The hours per day will be consistent with those approved in the negotiated agreement. It will be similar to other elementary schedules.

Yes. Once an employee accepts a position with the DEC they will be assigned to the program. If an employee no longer wishes to work with the DEC, they would submit a voluntary transfer at the end of the school year. Employees would not be guaranteed a position at their former school.

The Howard County Public School System is planning a full-time, virtual option for students entering grades K-12 who wish to learn virtually for the 2021-2022 school year. Once finalized, the Digital Education Center (DEC) program will give students the opportunity to take classes and earn credits virtually, while receiving support services from both the DEC and their districted home school. DEC students will continue to be “enrolled” in their districted home school and will be able to participate in athletics and activities at that school.

At this time, the Technology department is not providing central offices staff with headsets, additional monitors, mics, keyboards, mice or other additional technology equipment.

Staff who are in need of technology supplies or equipment should submit requests to their managers.

Central Office and annex offices are open for staff during normal operating hours, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Staff members may choose to come in earlier or stay later if approved by their supervisor. 
 

Update: May 27, 2021

Effective July 6, when HCPSS moves from Step 4 to Step 5 of the Central Office Reoccupation Plan, there are no longer restrictions on restroom use for vaccinated staff members. Please note, prevention measures, such as mask wearing and 6 feet of social distancing, are still recommended for unvaccinated people.

Visitors may only access office buildings when conducting essential business that cannot be accomplished by a phone call or teleconference.

Visitor guidelines:

Effective February 24, pony service resumes the Wednesday and Friday pickup and delivery schedule for all schools and buildings.

Department of Education building/Central Office:

Update: May 27, 2021

Yes, staff may drink from water fountains and use them as water bottle filling stations.