerns or disabilities.
The Board of Education prohibits the use of certain wireless communication
devices, which in its opinion, have limited or no educational value or their use
creates learner distraction and learning environment disruption.
In light of this concern, the Board of Education prohibits student possession
of pagers on school property at all times.
The Board of Education permits high school students to possess cell
phones during the regular school day (as noted below); however, students
are prohibited from using cell phones during the regular school day for any
reason. Student possession of cell phones shall conform to the following
restrictions:
• students shall not use cell phones or otherwise be capable of
receiving an activation signal at any time while riding any form of
Harford County Public Schools provided transportation
• during the course of the regular school day for students, cell
phones shall not be used to transmit or receive calls and shall be
turned off or rendered incapable of activation
9

Students enrolled in high schools only may possess Portable Communication Devices (PCD)
on school grounds and buses during the regular school day provided:
• the student keeps and maintains the PCD so it cannot be seen by others;
• the student does not use or activate the PCD in any fashion.
Students enrolled in high schools only may use a PCD on school grounds (but not on buses)
before the regular school day and after the regular school day.
Students who violate the above restrictions shall be deemed to have created a disruption to the
instructional environment and be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Drug Detecting Dogs In Secondary Schools
The Board of Education of Harford County permits the use of drug detecting dogs in secondary
schools. Drug detecting dogs may be used in school buildings and on school parking lots
during the day when students are present. Drug detecting dogs may be used randomly or at
the request of the principal based on reasonable suspicion that drugs might be in the school.
Under no circumstances will a drug detecting dog be used to sniff any individual person.
When, in the opinion of the dog’s handler, a drug detecting dog has alerted on a locker or other
property in the school, a search may be conducted by the principal or his/her designee. When,
in the opinion of the dog’s handler, a drug detecting dog has alerted on a vehicle, a search
may be conducted by a police officer. Students who are in possession of controlled dangerous
substances and other items that constitute a violation of the policies of the Board of Education
will be disciplined in accordance with the appropriate procedures.
Educational Field Trips
Schools sponsor educational field trips for students to provide learning experiences that are
not possible in the classroom. The most frequent educational field trips are taken during the
normal school day; however, sometimes circumstances warrant that a trip be conducted
beyond the school day or on a non-school day. Occasionally, trips are also authorized which
require overnight accommodations. In every case, a field trip must be approved by the school
administration and meet the guidelines established by the Board of Education.
All field trips are planned well in advance to fill specific purposes in the instructional program.
In general, trips are not taken which require students to pay an admission charge. However,
occasionally some of these have unusual merit and are permitted.
All students must have prior written permission from a parent/ guardian to take part in a field
trip. Students are expected to observe commonly accepted rules for good school citizenship
and, since nearly all trips are taken on buses, they are expected to obey all pertinent bus
transportation rules (as listed in this handbook). A teacher and other chaperons are present on
each bus to supervise the students.
When educational field trips extend beyond the end of the normal school day, additional
measures are taken to ensure adequate provision for the notification of parents in case of an
emergency. Also, parents must make arrangements to meet their children at school when the
buses return.
In certain instances, the Board of Education has authorized the Superintendent of Schools
to give approval for overnight field trips. Trips of this nature might be taken to such events as
state-sponsored athletic tournaments, exchange programs, class trips, musicals, conferences,
seminars, and other similar activities that have the sponsorship and official support of state
agencies and/or parent organizations.
Parents are notified well in advance about the goals and objectives of overnight trips, the
specific activities that will take place, and the degree of supervision that is planned. Students are not required
to participate in overnight field trips. Field trips may be canceled without prior notice if emergency or other
circumstances require.
Eligibility Policy
In order to participate in curricular and extra-curricular activities in any Harford County public school,
students shall be officially registered and physically attending a Harford County public school. A student
may be declared ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities for reasons based on scholastic status
and/or citizenship. A student will be declared ineligible when the student has received a failing grade in any
subject on a quarterly report card. For a complete listing of eligibility rules, please refer to individual school
handbooks.
Food & Nutrition
School food prices are subject to change pending an annual review of revenue/expenses.
All Harford County Public Schools conduct breakfast and lunch programs. Menus are distributed through the
schools, published in local newspapers, announced over local radio and television stations, and are on the
Harford County Public Schools website (www.hcps.org).
Participation in the Federal Government School Food & Nutrition Program has also made it possible to provide
some Harford County Public Schools students with free or reduced price meals. Application forms and guidelines
for determining a student’s eligibility to receive free or reduced price meals are distributed to each child in August.
One application can be completed for the entire household when all family members are listed. Applications for
the program are available in school offices and parents may apply for benefits at any time during the school year.
Cafeterias are equipped with computers, which allow parents to deposit money which may be specified for
prepaid breakfasts, lunches, or snack items. Deposits can be made directly to the cafeteria staff or online at the
following website: www.cafeprepay.com.
Cost of each prepaid breakfast: $1.05 elementary & secondary
$.20 reduced price elementary & secondary
Cost of each prepaid lunch:
$1.90 elementary
$2.00 secondary
$.40 reduced price elementary & secondary
$ no charge for free meal benefit
A la carte items: any amount can be deposited. Snacks range from $.40 to $1.00 in elementary and $.20 to $1.50
in secondary schools.
If you do not designate whether your deposit is for a specific amount of breakfasts, lunches, or a specific
dollar amount for a la carte, then the deposit goes into the “on account” category and can be used for any of
the three purchases.
Students using personal identification numbers (PIN) can withdraw money for food purchases.
10

Graduation Requirements (For the class of 2012)
Subject
Diploma
English 4
Social Studies+ 3
Science^ 3
Mathematics++ 4
Fine Arts 1
Technology Education 1
Physical Education 1
Health
Career Pathway 4
Foreign Language OR Advanced Tech OR
Successful Completion of State approved career/tech
program
Elective
1/2 - 2 1/2
Total 26
+ 1 in World History, 1 in U.S. History, 1 in Local, State and National Government
++ 1 with fundamental or advanced algebraic concepts; 1 with fundamental or advanced geometric concepts
^ Must include one credit in Biology
Additional Requirements
• English courses in grades nine, ten, and eleven must be taken sequentially and a student may not enroll in the next grade
level until he/she has passed the preceding one. The exception is English 12, which may be taken simultaneously with
English 11, during the senior year.
• Eighth graders are given the option of registering for the Maryland State Scholars program. Check with local high school
counselors for more information.
• To be eligible for a high school diploma, all students must complete the Maryland State Department of Education student
service learning requirements as developed by Harford County Public Schools.
• Students must pass the applicable Maryland High School Assessment (HSA) at the end of the course in English 2, algebra
1, and biology, with a combined score of 1208, in order to receive a Maryland High School Diploma. If students have taken
government HSA they have the option of meeting graduation requirements by meeting the combined score on all four
tests of 1602 or on the three test with a combined score of 1208, in order to receive a Maryland High School Diploma.
Students have the following alternatives to meet the High School Assessment graduation requirements:
• If students do no pass all three tests, they may satisfy the HSA requirement using The Combined-Score Option. The
combined score for all three tests must be 1208. If students have taken government HSA they have the option of meeting
graduation requirements by meeting the combined score on all four tests of 1602 or on the three test with a combined
score of 1208, in order to receive a Maryland High School Diploma.
• Modified HSAs with altered test items are available for a small portion of students with disabilities.
• The Bridge Plan for Academic Validation is for students who have been unable to pass one or more HSAs, despite
assistance. Students must meet three general eligibility criteria: taken and failed the test at least twice, participation
in appropriate assistance, and satisfactory progress toward graduation. Students eligible for participation will meet with
school staff to determine the projects to be included in the student’s Academic Validation Project Package.
1/2
2
4
Exceptions To The Regular High School Program
Under certain circumstances, students may waive a fourth year of high
school attendance. Upon receiving permission from the school principal
and the superintendent of schools, a student may be awarded a diploma
after acceptance and/or successful completion of one year of college or
post-secondary education.
In addition to the regular school program, students may earn credits by
attending summer school or the Alternative Education Program.
Seniors may receive approval from the principal and the Executive Director
of High School Performance to earn one additional credit beyond the
credits earned during the regular school day.
Questions concerning “Exceptions to the Regular High School Program”
should be directed to the high school counseling office.
Health Services Program
The Health Services Program is an integral part of the educational support
system and maximizes every student’s learning potential by promoting his or
her optimum health.
The major responsibilities of school health services include:
• Maintain the health room to provide emergency care for the ill and injured
school population.
• Provide for the prevention, identification, assessment, and management
of health concerns in the school setting.
• Assist students with special health care needs.
• Maintain the mandated records.
• Coordinate all activities related to student medication.
• Implement health-screening programs as mandated by the State of
Maryland: vision, hearing and lead.
• Provide for the prevention and control of communicable diseases within
the school setting.
• Monitor compliance of current Maryland immunization laws.
• Act as a resource to teachers, parents/guardians, and students on health
education and safety issues.
• Participate in student services team conferences.
• Assist in the promotion and maintenance of desirable student attendance
practices.
• Continue professional and personal growth by attending conferences,
workshops, and inservice/graduate courses.
• Maintain and enhance a safe school environment.
Guidelines For Medications For Students While In School
When a student is taking a prescribed medication, parents/guardians should
make every effort to arrange for the medicine to be taken outside of the school
day. However, there are occasions when it is determined by a health care
provider that a student must receive prescribed medication during the school
day, either on a regular schedule or in the event of an emergency. When this
circumstance occurs, the following guidelines apply:
11

• All medication must be accompanied by a written health care provider’s order. These
instructions must contain: the student’s name, name of the medication, the route of
administration, the exact dosage, time and circumstances of administration, length of time
the medication is to be continued, reason for administration, health care provider’s
name, time and frequency of administration and date of order. Parents/guardians
must also provide written authorization to administer medication to their child. For your
convenience, a form for this purpose is available from the school nurse. No medication
may be administered to a student without the required health care provider’s
order and parent/guardian permission. Faxed medication orders are acceptable. In
some circumstances orders written on health care provider’s letterhead or prescription
pad is acceptable.
• The parent/guardian should give the first dose of any new prescription or over the
counter medication at home (except for emergency medication, e.g. Epi-Pen®).
• Medication must be in its original prescription bottle, properly labeled by the pharmacy.
Pharmacies can provide a second labeled bottle to accommodate medications that are
given at school. Siblings may not share medication.
• Discretionary medications are available for occasional use only to students who
have a signed permission slip on file in the health suite. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen,
diphenhydramine, antacid tablets and cough drops may be administered under the
ordered protocols of the physician from the Harford County Health Department and at
the discretion of the school nurse.
• Over-the-counter medications that are required on a more than occasional basis must
be accompanied by an order from an authorized health care provider and supplied and
transported to the health suite by the parent/guardian.
Parents/guardians or their designee must bring the medication to the school personally.
Students are not permitted to carry medication on school buses or the school
grounds. Under extenuating circumstances there may be exceptions. This is for the safety of
all students.
• If the health care provider feels that your child must carry and self-administer either an
inhaler or Epi-Pen®, please have the health care provider complete the “Permission for
Students to Carry/Self Administer Medications” form, stating the medical necessity for
carrying the medication. The parent/guardian must also sign the form. This completed
form must be given to the school nurse. The school nurse will notify all appropriate
personnel when such exceptions are granted, including bus drivers. A copy of this
form will be retained in the student’s confidential health folder. The Contract for Self-
Administration of Medication must also be completed. Back-up medications must be
kept in the health suite.
• No medication will be stored over the summer. The parent/guardian must pick up
all medication by the end of the school day on the last day of school. Any remaining
medication not picked up by a parent/guardian will be destroyed. No medication will be
sent home with a student.
• A new health care provider’s order and parent/guardian permission form is required for
medications at the beginning of each new school year, and for any changes during the
school year.
• Students are permitted to carry cough drops, but must have written parent/guardian
permission. No health care provider’s order is required.
To ensure the safety of the student taking medications, as well as other students, the following apply:
• All medications are kept in a locked cabinet in the health suite at all times.
• Medication must be taken in the presence of the school nurse, principal, or designee.
• Records are maintained documenting the medication taken, date, time, and the person who administered
it. Immunization requirements can be found under Registering Your Child For School, page 17.
Home And Hospital Instruction
Home and hospital instruction is a teaching and learning temporary program when a child is unable to attend
school because of illness, accident, or emotional impairment.
FOR THE STUDENT . . .
• Students will be given a minimum of six hours of instruction per week.
• Books will be provided by the school.
• At quarterly intervals, progress will be assessed and will become part of the school report card grade.
FOR THE PARENT . . .
• There is no charge for this service.
• The service is provided for physically and/or emotionally impaired students.
• A physician or psychiatrist/psychologist must verify that the child is unable to attend school.
• Home teaching will begin at the time of verification of the need.
FOR THE SCHOOL . . .
• The school will be contacted by the home teacher immediately after being assigned.
• The school coordinator of home teaching will gather the lessons, plans, books, etc., for the home teacher.
• Just prior to the end of each marking period, the school will receive grades from the home teacher.
• Home teaching grades will be averaged into the grades earned while the student was in school.
FOR THE HOME TEACHER . . .
• The home teacher will contact the school to make arrangements to pick up books and materials.
• The home teacher will arrange with the student and her/his family a mutually agreed-upon schedule.
• The home teacher will be responsible for submitting progress reports to the school.
• The home teacher will notify the area Student Services Office and the school of the termination of the
home teaching program.
• The home teacher will return all books and materials to the school.
Homework
Properly planned homework assignments should relate directly to class work and extend learning beyond
the classroom. Effective homework assignments teach students to become independent learners. While it is
recognized that student achievement improves significantly when teachers regularly assign homework and
students conscientiously complete assignments, homework has other important purposes. Homework provides
the students valuable experiences in following directions, making judgments, raising additional questions for
study, and developing responsibility and self-discipline.
Additionally, homework is a means to communicate to parents regarding current class activities and topics of
study.
1. Appropriateness of Homework
Homework should be appropriate to the age, ability, and independent level of students. Student
characteristics including grade level, motivation, and study habits must be considered.
2. Assignment Characteristics and Initial Classroom Factors
Teachers should ensure that students understand the purpose of each homework assignment. The
amount of homework, the skills to be reinforced, and completion deadlines influence student outcomes.
12

