HCPS 411 Update

HCEA represented employees and inclusion helpers (HCEA-ESP represented employees) who wish to be considered for a voluntary transfer must submit their request online prior to the deadline date stated in the applicable negotiated agreement. The Voluntary Transfer Request site may be accessed on the following SharePoint link: Talent Management Department. Each subject and/or position requested must be submitted separately. It is important to note that the Voluntary Transfer Request site is only accessible from a HCPS device connected to the HCPS network or through the Office 365 App launcher when not on the HCPS network. Please note that only online requests completed on the voluntary transfer request site will be accepted.

Transfer requests are accepted on a year-round basis. Although transfers are accepted on a year-round basis, decisions will be based on the existing vacancy/transfer timeline. To review the 2023-2024 SY Employment Timeline, please click on the following SharePoint link: Talent Management Department.

Blueprint Career Ladder Low Performing Schools

Under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Legislation, there is an element of the Career Ladder which incentivizes teachers who have National Board Certification to apply for positions at “low-performing schools.” This designation is defined by MSDE and must include schools identified as a 1-star or a 2-star school in 2 of the 3 most recently available years of the Accountability System. The designation also includes some local flexibility, where schools can be included if they are in the bottom 10% of schools in their Elementary/Middle or High schools. A Nationally Board-Certified Teacher meeting the definition of teacher at a Blueprint Career Ladder Low Performing School will receive an additional salary increase of $7,000 and the increase continues as long as the teacher is teaching at the school, even if the school ceases to be low performing. The 2024-2025 Blueprint Low-performing schools have not been identified yet by MSDE. As soon as HCPS has a list of the 2023-2024 schools, this will be released ASAP via the HCPS 411 Update.

All Other HCEA-ESP Represented Employees

For all other HCEA-ESP represented positions, applications, including transfers, must be done through the online application process. All positions within the unit, which offer promotional and transfer opportunities, will be posted for at least one week prior to the close of the application deadline. You must apply online for consideration.

Questions regarding voluntary transfer information should be directed to Joanna Karolenko, in Human Resources, at Joanna.Karolenko@hcps.org or 410-588-5238.

The HCPS Talent Management Team is busy preparing for the 2024-2025 school year! Their amazing Recruitment Team, which includes 53 school-based and central office staff, is busy visiting colleges and universities in an effort to bring new talent to HCPS.

The 2023-24 Talent Management Timeline for SY 2024-25 includes important timeline dates related to the hiring process.

Applications are currently being accepted for ESY and Summer School programs. Additionally, the work of the Talent Management Team is never done as they continue to fill permanent instructional and support staff vacancies; hire short and long-term substitute employees; and provide assistance to employees, schools, and departments on a daily basis.

The HCPS Talent Management Team supports employees throughout their entire employment life cycle from application through separation and/or retirement. Employment related questions can be directed to TalentManagement@hcps.org or by calling 410-588-5238.

The chart below provides a listing of just some of the services provided by Talent Management.

HCPS Human Resources consists of five teams prepared to assist you with various employment-related needs, as described in the Human Resources Contact List. Please don’t hesitate to contact them with your questions. They will be happy to assist you or connect you with someone best able to provide assistance. A complete list of HR Team members can be found at HR Staff Directory.

The newly updated HCPS Grants Compliance Manual is a comprehensive source of grant administrative requirements. This manual sets forth a systemic process for the development and implementation of grants at HCPS. All leaders and staff working with grants, please bookmark this resource, https://www.hcps.org/webfiles/WebFilesHandler.ashx?id=5566, and reach out to Dr. Roclande White, Grants Specialist, Office of Strategic Initiatives, with questions.

Last week, Darlington Elementary School welcomed an MSDE Expert Review Team, which spent two days conducting focus groups and classroom observations. In the coming years, all schools in Maryland will be reviewed through the Expert Review Team process as an accountability requirement of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future.

The leadership, staff, parents, and students of Darlington Elementary impressed the visiting team, with the lead member noting that the entire team would be better teachers due to their experience at Darlington Elementary School. Congratulations to Principal Alberta Porter and all of Darlington Elementary for a successful review, and thanks to the community for their amazing support!

