Harford County School Board Fires Superintendent Bulson

Bulson had been on leave since January after a controversial incident at an education conference in Louisiana.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Harford County Board of Education has voted 6-3 to terminate its contract with Superintendent Sean Bulson, effective this month. Bulson, who has been at the helm of the school district for almost eight years, will be paid through June 30. The board cited an incident at an education conference in Louisiana two years ago involving missing school property and personal conduct as the reason for Bulson's dismissal.

Why it matters

The firing of a long-serving school superintendent is a significant event that can have major implications for the district's leadership, policies, and community relations. This case highlights the importance of accountability and transparency in public education, as well as the potential consequences for superintendents who face allegations of misconduct or mismanagement.

The details

According to the report, Bulson made a 911 call in April 2024 while attending an education conference in New Orleans, reporting that school equipment including phones, an iPad, a laptop, and an Apple Watch had been stolen from his hotel room. However, the items were later found in the room's safe and returned to Bulson. The incident and Bulson's subsequent handling of it led to calls for his resignation, and he has been on paid leave since January. The school board's decision to terminate his contract comes after a closed-door meeting last week.

  • Bulson made a 911 call on April 6, 2024 to report the missing school equipment.
  • Bulson has been on paid leave since January 2026.
  • The school board voted 6-3 to terminate Bulson's contract effective this month (February 2026).

The players

Sean Bulson

The former superintendent of Harford County Public Schools, who was fired by the school board after an incident involving missing school property at an education conference.

Lauren Paige

The newly elected president of the Harford County Board of Education, who announced the board's decision to terminate Bulson's contract.

Dyann Mack

One of Bulson's deputy superintendents, who is currently serving as acting superintendent.

Aaron Poynton

The former Harford County School Board president, who was informed by Bulson about the missing school equipment.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage public property and undermine public trust.”

— Lauren Paige, Board President, Harford County Board of Education (patch.com)

What’s next

The Harford County Board of Education has announced that the search for a new superintendent will start immediately.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of strong leadership and accountability in public education. The firing of a long-serving superintendent over allegations of misconduct and mismanagement underscores the need for school districts to maintain high ethical standards and public trust.