Because homework is a valuable instructional tool, care must be taken to provide materials which are readable and
directions which are clear.
3. Types of Assignments
Taking into consideration the directions that students need in order to successfully complete their homework, it is
reasonable to expect that assignments can extend learning beyond the classroom in a number of ways. Types of
assignments may include the following:
a. The PRACTICE assignment reinforces previous learning and should be adapted to the ability and progress of each
student.
b. EXTENSION assignments allow students to go beyond memorization of content and provide for the transfer of
learning to a new situation which requires students to apply previously learned skills.
c. CREATIVE assignments ask students to integrate skills and concepts in order to generate a new response.
d. REVIEW assignments enable students to clarify concepts and to gain an overview of material that has been taught.
4. Approximate Hours for Homework Completion
At the primary level, homework should collectively range from two to three hours weekly but not exceed one-half hour a
night. At the intermediate level, homework should collectively range from three to five hours weekly but not exceed fortyfive
minutes a night. In the middle school, homework time should approximate a collective range from four to eight hours
weekly but not more than two hours per night. High school homework time should collectively range from five to twelve
hours weekly but not more than three hours per night. Teachers should use these time approximations as a reference
when considering homework assignments. In addition, teachers should be mindful that students who are accountable
to more than one teacher will have homework from more than one subject or class. Homework may be assigned over
weekends.
5. Holiday Homework
Homework is not to be assigned over holidays when public schools are closed.
6. Classroom Follow-up
Teachers must consistently monitor and assess homework assignments. In addition to testing related content or using
assignments in class discussions, feedback should be provided in the form of written comments, grades, or incentives.
High Schools
Middle Schools*
Elem. Schools**
John Archer
Prekindergarten a.m. session***
Prekindergarten p.m. session***
Hours Of Operation
Starting Time Dismissal
7:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m.
8:15 a.m. 2:45 p.m.
9:00 a.m. 3:30 p.m.
9:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m.
9:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m.
1:00 p.m. 3:30 p.m.
* North Harford Middle School will continue to operate on the same schedule as North Harford High School.
** Havre de Grace, William S. James, and Deerfield elementary schools will operate on the 4th tier busing schedule, 9:30
a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
*** 4th tier busing schedule for prekindergarten, 9:30 a.m. - noon; 1:30 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Inclement Weather Policy
All public schools in Harford County will be closed on days when roads, school parking lots, and/or school driveways/
walkways are considered to be unsafe for school bus transportation/student, staff use. The decision to close is made by
the Superintendent of Schools as early as possible on the morning in question. In the vast majority of cases, this is prior to
6:00 a.m. The determination is made after consulting with the state police, the sheriff’s office, the state and county highway
departments, and other sources of information in different parts of the county.
Some weather conditions make it advisable to delay the opening time of schools.
• If schools are delayed one hour, morning half-day prekindergarten will
start at 10:00 a.m.; afternoon half-day prekindergarten will proceed as
originally scheduled.
• If schools are delayed two hours there will be no morning half-day
prekindergarten or early intervention programs; afternoon half-day
prekindergarten will proceed as originally scheduled.
(All times will be a half hour later for fourth tier busing schools.)
If elementary schools have a scheduled teachers’ planning early dismissal
and there is a two-hour delay due to inclement weather, students will NOT be
dismissed early but will remain in school for the regular school day.
Any change from the normal school schedule as a result of inclement
weather - snow, ice, heat, etc. - will be communicated through our rapid
telephone notification system, email, Twitter and on radio and television
stations broadcasts to the public. In addition, closings will be listed on the
HCPS website at www.hcps.org. Parents are invited to listen to one of the
following stations when inclement weather conditions prevail: WAMD (970),
Aberdeen; WLIF-FM (101.9), Baltimore; WBAL (1090), Baltimore; WPOC-FM
(93.1), Baltimore; WCBM (680), Baltimore; WXYV-FM (105.7), Baltimore;
WSBA (910), York, PA; WWMX-FM (106.5), Baltimore; WARM-FM (103),
York, PA; WXCY-FM (103.7), Havre de Grace; WDAC-FM (94.5), Lancaster,
PA; WERQ-FM (92.3), Baltimore; and TV Stations - CH 2, 11, 13, 45.
Parents have the right not to send their children to school if they feel travel
conditions are unsafe. The student will be marked as lawfully absent.
The announcement will be made only when schools will be closed or when
there are delayed openings or early closings. No telephone calls or media
announcements will be made when schools are open as usual.
In order to keep school telephone lines open for emergency calls, parents
are urged not to call the school concerning the possibility of early closing.
This information will be reported as soon as possible over the official stations
listed and on the HCPS website (www.hcps.org) and through email and the
automated telephone system.
If it is necessary to close the school(s) for reasons such as power failures
or other emergencies, information will be communicated through the above
listed radio and television stations, on the HCPS website, by the automated
telephone system, email or the public can call the HCPS switchboard after
hours at 410-838-7300.
Integrated Pest Management And Notification Of
Pesticide Use In A Public School Building And On
School Grounds
Integrated pest management (IPM) is a system of controlling pests that does
not depend on the automatic application of pesticides. As implemented by
Harford County Public Schools, pests are monitored by regular and careful
13

inspections. Through a system of inspection, documentation, communication with building
occupants and evaluation of any required actions, an effective program of pest control is
currently in place.
Priority is given to non-chemical pest management techniques. However, there will be
occasions when pesticide application is necessary. Application will be done in a manner
sufficient to minimize potential exposure to occupants and building environment. In compliance
with regulations as set forth by Maryland Department of Agriculture, notification will be made
to the parent(s)/guardian(s) of all elementary students and staff, and parent(s)/guardian(s)
of secondary student(s) attending a secondary school, or Harford County Public Schools
staff and wish to be notified of all pesticide applications on school properties, contact school
administration to request written notification.
Information about pesticides or bait stations that may be used in school buildings or on school
grounds when non-chemical techniques are exhausted or inappropriate can be obtained
through the Facilities Management Department, 2209 Conowingo Rd, Bel Air, MD 21015.
The Executive Director of Facilities serves as coordinator and maintains product labels and
material safety data sheets (MSDS) for each product. Currently, these pesticides and bait
stations include (by common name) Amorphous Silica Gel, Borate, Borax, Bromadiolone,
Bromethalon, Carbon, Chlorfenapyr, Cyfluthrin, Cypermethrim, D-Trans Allethrin, Deltamethrin,
Diphacinone, Dimethylamine salt of 2,4 and Fiprobnil, Glyphosate, Hydramethylon,
Hydroprene, Imidacloprid, Methoprene, s-metochlor, Napthalene, Orthoboric Acid, Oxadizon,
Permethrin, Potassium Salt of Fatty Acid, Pyrethrins, Resmethrin, Sodium Nitrate, and Sulfer.
The public can review this information by contacting the program coordinator at 410-638-
4088. Copies can be obtained for the cost of reproduction. A more detailed description of IPM
techniques employed by Harford County Public Schools may be found in the IPM manual
located at each school site.
For further information regarding Harford County Public Schools Integrated Pest Management
Program contact the Executive Director of Facilities Management at 410-638-4088.
Notification Of AHERA Inspection & Management Plan Compliance
This notification is to inform interested parties such as teachers, school personnel, and parents
about Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) requirements and the actions
taken by Harford County Public Schools to comply with AHERA regulations. On October
30, 1987, the AHERA regulations were published in the Federal Register, pages 41826 to
41898, titled “Asbestos Containing Materials in Schools.” These regulations require a Building
Inspection to find asbestos containing material (ACM) within each school building and a
Management Plan for each building. Building Inspections have been conducted by an EPA
accredited Building Inspector. Management Plans have been written by an EPA accredited
Management Planner for each school, cataloging ACM found by the Building Inspection.
Building Inspections and Management Plans have been completed for all Harford County
Public Schools. These documents have been submitted to the State of Maryland in compliance
with AHERA’s May 9, 1989, deadline. The individual building reports include schedules for
periodic surveillance of ACM, re-inspection to be conducted by an accredited EPA Building
Inspector, and response actions planned, as well as those already completed. The first
re-inspection of Harford County Public Schools’ buildings was completed in 1992; and
subsequent re-inspections were performed in 1995, 1998, 2001, 2004, 2007 and 2010.
Management Plans are available for public review at school administrative offices. To minimize confusion,
and in order for a representative of the school system to be available, all who wish to review the reports are
requested to make an appointment with school administrators. Public viewing is at no cost to the individual.
Copies of the various reports are available for a fee based upon the copying costs of the individual report
requested.
Most Harford County schools do have asbestos containing materials (ACM), and all schools that do, have it
identified and catalogued in their management plans. Those materials are monitored by school and facilities
staff, and reinspected every three years by certified inspectors. In the event that deterioration is noted, or
maintenance action in the area of the materials requires that the ACM be removed, it is removed only by
certified contractors, with monitoring by a separate industrial hygiene contractor. No one other than certified
contractors; not school staff, not teachers, not students, nor parents should EVER take it upon themselves to
attempt to remove known or suspected asbestos containing materials for any reason.
Notification Of Planning For Incidents At The Peach Bottom Power Station
In the event of an incident at the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station (PBAPS), plans have been made to
increase the safety of public school students at schools within 10 miles of Peach Bottom. The following home
schools are within the 10 mile radius and could possibly be evacuated to a host school. The host schools are:
Schools within TenMiles of Peach Bottom
Darlington Elementary
Dublin Elementary
North Harford Elementary
North Harford Middle
North Harford High
Host Schools
Meadowvale Elementary
Churchville Elementary
North Bend Elementary
Hickory Elementary
C. Milton Wright High
In the event of an incident at the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station which requires the evacuation of
a school, students will be transported by bus directly to the HOST school. If such evacuation is ordered,
notification will be publicized by radio and television stations, and through the automated telephone system.
Parents or authorized persons are to meet their children at the assigned school. Parents are urged not to
telephone schools or attempt to make different arrangements. This will only create confusion. Parents are
requested not to pick up their children at the HOME school, but to meet their children at the HOST school.
Parents or other persons authorized to pick up a student will be required to provide identification at the pick-up
point and sign a register prior to the release of a student to their custody.
Notification Of Sampling For Lead In Drinking Water
Medical research shows lead to be a toxic metal which can be harmful to human health even at low exposure
levels. As evident by research, young children, infants, and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead exposure,
at lower exposure limits than adults. The effects are observed in physiological and behavioral symptoms.
The degree of harm from lead depends upon the total exposure to lead from all sources, and is cumulative over
your lifespan. Children as well as adults continue to be exposed to lead from a number of sources, including
dust from lead paint and soil, food, and water. For more information on these sources, please contact the
County Health Department at 410-838-1500, or the Maryland Department of the Environment at 410-537-3000.
In October 1988, Congress passed the Lead Contamination Control Act in order to prevent lead contamination
of drinking water in schools and daycare centers. The Act required the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
to publish a list of water coolers that were known to contain lead. It also required schools and daycare centers
to take actions to reduce lead from other sources of drinking water to no more than 20 parts per billion.
14

