Aberdeen High School is excited to welcome Ms. Erica Harris as principal for the 2025–2026 school year. With 24 years of experience in Harford County Public Schools, Ms. Harris brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and dedication to the Aberdeen community.
Over the course of her career, Ms. Harris has served as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal, teaching high school special education and social studies. She has worked in a variety of schools across the district and is passionate about fostering environments where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
What excites Ms. Harris most about joining Aberdeen High School is the talent, diversity, and strong sense of community she has already observed. Her vision for the school centers on increasing communication and transparency with families, celebrating the wide range of activities and accomplishments in and out of the classroom, and ensuring that every student feels welcome while building a strong foundation for their future. She emphasizes that students should have access to a well-rounded curriculum, a multitude of extracurricular opportunities, and boundless possibilities. And she wants to ensure that every student takes full advantage of them.
Reflecting on her career, Ms. Harris treasures seeing the long-term impact of education. “My first students are now in their 30s and 40s, thriving in the community, in the school system, and in local businesses. Being a part of their journey, witnessing their growth, and now working with their children is my favorite part of being an educator.”
Outside of school, she is a voracious reader, often finishing a new book cover to cover in a single day. She draws inspiration from Ken Follett’s The Pillars of the Earth: “Human beings have the capacity to rise above mundane circumstances and touch the eternal.”
Ms. Harris encourages families and community members to be actively involved in the school. “High school is more than reading, writing, and arithmetic. Aberdeen High School is a community where our students can—and do—excel, with your support. Join the PTSA, connect with your child’s teacher, volunteer, donate, or support fundraisers. Every effort helps create lasting opportunities and memories for our students.”
With her experience, vision, and commitment to community partnership, Ms. Harris is ready to lead Aberdeen High School into a successful and enriching school year.