Why do students have so many days off during the school year?
Maryland law requires that all public schools be closed on the following days:
Who determines how long the school year will be?
The state of Maryland requires that students attend school for a minimum of 180 days each year. Local Boards of Education have the option to require more than 180 days of instruction but not less.
How is the HCPSS calendar developed?
A proposed calendar is developed by a Calendar Committee, which includes representatives of the Howard County Education Association, support staff, principals, central office staff, students, parents, and representatives from community organizations. Input from stakeholder groups is solicited throughout the committee’s deliberations.
What are the HCPSS operating status options?
HCPSS operating status may include normal operations, schools open two hours late, schools closed and offices are open, schools and offices are closed, schools dismiss early, afternoon/evening activities canceled, and Saturday activities canceled.
Where can I find the current HCPSS operating status?
The current HCPSS districtwide operating status is available online at https://status.hcpss.org.
Where can I find the HCPSS calendar?
The HCPSS calendar is available for viewing online at www.hcpss.org/calendar.
Will HCPSS transition to virtual instruction during inclement weather for the 2021-2022 school year?
With the 2021-2022 school year, HCPSS will return to pre-COVID weather protocols. These include school closings, delays and early dismissals when necessary due to severe weather, and apply to all schools and students, including those participating in the Digital Education Center.
State law currently requires that school systems be open for 180 days of in-person instruction, meaning that any days of fully virtual instruction would not count toward the 180 day requirement. For this reason, at this time HCPSS will not transition to virtual learning during weather emergencies.
What State of Maryland early fall 2021 assessments will be given and when?
As part of continued COVID-19 recovery efforts, the Maryland State Department of Education is conducting an early fall student assessment.
The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) is the overarching term used for all state assessments. MSDE will administer assessments in the Early Fall for English Language Arts/Literacy (ELA/L), Mathematics, and Science (Maryland Integrated Science Assessment- MISA), as well as the Alternate Assessments in ELA, Mathematics and Science, and the Kindergarten Readiness Assessment (KRA).
Will school volunteers who work with students be required to show proof of vaccination or testing?
(Updated: Jan. 19, 2022)
These individuals are required to show proof of full vaccination, with no testing option, at least five school days in advance by using the PinPoint VaccineCheck platform to submit proof of full vaccination: