LA PLATA, Md. — Cougar pride was on display Tuesday afternoon when the 293 graduates of Thomas Stone High School graduated.
Shanif Pearl, principal of Thomas Stone, reminded students that the day was not only about receiving a diploma, it was also about recognizing the strength it took to get to this place. She urged the graduates to understand that success is not one size fits all.
“Success is becoming the person you were created to be while lifting others along the way,” Pearl said. “Intelligence is important, but your character will carry you further. Be dependable. Be courageous. Be kind in a world that often rewards cruelty.”
She asked the students not to confuse silence with weakness.
“Some of the strongest people move with humility,” she said. “The community needs your ideas, your creativity, your leadership and your voice. Walk into every room knowing you belong there. Do not let anyone shrink your future.”
Salutatorian Samantha Grace, who will study social work at the University of Maryland, College Park, reminded her fellow graduates of the times they spent counting down to this day.
“Today is not just an ending. It is proof that we are capable of overcoming challenges and proof that growth takes time,” she said.
Grace reminded the class that success isn’t measured by awards and titles.
“But by the positive change we bring to the world and people around us,” she said.
Class valedictorian Amahyree Wells will attend the University of Maryland, College Park, to study mechanical engineering as a Banneker/Key Scholar. She said one of the biggest lessons she learned in school is that a person can’t grow if they spend all their time being afraid.
“Looking back now, I realize high school was never just about grades and tests,” Wells said. “It was about the people we met, the memories we made, the challenges we faced and the moments that shaped us into who we are today.”
The members of Thomas Stone’s Class of 2026 earned more than $23 million in scholarship offers.
North Point High School will conclude Tuesday’s graduation ceremonies with a 5 p.m. commencement. To learn more about CCPS graduations, visit https://www.ccboe.com/parents/graduation-2026.
About CCPS
Charles County Public Schools provides 28,162 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 39 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high-quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.