Homewood Community News 26 - 27 #5

Dear Homewood Community and Families,

Buckle Up! This may be a long Community Newsletter this week but it's also a long weekend ahead so please use the extra time to make sure you read all the good stuff packed in here!

Our average daily attendance so far this school year is at 85.4% as of this morning. We are proud of our students and families for the efforts they have made for the past two weeks to make sure students are present and engaged. We appreciate you helping get them here!

We will continue to work together towards our goal of 90% or higher daily attendance. We want to keep families informed along the way. Attendance Matters and will remain a key area of focus this year! Take a moment and familiarize yourself with our attendance procedures here.

Make it a great one!

Mr. Rattay, Principal

September 15-Oct.15: Hispanic Heritage Month

September 14 - 18: Scholastic Book Fair
September 16: Back to School Night and Phoenix Family Rise Up Evening RSVP HERE

September 21: Schools and offices closed - Yom Kippur

September 30: 3 hour early dismissal

September 30: FARMS Applications due

October 14: PSAT

October 16: Schools closed for students

October 21: Vision and Hearing Testing

October 27: End Quarter 1 & Quarter 1 Attendance Incentive

Click links above for information and access the HCPSS system’s academic calendar here.

Visit Homewood's Community Calendar here.

SAVE THE DATE The Scholastic Book Fair is coming!
September 14 - September 18

Visit the Fair at Back to School Night or order online!
Click image to learn more!

Join us on September 16, 2026 for Homewood Center's Back to School Night & Family Dinner. During the evening, our school community will have an opportunity to make connections, share a meal, learn about academic and future planning resources, get in-person help with completing FARMS Applications or completing the Family File, and visit the Scholastic Book Fair!

In order to make sure that we are able to have enough food for everyone, we kindly ask you to RSVP as soon as possible but no later than September 10th. RSVP HERE.

Interactive workshops will focus on academic achievement, well-being, and family engagement and include topics such as MTSS, curriculum updates, and more. Interpretation services and dinner will be available. Please save the date and plan to attend. Registration information is coming soon!

The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all students. Preventing bullying is an important part of this goal. HCPSS Policy 9460 prohibits bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, including hate/bias incidents, and intimidation.

HCPSS recently launched a new Bullying, Cyberbullying, Harassment, or Intimidation (BCHI) Reporting Form that allows students, staff, and families to easily and confidentially report concerns. The BCHI Reporting Form should be used to report known or suspected incidents of bullying, cyberbullying, harassment, intimidation, and hate/bias incidents. These may include physical aggression, threats, retaliation, teasing or name-calling, rumors, exclusion, threatening gestures, online/social media behavior, or conduct related to a student's identity or characteristics.

What happens after you report?

The school will address any immediate safety concerns. The targeted student's parent/guardian will be notified as soon as possible and an administrator will begin the investigation within two school days. Both families will receive written notice of the outcome within 15 calendar days, excluding extenuating circumstances.

A Note About Cyberbullying

In today's digital world, bullying can extend beyond the school day. Cyberbullying can occur through social media, text messages, group chats, gaming platforms, apps, and other digital spaces. Online behavior that occurs outside of school may still require school intervention when it has a connection to the school setting and impacts a student's safety or educational environment. Families are encouraged to talk regularly with their children about responsible online behavior and to save screenshots, messages, posts, or other evidence when concerns arise.

Not sure if it's bullying? Please still tell us. Peer conflict or other concerning behavior may not meet the definition of bullying but may still require school support and follow-up. Students and families do not need to decide whether something “counts” as bullying before asking for help.

For additional information or to submit a report, visit the HCPSS Stop Bullying website or review HCPSS Policy 9460.

The Free and Reduced Price Meals (FARMs) program provides access to more than meals. Qualifying families can take advantage of a wide range of additional resources and discounts, including free college applications, free or reduced JumpStart dual enrollment tuition, discounted internet through the Comcast Internet Essentials program, and more. Families must submit a new application every school year. During the first 30 school days, students with FARMs eligibility from the prior school year will continue to receive benefits.

IMPORTANT CHANGE THIS YEAR: Recent changes to federal legislation mean that children of families previously enrolled in SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), and Medicaid programs may no longer be automatically certified for school meal programs. This means that many families who previously were automatically enrolled in FARMS will have to apply this year.

Parents/guardians are highly encouraged to fill out the applications online as soon as possible. It is very important that applications are filled out accurately and completely. Paper applications will also be available at Back to School Night and staff will be available to help with completing.