The Lead and Copper Rule required small water systems to complete initial monitoring of their drinking water supply by
December 31, 1993. Harford County Public Schools has completed the initial testing and continue to meet the requirements as
issued by the EPA. Those requirements include corrosion control, source water treatment, and public education for systems that
exceed the action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb) or 0.015 milligrams per liter (mg/L).
Results from testing done by Harford County Public Schools are on file in the administrative offices for the school system, and
are available for inspection by the public. Regular monitoring of the drinking water continues. Any questions may be directed to
410-638-4085.
Parent/Community Involvement
Harford County Public Schools invites and encourages the participation of parents/community in the education of their children.
All parents and community members are expected to participate actively in program planning and decision making. Visit www.
hcps.org for the full policy.
Personal Property
Personal property that is brought into the school by students is not covered under the insurance of Harford County Public
Schools. Please contact your homeowner’s insurance company regarding any valuable items, such as musical instruments, for
off-premise coverage. Students/parents should evaluate the personal items that are brought to school. Also, students should take
the time to permanently mark personal items so they are clearly identifiable. Personal computers are not permitted in schools.
Policy For Instructional Grouping
The school system does not favor any one pattern of instructional grouping for students. In fact, flexible grouping patterns within
each school are encouraged in order to meet specifically identified student needs and to encourage the use of the most effective
teaching methods and strategies. Each school has in writing a description of the grouping patterns used for its students.
Policy For Internet Use
Harford County Public Schools provides telecommunications resources to its students for educational purposes: the acquisition
of information/resources, communications and collaboration with experts, and career development activities. Telecommunications
resources shall be used in accordance with the educational goals of the school system.
Student use of the resources provided shall be under the direct supervision of the teacher and shall be instructionally related.
Reasonable precautions will be taken to ensure that the Internet is a safe learning environment for students. Students will be
expected to demonstrate responsible and ethical behavior in the use of the resources.
Access to the Internet through the telecommunications resources will only be granted to users who follow the Harford County
Public Schools Acceptable Use and Internet Safety Policy for Students and the procedures for such use. These policies are
published on the HCPS website (www.hcps.org).
HCPS utilizes an outside internet filtering company to ensure the safety of our students while they access the Internet. The use
of this filter system also allows HCPS to comply with the Child Internet Protection Act (CIPA). Although the web filtering product
utilizes the most innovative and cutting edge technology, it is still possible for students to access specific websites should
students seek them with intention and purpose. Therefore, the only way a parent can be completely assured his or her child will
not be able to access inappropriate material is to opt-out of Internet use at school. Your school can help you with this process.
Preparedness Planning
Harford County Public Schools, in cooperation with the Harford County Department of Emergency Preparedness, participates in
planning for various types of emergency situations such as fires, natural disasters, air pollution, and utility disruption. In the event
of any type of emergency that disrupts normal schedules at schools, notification will be provided through commercial radio and
television stations. See page 13 for a complete list of notification procedures.
Privacy Rights Of Parents And Students
Policy And Procedures
Federal and State laws give students and their parents the right to inspect
and review the student’s educational records and to have school record
inaccuracies corrected. Schools have the responsibility to maintain the
confidentiality of student records.
Records shall be kept for individual students in accordance with rules and
regulations of the Maryland State Board of Education.
Individual student records maintained by teachers or other school
personnel are to be confidential in nature, and access to such records may
be granted in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Individual
student records, with the exception of such records as are designated as
permanent, and with such other exceptions as provided by the law, should
be destroyed when they are no longer able to serve such legitimate and
recognized educational ends.
All educational records of a student maintained under the provisions of the
Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), including confidential records,
shall be made available to eligible students, approved caretakers, custodial
and non-custodial parents, or legal guardians except as otherwise provided
herein.
Definitions
1. Directory Information - student’s name and grade, but only when
it appears on honor roll or graduation list or as a member of a
school-approved team, club, or other student organization or school
publication; participation in officially recognized activities and sports;
weight and height of members of athletic teams; degrees and awards
received; student’s name and photograph as they appear in individual
school or school system publications.
2. Disclosure - permitting access, transfer, or release of educational
records of the student.
3. Eligible Students - a student who has attained 18 years of age or is
attending an institution of post-secondary education.
4. Local School Personnel - all officers, employees, and agents of the
Board of Education of Harford County.
5. Parents - custodial or non-custodial parents or approved caretakers
of the student may inspect the educational records unless the Harford
County Public Schools have been provided with a legally binding
instrument that provides to the contrary. This includes a legal guardian
or approved caretaker in the absence of a parent or guardian.
6. Party - individual, agency, institution, or organization.
7. Personally Identifiable - data or information including (a) the name
of the student, his/her parents, and family members; (b) address;
(c) social security number or student number; (d) a list of personal
characteristics which would make it possible to identify the student
with reasonable certainty; or (e) other information which would make it
possible to identify the student with reasonable certainty.
8. Post-Secondary Education - beyond grade 12.
15

9. Record - any information recorded in any medium such as handwriting, print, film,
microfilm, microfiche, photographs, papers, correspondence, reports, forms, photostats,
electronic recordings, sound recordings, computer data, and copies that are made,
received, or filed in a classroom, school office, or elsewhere.
10. School Official - a person employed by the school in an administrative, supervisory,
academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel
and health staff); a person or company with whom the school has contracted (such as an
attorney, auditor, collection agent); a person serving on the Board; or a student serving on
an official committee, such as a discipline or grievance committee, or assisting another
school official in performing his or her tasks.
11. Student - any individual who has been or is enrolled at a public school in Harford County
for whom educational records are maintained.
12. Student Records - records that are: (a) directly related to a student; and (b) maintained by
Harford County Public Schools or by a party acting for the Harford County Public Schools.
Privacy and Disclosure Rights
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, known as the Buckley
Amendment, requires that parents of students in all public schools and public school students
age 18 or over be notified each year as to what information regarding students has been
designated as directory information (see 1 under definitions above).
Information designated as directory information will be considered public information unless
the parents of a student or a student age 18 or over inform their school principal in writing no
later than ten (10) school days of public notice that such information is not to be designated as
directory information with respect to that student.
In accordance with section 9528 of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, the Harford County
Public Schools shall provide, on a request made by military recruiters or an institution of higher
education, access to secondary school students’ names, addresses, and telephone listings.
All requests for student names, addresses, and telephone listings must be made in writing to
the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee. A secondary school student or the parent/
guardian of the student may request that the student’s name, address, and telephone listing
not be released without prior written consent of the parent or eligible student. Parents shall be
given public notice of the right to refuse release of these records and the Harford County Public
Schools shall comply with any such request on the part of a parent. The parents of a student
or an eligible student must inform the Harford County Public Schools, in writing no later than
10 days of public notice, that such information is not to be released to military recruiters or an
institution of higher education without prior written consent.
Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Act
PPRA provides parents certain rights regarding the conduct of surveys, collection and use
of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams in the public schools. A
complete listing of rights can be obtained by calling the Communications Office at 410-588-
5203.
Maintenance Of The Educational Record
Student records provide a written picture of the academic performance of a child. Therefore, the
orderly and complete maintenance of these records is necessary to ensure accurate information
is available to plan for a child’s education.
Responsibilities of the Principal:
1. Providing for the collection of required data.
2. Establishing and maintaining complete and accurate records.
3. Assuring the security of each student’s educational record.
4. Permitting a party who is legally authorized to do so, to review and inspect a student’s educational
record which contains personally identifiable information.
All student records are to be maintained in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
and State law/regulation.
1. Records that must be maintained permanently are certain data elements of student record card #1, side
1 and 2 (personal data), and student record card #3, side 1 and 2 (annual school performance data
summary, grade levels 9-12). All other student records are to be maintained until the student reaches his/
her 21st birthday.
2. Transfer student records are maintained in the same manner as for all students: student record card #1,
side 1 and 2 (personal data) and student record card #3, side 1 and 2 (annual school performance data
summary, grade 9-12). All other record cards are to be maintained until the student reaches his/her 21st
birthday.
3. Educational records of students that are required by law to be kept permanently after a student reaches
the age of 21 years will be kept by the school the student last attended. When student records are
archived, a second copy is to be stored in a central file for the school system as long as educational
records are required to be maintained. If there is an outstanding request to inspect and review these
particular records, this request must be documented.
4. Educational records prescribed in the Maryland State Board of Education, Special Education Bylaw,
require that specific items be in the student folder for audit purposes.
5. The student’s educational record will be filed in the principal’s or counselor’s office or, with the principal’s
permission, in a teacher’s classroom, and is accessible only to authorized personnel.
6. All data may be filed in a single folder or, if local conditions make such action desirable, there may be
separate folders for the student’s health records and educational management and assessment plans.
7. Educational records are reviewed at the time of a student’s admission and prior to their transfer to
another school in or out of Harford County and also just prior to a student’s graduation to ensure that:
a. prescribed data are being maintained for each student in the school; and
b. student records information remains current and accurate and that inappropriate or inaccurate
information is removed and destroyed.
8. Student discipline records that document an out-of-school suspension must be maintained until the
student graduates or completes his/her education program or the student becomes 21 years of age,
whichever comes first. Discipline records and other discipline information that exist in the student record
when the transfer request is received will be sent to a school in which a student seeks or intends to
enroll.
9. The principal of each school is responsible for the records in the Harford County Public Schools; the
Superintendent of Schools is responsible for all records maintained by the Central Office.
Inspection And Review Of Educational Records
When a student first enrolls in a public school in Harford County, the student’s parents or eligible student will
be informed of their rights to inspect and review the educational records of the student either in person by the
principal or his designee, or by the use of a Harford County Public Schools’ publication. Appropriate school
personnel will help interpret the information contained in the record. This right will also be extended to the
eligible student who had been in attendance in the public schools of Harford County.
Parents (custodial or non-custodial), guardians, and other authorized representatives of the parent or student,
or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the student record within forty-five (45) days of the
date the school or school system receives a request. In the absence of a court order stating otherwise, either
parent of a student has the same rights as the other concerning access to the student’s record. Parents or
16

eligible students should submit a written request to the school principal or other designee identifying the record(s) they wish to
inspect. The principal or designee will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and
place where the records may be inspected.
If, for any valid reason, a parent cannot personally inspect and review a student’s education record, the school will arrange for
the parent or eligible student to obtain copies of the record. Initial copies of the item(s) contained within the educational record
will be provided at no cost. Requests for additional copies in a given school year will be provided at the rate of 10 cents per
page plus postage as appropriate. Parent requests for a copy of the student’s educational record must be submitted in writing
to the school principal identifying the record(s) they wish to copy. All such requests must be completed within a period of time
not to exceed 45 days after the request has been received. If the educational records of a student contain information on more
than one student, the parents or eligible student may inspect and review, receive copies of, or be informed of only the specific
information which pertains to that student.
Additional Rights Of Parents Of Children With Disabilities
Under federal law parents/guardians/eligible students have the right to inspect and review education records related to the
student that are collected, maintained or used by the school system before any meeting regarding an IEP or due process
hearing, and in no case more than 45 days after the school receives the request.
Copies of a student’s education record will not be provided unless failure to do so would prevent the parent from exercising the
right to inspect and review the records. Initial copies of the item(s) contained within the educational record will be provided at
no cost. Requests for additional copies in a given school year will be provided at the rate of 10 cents per page plus postage as
appropriate. Parent requests for a copy of the student’s educational record must be submitted in writing to the school principal
identifying the record(s) they wish to copy.
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible students”)
certain rights with respect to the student’s education records. These rights are:
1. Any parent or student (if 18 years or older) who does not wish for the above directory information to be released regarding
their child (or himself or herself if the student is 18 years of age or older) shall so notify the Director of Student Services
in writing at 102 S. Hickory Avenue, Bel Air, MD 21014 within 10 days of receipt of this Calendar/Handbook. The right to
inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal [or appropriate school official] a written request that
identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or
eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are
inaccurate or misleading. Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate
or misleading. They should write the school principal [or appropriate official], clearly identify the part of the record they want
changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the
parent or eligible student, the school will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to
a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to
the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records,
except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without
consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official has a legitimate educational
interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon
request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student
seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the school to comply with
the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Conditions For Disclosure Of Directory Information
The public schools of Harford County may disclose personally identifiable
information from the education records of a student who is enrolled at a
public school in Harford County if that information has been designated as
directory information
The Harford County Public Schools shall give public notice annually of
the categories of personally identifiable information which have been
designated as directory information. Parents or an eligible student have the
right to refuse to permit the designation of any or all of the categories of
personally identifiable information with respect to that student as directory
information. Parents or the eligible student must, in writing, inform the
student’s principal within 10 school days of public notice or personal receipt
of such notice that such personally identifiable information is not to be
designated as directory information with respect to that student.
Harford County Public Schools may disclose directory information from
the education records of an individual who is no longer enrolled without
following the above procedure.
Copies of this policy shall be made available to public libraries in Harford
County, and copies shall be on file in each school’s main office, guidance
office, and library. An annual notice of this policy shall be made available
to parents and eligible students enrolled by the end of September of each
school year.
Promotion And Retention
Promotion for a student in the elementary and middle school grades is
based upon scholastic aptitude, academic progress, and mastery of the
basic skills. Among the other factors which must also be considered in the
provision of the most appropriate education for each student are emotional
and social maturity, physical growth, chronological age, ability to function in
school, and parental concerns and points of view.
The promotion of a student at the high school level is determined by the
number of units accumulated toward graduation. Promotion from grade nine
(9) to 10 will occur at the end of the school year in which the student has
earned six (6) units. Promotion from grade 10 to 11 will occur at the end
of the school year in which the student has earned 12 units, one of which
must be in English. Promotion from grade 11 to 12 will occur at the end of
the school year in which the student has earned eighteen (18) units, two (2)
of which must be in English. Graduation from high school will occur at the
end of the school year or summer school in which the student has met the
minimum requirements of the Maryland State Board of Education and of the
Board of Education of Harford County for graduation.
17

