In a recent meeting of the Howard County Board of Education, held on July 17, 2025, significant personnel changes and commendations were at the forefront of discussions, highlighting the district's commitment to educational leadership and community engagement.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the personnel agenda, which included several key promotions and appointments aimed at enhancing the educational framework within Howard County Public Schools. Notably, Dr. Jennifer Webster was appointed as the new Chief Academic Officer, transitioning from her previous role as Associate Superintendent for Administration Leadership in Washington County. This appointment is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the academic strategies employed in the district.

The Board also celebrated the promotion of several staff members to leadership positions in preparation for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. New principals and assistant principals were introduced, including Jennifer Patterson as the principal of Mount View Middle School and Felicia Sien as the assistant principal of Lake Elkhorn Middle School. The recognition of these individuals, along with their families, underscored the community-oriented approach of the Board, emphasizing the importance of family support in educational roles.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the achievements of Kathy Wojcick, an Agricultural Science Academy teacher, who was honored as the 2024-2025 Agricultural Educator of the Year. Her recognition at the Maryland State FFA Convention, along with the prestigious Golden Owl Award, reflects her impactful contributions to agricultural education and her ability to inspire students toward careers in the field.

The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent agenda, further solidifying the Board's commitment to operational efficiency and governance. The unanimous support for these personnel changes and recognitions illustrates a collective effort to foster a supportive and effective educational environment for Howard County's over 57,000 students.

As the Board moves forward, the focus will remain on leveraging these leadership appointments to enhance educational outcomes and community involvement, ensuring that the district continues to meet the evolving needs of its students and families.