Answers to frequently asked questions. on HCPSS meals and additional meals/nutrition assistance programs can be found on the HCPSS Help site. If you have questions regarding the program, please visit www.hcpss.org/FARMs. or contact Food and Nutrition Services at 410-313-6743 or foodsvc@hcpss.org.

No Cars in Bus Loop (Front of School): Families, please note that no cars will be allowed in the bus loop, during arrival and dismissal. For any questions contact Mr. Porritt here.

Transportation: All families should have received notification about their student's bus information. If you have not, or if you have questions, contact Mr. Porritt here.

Bring the whole family and join us for a fun-filled day of games, laughter, fellowship, and community! Everyone is invited to come out, connect with neighbors, make memories, and enjoy a day together. Whether you’re young or young at heart, there’s something for everyone at STAND Family Field Day. Bring your family, invite a friend.

Did you know that access to books in the home is one of the strongest predictors of student achievement?

Share the Fair is the giving program that supports students in our school who need help buying books. Learn how to contribute at https://tinyurl.com/pzxce6bc. No one should leave the Book Fair empty-handed!

* Your donation can make a real difference in the lives of our students. Visit our school’s Book Fair homepage through September 16th to contribute.

NAMI Howard County is hosting a Virtual Education Forum on Tuesday, 9/15/26 at 7:00pm. Alyson Mitchel, HCPSS Director of Student Well-Being, will be discussing how students and families can access the continuum of school-based mental health supports offered by HCPSS. This presentation is free and open to the public. Register for the event on Zoom!

Storytelling is a powerful tool to spark conversation, build connection, and reduce stigma Join with our community and members of STAND for Hopeful Voices: Showcasing Stories and Art of Mental Health and Wellness at the East Columbia 50+ Center.

The event is free and open to all. Learn more and register here: https://bit.ly/hopefulvoiceshoco

The afternoon will feature powerful personal stories about mental health and wellness from local advocates and community members. We will also share a meal together, view art from local artists, and share conversation and resources.

Anytime Fitness is teaming up with Columbia Community Care for a morning of racing, cheering, and coming together as a community. And this one's truly for any body and any level! So, Even if you're not a competitive runner and your vibe is more walking, let's get our bodies moving with a purpose of giving back to the community!

Saturday, September 26th

10AM-1PM

• Long Reach High School

Sign up and register here

• please bring some non-perishable food items to donate. Canned goods, pasta, rice, whatever you've got. Small thing that makes a big difference for local families.

The Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) celebrates 20 years of hosting the Every Step Counts Autism Walk & 5K Run. Every Step Counts brings together individuals and families touched by Autism and the broader community for a day of connection, compassion and celebration.

On Saturday, October 3, 2026, we are excited to bring back the SUPERHERO theme for our 5K Run, 4K Walk or 1K Stroll! Guests will enjoy family-friendly fun including an inflatable obstacle course, roving performers, face painters, bubble artists and costumed characters. It’s a day of joy and unity, with strong support from local sponsors, elected officials and community partners.

There are many ways for you and your family and friends to participate this year! Kids 10 and under can walk or run for FREE but registration is required to receive a t-shirt. CLICK here to learn more.

The Johnson Family Foundation (JFF), in collaboration with the Getting Ahead R-Rules Program, is excited to introduce the Youth Barbering Academy, hosted at the Howard County Multi-Service Center! This unique program provides youth with an opportunity to experience mentorship through barbering, while building skills, confidence, and positive connections. Registration is currently open for all available dates.

Education, Enrichment, Internship, Employment Programs School Year 2026-2027 This database introduces a curated collection of opportunities for students looking to grow academically, professionally, and personally. The spreadsheet linked contains organized tabs for each category, making it easy to explore options based on your interests and goals.

The provides career services, job training, and recruitment solutions to help both individual job seekers and local businesses succeed. Through resources like workshops, apprenticeships, and a career portal, the office supports a diverse community in achieving employment advancement and economic growth.

Homewood Center's Career Coach Cathy Rhine, with the Howard County Office of Workforce Development, works together with students to identify part-time, volunteer, and other opportunities for our student population. If you would like assistance in using the OFWD Student Job Board, your resume, or preparing for an interview learn more here.

• Homewood Senior News
• HCPSS Class of 2027 College Application Google Site
• HCPSS School Counseling Canvas Page
• HCPSS College Application Checklist
• March2Future Webinar Series
• College and Career Weekly
• Start a 2026–27 FAFSA® Form

The FAFSA doesn't open until October 1st, but you can start the process by opening up a Federal Student Aid account and getting your FSA ID number now! Your FSA ID number gives you access to your account where you can complete and sign your FAFSA, as well as accessing federal student loans.

