In an insightful and inspirational gathering, Bright Minds Foundation hosted the inaugural Breakfast with the Superintendent & HCPSS Showcase event on November 7, 2023 at the Meeting House in Columbia, MD. The event provided an opportunity for community members and educators to come together and engage in meaningful conversation about student and educational needs in Howard County. View pictures of the event.
The morning began with networking and a showcase of some of the HCPSS and foundation initiatives contributing to student educational access and achievement. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the dynamic work of different HCPSS departments and gain a deeper understanding of the comprehensive system in place for students. HCPSS groups represented included: career and technical education, pupil support services, community schools, dual enrollment, student access & achievement, community partnerships, and teacher externships. Bright Minds teacher grant recipients were also present to share their experiences.
Stacey Spanier, the Mathematics Instructional Team Leader at Ellicott Mills Middle School (EMMS) and a Bright Minds teacher grant recipient last year, kicked off the event program by sharing details of her grant project Rocket Your Way Through Math and how it has positively impacted student math confidence and achievement for EMMS students. Her inspiring and successful project underscores the importance of community involvement in advancing educational opportunities for students.
The highlight of the morning was the keynote presentation by HCPSS Superintendent Dr. Michael J. Martirano, whose vision and leadership have played a pivotal role in advancing student wellbeing and achievement in Howard County. With a focus on current pressing challenges facing students, Dr. Martirano outlined a few of the strategic initiatives aimed at ensuring all students have the support and resources they need to thrive in their educational journeys. Attendees gained valuable insights into the Superintendent’s leadership priorities and commitment to elevating equity in education.
Dr. Martirano ended the event by announcing the launch of the new Martirano Super Sock Drive, which will donate socks to Howard County children and families in need. Dr. Martirano will donate $4,000 to launch the initiative after recently receiving the prestigious Tom Cookerly Exceptional School Superintendent Leadership Award from the National Center for Children and Families. Dahlia Levin, Director of Development and External Affairs, and Jermaine Lemons, Program Director for the National Center for Children and Families, were present to award the $4,000 donation to Bright Minds on Dr. Martirano’s behalf.
Bright Minds extends its appreciation to all those who attended the event, emphasizing the crucial role that community engagement plays in contributing to student success and the continued excellence of education in Howard County.
For more information about Bright Minds Foundation, its programs in support of students and educators, and upcoming events, please visit brightmindsfoundation.org or call 410-313-8992.
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About Bright Minds
Bright Minds Foundation works to ensure that each student has access to the education, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed at school and in life. We bring together community support for programs and initiatives that increase education access, equity, and innovation. Bright Minds programs respond to urgent and ongoing needs of students in four key areas: literacy and school readiness; digital inclusion and access to learning; education innovation and teacher support; and college access.
