Here we are at the start of a new school year and at the beginning of the second decade of the 21st century, with yet another opportunity to build on our successful past, dream bigger dreams, and accomplish even larger achievements. As you know, in Baltimore County Public Schools, we follow our Blueprint for Progress; and our most important principle is that “all means all.” It reflects our commitment to ensuring that all students receive high-quality education that prepares them for success in college, careers, and life. It also reflects our vision that every one of us – educators, students, staff members, parents, and community stakeholders – has a role to play in the educational process. Every one of us should be looking for ways to learn, create, and share. Technology has fostered a global economy and a global society. Higher standards and increased accountability demand that public school systems fulfill their promises. My challenge to everyone this year – students, staff, and families alike – is to dare to be learners. Sincerely,
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Dr. Joe A. Hairston Dr. Joe A. Hairston has served since 2000 as Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, one of the nation’s 25 largest school systems. His results-based leadership has yielded rising student academic achievement throughout his tenure. Many of the strategies Dr. Hairston employs in Baltimore County – including development of a “blueprint” for school system progress, effective use of technology to support student achievement, and key partnerships with the College Board and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) to promote college attendance – evolved over the course of his noteworthy career. In 2007, the Horace Mann League of the USA elected Dr. Hairston to its 12-member Board of Directors. The League is comprised of 1,000 renowned educators who share the belief that public schools are the cornerstone of democracy. Recognized by presidents and the national media, Dr. Hairston has been honored with dozens of honors, including The Washington Post’s Distinguished Educational Leadership Award, the Maryland State Department of Education Vanguard Award, and the 2006 Virginia Tech Graduate Alumni Achievement Award. In 2005, Dr. Hairston received local, national, and international honors for his leadership in educational technology, including an Outstanding Leadership Award from the International Society for Technology in Education. Dr. Hairston has been recognized as Superintendent of the Year by The Fullwood Foundation and has been profiled in District Administration, Christian Science Monitor, and Scholastic Administr@tor magazines. Dr. Hairston earned a doctorate in education administration from Virginia Tech, a master's degree from American University, and bachelor's degree from Maryland State University. Click here for more information |
Dear Parents/Guardians, Students, and Staff: