LA PLATA, Md. — Charles County is inviting teenagers to spend a week this summer immersed in how local government operates — visiting county operations sites, attending civic events, meeting with professionals and working alongside peers who share their interest in public service.
The Student Citizens Academy, a one-week summer program running July 6–10 at Stoddert Community Center, targets youth ages 13–17 who want to learn more about local government operations, collaborate with other youth leaders in their community and begin networking with professionals from a variety of fields.
Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at county operations that most residents never see. The week can include tours of the county landfill, water and wastewater treatment facilities, roads maintenance operations and the Emergency Medical Services dispatch center.
Throughout the program, students work together on a team project, applying what they learn to address a real community challenge or opportunity. The week concludes with presentations to county staff and family members. In a 2025 Charles County Government video, past participants said the experience helped them better understand how local government operates and introduced them to career paths in public service.
Who Should Apply
Charles County is encouraging youth interested in civic engagement, local government careers or simply understanding how their community works to apply. The program welcomes young people with varied backgrounds and interests — no prior government experience necessary.
Interested youth must complete an application and participate in an interview process to be considered for the program.
How To Register
Registration is open online at CharlesCountyParks.com. For more information, contact the Charles County Department of Recreation, Parks and Tourism. The $60 application fee is refundable if applicants are not selected. Learn more here.
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