Shout outs to all the teachers and leaders who participated in a document preparation, focus groups, and classroom observations: Alberta Porter, Danielle O’Neill, Amy Riley, Jennifer Lichty, Jennifer Nealy, Kara Knorr, Katelyn Eckart, Kathryn Veet, Kayla Smith, Kelli Parker, Lea Mussini-School, Michele Lassen, Regina Morgen, Stephanie Buchman, Stephanie Guzman, and Wendy Nesbitt!

The window to apply for virtual and blended programs at Swan Creek School for the 2024-2025 academic year closes next Friday, February 23, 2024! Some key reminders:

• Visit the Harford County Public Schools website (hcps.org) or Swan Creek School website (https://ceo.ss18.sharpschool.com/) for the three-step application process.
• All applications will be carefully reviewed, and enrollment decisions will be communicated by mid-April 2024 by Swan Creek School staff.
• If applications exceed capacity, a random lottery will be used to select eligible students.

Please share this with students and/or parents who may be interested in this information. This is their chance to join the Swan Creek School community and embark on an incredible educational journey! Reach out to Swan Creek School at 410-273-5594 to have your questions answered.

Please click here to access the latest issue of the HCPS EL Newsletter.

The voting window to name the February Family Friendly School Award winner is NOW OPEN!

Click here to vote once before 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 19, to let us know which nominated school should win the coveted title of Family Friendly School and a staff Chick-fil-A luncheon!

If “your” school isn’t in the running this month and you feel it should be, nominate it next month! One winning school will be named each month through May, and schools may win multiple times. Reminders about nominating and voting windows are shared in the HCPS 411 Update and on the Parent Academy Facebook page throughout the school year.

We look forward to announcing the February winner later this month!

In this month's Littles University video, Mrs. Jillian Lader helps our littlest scholars find rhyming words in "I Love You to the Moon and Back." And she reminds our families that registration for kindergarten will be available online March 1, 2024, and prekindergarten applications will open soon. We hope our Littles University scholars enjoy the February book. Keep an eye out for next month's book, made possible by our amazing partners at the Harford County Education Foundation!

On February 14, Mrs. Lader went to Hall’s Cross Roads Elementary to share this month’s book with Littles Scholars at the Judy Center! The book's title was fitting for Valentine’s Day!

On March 1, 2024, Kindergarten registration will be available online. Applications for early entrance kindergarten and advanced placement to first grade will be available to print online. Parents/guardians may also visit any HCPS elementary school to pick up a paper application.

Pre-K applications will open on May 3, 2024, and more information will be shared once it’s available.

Due to state law, prekindergarten and kindergarten instruction are not permitted to be virtual. This means prekindergarten and kindergarten registration is not available at Swan Creek School.

Help us spread the word in your community and share with anyone you think may be interested!

The Black History Month 2024 theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” explores the key influence African Americans have had in the fields of visual and performing arts, literature, fashion, folklore, language, film, music, architecture, culinary and other forms of cultural expression.

For more information on this year’s theme, visit https://asalh.org/asalh-announces-annual-black-history-theme-of-2024/.

Click HERE to share how you’re celebrating African American History in your school, classroom, office, or department.

Bel Air Middle School is celebrating African American History Month with a highlight on the literary contributions of African Americans. What better place to see this on full display than in the Media Center. Way to shine, PANTHERS!!

Special shout out to BAMS Media Specialist Donna Smith!

Students in Ms. Jergensen’s Fine Art Preparation classes at Bel Air High School researched their favorite African American artists. The students created thumbnail sketches of their artist’s work. Then the students selected their favorite art element used in the artwork and applied that element to their own image. Finally, the images were refined and will be on display at the school.

Special shout out to BAHS Art Teacher Nicole Jergensen!

Music is universal at Hickory Elementary School. During Black History Month, students learn about the origin of the JAZZ genre and display their learning for all to see. No Squirrel Left Behind at HIES!

Special shout out to Ms. Sonia Evans Wesley!

