Friends of Education Award
Jump to 2026 Award Recipients
The Friends of Education Award was established by the Board of Education to recognize and show appreciation to those who have made exemplary contributions to Howard County public education and to increase awareness of the importance of community involvement to the achievement of the school system’s Equity Framework.
Who Does the Award Recognize?
The Friends of Education Award recognizes an individual, business, or non-profit group, organization, or association for an innovative or unique contribution that:
- Directly supports the school system’s mission of ensuring academic success and social-emotional well-being for each student in an inclusive and nurturing environment that closes opportunity gaps.
- Is significant in its scope. In the case of organizations such as PTAs, the contribution must be beyond the normal scope of activities.
Important Dates
The nomination period for the 2026 Friends of Education award is now closed. The 2027 award nominations will open in the winter.
Who Is Eligible?
Any member of the Howard County community, any non-profit group, organization, or association, or business located in or serving Howard County who has not already been a recipient in the last 10 years, may be nominated for the Friends of Education Award. School system employees and previous award winners within the last 10 years are not eligible.
There are three categories for nominees: individual; business; and non-profit group, organization, or association.
Who May Nominate?
Any employee of the Howard County Public School System, Howard County resident or member of a group, organization, association, or business located in or serving Howard County may submit a nomination.
What is Required for Nomination?
A complete Friends of Education Award application and three current signed letters of recommendation are required to submit a nomination. During the nomination period, nominators may complete an online application (available during the open nomination period) or contact the Board of Education at 410-313-1584.
Who are the Previous Award Recipients?
A complete list of Friends of Education award recipients is available on the BoardDocs website.
“HCMC advances opportunity and access by intentionally creating clear, inclusive pathways that connect volunteers, interns, observers, and apprentices to meaningful, high-quality learning and career exploration experiences.” “By fostering a supportive environment where students and staff feel their contributions matter, HCMC inspires engagement, motivation, and a sense of purpose, ensuring that learning and service are meaningful, dynamic, and driven by those involved.”2026 Award Recipients
John Willets, River Hill High School student
“Willets’ innovative approach has ensured access and equity for all students and their families and filled a void in the community allowing teens to support each other.”
Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center (HCMC)
