HCPSS Interim Superintendent Signs 4-Year Contract

May 9th, 2018

Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) Interim Superintendent Michael J. Martirano signed a contract to serve as the HCPSS superintendent for four years, from July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2022. Martirano’s current contract as interim superintendent expires June 30, 2018. The contract signing took place on Wednesday, May 9, 2018 during a special meeting of the Howard County Board of Education.

“We are all thrilled with how Dr. Martirano’s leadership has returned the culture of the Howard County Public School System community to one of trust and collaboration where professionals are treated as such and everyone is treated with respect and kindness,” HCPSS Board Chairman Cynthia Vaillancourt said. “We are delighted that Dr. Martirano will be continuing to work with all of us to build an even brighter future for our students, our staff, and our community.”

“I appreciate all that Dr. Martirano has done for the school system in facing the challenges that we have and will continue to have, and with the positive attitude and energy to make it right,” Board Vice Chairman Mavis Ellis said.

“I take the responsibility of educating our children very seriously, and I am humbled that the Howard County community has entrusted me to continue leading this effort over the long term. This is a dream come true for me as we continue to work together to provide the best, most equitable education for every child,” Martirano said. “Education is more than job. It is a choice, a purpose-driven way of life, and a way to make a difference every day. My goal is very clear, to work with the Board, community, and elected officials for the betterment of children, and to never lose sight of our north star—the citizens, children, and employees of Howard County who are counting on us every day to get it right.”

Last May, the Board appointed Martirano as interim superintendent for a one-year term extending through June 30, 2018. It began in August the process of selecting a permanent superintendent, and solicited stakeholder input. The Board of Education announced its decision to select Martirano as permanent superintendent during the Board meeting on Dec. 19, 2017.

“If we take care of our children and their well-being, and nurture and believe in them, academic achievement will take care of itself,” Martirano noted. “But we must understand our children first, because in order to teach a child well you must know a child well. When we know a child’s challenges, experiences, strengths and concerns, we are much better able to meet their needs.”

“I am so honored to serve in Howard County,” he added. “I firmly believe our best days are ahead of us. I believe we can make this the best school system in America.”

Martirano’s biography can be found online.