Dear Patuxent Valley Families and Community,
I am writing to share that this afternoon the Howard County Board of Education was informed of my transfer to Clarksville Middle School, effective July 1, 2026. While I appreciate being provided the opportunity to lead another school community, I have a lot of feelings about leaving the students, families and staff here at Patuxent Valley. I feel very lucky to have had the last three years here and to share that time with the hardest working staff, the most supportive community and amazing young people.
From Patuxent Valley I have learned how important extracurricular and co-curricular activities are for student success. From our amazing music programs, to STEM initiatives, and our Student Council and NJHS groups I have gained energy seeing our students thrive. Through our Culture Nights, Step Team, Boys Group, Hispanic Achievement programs, Lavender Leaders and many other groups I have learned so much about the strength in the diversity of our community, and the importance of partnering with all students and families.
I want to thank you for your support and for sending your students into our care for the past three years. I could not have worked with a more engaged community and I have appreciated the open communication we have developed. Thank you to all the volunteers and especially to our PTSA whose hard work has provided so much for our young people. I have so many good memories of our work together.
Please know that my dedication to my position as your principal will continue as we transition to new leadership at Patuxent Valley. Please allow me to welcome and introduce Mr. Peter Gaylord as the incoming principal at Patuxent Valley.
Mr. Peter Gaylord brings more than 23 years of experience in public education and a deep commitment to fostering high-achieving, student-centered school communities. He earned a Master's Degree in Administration and Supervision from Johns Hopkins University and has served in a variety of educational leadership roles throughout Howard County, including special education teacher, leadership intern, assistant principal, and principal. Most recently, he served as Principal of Ellicott Mills Middle School for seven years, where he worked alongside students, staff, and families to cultivate a school culture grounded in high expectations, belonging, and opportunity.
Throughout his career, Mr. Gaylord has been passionate about supporting the whole child and creating school communities where every student feels valued, connected, and empowered to succeed. He is committed to building strong relationships with students, staff, families, and community partners while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment that supports students academically, socially, and emotionally.
He and I will be working collaboratively over the next several days to ensure that a smooth transition takes place.
There will be opportunities for parents and students to meet Mr. Gaylord. He will be sending additional communications soon, further introducing himself and sharing details about meeting with the school community.
My heart is full as I think about saying goodbye to students, staff and families next week. I have loved my time with them and have seen so much growth whether for three years, two years, or this year. I will speak to the students tomorrow on the news but please let them know this news this evening, and that processing this news with them is my highest priority.
Once again, I want to thank each of you for supporting me in my time at Patuxent Valley; it is truly a special place. And please don’t forget that I’m here until June 18, and there is nothing too big or too small for us to work on together, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
Regards,
Richard Smart, Principal (richard_smart@hcpss.org )