Principal, Christopher Rattay
Mr. Christopher Rattay joined HCPSS in 2014 in the role of Principal at Ellicott Mills Middle School and prior to joining Homewood Center, he served the last six years as Principal of Wilde Lake Middle School. He brings 25 years of experience in education with experiences as an assistant principal at both the middle and high school levels, a Mathematics Student Achievement Specialist, and a secondary mathematics educator. Mr. Rattay brings his excitement for learning and belief that all students deserve the access and opportunities to be successful. He is excited to be part of the Homewood community and begin his journey as a partner in supporting our students and families.
Assistant Principal, Laura Peter
Ms. Laura Peter is proud to serve our Homewood Family and our community as the Assistant Principal of the Bridges Program, both the middle and high programs. Ms. Peter has been part of the Howard County Public School System since 2005 as a special educator at the Homewood Center and as a Special Education Resource Teacher for the Department of Special Education. In 2015, Ms. Peter returned to our Homewood family as the Assistant Principal for the Bridges Program. Her passion is in special education and she is a strong believer and advocate for: restorative practices; building collaborative relationships with students, families and community partners; the academic success, behavior growth and social emotional well-being for all of her students.
Assistant Principal, Kenneth Porritt
Mr. Kenny Porritt joined the Homewood Center as Assistant Principal in 2024, bringing over 15 years of experience working in Education both in Howard and Harford Counties. Prior to joining Homewood, Mr. Porritt served two years as the administrator for Howard County's Innovative Pathways programs, overseeing Evening School, Summer School and the Virtual Program. Mr. Porritt brings extensive knowledge and experience working with new programs and initiatives.As a Special Educator at Long Reach High School, Mr. Porritt co-led the 9th Grade Reach Academy; a restorative justice-based program focused on accelerating academic achievement and fostering a sense of belonging. Additionally, Mr. Porritt has held leadership roles as a varsity head coach for both boys’ basketball and lacrosse. Mr. Porritt continues to champion student voice, safety, and growth especially for those who have faced barriers in traditional educational settings. His approach remains grounded in connection: “No matter what I’m doing, it’s important for me to get to know our students and help them in any capacity I can.”
Assistant Principal, Christine Schmidt
Ms. Schmidt has served in education for 27 years. Ms. Schmidt worked as a Special Education teacher in Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Howard County Public Schools. She held the position of Special Education Instructional Team Leader at Marriotts Ridge and Mount Hebron High Schools. In 2020, Ms. Schmidt became an administrator at Mount Hebron HS. Ms. Schmidt earned her Masters degree from McDaniel College and is a proud graduate of Lincoln University, an HBCU. Ms. Schmidt has received recognition from community/parent organizations such as the Special Education Citizen Advisory Council and MHHS Parents of African American Students for her dedication to students and families. She is excited to join our community, and support our students, staff, and families.
About Homewood
The Homewood Center includes the Bridges, Gateway, and Innovative Pathways programs, each designed to meet the specific needs of individual students in grades 6-12. With a strong focus on restorative practices and social-emotional learning, Homewood believes in taking care of the whole child so that academic and post-secondary potential can be reached.
- 10914 Clarksville Pike (Route 108), Ellicott City, MD 21042 (Google Map)
- 410-313-7081
- 410-313-7130, fax
- Hours: 7:50 a.m. – 2:35 p.m. (1:35 p.m. dismissal on Weds.)