Family Resources
Be prepared for school with the DOES school supply list.
The HCPSS Online School Payment (OSP) website is where parents are able to pay for student school activities and fees by debit or credit card online using a secure web browser at their convenience, 24 hours a day. Please note that OSMS, Inc. charges a 4% handling fee for online purchases.
Assessments
Information about the various tests and assessments taken by HCPSS students.
The Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment is designed to measure a student’s academic achievement and growth over time in reading and mathematics.
The Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) is a consortium of states developing assessments to measure student achievement in English Language Arts (ELA)/ Literacy and Mathematics for grades 3-8 and high school. The primary purpose of PARCC is to provide high quality assessments of students’ progression toward postsecondary readiness and success. The PARCC tests are designed to match the Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards and assess whether students are meeting grade-level expectations. The new assessments replace the Maryland School Assessments (MSA) in English and mathematics in grades 3-8.
School Supports
HCPSS promotes the mental health and wellness of each of our students to develop their unique strengths, abilities, and characteristics towards success and well-being.
Every school in the Howard County Public School System has at least one staff member who serves as a Rainbow Representative.
Every school in the Howard County Public School System has at least one staff member who serves as a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Liaison.
HCPSS is committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment and fostering strong bonds between schools, military service members and community organizations to support military-connected children and enhance the success of all students.