We are in the process of identifying current NBCTs interested in serving as readers for current National Board candidates. As you likely remember from your own journey, the support of a reader is greatly appreciated and is a valuable support for candidates. The Professional Development Office is grateful for all willing to consider supporting and will be able to pay readers. You can commit to doing only 1-2 if you wish, or you are welcome to do more. We will provide more information and training to those interested. Complete this survey to let us know if you are interested.

Only HCPS-approved digital resources can be used with students. Categorized by essential or supplemental, the HCPS approved digital resources live on the TrustEd Apps dashboard. All resources must go through a rigorous process for review by content area, accessibility, integration with our digital ecosystem and data privacy. Access all approved digital resources of the TrustEd Apps Dashboard in Canvas (Access TrustEd Apps Dashboard Directions).

Would you like to suggest a new digital resource to be considered for review? Complete a submission form located in the Innovation in Learning Resource Course.

Once you have accessed the Innovation in Learning Resource Course, select the Digital Resources button on the Home page. Next, select the Digital Resources Submission button.

If you are not already enrolled in the course, then use this link to self-enroll: https://harford.instructure.com/enroll/GRL383.

If you are enrolled in the course, then use this link: https://harford.instructure.com/courses/62281.

Digital Resource submissions will be accepted February 8-22, 2024.

Course Title: IIRP Restorative Practices for Educators

Course Description: Building and strengthening relationships and community is a critical component of school culture. Restorative practices are an essential process for creating a positive learning environment, building social capital, and resolving relational issues.

During your training session, you will learn the fundamental theory and practices for engaging with students, staff, and parents in your school setting.

Topics include the importance of being explicit about practice, how to set high expectations while being supportive, and ways to build community in your setting. We will discuss giving direct feedback, asking questions that foster accountability, and using effective methods to resolve common conflicts.

You will learn to apply the restorative practices continuum, understanding which restorative processes are best for achieving certain goals or responding to particular situations. We will focus specifically on facilitating circles, an essential process for creating a positive learning environment and school culture. Circles can be used both proactively and responsively to build social capital, sustain relationships, address social problems, and respond when harm occurs. Participants will spend time planning circles to use in their schools.

CANVAS Pre-Work Modules: All participants must complete the RA for Educators Canvas Modules before attending their scheduled training.

Location: These training sessions will be offered in person at the indicated locations or virtually via a TEAMS link sent by the course instructor.

Session Format: There is a Max 24 participants per session and 14 participants need to be registered for the course to run. Session formats are subject to change based on registration. You will be notified by email of any format changes.

Permissions: If you are registering for an in-person weekday training session, you will need to obtain permission from your principal to attend. Sub-coverage pay will be provided.

Payment: For HCPS staff completing the Canvas modules and training outside of their duty day, the compensation rate is the $25/hr. negotiated rate.

Hector Registration Links:

VIRTUAL: https://www.hcps.org/registration/workshops/workshops.aspx?filter=1814

IN-PERSON: https://www.hcps.org/registration/workshops/workshops.aspx?filter=1813

Questions:

Please email Faith Buxton at faith.buxton@hcps.org.

Effective July 1, 2024, all employees will experience a change to their benefit deduction cycle, moving from a 20 or 24 deduction cycle to a 22 pay deduction cycle for all 10-, 11-, and 12-month employees.

Details of this Change: All employees, regardless of whether in a 10-, 11-, or 12-month position, will transition to a singular deduction cycle that will occur over 22 consecutive pays throughout the fiscal year. Annual deductions will occur from September 1 through June 30 for all employees. During this period, the healthcare deduction includes the cost of your coverage in July and August; you do not need to make additional payments during these months. Employees will see their first 2024-2025 school year deduction as part of the September 13, 2024, pay date.

• Changes for 10-month employees: You will now have your healthcare premiums for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending spread out over 22 pays rather than 20 pays. This change will not impact pension and other deductions not listed.
• Changes for 11- and 12-month employees: You will now have your healthcare premiums for medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and flexible spending spread out over 22 pays rather than 24 pays. You will no longer have a deduction for your above-listed healthcare contributions for pay received in July and August. This change will not impact pension and other deductions not listed.

