Friends of Education Award
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 Strategic Call to Action plan. Any Howard County resident or non-profit group, organization, association, or business located in or serving Howard County who has not already been a recipient, may be nominated for the award.
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.
Nominations
The 2023 nomination deadline is February 6, 2023. Nominees and recipients will be notified by March 6, 2023, and awards will be presented during the April 13, 2023, Board of Education meeting.
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 can obtain the required application by contacting the Executive Assistant to the Board of Education 410-313-1584 or completing the application online.
2022 Award Recipient
Ying Matties
Ying Matties founded the Community Allies of Rainbow Youth (CARY) organization. When she realized she could help more than just her own child and others in her school community, she reached out and built a network of caring individuals who want to ensure each student in Howard County Public Schools feels valued. Matties works tirelessly to help improve policies, practices and curriculum and make them more inclusive, accepting and relevant.
Read more about the Ying Matties and the other 2022 Friends of Education nominees→
