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HCPSS Superintendent Responds to Recent TikTok Challenges

October 11th, 2021

In his remarks to the Board of Education on October 5, 2021, HCPSS Superintendent Dr. Michael J. Martirano addressed student participation in challenges on the TikTok social media platform:

I would like to address a serious issue that is impacting schools across the nation including those in Howard County. Challenges have been posted on social media for students to engage in extremely inappropriate, illegal and disruptive behaviors at school including slapping a teacher, destroying or stealing school property, sexual assault, and other dangerous acts. These behaviors are not just morally and ethically wrong, but violate the law and HCPSS Student Code of Conduct.

These acts are serious and can carry long-standing consequences that will impact students’ plans for college, career and other goals.

I am lifting this up to publicly urge parents and guardians to talk to their children about their actions and use of social media and the negative consequences that poor choices will lead to. Our school system will not tolerate any such acts and will pursue disciplinary actions in accordance with [Board of Education] Policy 9200 Student Discipline, and legal consequences.

I would hate for a poor choice now to lead to disciplinary and legal consequences that could impact them for the rest of their lives.