It started with something small… a missing pencil in a classroom.
But what that moment revealed was something much bigger — that even the smallest barriers can hold a student back from learning, participating, and feeling confident at school. Right here in Harford County, one simple act of stepping in to help has grown into a mission that now supports thousands of students, teachers, and families every year.
This piece was contributed by the Harford County Education Foundation.
Harford County Education Foundation: Unlocking Every Child’s Potential
More than twenty years ago, a small moment in a classroom revealed a much larger need. During a classroom activity, the founder’s middle school student had her pencil taken by a classmate and she was unable to complete her schoolwork. When she got home, she shared the experience with her mom, Deb Merlock.
Deb purchased a large bag of pencils and brought them to the teacher. She then began providing school supplies for the classroom so students would always have access to the materials they need to learn. Soon, other teachers in the school began asking if she could help provide supplies for their classrooms as well. And with that, in 2003 the concept of Harford County Education Foundation was born as a grassroots, family-driven effort. In 2004, the Education Foundation was formally incorporated, beginning a mission that continues today - removing barriers to learning and supporting students and educators across Harford County Public Schools. What began with a single pencil has grown into a community effort to ensure every child has the tools and opportunities needed to succeed.
Over the years, the Education Foundation has grown into a vital resource for students and families. Programs like Littles University provide high-quality books and educational videos directly to children’s homes, helping young learners build literacy skills and start school ready to succeed. The Bound Together program supports preschoolers and their families, fostering strong connections between home and school while promoting social-emotional development and early learning.
The Education Foundation also empowers teachers through Classroom Innovation Grants, funding creative, hands-on projects that bring new opportunities and experiences to students. In addition, the Education Foundation continues to provide school supplies, ensuring children have the tools they need to stay engaged and focused on learning.
The Education Foundation honors educators through the Everyday Heroes program. Celebrating outstanding teachers boosts morale, encourages them to continue innovating, and supports teacher retention, ensuring students benefit from experienced, motivated educators.
“The heart of our work is the students,” says Deb Merlock, Founder and President of Harford County Education Foundation. “When kids and their families have what they need to learn -whether it’s a pencil, a book, or a supportive program - they gain the confidence, curiosity, and skills to thrive.”
Community support is at the core of the Education Foundation’s success. Every donation, volunteer hour, and partnership directly impacts students’ lives, helping them overcome challenges and embrace opportunities both at home and in their learning. With programs spanning early literacy, family support, innovative teaching, and essential supplies, Harford County Education Foundation continues its mission of unlocking every child’s potential.
Today, what began with a single classroom need has turned into a countywide effort to make sure no child is held back by circumstances outside their control.
Whether it’s providing basic school supplies, supporting early learning, or empowering teachers with new ideas, the Harford County Education Foundation continues to show what’s possible when a community comes together.
👉 Learn more, get involved, or support their mission at www.harfordeducation.org
