Dear Parents,

It is with mixed emotions I share I will be retiring effective March 1, 2020. My 30-year journey with the Howard County Public School System brings wonderful memories that will forever be held near and dear to my heart. My passion to serve as an advocate for children led to a calling that has far exceeded any fulfillment imagined, and I thank you for entrusting your children in my care here at Hammond Elementary.

Many years ago, I began collecting quotes that I found to be inspirational and encouraging. One favorite comes from an unknown source, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to change a life.” As I reflect on moments in which I was recipient of such actions from students, colleagues, and parents, I humbly share these resulted in me becoming not only a better educator, but a better version of myself! And for that, I am grateful!

During this period of transition, I am elated to share that Ms. Ciarapica, Assistant Principal, will assume the role of Acting Principal. Ms. Ciarapica’s warm, kind demeanor combined with her knowledge of students, instruction, and daily operations will be of great asset. She is a dedicated, talented leader who understands what is needed for the final part of the school year. Ms. Ciarapica will work collaboratively with staff and parents to assure the best for our students!  

Assisting Ms. Ciarapica will be Mrs. Webster who is a retired Howard County Principal. Mrs. Webster holds 35 years of experience, having served as an elementary principal at Bryant Woods, Triadelphia Ridge, and Waterloo. During retirement, she has been substituting as a school administrator, assisting Human Resources with hiring processes, and serving as an adjunct instructor at McDaniel College where she also supervises leadership interns. Mrs. Webster is excited to join the Hammond team, where her six nieces and nephews attended school.

Should you have any questions, please feel welcome to contact Ms. Ciarapica or me at 410-880-5890. Hammond will always remain special to me, and I wish your family all the best in the years ahead!

Warmly,

Kimberlyn S. Stoll
Principal
Hammond Elementary School