First Day Of School 2021: See Photos From Howard County

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Schools in Howard County welcomed students back for the 2021-2022 school year Monday. Patch invites parents and guardians to share their students' back-to-school photos with us by emailing photos with names, schools and other relevant information to Kristin.Danley-Greiner@patch.com.

As the school year unfolds, the Howard County Public School System reminds parents and guardians they are to performs COVID-19 health checks each day before sending students to school. The bus driver shortage also means some routes may be doubled up and run later than usual.

Masks are required in all HCPSS buildings for all students, staff and visitors, regardless of vaccination status. Masks also will be required while on school buses. Masks will not be required for any students or staff while eating or drinking indoors. Masks will not be required outdoors; however, they are recommended for unvaccinated individuals. If a student has a medical condition that prohibits the wearing of a mask, that student’s parent or guardian will need to submit a physician letter to the school nurse or health assistant.

Plexiglass dividers for cafeteria tables for elementary schools and sixth grade students will be installed once they arrive. Outdoor seating is available at all schools with additional precautions within each school.

(Waterloo Elementary School 5th grader)