Registering Your Child For School
Children moving into the community during the school year should register as soon as possible.
Application for prekindergarten and kindergarten registration for students takes place on the
first Friday in May. Other elementary students and secondary students can be registered at any
time which is convenient to the school and the parents/guardians. Parents/guardians are asked
to call the school to arrange for appointments for registering their children. It is hoped that this
registration will occur as early as possible during the summer.
All students should be enrolled at the school that they will attend. Parents/guardians who are
unable to apply for prekindergarten or register kindergarten children at the scheduled time in
May should call the school for an appointment.
At the time of registration, parents/guardians are required to present the child’s birth certificate,
immunization record, and proof of residency. In addition, a copy of a current income tax return
is required with all prekindergarten applications. All students must meet State immunization
requirements before they may be admitted to school.
A record of a physical examination is required for students who are entering a Maryland public
school for the first time - no longer than nine months prior to entering or within six months after
entering.
Students entering prekindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade must provide a lead testing
certificate. Students living in designated zip codes must provide evidence of blood lead testing.
Immunization Compliance Criteria For Maryland Schools
The State of Maryland has established immunization requirements for all students entering or
enrolled in Maryland schools for the 2011-2012 school year.
Requirements to achieve complete immunization status include the following:
• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (whooping cough), (DTaP, DTP) – 4 doses vaccine
for all students entering PreK-12th grade. If DT is given in place of DTP or DTaP, a
physician documented medical contraindication if required.
• Polio vaccine - three (3) doses for all students less than 18 years of age or proof of
immunity by positive blood test.
• Measles - two (2) doses of measles vaccine received on or after student’s first birthday,
or proof of immunity by positive blood test for students entering K-12th grade. Preschool
students under 60 months of age require one dose of measles; preschool students 60
months of age or older require two (2) doses of measles vaccine.
• One (1) dose of rubella vaccine on or after the student’s first birthday, or proof of
immunity by a positive blood test for students entering K-12th grade. Preschool students
60 months or older require two (2) doses of rubella vaccine.
• One (1) dose of mumps vaccine on or after the student’s first birthday or proof of
immunity through a positive blood test for students entering K-12th grade. Preschool
students 60 months of age or older require two (2) doses of mumps vaccine.
• Varicella: one (1) dose required for students under 13 years of age administered on
or after student’s first birthday; or two (2) doses required for previously unvaccinated
students 13 years of age and older. History of chicken pox documented by a health care provider
including month and year of disease or a positive blood test will be accepted as proof in lieu of
vaccination.
• Hepatitis B vaccine - three (3) doses or a positive blood test for students entering PreK—12th grade.
Students enrolled in preschool programs must also:
• Have received one (1) dose of Pneumococcal vaccine (PCV7, PCV 13, Prevnar) if they are under 60
months of age.
• Have received Haemophilus influenza- type b vaccine (Hib) if they are under 60 months of age. At least
one (1) dose of Hib must be administered on or after the first birthday.
(Upon record review a vaccine dose given less than or equal to four (4) days before the minimum interval
or age may be counted as valid.) Official documentation is recorded on the Maryland Immunization Certificate,
DHMH 896. This form is available from the schools. If you have documentation from another source, please
consult with the school nurse.
Proof of Residency
The following are the types of acceptable documentation:
• settlement papers
• rental lease agreement
• utility bill
*All documents must be dated within three (3) months of registration.
Examples of documents that are unacceptable as proof of residency:
• driver’s license
• property tax bill
In instances where the owner/leasee of the home in which the student lives is not the parent/guardian of the
student, the owner/leasee of the home will provide a signed, notarized affidavit verifying that the student and
student’s parent/guardian reside at that address.
Reporting Student Progress
Pupil progress is formally reported to parents in November, February, April, and June (at the end of the
school year). In addition, teachers communicate with parents informally by means of conferences, letters, and
telephone calls. The Edline online system is used to communicate progress of secondary students through the
use of an assigned PIN number.
No report card is issued in November to elementary school children. Instead, a conference is scheduled for
parents and teachers so that they may discuss each child’s rate of progress, expected standards for learning
and discipline, school curriculum, and school goals. Elementary school students receive report cards in
February, April, and June. Students in grades six through 12 receive report cards at the end of each of the four
marking periods.
Students in prekindergarten, kindergarten, and grades one and two receive a non-graded report card. In
grades three, four and five, letter grades are used to indicate the level of student progress in integrated
language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics. Handwriting, art, music, media, and physical
education, as well as 17 habits and attitudes listed on the report card, are marked S (satisfactory) or N (needs
improvement). Progress at the secondary level is recorded by means of the letter grades A, B, C, D, or E.
18

Rights And Responsibilities Of Students
Use Of School Facilities
The Board of Education of Harford County encourages the use of Harford County Public Schools (HCPS) facilities by the school
community in accordance with Section 7-108 of the Education Article of the Maryland Annotated Code and the HCPS Use of
Public School Facilities Procedure. Students and parents who are part of a school-affiliated group may be allowed to use HCPS
facilities for any curricular or co-curricular program or activity that is directly affiliated with the programs of the school system
and under the supervision of a particular school within HCPS. School-affiliated groups may be allowed to use HCPS facilities
to sponsor programs or activities that are directly affiliated with the school’s educational program and sponsored by the Parent-
Teacher-Student Association, the Harford County Council of PTSA (HCPTA), and officially recognized employee organizations.
Requests for school-sponsored activities must be submitted and processed, and once approved must be conducted, in
accordance with Board policy and the HCPS Use of Facilities Procedure. Local schools must document the intended use by the
school-affiliated group by completing the Use of Facilities Form B. The Use of Facilities Form B must be forwarded to the Office of
Operations prior to the scheduled program or activity.
Any group that intends to use an HCPS facility for a non-school related program or activity that is not school sponsored or school
affiliated must be granted approval for the intended use by completing and submitting, to the school administration, a Use of
Facilities Form A.
All facility use by groups, both affiliated or non-affiliated with HCPS, must adhere to HCPS policy, procedure, rules, and
regulations as they relate to approval for use, responsibilities during use, requirements and conditions of use, safety and security
requirements, as well as care and condition of facility requirements. The HCPS Use of Facilities Procedures can be found on the
HCPS website, www.hcps.org.
Religion
• Students have the right to practice their own religious beliefs provided they neither violate the rights of others nor disrupt or
interfere with school operations.
• Students have the right to study, examine, discuss, and analyze religious ideas and institutions just as they might study any
other subject.
• Schools shall neither conduct religious exercises nor encourage or support any religious beliefs or practices.
Patriotic Exercises
Schools are to encourage the devotion to their flag and their country by displaying and properly caring for the American flag on the
school site and in each classroom.
Students shall have the right to participate in or observe patriotic exercises in their schools. They shall not, however, be required
to take part in such exercises nor may they interrupt the participation of other students in such exercises. Students shall not be
penalized in any way for exercising such rights.
*Students have a variety of other rights that are outlined by school board and additional policies can be found on our website.
Dress Code
Students have the responsibility to choose their attire and to arrange their personal appearance in a manner that is safe, healthy,
inoffensive, and not disruptive to the educational process. The student dress code is intended to create and preserve a positive
climate for teaching and learning, reduce the possibility of discipline problems, and preserve school order and safety. The intention
of the policy is to seek compliance from students and to avoid disciplinary action unless there are repeated offenses or serious
aggravating circumstances. Students’ style of dress or grooming must meet the reasonable requirements of a course or activity.
Accordingly, students are prohibited from wearing clothing, headwear, jewelry, tattoos, sunglasses, bookbags, or other articles of
personal appearance that:
• Depict profanity, obscenity, the use of weapons, or violence.
• Promote the use of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or other illegal or harmful products.
• Contain sexually suggestive messages.
• Unduly expose or reveal skin or undergarments such as tank tops*, tube tops, haltertops, mesh tops, bare midriff tops,
spaghetti straps, pants worn below the hips, short-shorts, miniskirts, or
bedtime attire.
• Contain language or symbols that offend or demean an identifiable
person or group or otherwise infringe on the rights of others in violation
of the Board harassment or discrimination policies.
• Cause, or is likely to cause, a substantial or material disruption to
school activities or the orderly operation of the school, including but not
limited to swastikas and gang-related attire.
• Contain profane, disrespectful, or discourteous expressions
inconsistent with civil discourse and behavior.
• Endanger health or safety.
*A tank top is a sleeveless garment with wide shoulder straps that dips well
below the neckline. The top is typically “U” or “V” shaped, exposing a broad
area of the shoulder, upper chest, and neck. Tank top straps are typically two
to four inches wide. Tank tops, especially those with thinner straps, do not
sufficiently conceal components of the undergarments and or body parts.
Exceptions under this policy shall be given consideration in the following
instances:
• When a reasonable accommodation is made if a student wears an
article of dress or other item which is a lawful exercise of his/her
right to freedom of expression or freedom of religion.
• When a reasonable accommodation is necessary due to a
documented medical or health reason, but only as authorized by
the school principal.
• When an authorized activity, such as athletics or band, requires
different attire, but only upon the direction of the coach or faculty
sponsor of the activity.
Special Provisions and Restrictions
The following examples are provided for guidance in implementing the policy
and are not intended to list every possible violation or circumstance.
Physical Education
• Proper physical education apparel and shoes are to be worn. For
secondary students, the appropriate school physical education uniform
should be worn.
• The following jewelry items will not be worn in physical education
classes: earrings, bracelets, rings, and necklaces.
• Pierced ear studs are permitted to be worn by elementary students only.
• Jewelry which needs to be removed for physical education class shall
be the responsibility of the student.
Clothing
• Clothing worn in such a manner so as to reveal undergarments or bare
skin between the upper chest and mid-thigh is not permitted.
• Skirts, dresses, and shorts must be no shorter than the student’s longest
fingertip when the student’s hands are held at his/her side.
• Pants shall be secured at the waist; must not touch or drag on the
ground; must not reveal undergarments or bare skin while sitting or
19

