Howard County Public School System Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

Howard County Public School System has 6 executives leading key functions including administration, operations, finance, community engagement, and governance.

Committed to academic excellence and student development, Howard County Public School System fosters an inclusive learning environment that prepares diverse learners for future success through comprehensive career and technical education programs.

Leadership Roles at Howard County Public School System

  • Chief Financial Officer - M. Hull
  • Chief Operating Officer - Cornell Brown
  • Community Volunteer and PTSA President - Heather Cindric
  • President-Elect - Emily Perry
  • Chief of Staff - Susan Mascaro
  • Executive Directors - Patty Daley
  • M. Hull - Chief Financial Officer

    M. Hull, the Chief Financial Officer at Howard County Public School System, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the entire district. Hull oversees the allocation of funds for early childhood programs, career education, and general school operations. By monitoring revenue streams and expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that financial resources align with the strategic goals of the school system. M. Hull provides critical analysis to the Board regarding long-term financial planning and resource sustainability. This role involves rigorous auditing and compliance oversight to maintain transparency in all fiscal matters. Hull drives the annual budget process, balancing the needs of various departments while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Through the application of sound financial principles, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of educational services across the region. M. Hull ensures that the district remains well-positioned to invest in future initiatives that enhance the overall quality of student learning and development.

    Cornell Brown - Chief Operating Officer

    Cornell Brown, the Chief Operating Officer at Howard County Public School System, directs the logistical and physical infrastructure required to support thousands of students. Brown oversees facility maintenance, transportation services, and the procurement of essential educational materials. By optimizing the use of district assets, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that schools remain safe and functional environments for learning. Cornell Brown manages large-scale projects related to infrastructure upgrades and technology integration across the Maryland region. This leadership role involves balancing budget constraints with the need for modern, efficient facilities. Brown coordinates with external vendors and internal departments to maintain high operational standards. Through the implementation of sustainable practices, the Chief Operating Officer reduces overhead costs while improving service delivery. Brown drives the development of long-term facility plans, ensuring that the physical footprint of the district evolves to meet the changing needs of the student population and the broader community.

    Heather Cindric - Community Volunteer and PTSA President

    Heather Cindric, the Community Volunteer and PTSA President at Howard County Public School System, bridges the gap between families and district leadership. Cindric organizes parent-teacher initiatives that support physical education and extracurricular activities. By fostering strong relationships within the community, the Community Volunteer and PTSA President enhances the overall school experience for students. Heather Cindric advocates for parent involvement in decision-making processes, ensuring that family perspectives inform district policies. This role involves coordinating volunteer efforts and fundraising activities that provide additional resources for classrooms and libraries. Cindric drives engagement through regular communication and collaborative events that strengthen the bond between the school system and the public. Through active participation in district meetings, the Community Volunteer and PTSA President ensures that the needs of the student body remain a top priority. Cindric promotes a culture of partnership, ultimately contributing to a more supportive and inclusive educational environment for all families.

    Emily Perry - President-Elect

    Emily Perry, the President-Elect at Howard County Public School System, prepares for future leadership responsibilities by engaging with current governance and policy development. Perry participates in strategic discussions regarding the expansion of career and technical education programs. By observing and contributing to board-level decisions, the President-Elect gains deep insight into the operational complexities of the district. Emily Perry collaborates with other executive leaders to ensure that upcoming initiatives align with the long-term vision of the school system. This role involves analyzing educational trends and community feedback to inform future policy shifts. Perry drives the preparation for upcoming leadership transitions, ensuring continuity in the pursuit of academic excellence. Through active involvement in district governance, the President-Elect supports the ongoing mission to provide high-quality education to all students. Perry remains dedicated to understanding the diverse needs of the community, ensuring that future leadership decisions reflect the values and goals of the entire school system.

    Susan Mascaro - Chief of Staff

    Susan Mascaro, the Chief of Staff at Howard County Public School System, facilitates communication between the superintendent and various district departments. Mascaro manages internal workflows to ensure that organizational objectives remain on track. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief of Staff enhances the efficiency of daily operations across the school system. Susan Mascaro coordinates cross-functional projects that support physical education initiatives and student wellness programs. This role requires frequent interaction with the Board to ensure policy alignment and transparency. Mascaro oversees the execution of strategic mandates, providing the necessary support to maintain a cohesive leadership structure. Through careful management of district priorities, the Chief of Staff fosters a collaborative environment that benefits both staff and students. Mascaro drives organizational stability by addressing operational challenges with precision and foresight, ultimately ensuring that the district meets its core mission of providing quality education to the community.

    Patty Daley - Executive Directors

    Patty Daley, the Executive Directors at Howard County Public School System, manages high-level administrative oversight across the entire district. Daley coordinates the implementation of early childhood programs and library services to ensure equitable access for all students. By aligning departmental goals with the broader educational mission, the Executive Directors maintains operational consistency throughout the Maryland region. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with district stakeholders to refine curriculum standards and improve student outcomes. Patty Daley drives the strategic planning process, ensuring that resources support the diverse needs of the student population. Through rigorous evaluation of program efficacy, the Executive Directors optimizes the delivery of career and technical education. Daley remains focused on long-term institutional growth, consistently monitoring performance metrics to uphold the high standards expected within the district. This commitment to excellence ensures that every student receives a robust and comprehensive educational experience.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Howard County Public School System Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Howard County Public School System?
    Howard County Public School System is led by M. Hull (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Cornell Brown (Chief Operating Officer) and Heather Cindric (Community Volunteer and PTSA President).
    Who is part of Howard County Public School System’s executive team?
    The executive team of Howard County Public School System includes leaders such as M. Hull (Chief Financial Officer), Cornell Brown (Chief Operating Officer), Heather Cindric (Community Volunteer and PTSA President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Howard County Public School System have?
    Howard County Public School System has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Howard County Public School System’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Howard County Public School System includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Community Volunteer and PTSA President, President-Elect, Chief of Staff.