School Facts for Harford Public Schools

The Harford County Public Schools

Approximately 39,500 pupils are enrolled in Harford County's public schools. The school system has the seventh largest pupil enrollment of the 24 public school systems in Maryland. Approximately 4,500 persons are employed by the school system to provide the necessary educational programs and supporting services for the pupils.

Presently, there are 31 elementary school, 8 middle schools, 8 high schools, the John Archer School (a special school for students with disabilities), and the Harford Technical High School.

Based upon firm beliefs in the value of youth and the obligations of public education to educate each of them effectively, the Harford County Public School System provides a comprehensive instructional program and related student activities for the youth who are currently enrolled. Prekindergarten classes are available for four-year-olds at 16 of the Harford County Public elementary schools. A system-wide kindergarten program begins public education for the five-year old. A carefully planned and appropriately sequenced curriculum extends learning from the primary and intermediate grades of elementary school through the middle school grades and high school to graduation. Special programs and services are provided to accommodate the unique needs of each student, including those who possess exceptional abilities, talents, and/or disabilities.

School Facts for Harford Public Schools

• 31 Elementary Schools
• 8 Middle Schools
• 8 High Schools
• 1 Special Education School - John Archer
• 1 Technical School - Harford Technical High School
• 49 Total Schools
• Total Pupil Enrollment - 38,584
• Operating Budget - $210,929,366
• Instructional Staff is 72 per 1,000 students (1994-95)
• 65% of the teaching staff have ten or more years experience
• 75% of the teaching staff have completed advance degrees

Scholastic Aptitude Tests (SATs) Class of 1998

• Average Verbal Score - 525 (National Score - 505)
• Average Math Score - 528 (National Score - 512)

Both scores are above state and national averages and are consistent with an upward trend over the past ten years.

Functional Tests

Harford's ninth grades passed reading, writing, math and citizenship exams a total of 15% better than the State average.

Maryland School Performance Report

Harford's schools scored higher than the State average in eight of nine categories, satisfying 10 out of the 12 criteria.