ending; must not have any holes or tears above the knee; the crotch of the pants shall
be no longer than the student’s longest fingertip when the student’s hands are held at his/
her side; and the bottom of the pants must be no wider than the length of the wearer’s
shoes.
Outerwear
• It is a general expectation that outer garments, including, but not limited to lightweight
jackets, hats, etc. are not to be worn during the school day. These items are to be stored
in lockers.
• Principals will have the discretion to permit students to wear outerwear in the school
building when conditions are warranted.
Headwear
• Headwear, including, but not limited to, hats, visors, doo rags, sweatbands, and
bandannas, is not to be worn inside school buildings during the school day.
Jewelry
• Jewelry/body piercing (example: spiked jewelry, chokers, rings, bracelets) that poses
a health or safety hazard or is disruptive to the orderly process of the school is not
permitted.
• Chains that could cause injury to others are not permitted.
Sunglasses
• Sunglasses are considered inappropriate for inside wear.
• Medical exceptions may be considered by the principal.
School Responsibilities
The principal will inform students, parents/guardians, and staff of the dress code policy at the
beginning of each school year and throughout the school year when deemed appropriate. This
may be done in the following ways:
• Review of the policy as part of the general orientation to the new school year for
students.
• Publish the information in the student handbook.
• Publish the information in school newsletters.
• Post the information on a bulletin board.
• Public address announcements.
• Review of the policy to new students through the registration process.
Where there is evidence that a student’s attire or personal appearance violates this policy, the
principal or designee shall investigate and take corrective actions, including but not limited to
the following:
• Requiring the student to remove or change the item;
• Taking reasonable steps to notify the student’s parents of the violation; and
• For repeated violations, initiating progressive discipline for insubordination as appropriate,
which may include suspension from school.
Attire shall be disallowed if, in the judgment of the local school administrator, such attire may
negatively impact safety, health, or the positive climate for teaching and learning in the school.
Principals will have the authority to suspend or waive the restrictions on clothing for social
events such as, but not limited to, proms, homecoming dances or school sponsored activities
aimed at promoting school spirit.
School Uniforms
The Board of Education supports the voluntary use of uniforms at the elementary, middle, and high school
levels, pending approval by the school principal and adherence to the guidelines established by the
Superintendent of Schools.
Annual Review
The dress code policy along with its administrative procedures is reviewed by the Board of Education annually.
Student Activities
Students have the right to participate in school activities subject to lawful exceptions regardless of race,
religion, ethnic origin, gender, disability, economic status, or program of study. Secret, exclusive, or selfperpetuating
organizations which otherwise limit membership may not conduct activities on school premises.
Student Search and Seizure
Students are protected against unreasonable search and seizure by school officials by the Fourth Amendment.
School officials do not need a warrant to conduct a search of a student. The basis for a search of a student or
property is “reasonable suspicion.”
1. There should be reasonable cause for school authorities to believe that the possession of some
article constitutes a crime or rule violation.
2. General housekeeping inspection of school property may be conducted with reasonable notice.
3. Illegal items (drugs, weapons, etc.) or other possessions reasonably determined to be a threat to the
safety or security of others may be seized by school authorities at any time.
4. Items which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process may be temporarily
removed from the student’s possession.
Grievance
Students have the right to seek changes in school policies and rules. Students also have the right to air
grievances related to school policies and rules through a democratically elected representative student
government.
A principal’s decision may be appealed. Only in those cases wherein the rights of students, as defined in this
document, are allegedly violated may an appeal be made beyond the school to the Superintendent of Schools
of Harford County. Such an appeal shall be made in the following manner.
1. A written appeal or grievance should be directed to the appropriate executive director within 30
calendar days. If unresolved at this level, the appeal or grievance will proceed to Step 2.
2. A written appeal or grievance should be directed to the Superintendent of Schools within 15 calendar
days.
Student Discipline
The school is a community and the rules, regulations, and codes of conduct of a school are the laws of
that community. All those enjoying the rights of citizenship in the school community must also accept the
responsibilities of citizenship. A basic responsibility of those who enjoy the rights of citizenship is to respect the
laws of the community. Regulations and rules concerning appropriate student behavior should be developed
with representatives from the school community either within each school or on a countywide basis. School
discipline regulations shall be adopted which ensure equitable treatment for students and a safe, healthy,
learning environment. These regulations should be clearly and precisely written and distributed to the students
and to their parents. Some rules are provided by state law, bylaw, or county board of education policy. It is the
responsibility of every staff member, student, and parent to be informed of the school disciplinary procedures
and to work cooperatively with the school administration to see that these procedures are followed.
Corporal Punishment
The use of corporal punishment in any form is strictly prohibited in the Harford County Public Schools. No
20

student will be subject to the infliction of corporal punishment by any teacher, other student, administrator, or other school
personnel.
No teacher, administrator, student, or other person will subject a student to corporal punishment or condone the use of corporal
punishment by any person under his or her supervision or control. Permission to administer corporal punishment will neither be
sought nor accepted from any parent, guardian, or school official.
School personnel may, however, use physical force against a student when it is essential for self-defense, the protection of other
persons, the safeguarding of public school property, or the preservation of order.
Nondiscriminatory Practices
The Board is committed to providing an environment that is safe and optimal for academic achievement and productive work
activity and free from any form of unlawful discrimination. Any act of discrimination, as defined herein, committed by a member
of the school community is a violation of this policy. HCPS will investigate all complaints of discrimination and/or harassment and
will take appropriate disciplinary or other action against any member of the school community who is found to have committed
any act of discrimination as defined herein.
Parking Policy
Parking on school property is a privilege afforded to students. Certain conditions are attached to that privilege. Students who fail
to comply with those conditions will be denied or subject to loss of parking privileges. Students will receive notice that vehicles
parked on school property may be subject to search in accordance to applicable search and seizure laws and regulations.
Harford County Public Schools shall not assume responsibility for any loss or damage to vehicles or their contents while they are
on school property.
Each high school shall develop and publish parking procedures governing the conditions under which students may be granted
permission to use the parking facilities available on the school grounds. The local school procedures shall include the following:
A. A general statement indicating that any student who needs to drive to school and park in the school lot during school hours
must obtain a permit.
B. Rules, Definitions, and Procedures for Policy Implementation:
1. Each high school principal annually determines the number of parking spaces on the school premises which can be
made available to students.
2. Only students with a valid driver’s license may apply for a parking permit.
3. Students and parents must submit a completed, signed application form for a student parking permit.
4. Students with outstanding financial obligations to the school will not be issued a parking permit.
5. Each high school shall develop priorities of needs for the issuance of parking permits.
6. Each high school will establish campus traffic and parking rules.
7. Each high school will issue a parking permit for an assigned parking area. Students will be permitted to park only in
assigned parking areas.
8. Parking permits must be displayed at all times while on school property.
9. Penalties for driving violations, parking without a permit, or other school violations may include suspension or
revocation of the permit, disciplinary action, ticketing by the police, and/or towing at the student’s expense.
Student Lockers
Where available, lockers will be provided for students to have a secure repository for books, clothing, school materials, etc. Each
school principal will establish procedures for assigning lockers. School administrators will take necessary steps to ensure that
lockers are in good working order and that combination locks are routinely rotated.
Students shall be personally and solely responsible for the contents, cleanliness, and condition of the assigned locker. Students
will not be permitted to use personal locks on school lockers. Students are expected to report any case of a broken/unsecured
locker or theft immediately to the school main office, physical education teacher, or athletic team coach as appropriate. Harford
County Public Schools shall not assume responsibility for the theft, loss, or damage of books or any personal items in a student
locker.
It is the responsibility of all students to cooperate fully with any lawful
investigation by authorized persons on school property.
It is the responsibility of students not to enter school property with dangerous
or illegal items or those items that constitute violations of school policy. A
principal, assistant principal, or school security guard may make a search of
the physical plant and its appurtenances including the lockers of students.
Student Backpack Use
Students are permitted to use backpacks or similar items to carry their
schoolbooks, materials, or equipment while traveling to and from school.
However, because of the importance of maintaining a safe environment
in the school, such items must be stored in lockers or designated areas
during the school day. The school principal will have the authority to make
exceptions based on medical or health conditions, or disability. Harford
County Public Schools shall not assume responsibility for the theft, loss, or
damage to a student’s backpack or similar item, or its contents.
The following conditions shall apply:
1. Bookbags, backpacks, etc. shall be stored in the student’s
assigned locker or designated area.
2. Musical instrument cases shall be stored in the music room or
designated storage areas.
3. Athletic bags and gear shall be stored in either the student’s
locker, assigned physical education locker, or designated storage
area, as appropriate.
If any student is determined to be in violation of this policy, the school
administrator will take corrective action, including, but not limited to the
following:
• Requiring the student to place the item in his/her locker.
• Taking reasonable steps to notify the parent.
• Initiating progressive disciplinary action for repeated violations or
insubordination as appropriate, which may include suspension from
school.
The principal or assistant principal may make a reasonable search of a
student, including the search of a student’s backpack or other belongings,
on the school premises if he or she has a reasonable belief that the student
is in possession of an item, the possession of which is a criminal offense
under the laws of this state or a rule or policy of the Board of Education. This
search shall be made in the presence of a third party.
Special Education
The Special Education program is designed to provide support to students
with educational disabilities, so that they are successful in attaining the
outcomes of the general curriculum. For students with intensive needs,
alternative plans are developed to help them achieve life skills and goals
that are defined through the Individual Education Program (IEP) process.
Special Education services for students with disabilities are based on
students’ IEPs and are designed to complement the general education
21

curriculum. The alignment of IEP goals and benchmarks with the general education content
standards supports the students’ participation in the Maryland State Assessment program. The
IEP guides the implementation of modifications and accommodations utilized to enable the
students to access the general education curriculum. The IEPs for students with more intensive
needs support participation in the Alternative Maryland State Assessment program.
Services are available for all students ages birth through 21, as appropriate. There is a full
continuum of services to meet the needs of students with educational disabilities in the least
restrictive environment. These services are provided in all the community schools. The needs
of students with significant medical and educational needs may be met at John Archer School
or in other educational placements. Infants and toddlers ages birth to three can access a
variety of services to meet their individual needs through the Harford County Infants and
Toddlers Program in conjunction with the Early Childhood Programming options.
HCPS operates regional programs for children with special needs. The children attend
programs with instruction provided by special educators to address communication and/or
other areas identified on the IEP. HCPS provides itinerant services including but not limited to:
speech/language therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, hearing and vision services,
community-based instruction, work experience, and assistive technology. All services are
provided in accordance with the students’ IEPs to assist the student to benefit from specially
designed instructional programs.
Student Accident Insurance Program
Harford County Public Schools insurance does not cover student injuries due to accidents
at school or during school-sponsored activities such as physical education, after school
sports, and field trips. At the beginning of each school year, HCPS provides parents with
information on a voluntary accident insurance program. For students who are not covered by
a family health or accident insurance plan or for families who wish to supplement their existing
coverage, parents should consider this student accident insurance which:
• is available to parents or guardians of all HCPS students;
• provides low-cost accident insurance for students; and
• is available either on a full year 24-hour basis, school time only, for football coverage and
extended dental coverage.
Information regarding Student Accident Insurance is distributed at the beginning of the school
year through your child’s school. You may also obtain information and enroll online at www.
studentinsurance-kk.com. If you have any questions, contact the Risk Management Office at
410-588-5286.
Student-Parent Survey To Identify Federally-Connected Students
Each year, Harford County Public Schools seeks information from parents which is important
to the system in its long-range planning and its application for federal financial assistance. This
information is requested on a form known as the student-parent survey form.
What kind of information is needed?
The survey form, which your child brings home in October of each year, includes questions
about the location of your residence, the number of children of school age in your home, your
place of employment, the name of your employer, and your work location.
Why is this information needed?
This information enables the school system to predict student yields from the various types of
residences in the county. These data are important for planning future school building needs. Also, the place
of your employment and work location are needed to determine how many persons are connected with the
federal government. Each year the school system is entitled to an appropriation of funds based on the number
of federally-connected children in the school system. These funds are made available through Public Law 874,
“Impact Aid.”
What is Impact Aid?
The presence of federal installations in Harford County brings additional children to the community for which
the public schools must provide educational programs. Since federal properties are exempt from local property
taxation, the federal government provides funds which partially pay for the education of these additional
students. The amount of funds received is based on the results of the survey and the attendance of those
students identified as “federally connected.”
Student Services
There are a variety of services available to provide help for children with special needs. At the school level, the
teacher, counselor, school nurse, and school administrator assist students with everyday problems. Specialized
personnel such as pupil personnel workers and psychologists are called into the school to help with more
complex student problems. Parents who feel that their child may have need of special services should contact
the child’s school or the office of Student Services at 410-588-5334.
Student Transportation
School bus transportation is provided for Harford County public elementary school students who live more than
one mile from their school and for public secondary school students who live more than one and one half miles
from their school.
Exceptions to this distance requirement may be made for students with disabilities and where exceptional
or hazardous walking conditions exist. Inquiries concerning these exceptions should be directed to the
Transportation Office at 410-638-4092.
School bus transportation will be withdrawn from a student who is excluded from the classroom as a result
of a condition that presents a clear and direct health risk to others. (Examples: head lice, measles, fever and
vomiting in school, etc.) Transportation privileges will resume when the student has recovered, or the condition
is effectively under treatment.
Transportation Rules For Students
The following transportation rules apply to all students riding school buses to and from Harford County Public
Schools. In addition, all other policies adopted by the Board of Education regarding student behavior on school
property will be enforced on Harford County Public Schools’ buses.
1. Students must follow directions from the driver the first time they are given. The driver shall be in full
charge of the school bus and the students, except in the presence of a teacher/administrator, who shall
then be in charge of the students.
2. Insubordination or disrespect to the driver or attendant will not be tolerated.
3. Students will sit in the seats, which have been assigned to them by the driver and the principal or their
designee. Students must remain in their seats at all times when the bus is in motion. Changing seats
any time during the run is prohibited.
4. Students may converse in a normal manner; but loud, profane, or obscene language or gestures will not
be permitted
5. With the exception of their books, bookbags, and school equipment, such as musical instruments or gym
bags, students may not transport other items on the bus without the permission of the driver. Books,
bookbags, and other school equipment should be held by the student. No books or other objects are to
be placed in the bus aisle. Books and other school equipment must be of a size that can be controlled in
22

the seat by the student.
6. Students must not extend any part of their bodies through bus windows. Students must face forward at all times and keep
their arms and legs out of the aisle. Spitting or tossing objects on or out of the bus is prohibited.
7. Students must not attempt to board or to get off the bus while it is in motion.
8. Students should cooperate in keeping the bus clean and must not damage it. Any malicious or willful damage to a school
bus will result in the immediate withdrawal of transportation services for the student or students involved. In addition, the
cost of repairing the bus must be satisfactorily settled.
9. Students may not eat, drink, or chew gum on the bus.
10. Students may not play electronic devices on the bus unless approved by the driver.
11. Students suspended from the school may not ride the bus while they are on suspension.
12. Students may not leave the bus on the way to or from school without the permission of the driver. The driver will not give
permission except in case of personal emergency on the part of the student, or upon written request of the student’s
parent with the written approval of the principal.
13. Students are permitted to ride only the bus to which they are assigned, utilizing their designated bus stop, which
serves the area in which they live. Requests from parents for the students to ride other buses in an emergency may be
considered by school officials.
14. Students must be at the bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled arrival time of the bus.
15. No glass items or live animals (except those assisting the handicapped) are to be transported on buses.
16. Students shall not use cell phones or otherwise be capable of receiving an activation signal at anytime while riding any
form of transportation provided by Harford County Public Schools.
17. Students violating the transportation rules will be reported to the principal or the assistant principal and transportation
services may be restricted or withdrawn.
Discipline Procedures
Students who are assigned to ride Harford County Public Schools buses must assume certain responsibilities. Misconduct,
carelessness, and thoughtlessness are hazardous to the safe operation of the school bus. The bus is an integral part of the total
school program; and the driver, who is an adult in a position of authority, must insist on appropriate behavior.
Each student will receive a copy of the “Transportation Rules for Students.” These rules will be reviewed and interpreted for
the students on an annual basis by school personnel. Violation of these rules will be reported to the school principal. When a
principal is advised of a violation of the “Transportation Rules for Students” and where the principal determines, as a result of
their investigation, that a violation of the “Transportation Rules for Students” has occurred, the following options shall be utilized
by the principal:
REFERRAL 1 - Mandatory parent contact and, if appropriate, withdrawal of transportation services for not less than five (5)
school days or not less than 20 school days or not less than 90 school days.
REFERRAL 2 - Mandatory parent contact and, if appropriate, withdrawal of transportation services for not less than five (5)
school days and, if appropriate, for not less than 20 school days or not less than 90 school days.
REFERRAL 3 - Mandatory parent contact and, if appropriate, withdrawal of transportation services for not less than 20 school
days and, if appropriate, for not less than 90 school days.
REFERRAL 4 - Mandatory parent contact and, if appropriate, withdrawal of transportation services for not less than 90 school
days.
Withdrawal of transportation services for a day shall be defined as a day that school is in session.
Students and their parents should be aware that misbehavior on school buses may also have other serious consequences.
Specifically, violation of the “Transportation Rules for Students” may result in a suspension from school. Furthermore, any act by
a student, which contributes to a school bus accident, will be reported to the police officer investigating the incident.
Parental Transportation
Parents who choose to drop their child off at the school are responsible for
the safety of their child until the school is open for students. Parents who
are not aware of the time that students are allowed to enter the school must
contact their respective school directly for the information. The school will
share normal opening times as well as late opening times with the parent.
Responsibilities Of Parents
Each parent has a definite role in the safe and efficient operation of a
school’s transportation system. If the transportation program, as a whole, is
to function effectively, the parents must assume their responsibilities to the
program and extend cooperation and support to the people charged with its
operation.
Parents should be aware that the privilege to ride a school bus may
be temporarily or permanently revoked if the “Transportation Rules for
Students” are violated.
Parents are responsible for the safety of their children from the time they
leave home in the morning until the time they board the school bus and,
at the end of the school day, from the time the school bus departs the bus
stop and the children reach home. Once the child enters the school bus,
the responsibility lies with the bus driver and the school administration. In
order to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the student transportation
program, parents must also accept the responsibilities to:
1. Cooperate with the school authorities and the school bus driver in
promoting safe and efficient services for all passengers.
2. Insist upon good behavior on the part of their children while riding the
school bus.
3. Insist that their children occupy the seats, which have been assigned
to them.
4. Instruct their children as to their responsibility for damages caused to
the property of others, including the school bus.
5. Inform their children that they should arrive at the designated school
bus stop five (5) minutes before the scheduled arrival time of the
school bus.
6. Make suggestions to the school principal or to the Director of
Transportation for improvements in the transportation program.
7. Walk with younger children to and from the school bus stop, using this
opportunity to teach the children proper pedestrian practices. If the
parents cannot accompany their children, arrangements should be
made, if possible, for older children (brothers, sisters, or neighbors) to
escort the younger children to and from the school bus stop or school.
8. Encourage their children to obey all traffic rules, signs, and signals.
9. Set an example for their children by their own safety practices.
10. Understand that unauthorized persons, including parents, are not
allowed to board the school bus under any circumstances.
Title IX Complaint Procedures
23

Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 states in part:
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in,
be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or
activity receiving Federal financial assistance.”
In accordance with the regulations of Title IX, the Board of Education of Harford County has
adopted Title IX complaint procedures for students, parents, and employees. The purpose of
the procedures is to secure equitable solutions to problems deriving from the implementation of
Title IX and other laws dealing with sex discrimination.
A. Complaints alleging discrimination on the basis of sex shall be submitted to the Title
IX Coordinator in accordance with HCPS administrative procedures relating to Title IX
complaints.
B. A Complainant shall file a complaint within 90 days of the date the alleged act of disability
discrimination occurred.
C. The Title IX Coordinator shall attempt to informally resolve a complaint within 30 days of
the receipt of same.
D. If an informal resolution cannot be reached, the Title IX Coordinator shall issue a written
decision setting forth in concise fashion his/her decision regarding the complaint and the
reasons for the decision. Such written decision shall be issued within 60 days of receipt of
the complaint.
E. All decisions of the Title IX Coordinator may be appealed to the Superintendent pursuant
to Section 4-205 of the Education Article of the Maryland Annotated Code.
F. The complaint procedure described herein is in addition to any other administrative or
judicial action the Complainant may pursue.
For questions, contact the Director of Community Engagement, Equity and Cultural Proficiency,
410-809-6065, who is the Title IX Coordinator for Harford County Public Schools.
Visiting Schools
Parents are invited to visit their child’s school to observe classes in session and talk with
teachers and other members of the school staff. In order to ensure that those persons with
whom the parent wishes to talk are available, it is advisable to call the school and make an
appointment in advance of the visit. A special effort is made each year to encourage parents
and other citizens to visit the schools during American Education Week, which is observed
during the month of November.
Visitor Policy: The Board of Education is committed to maintaining a safe and secure
environment for all students, staff, and other persons. The time, place, and manner by which
persons visit the public schools and other public school buildings are subject to such control
and regulations as the Superintendent and staff deem appropriate in order to protect and
secure the safety of all students, staff, and others who participate in the school community.
Volunteers
Hundreds of persons each year assist students in the schools by donating their time to work
in classrooms, libraries, and health rooms. These persons make valuable contributions to the
educational system by working directly with children or by performing duties which allow others
to give students more individual attention.
Volunteers are selected at the school level and assigned specific duties. Before they actually
begin work, they participate in meetings which are designed to help them become familiar with
the school program and their new roles. Following these general meetings, the teacher and the
volunteer meet to discuss classroom standards, routine operations, and duties to be performed. Persons interested
in donating their services should contact the schools in which they would like to work.
Wellness Policy
The Board of Education recognizes that providing healthy and nourishing foods and appropriate physical activity
for students promotes student attendance, education and achievement, and lifelong healthy habits. Therefore, the
Board expresses its commitment to maintaining school environments that promote and protect student health by
providing appropriate nutrition education, physical education, a variety of healthy food and beverage choices, and
encouraging all Harford County Public Schools employees to model healthy behaviors.
Where To Get Answers To Your Questions
You can get answers to any questions or concerns you have by contacting the following:
• Your local school (the telephone number is listed on page 25).
• The school system’s Communications Office (410-588-5203), and the HCPS website,
(www.hcps.org).
Your child’s teacher... can help if it is a matter concerning your child’s progress, what is being taught, or any other
matter directly related to the classroom operation. Call your child’s teacher or send a note to the teacher to arrange
for a conference.
The principal of your child’s school... can help you on matters of school-wide operation or policy, provide you with
general school information, or help you resolve a problem. Some of the administrative duties are handled by the
assistant principal. Your school’s secretary will direct you to the proper person.
The school system’s Communications Office... will be happy to answer your questions about the schools or direct
you to the right persons to assist you on a particular matter. Dial 410-588-5203.
The Superintendent of Schools... is Robert M. Tomback, Ph.D. Dr. Tomback is responsible to the Board of
Education for the administration of the school system. He recommends policies to the Board and is charged with
the responsibility of implementing Board adopted policies. Write Robert M. Tomback, Ph.D., Superintendent of
Schools, 102 S. Hickory Avenue, Bel Air, Maryland 21014.
Your Board of Education…Senate Bill 629 (2009 Session of the Maryland General Assembly), effective July 1,
2009, changed the Board of Education of Harford County from a fully appointed Board to an elected-appointed
Board consisting of six elected members and three members appointed by the Governor of the State of Maryland
for four-year terms to be phased in over a period of time. For details on Senate Bill 629, visit mlis.state.md.us.
Regular meetings of the Board of Education are normally held on the second and fourth Monday of each month
(except July and August) at 6:30 or 7:00 p.m. Special meetings may also be held throughout the year. All meetings
are announced in advance in newspapers or the HCPS website and in other print/electronic media including the
Harford Cable Network (HCN). Meetings are open to the public unless otherwise announced. For correspondence
directed to the Board, write President, Board of Education of Harford County, 102 S. Hickory Avenue, Bel Air,
Maryland 21014. Board Business meetings will be televised on a tape delay basis by HCN on the second and
fourth Tuesdays beginning at 8:00 p.m. on Comcast channel 21, Verizon FiOS channel 31 and Armstrong (formerly
Clearview) channel 7 and can be viewed on demand by logging onto our website (www.hcps.org). Meeting videos
are streamed live from www.hcps.org and archived by date.
24

Aberdeen Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5510
Aberdeen High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5500
Abingdon Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3910
Alternative Education Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5594
Bakerfield Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5518
Bel Air Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-638-4160
Bel Air Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4140
Bel Air High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4600
C. Milton Wright High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4110
Church Creek Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5550
Churchville Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3800
Darlington Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3700
Deerfield Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-612-1535
Dublin Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-638-3703
Edgewood Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1540
Edgewood Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-612-1518
Edgewood High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1500
Emmorton Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3920
Fallston Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4129
Fallston High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4120
Forest Hill Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4166
Forest Lakes Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4262
Fountain Green Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4220
George D. Lisby Elementary School at Hillsdale . . .410-273-5530
Hall’s Cross Roads Elementary School . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5524
Harford Glen Outdoor Education Center . . . . . . . . .410-638-3903
Harford Technical High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3804
Havre de Grace Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . .410-939-6616
Havre de Grace Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-939-6608
Havre de Grace High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-939-6600
Telephone Directory
Hickory Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4170
Homestead/Wakefield Elementary School . . . . . . . .410-638-4175
Jarrettsville Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-692-7800
John Archer School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3810
Joppatowne Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1546
Joppatowne High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-612-1510
Magnolia Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1553
Magnolia Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-612-1525
Meadowvale Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 410-939-6622
Norrisville Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-692-7810
North Bend Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-692-7815
North Harford Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3670
North Harford Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3658
North Harford High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3650
Patterson Mill Middle/High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4640
Prospect Mill Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3817
Red Pump Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4252
Ring Factory Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4186
Riverside Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1560
Roye-Williams Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-273-5536
Southampton Middle School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4150
William Paca Elemenary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-2033
Old Post Road Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-612-1566
William S. James Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-3900
Youth’s Benefit Elementary School . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-638-4190
Emergency Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.hcps.org
HCPS Central Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410-838-7300
HCPS Central Office (Toll Free) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-866-588-4963
TTY for Hearing Impaired . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1-1
25

August
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
AUGUST 2011
Aug. 1 First Day of Ramadan (Islam)*
Lammas (Christian)
Aug. 2
Aug. 6
Aug. 7
Aug. 9
Aug. 13
Aug. 15
Aug. 22
Fast in Honor of Holy Mother of
Lord Jesus (Orthodox Christian)
Lughnassad* (Wicca - Northern
Hemisphere)
Transfiguration of the Lord
(Orthodox Christian)
Laylat al Kadr (Islam)*
Tisha B’Av (Jewish)*
Raksha Bandham (Hindu)
Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary
(Catholic Christian)
Dormition of the Theotokos
(Orthodox Christian)
Krisha Janmashtami (Hindu)
Aug. 26
Aug. 29
Aug. 31
Lailat al Kadr (Islam)*
2011
Beheading of John the Baptist
(Christian)
Eid al Fitr (Islam)*
Kayla Gast * Grade 4 * Magnolia Elementary School
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before
this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.

www.hcps.org
August
2011
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6
August 1-31
Children’s Eye Health &
Safety Month
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
New Teachers on Duty New Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty
28 29 30 31
First Quarter/ First Semester
Begins
Opening of Schools
for Students K-12
(Kindergarten will follow
gradual entrance schedule)
Opening of Schools
for Pre-K Students
July 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
31
September 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30

September
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
Sept. 1
SEPTEMBER 2011
Ecclesiastical Year begins
(Orthodox Christian)
Sept. 8
Sept. 14
Sept. 23
Ganesha Chaturthi (Hindu)
Nativity of Mary (Christian)
Elevation of the Life of
Giving Cross- Holy Cross Day
(Christian)
Equinox
Mabon (Wicca, Northern
Hemisphere)
Sept. 27
Sept. 28-
Oct.5
Sept. 29-
30
Ostara (Wicca, Southern
Hemisphere)
Meskel (Ethiopian Orthodox
Christian)
Navaratri (Hindu)
# Rosh Hashanah (Jewish)*
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day
before
this date. NOTE: For more information on
interfaith
holidays, visit www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2011
Danny Voelker * Grade 5 * Forest Lakes Elementary School

www.hcps.org
September 1-30
Library Card Sign-Up
Month
September 15 - October 15
Hispanic Heritage Month
September
2011
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
August 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6
7 8 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20
21 22 23 24 25 26 27
28 29 30 31
October 2011
S M T W T F S
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
1
1 2 3
4 5 6 7
International Literacy Day
8 9 10
Grandparents’ Day
Patriot Day
# LABOR DAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Administration of the
American College Test
(ACT)
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Mexican Independence Day
Mayflower Day
National Arts in
Education Week (11-17)
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
Magnet Program Video &
Informational Presentation
ABHS 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
18 19 20 21 22 First Day of Autumn 23 24
International Day of Peace
Magnet Program Video &
Informational Presentation
HTHS 6:30-8:00 p.m.
Safety & Security Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg.
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Family Life Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
SOMS 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
25 26 27 28 29 30
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Magnet Program Video &
Informational Presentation
NHHS 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
# Rosh Hashanah
Schools CLOSED

October
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
Oct. 4
Oct. 5
Oct. 6
Oct. 8
Oct. 13-19
Oct. 20
OCTOBER 2011
St. Francis Day
(Catholic Christian)
Waqf al Arafa- Hajj Day* (Islam)
Dussehra (Hindu)
# Yom Kippur*(Jewish)
Sukkot *(Jewish)
Birth of the Bab (Baha’i)
Shemini Atzeret* (Jewish)
Oct. 21
Oct. 25-28
Oct. 26
Oct. 28
Oct. 30
Oct. 31
Installation of Scriptures as Guru
Granth (Sikh)
# Simchat Torah*(Jewish)
Deepavali* (Hindu)
Diwali* (Jain, Hindu, Sikh)
Milvian Bridge Day (Christian)
Reformation Day (Protestant
Christian)
All Hallows Eve (Christian)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day
before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays,
visit www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2011
Maggie Weese * Grade 10 * Aberdeen High School

www.hcps.org
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
September 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30
High School Assessment -
English
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
National School Bus
Safety Week (17 -21)
November 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
High School Assessment -
Biology
High School Assessment -
Algebra
Administration of the
Preliminary Scholastic
Assessment Test (PSAT)
Science & Math Academy at ABHS
Open House 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Natural Resources &
Agricultural Sciences at NHHS
Open House 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
High School Assessment -
Make-up for all subjects
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Magnet Program Video &
Informational Presentation
EDHS 6:30-8:00 p.m.
October
October 1-31
Crime Prevention Month
Czech Heritage Month
Italian American Heritage & Culture Month
Polish American Heritage Month
#MD STATE EDUCATION
ASSOCIATION
CONVENTION
Schools CLOSED
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
2011
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
Child Health Day
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
National School Lunch
Administration of the
National Metric Week 9 Week (10 - 14) 10 11 12 13 14 15
Preliminary Scholastic
(9-15)
Assessment Test (PSAT)
Fire Prevention Week (9-15) Columbus Day/Discoverers’
Day
National Character Counts
Week (16-22)
World Food Day
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Administration of the
American College Test
(ACT)
Make a Difference Day
United Nations Day
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Red Ribbon Week (23-31)
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
30 31
1

November
Nov. 1
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
NOVEMBER 2011
All Saints Day (Christian)
Samhain - Beltane* (Wicca
- Northern and Southern
Hemisphere)
Nov. 2
Nov. 4-7
Nov. 6
Nov. 12
Nov. 15
Nov. 20
Nov. 24
Nov. 26
All Souls Day (Catholic Christian)
Hajj*(Islam)
Eid al Adha* (Islam)
Birth of Baha’u’llah (Baha’i)
Nativity Fast begins (Orthodox
Christian)
Christ the King (Christian)
Thanksgiving Day
Day of Covenant (Baha’i)
Nov. 27
Nov. 30
Hijra- New Year (Islam)
First Sunday of Advent
(Christian)
Saint Andrew’s Day (Christian)
2011
Dasha Casciero * Grade 12 * C. Milton Wright High School
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before this
date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.

November2011
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
www.hcps.org
November 1-30
National Native American Heritage Month
Daylight Savings Time
Ends
First Quarter Ends
1 2 3 4 5
Global Studies/International
Baccalaureate Programme
Open House- EDHS
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
#TEACHER PROF. DEV.
Schools CLOSED
for students
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
Second Quarter
Veterans Day
6 Begins 7 8 9 10 11 12
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
#TEACHER PROF. DEV.
Schools CLOSED
for students
American Education
Week (13-19)
(NOTE: See your school for daily
schedule of activities.)
National Family Week (20-26)
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
Harford Technical High School
Open House 5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Safety & Security Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 -8:30 p.m.
Education Support
13 14 15 Professionals Day 16 17 18 19
#THANKSGIVING EVE
2 Hour Early Dismissal
Family Life Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
SOMS 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
#THANKSGIVING
HOLIDAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
Report Cards Distributed
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
#THANKSGIVING
HOLIDAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
October 2011 December 2011
S M T W T F S
S M T W T F S
1
1 2 3
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
30 31

December
Dec. 5
Dec. 6
Dec. 8
Dec. 12
Dec. 16-25
Dec. 21-28
Dec. 22
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
DECEMBER 2011
Ashura*(Islam)
St. Nicholas Day* (Christian)
Bodhi Day (Buddhism)
Immaculate Conception
(Catholic Christian)
Feast Day- Our Lady of Guadalupe
(Catholic Christian)
Posadas Navidenas- Christian
Hanukkah* (Jewish)
Yule (Christian)
Yule (Wicca, Northern hemisphere)
Dec. 24
Dec. 25
Litha (Wicca, Southern hemisphere)
# Christmas Eve (Christian)
# Christmas Day (Christian)
Dec. 26-
Jan. 1
Dec. 28
Dec. 30
Dec. 31
Feast of the Nativity
(Orthodox Christian)
Kwanzaa (African American)
Holy Innocents (Christian)
Feast of the Holy Family
(Catholic Christian)
Watch Night (Christian)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2011
Rachel Hartman * Grade 9 * North Harford High School

www.hcps.org December2011
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
November 2011 January 2012
S M T W T F S
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
27 28 29 30
29 30 31
1 2 3
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
Pearl Harbor Day
Administration of the
4 5 6 7 8 9 American College Test 10
(ACT)
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Human Rights Day
11 12 13 14 Bill of Rights Day 15 16 17
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
First Day of Winter
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
# CHRISTMAS EVE
Observance Schools
& Offices CLOSED
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
# CHRISTMAS
Observance Schools
& Offices CLOSED
# WINTER HOLIDAYS SCHOOLS CLOSED

January
Jan. 1
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
JANUARY 2012
New Year’s Day
Mary, Mother of God
(Catholic Christian)
Jan. 5
Jan. 6
Feast of St. Basil (Orthodox
Christian)
Twelfth Night (Christian)
Epiphany (Christian)
Jan. 7
Jan. 8
Jan. 15
Jan. 17
Jan. 20
Feast of the Theophany
(Orthodox Christian)
Dia de los Reyes
(Hispanic Christian)
Nativity of Christ (Armenian
Orthodox Christian)
Feast of the Nativity (Orthodox
Christian)
Baptism of the Lord Jesus (Christian)
World Religion Day (Baha’i)
Blessing of the Animals (Hispanic
Christian)
Timkat (Ethiopian Orthodox Christian)
Jan. 23 Chinese New Year (Confucian,
Buddihst, Daoist)
Jan. 25 Conversion of St. Paul (Christian)
2012
Jan. 28 Vasant Panchami *(Hindu)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.
Nick Miller * Grade 8 * Alternative Education Program

January
www.hcps.org 2012
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
December 2011
S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
February 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29
New Year’s Day
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
# New Year’s Day
Observance Schools
& Offices CLOSED
Schools Reopen after
Winter Holidays
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
High School Assessment -
English
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 8:30 p.m.
following work session
# MARTIN LUTHER KING,
JR.’S BIRTHDAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
High School Assessment -
Biology
High School Assessment -
Make-up for English
High School Assessment -
Algebra
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
High School Assessment -
Make-up for Algebra
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
15 16 Senior Exams (17-20) 17 18 19 20 21
High School Assessment -
Make-up for Biology
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
First Semester/Second
Quarter Ends
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
#TEACHER PROF. DEV.
Schools CLOSED
for students
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
#TEACHER PROF. DEV.
Schools CLOSED
for students
29 30 31
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
Second Semester/Third
Quarter Begins
Safety & Security Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)

February
Feb. 2
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
FEBRUARY 2012
Candlemas (Christian)
Presentation of Christ in the Temple
(Anglican Christian)
Imbolc - Lughnassad* (Wicca)
Feb. 3
Triodion begins (Orthodox Christian)
Maha Shavartri*(Hindu)
Feb. 4
Feb. 5
Feb. 8
Feb. 14
Feb. 19
Mawlid an Nabi*(Isalm)
Four Chaplains Sunday (Interfaith)
Tu BiShvat*(Judaism)
St. Valentine’s Day (Christian)
Meatfare Sundy
(Orthodox Christian)
Feb. 21
Feb. 22
Transfiguration (Christian)
Shrove Tuesday (Christian)
Ash Wednesday- Lent Begins
(Christian)
Feb. 26 - Intercalary Days* (Baha’i)
Mar. 1
2012
Feb. 27 Clean Monday- Great Lent begins
(Orthodox Christian)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit www.
interfaithcalendar.org.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before this date.
Samantha Bittle * Grade 9 * Bel Air High School

www.hcps.org February 2012
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
February 1-29
National African American History Month
National Children’s Dental Health Month
National Freedom Day
Groundhog Day
1 2 3 4
Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday
National Family, Careers,
and Community Leaders
of America (FCCLA) Week
(12-18)
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
National School
Counseling Week (6-10)
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
George Washington’s
Birthday
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Family Life Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
SOMS. 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Report Cards Distributed
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
Administration of the
American College Test
(ACT)
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
National Future
Farmers of America
(FFA) Week (18-25)
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
# PRESIDENT’S DAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
26 27 28 29
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
January 2012 March 2012
S M T W T F S
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31

March
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
Mar. 1
Mar.
2-20
Mar. 4
Mar. 8
Mar. 17
Mar. 19
Mar. 21
Mar. 23
Mar. 23-
April 1
Mar. 25
MARCH 2012
Saint David of Wales (Christian)
Nineteen Day Fast* (Baha’i)
Orthodox Sunday (Orthodox
Christian)
Purim* (Judaism)
Magha Puja Day* (Buddhist)
Holi*(Hindu)
St. Patrick’s Day
Saint Joseph’s Day
Naw Ruz (New Year)* (Baha’i)
New Year*(Hindu)
Ramayana* (Hindu)
Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin
Mary (Christian)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before
this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2012
Hailey Ganzermiller * Grade 4 * Joppatowne Elementary School

www.hcps.org
February 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
26 27 28 29
March 1-31
NEA’s Read Across America
American Red Cross Month
Irish American Heritage Month
Music in Our Schools Month
National Middle Level Education
Month
National Nutrition Month
Social Work Month
Women’s History Month
Youth Art Month
March
2012
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
April 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30
1 2 3
Destination Imagination East
Central Tournament at EDHS
(Snow Date - March 10th)
National Foreign
International Women’s Day
4 5 6 7 8
Language Week (5-11)
Gifted & Talented Citizens
9 10
National School Breakfast
Week (5-9)
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Daylight Savings Time
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
MSA Math & Reading Testing Grades 3 and 8
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Board of Education Public Meeting
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
First Day of Spring
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
MSA Reading & Math Testing Grades 3 and 8
MSA Reading & Math Make-Up Testing
National Agriculture
Week/Day (18-24)
Safety & Security Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Third Quarter Ends
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
MSA Reading & Math Make-Up Testing
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early