Why Is This Change Being Made? All employees are currently deducted through different deduction cycles based on their status as 10-, 11-, or 12-month employees. Moving all employees to a singular deduction cycle provides a simplified understanding of which posted premium applies specifically to individuals, helping to improve communication and understanding of an employee's benefits. This change will also provide simplified administration and understanding of deductions when employees transfer positions that would cause their deduction cycle to change.

What Do I Need To Do? As an employee, you do not need to do anything for this change to occur. This change will happen automatically for all employees enrolled in a medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and/or flexible spending benefit program. However, we request that you review your current elections during the upcoming Open Enrollment period in May 2024 and complete any election changes as appropriate. Enrollment changes made during the Open Enrollment period will take effect on July 1. Deduction changes will take effect in September, and no deductions for 11- and 12-month employees will occur during July and August.

More information will be available in the upcoming months leading up to this change taking effect on July 1, 2024. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Benefits Office at benefits@hcps.org.

February is American Heart Month

February is the time of year we encourage all to focus on their cardiovascular health. Heart health is the leading cause of death in the United States for both men and women. Luckily, heart disease is largely preventable, and we have the power to protect ourselves against it by taking an active role in our health and well-being. Small heart-healthy habits like adding more movement throughout the day and choosing healthier foods can significantly protect the health and longevity of our hearts. This American Heart Month, we encourage everyone to prioritize heart health. Click here for more information.

February CareFirst Wellbeing Challenge – Level Up Steps Challenge

Taking more steps daily is one way to improve your heart health and overall fitness. Celebrate Heart Health Month this February by committing to add more movement to your day. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk outside or a Zumba class with your friends, it's time to take your fitness to the next level! Click here to learn more about the CareFirst Wellbeing challenge and how to join.

Blood Pressure: A Vital Force for Life

February 16, 2024, 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Maintaining healthy blood pressure is critical for healthy living. In this session, participants will learn about what blood pressure is, why it is important to maintain healthy blood pressure, and what the risk factors are for high blood pressure. Participants will take away helpful tips for incorporating healthy changes like exercise and good nutrition to improve their blood pressure and tips for sustaining these healthy lifestyle changes will be shared. Click here to register to attend this event.

Cholesterol – The Good, The Bad, and the Strategies You Need

February 27, 2024, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

This webinar will teach participants strategies for raising their "good" (HDL) cholesterol, techniques for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol, and receive healthy and delicious recipes that are simple to prepare. Click here to register to attend this event.

How can you explore strategies to foster meaningful connections this month?

We recognize the importance of meaningful connections, and BurnAlong's February events are dedicated to cultivating these valuable relationships. Join BurnAlong and your colleagues as you embark on a journey to strengthen the bonds that connect us all, fostering a sense of community and well-being. To help those beginning this process, BurnAlong is hosting live events throughout February:

• February 21 at 12:00 p.m.: The Secrets to a Healthier Heart
  
• February 29 at 12:00 p.m: Building Resilient Relationships

Looking for More Class Recommendations?

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

Did you know BurnAlong is free for you and your friends?

You have access to four (4) free family subaccounts, so you can start sharing today! It takes just a minute to send one, and they'll get free, unlimited access to BurnAlong all year. Click here to invite a subaccount.

Take BurnAlong with You!

Join thousands of others on their health and wellness journey by downloading the Mobile App. Available in iOS and Android, take BurnAlong with you by downloading the app today!

What is BurnAlong?

As a reminder, BurnAlong is our health and wellness partner who provides you and your family with more than 23,000 live and on-demand online classes from 5,000+ credentialed instructors at no cost to you.

To activate your complimentary account, get started by visiting https://fit.burnalong.com/hcps. If you have any trouble accessing your account, contact customercare@burnalong.com. Find out more about BurnAlong in this brief video.

CareFirst Virtual Care Offering Update

CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield (CareFirst) members can now access a full suite of services through CloseKnit. CareFirst Video Visit is no longer available. This change does not impact your ability to use telemedicine offerings from other providers in the CareFirst network.