Set up your account and get your FSA ID number at: https://studentaid.gov/

Follow hcpss_ccr for all things college and career related for HCPSS students and their families.

The 2026-2027 Scholarship Resource introduces a curated collection of scholarships and grants that students can apply for to help decrease their out-of-pocket expenses for colleges and trade schools.

As a Community School, Homewood Center serves as a resource to support student success. One way we do this is through the operation of our Phoenix Pantry. Due to limited supplies, All items are subject to availability. At this time, we cannot stock items that require refrigeration.

Homewood Community Members can request support using this form. Please allow 3-5 school days to fulfill an order and arrange pick-up/drop off. Contact Kelly Kesler, Community School Site Coordinator if you have a more immediate need.

Homewood Center partners with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration to offer access to Learner's Permit Testing at school throughout the year. In order to participate in permit testing at Homewood Center students need to meet the following requirements:

• Must be 15 years and 9 months of age or older
• Download Permission Slip here or pick one up from cafeteria bulletin board or Community Suite.
• Must have signed permission slip turned in 2 weeks before test date.

2026 - 2027 Testing Dates

• October 22, 2026 (permission slip due by October 8th)
• December 17, 2026 (permission slip due by December 3)
• March 18, 2027 (permission slip due by March 4th)

Learn more about the process of becoming a new driver in Maryland and find practice tests here.

As a Community School, Homewood Center, can offer financial support for eligible Homewood Center students to access an MVA-certified, 36-hour Driver's Education course through Greg's Driving School. This opportunity is limited to the availability of funds. To apply complete the form here: Driver's Education Support Request Form and provide documentation demonstrating eligibility. For students under the age of 18, the form must be completed by a parent or legal guardian.

Students are able to begin the lesson-based (virtual or in-person) portion of the class prior to having their learner’s permit; however, to complete the driving hours that are required for the provisional license, they must have their state issued learner’s permit.

Visit the HCPSS Family Resources webpage, a one-stop hub for essential support services, including food assistance, shelter, and financial aid.

Visit the HCPSS resource webpage dedicated to supporting immigrant families.

Visit the HCPSS resource webpage for military families.

Howard County food pantries Howard County Food Connection Map.

Howard County Service Navigator Newsletter

• August 2026

Community Action Council of Howard County provides five critical services: early childhood education, energy assistance, food assistance, housing assistance, and weatherization assistance. Applications for support can be done online!

Grace Clothing Closet provides gently used clothing.

Homewood Center has a Washer & Dryer for students. Need access or have questions? Email us here or stop by the Community Support Suite!

The Howard County Office of Workforce Development provides career services, job training, and recruitment solutions to help both individual job seekers and local businesses succeed. Through resources like workshops, apprenticeships, and a career portal, the office supports a diverse community in achieving employment advancement and economic growth.

Student Responsibilities and Behaviors Policies

HCPSS Student AI Guide: Using Generative AI Responsibly

HCPSS News

Gateway High School - Gateway provides all necessary supplies for every class. Students who prefer to carry a backpack may use a clear backpack all other backpacks should remain at home. Clear backpacks will be available for students who need one. Families should refer to communications from their Program Administrator, Mr. Porritt, for additional information and program expectations.

Momentum Academy - Momentum Academy provides all necessary supplies for every class. Cell Phones will be collected and secured as students arrive. Families should refer to communications from their Program Administrator, Ms. Parker, for additional information and program expectations.

Bridges - Bridges High School and Middle School provides necessary supplies for every class room. Families should refer to communications from their Program Administrator, Ms. Peter, for additional information and program expectations.

Help us keep your student safe in an emergency!! Homewood families, we need your help with this critical information! HCPSS utilizes Family File for so much including emergency information. Parents/guardians must verify and/or update information for each child each school year. Our staff uses TalkingPoints to connect with families via text. Be sure to update your HCPSS Family File so all your contact information and your language preferences are correct.

After logging in to HCPSS Connect, please complete the Family File here. High School students will NOT be able to purchase tickets to activities like games, Homecoming and/or Prom tickets without a completed Family File from this school year.

Family File Resources:

• https://www.hcpss.org/f/connect/family-file-quick-guide.pdf
• FAMILY FILE USER GUIDE (ENGLISH)
• FAMILY FILE USER GUIDE (SPANISH)

*Community programs are not sponsored or endorsed by HCPSS