April
April 1
April 5
April 6-9
April 6
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
APRIL 2012
Palm Sunday (Christian)
Maundy Thursday (Christian)
Theravadin New Year (Buddhist)*
Good Friday (Christian)
Lord’s Evening Meal (Jehovah’s
Witness Christians)
Hanuman Jayanti (Hindu)
April
7-14
April 7
April 8
Mahavir Jayanti (Jain)*
# Passover* (Pesach)(Jewish)
Lazarus Saturday (Orthodox
Christian)
Easter (Christian)
April 13
April 14
April 15
April 19
April 21
April 27
April 29
April 30
Palm Sunday (Orthodox Christian)
Holy Friday (Orthodox Christian)
Baisakhi New Year (Sikh)
Easter/Pascha (Orthodox Christian)
Yom HaShoah (Jewish)*
First Day of Ridvan (Baha’i)*
Yom Ha’Atzmaut (Jewish)*
Ninth Day of Ridvan* (Baha’i)
St. James the Great Day (Orthodox
Christian)
Lazarus Saturday (Orthodox
Christian)
2012
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays, visit
www.interfaithcalendar.org.
Erica Bobo* Grade 8 * Fallston Middle School

April 1-30
Young People’s Poetry Month
National Library Week
(8-14)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
# TEACHER PROF. DEV.
Schools CLOSED
for students
Special Education Citizens
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
# SPRING VACATION
Schools CLOSED
# SPRING VACATION
Schools CLOSED
Family Life Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
SOMS 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
April
www.hcps.org 2012
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
National Environmental
Education Week
National Volunteer/
Public School Volunteer
Week (15-21)
Potential Student Inclement
Weather/Emergency Make-Up Day
# SPRING VACATION
Schools CLOSED
# Primary Election Day
Schools and Offices
CLOSED
Fourth Quarter Begins
Schools Reopen after
Spring Vacation
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
# GOOD FRIDAY
Schools & Offices CLOSED
Administration of the
American College Test (ACT)
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
MSA Science Test Admin. - Grades 5 and 8
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
Earth Day
Special Senior Admin. High
School Assessment - English
Special Senior Admin. High
School Assessment - Biology
Special Senior Admin. High
School Assessment - Algebra
Special Senior Admin. High
School Assessment - Make-Up
Report Cards Distributed
National Arbor Day
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
MSA Science Test Admin. - Grades 5 and 8
Administrative
Professionals Week (22-38)
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
March 2012
May 2012
29 30 S M T W T F S S M T W T F S
1 2 3
4 5 6 7 8 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17
18 19 20 21 22 23 24
25 26 27 28 29 30 31
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31

May
May 1
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
MAY 2012
Palm Sunday
(Orthodox Christian)*
May 2
May 10
May 23
May 29
Beltane - Samhain* (Wicca)
Twelfth Day of Ridvan*
(Baha’i)
Lag B’Omer* (Jewish)
Declaration of the Bab*
(Baha’i)
Ascension of Baha’u’ullah*
(Baha’i)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day
before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith
holidays, visit www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2012
Krista Gallagher* Grade 11 * Havre de Grace High School

www.hcps.org May 2012
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
April 2012
May 1-31
S M T W T F S
Asian Pacific American
Heritage Month
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Better Hearing & Speech
Month
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
National Physical Fitness &
15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Sports Month
22
29
23
30
24 25 26 27 28 National Sight-Saving Month
Preservation Month
Teacher Appreciation Week
(6-12)
National Music Week (6-13)
National School Nurse Day
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Advanced Placement Exams
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
National Physical Education
& Sports Week (1-7)
1 2 3 4 Administration of the 5
MSA Science Test Admin. - Grades 5 and 8
Safety & Security Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Registration of pre-k/
kindergarten students
Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement Exams Advanced Placement Exams
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
Armed Forces Day
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
Advanced Placement Exams
Advanced Placement Exams
Advanced Placement Exams
Advanced Placement Exams
Advanced Placement Exams
20 High School Assessment - 21 High School Assessment 22 - High School Assessment 23 -
24 25 26
English
Biology
Algebra
Family Life Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
SOMS 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.
27 28 29 30 31
#MEMORIAL DAY
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
High School Assessment -
English (Make-Up)
Career & Tech Ed Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HTHS 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
High School Assessment -
Biology (Make-Up)
Elementary Enrichment Fair
HTHS 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
High School Assessment -
Algebra (Make-Up)
June 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16
17 18 19 20 21 22 23
24 25 26 27 28 29 30

June
INTERFAITH HOLIDAYS
JUNE 2012
June 3 Trinity Sunday (Christian)
June 7
June 10
June 16
Pentecost
(Orthodox Christian)
Corpus Christi
(Catholic Christian)
All Saints
(Orthodox Christian)
Lailat al Miraj (Isalm)*
June 19
Guru Arjan Dev
martyrdom (Sikh)
New Church Day
(Swedenborgian
Christian)
June 20 Solstice - Litha* (Wicca -
Northern Hemisphere)
June 29
Solstice - Yule* (Wicca -
Southern Hemisphere)
Saints Peter and Paul
(Christian)
#Key events should not be scheduled.
*Holy Days usually begin at sundown the day
before this date.
NOTE: For more information on interfaith holidays,
visit www.interfaithcalendar.org.
2012
Megan Campbell * Grade 9 * Harford Technical High School

www.hcps.org
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
May 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19
20 21 22 23 24 25 26
27 28 29 30 31
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 7:00 p.m.
Schools close at end of day for
Pre-K students (w/ no inclement
weather/emergency days used)
June 1-30
Great Outdoors Month
3 4 5 6 7
Second Semester/
Fourth Quarter Ends 8 Administration of the
American College Test
9
(ACT)
High School Assessment -
English (Make-Up)
July 2012
S M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
29 30 31
Commencement Exercises -
ABHS, BAHS & EDHS
High School Assessment -
Biology (Make-Up)
Commencement Exercises -
NHHS, CMWHS & JOHS
High School Assessment -
Algebra (Make-Up)
Gifted & Talented Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. - 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
*POTENTIAL TEACHER PROF. DEV. MAKE-UP DAYS*
*POTENTIAL STUDENT INCLEMENT WEATHER/EMERGENCY MAKE-UP DAYS*
Last Student Day
(w/ no inclement weather/
emergency days used)
Elem. Teachers’ Planning Time
Elem. students dismissed
2 1/2 hours early
1 2
Administration of the
Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT)
10 11 12 13 Flag Day 14 15 16
Teacher Prof. Dev. Day
Last Day for Teachers
(w/ no inclement weather/
emergency days used)
Special Education Citizens
Advisory Committee Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Last Student Day
(w/ 6+ inclement weather/
emergency days used)
17 18 19 First Day of Summer 20 21 22 23
Last Day for Teachers
(w/ 6 inclement
weather/emergency days
used)
Commencement Exercises -
FAHS, PMHS, & HDHS
June 2012
Commencement Exercise- JAS
Commencement Exercises -
CEO & HTHS
*POTENTIAL TEACHER PROF. DEV. MAKE-UP DAYS*
Report Cards Distributed
24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Board of Education Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg. 6:30 p.m.

July
August
2012
Rachel Wakefield * Grade 8 * Southampton Middle School
NOTE: A complete listing of religious holidays can be found at the end of the calendar section of this publication.

July2012
June 1 - July 4 Fireworks Safety Month
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
INDEPENDENCE
DAY OBSERVANCE
Schools & Offices
CLOSED
8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Board of Education
Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg.
7:00 p.m.
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
High School
Assessment - English
(Summer Admin)
High School
Assessment -
Biology
(Summer Admin)
High School
Assessment -
Algebra
(Summer Admin)
High School
Assessment - Make-up
(Summer Admin)
August2012
29 30 31
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11
12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Board of Education
Public Meeting
HCPS Roberty Bldg.
7:00 p.m.
19 20 21 22 23 24 25
New Teachers on Duty
New Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty All Teachers on Duty
26 27 28 29 30 31
Opening of
Schools for
Students K-12
Opening of
Schools for Pre-K
Students

Contact Us
Has your child encountered a problem at his/her school? First, call the teacher and/or principal. If the problem remains unresolved, or, if you have other questions,
listed below are other offices for special matters.
Employment opportunities Office of Certificated Personnel 410-588-5238
Office of Supporting Services Personnel
(clerical, custodial, technical, etc.)
410-588-5238
Employment as a substitute teacher 410-588-5238
General information, assistance and concerns HCPS Switchboard 410-838-7300
TTY 7-1-1
Website/Emergency Notification
www.hcps.org
Office of Communications 410-588-5203
HCPS Central Office Switchboard Local Number 410-838-7300
Toll Free 1-866-588-4963
Maryland Youth Crisis Hotline 1-800-422-0009
Psychological Services, Student Services Office of Student Services 410-588-5334
Aberdeen Office 410-273-5514
Bel Air Office 410-638-4143
Edgewood Office 410-612-1521
Fallston Office 410-638-4124
Havre de Grace Office 410-939-6612
Magnolia Office 410-612-1531
North Harford Office 410-638-3662
Patterson Mill Office 410-638-4215
Southampton Office 410-638-4153
Hickory Elementary (Child Find) 410-638-4386
Questions concerning curriculum issues Office of Curriculum 410-588-5298
Questions concerning the elementary school program Office of Elementary School Performance 410-588-5207
Questions concerning the middle school program Office of Middle School Performance 410-588-5228
Questions concerning the high school program Office of High School Performance 410-588-5228
Questions relating to equity issues Office of Community Engagement, Equity Cultural Proficency 410-809-6065
Special Education Office of Special Education 410-588-5246
Student transportation, individual school attendance areas Office of Transportation 410-638-4092
Tip Line for potential safety concerns Safety and Security Office 410-638-4242
Unanswered Questions? HCPS Switchboard 410-838-7300
Use of school facilities Principal of the school The school concerned (see page 25)
Volunteer work Your local school (see page 25)

Phone
Notification
System
Email
Twitter
Television
Emergency Communications
How to get notified about emergency messages:
Receive announcements of school closures and delays sent directly to your home telephone.
The phone number(s) you have on file with your school will be included in the calls.
For morning inclement weather closures/delays, announcements will go out at 5:45 a.m.
and are normally complete by 6:05 a.m.
Announcements are sent to parents via email through the email address(es) you have on file with your
school(s). To update this address, contact your school.
For morning inclement weather closures/delays, announcements will go out by 5:15 a.m.
Follow HCPS on Twitter for important announcements: @HCPSchools
Television stations announcing school closures and delays:
(Please remember it is at the discretion of the station as to what and when announcements are posted.)
WMAR (Channel 2); WBAL (Channel 11); WJZ (Channel 13); WBFF (Channel 45)
Radio
(AM/FM)
HCPS Website
www.hcps.org
Voicemail
AM radio stations: WAMD (970); WBAL (1090); WCBM (680); WSBA (910)
FM radio stations: WLIF (101.9); WPOC (93.1); WQSR (102.7); WWMX (106.5); WXYV (105.7); WERQ
(92.3); WARM (103); WXCY (103.7); WDAC (94.5)
Get the latest emergency information directly from the home page of HCPS.org. (School closure and
delay information will replace the banner of photos at the top of the home page of HCPS.org)
For morning inclement weather closures/delays, the website should be updated by 5:15 a.m. and as
needed when messages change.
Call one of the following phone numbers to listen to a recording of the current emergency message.
Switchboard: (410) 838-7300 or 1-(866) 588-4963
For morning inclement weather closures/delays, these mailboxes will be updated no later than 5:15 a.m.

P E N N S Y L V A N I A
"
NORRISVILLE
# " !
NORTH HARFORD
CECIL COUNTY
DUBLIN
"
" NORTH BEND
" DARLINGTON
"
JARRETTSVILLE
FOREST HILL "
HICKORY "
YOUTHS BENEFIT
"
"
FOREST LAKES
RED PUMP "
!
FALLSTON #
C. MILTON
MEADOWVALE
WRIGHT
HARFORD
"
! PROSPECT
"
" ! TECHNICAL CHURCHVILLE
MILL "
JOHN ARCHER
SOUTHAMPTON
HAVRE DE GRACE
#
!
#
"
" FOUNTAIN
" !
GREEN
BEL AIR
! # " HOMESTEAD/WAKEFIELD
" ROYE-WILLIAMS
ALTERNATIVE ED. PROGRAM
! #
" RING FACTORY
"
ABERDEEN BAKERFIELD
PATTERSON
"
MILL
"
HALLS CROSS ROADS
HILLSDALE
" EMMORTON
" WILLIAM S JAMES
"
"
ABINGDON
WM PACA/ "
OLD POST RD
EDGEWOOD
" "!#
" JOPPATOWNE
DEERFIELD
!
" # MAGNOLIA
BALTIMORE COUNTY
RIVERSIDE "
MILES
0 0.5 1 2
KENT COUNTY
C H E S A P E A K
E B A Y
HARFORD COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
HARFORD
GLEN
CHURCH
CREEK
ABERDEEN
PROVING GROUND
"
#
LEGEND
ELEMENTARY
MIDDLE
APG
EDGEWOOD
AREA
MIDDLE/HIGH
!
HIGH
Ö
^
TECHNICAL
SPECIAL