CloseKnit is a full-service virtual health offering designed around you. Services include:

• Primary care (ages 18+)
• Urgent adult/pediatric care (ages 2+)
• Behavioral and mental health therapy
• Psychiatry
• Lactation consulting
• Nutritional counseling
• and more!

Download the CloseKnit app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, or visit closeknithealth.com. Ensure your member ID card is handy when setting up your account.

Employees who wish to provide feedback on their experience(s) obtaining medications through CVS retail pharmacies are advised to complete the CVS/Caremark Service Reporting Tool, available on SharePoint. This report is monitored bi-weekly by a member of the Benefits Office for further assistance and tracking of member service feedback. To access this form, visit the Harford County Public Schools – SharePoint Home Page.

As always, if there is an immediate need or concern when obtaining medication, please email benefits@hcps.org so that a member of the Benefits Office can assist you more quickly.

The Maryland State Retirement and Pension System and the Community College of Baltimore County are providing State Pension members the opportunity to participate in pre-retirement webinars. These sessions provide vital retirement information to pension system members, including the Maryland State Pension, Legal Issues, Social Security Benefits, and Financial Planning.

Webinars:

• March 14 (CRN 77185)
  

• April 6 (CRN 77192)
• April 17 (CRN 77194)
• May 2 (CRN 77198)
• May 29 & 30 (CRN 77265)
  
• June 7 (CRN 77205)
• June 26 (CRN 77209)

Seminars:

• April 5 – Harford Community College (CRN 77189)
• June 25 - Harford Community College (CRN 77203)

To register, please visit https://www.ccbcmd.edu/ceed-preretirement-county. You will receive an email with site-specific information for those participating in person. Those participating in the online events will receive a separate link to join the date-specific event.

Please Note: These sessions are not affiliated with HCPS and will not include HCPS-specific information, such as retiree healthcare.

Presented by Acentra Health Employee Assistance Program

Developing professional influence comes with many benefits. Those with influence are often well-regarded and sought after for their input and insight, frequently serve as mentors, and find it easy to gain the support of others. Participants learn the art of being a positive influencer and how to inspire those around them, whether at work, at home, or in the community. Click here to learn more.

Date: Available on demand beginning February 20, 2024

Broadcast Length: 50 minutes
How to Access: Go to your EAP website: www.EAPHelpLink.com. Enter your code: HCPS and look for Online Seminars in the lower left-hand corner of this homepage, or you can search for them by title.

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

Employees and their family members can call Acentra Health 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, toll-free at (866) 795-5701 to visit their website online at www.EAPhelplink.com.

With Retirewise, you'll be on your way to making smarter financial decisions and creating an action plan that works for you. From budgeting and building an emergency fund to determining your investment options and creating a will, there's something for everyone to learn.

Each Retirewise session has different topics that build on each other:

• Building the Foundation: Understand your financial and retirement planning basics by creating a budget, and learn about compound interest, tax diversification, and inflation.
• Creating & Managing Wealth: Review the principles of investing, including how to get started, different types of investments, and their common risks and strategies.
• Establishing Your Retirement Income Stream: Learn how to examine risks, manage assets, and structure a retirement income stream to address your retirement needs and wants.
• Making the Most of What You Have: Review your employer's benefits and how they can fit into your plan while covering estate planning, Medicare options, and life and disability income insurance.

Workshop Details:

Session 1: Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Session 2: Wednesday, March 6, 2024

Session 3: Wednesday, March 13, 2024

Session 4: Wednesday, March 20, 2024

Time: 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. EST

If asked for the company name, enter Harford County Public Schools.

Click here to reserve your spot! Register online now.

On the fence? Here's a sneak peek of what to expect.

Please join us in welcoming the following new employees to the HCPS family:

• Brandon Farace, Custodian I - Shift 2, Havre de Grace Middle School
• Kara Drake, Administrative Support Assistant, Magnolia Elementary School
• Wendy Huber, Custodian I - Shift 2, Youth's Benefit Elementary School
• Kimberley Prestenbach, School Bus Driver, Transportation Department

Editor: Lindsay Bilodeau, Innovation Specialist

Email: HCPS.411@hcps.org