Are there any non-teaching Digital Education Center positions available?
Non-teaching positions at the DEC will include school administrators, school counselors, paraeducators and other support staff.
Can I still be a member of the union while working for the Digital Education Center?
Employees who work at the DEC have the same rights as any other HCPSS employee and can join or continue membership in respective bargaining units.
Will Digital Education Center staff be responsible for other duties?
Staff will have other duties that are outlined in the job description and that align with the negotiated agreements.
Will the compensation for working at the Digital Education Center be the same as my current job?
Compensation for DEC staff will follow the negotiated agreements.
What supports and training will be available for Digital Education Center staff?
DEC staff will participate in a variety of professional learning opportunities from both the DEC and their supervisory office (curriculum, student services, etc.). Required professional learning may include virtual teaching and learning pedagogy, social/emotional learning strategies, and other training that all HCPSS staff are required to complete.
What will the Digital Education Center work hours be?
The hours per day will be consistent with those approved in the negotiated agreement. It will be similar to other elementary schedules.
If I work for the Digital Education Center, will I be leaving my current position? Can I return to my current school?
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.
What is the Digital Education Center?
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.
Can central offices staff request headsets or other technology equipment?
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.