ABOUT BRIGHT MINDS

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Howard County Schools Snapshot

Howard County schools are the heart of our community. The county’s students reflect the immense diversity of the community. While Howard County is among the nation’s most economically advantaged communities, more than 30% of Howard County families are not making enough to afford basic needs such as food, housing, or transportation. Living with these realities are students working hard to do well in school, but who face serious challenges. Programs that include support for these children improve the education and experiences of all Howard County students.

  • More than 57,000 students attend 78 HCPSS schools.
  • More than 8,500 teachers and staff educate these children.
  • Approximately 1 in 4 students qualifies for free and reduced cost meals.
  • More than 800 students experienced homelessness in the last year.
  • Nearly 10% of students receive special education services.
  • HCPSS students speak more than 129 native languages.

The Bright Minds Foundation works to enhance educational opportunities for all children attending Howard County public schools.

Our Mission

Bright Minds enhances the educational experiences of all Howard County public school students by bringing together community support for academic initiatives and opportunities that increase education access, innovation, and equity.

Our Vision

Each child attending Howard County public schools has access to the education, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed at school and in life.

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Learn more about Bright Minds in our annual reports

Click on below images to open a PDF version of each report.

What Our Supporters Say

Michael J. Martirano

Too many of our children enter kindergarten lacking the skills and abilities to begin their academic career track. We are collaborating with our community service and healthcare partners to support parents in nurturing their children's learning beginning at birth.

Michael J. Martirano
HCPSS Superintendent

Clarissa B. Evans

As a retired Howard County educator, I have seen firsthand how the school system empowers young people and the tremendous range of students HCPSS serves. Bright Minds helps to level the playing field so that all HCPSS students can take full advantage of the outstanding education the school system provides.

Clarissa B. Evans
Former HCPSS educator

Michael J. Martirano

We are working to give all of our students more options to successfully advance after high school into college or living wage careers by expanding our Jumpstart dual-enrollment program and adding career academies, apprenticeship pathways, and other options for all students.

Michael J. Martirano
HCPSS Superintendent