LEXINGTON PARK, Md. – The Patuxent Partnership (TPP), Great Mills High School (GMHS) and St. Mary’s County Public Schools, with the support of a grant from the Local Management Board, are pleased to announce the completion of the 2025-2026 GMHS Student Pilot program.
A grant from the Local Management Board led to the creation of this program, which provides job training opportunities for GMHS students. With additional funding from the PNC Foundation, TPP doubled the number of students participating
A total of eight students completed the eight-week, 15 hours per week pilot program. Students attended five professional development sessions, led by TPP’s partner organizations. Students also participated in mentoring sessions. With the help of CTEWorkforce, TPP developed a mentoring software program with modules like Workplace Readiness and Professionalism.
Students attended a NAWCAD-led session on security clearances, as well as a session on career opportunities at Pax River. The Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT), with the help of Miss Maryland, a Leonardtown High School graduate, discussed challenges from financial management to networking; St. Mary’s College of Maryland (SMCM) led a session on resume writing. The YMCA presentation focused on what will be offered by the Y and the opportunities it presents for GMHS students.
The job skills training, mentoring, and on-the-job experience help students build professional skills and gain hands-on experience for college. Several students continue to be employed by these organizations.
This is an important path to jobs in Southern Maryland after students complete their education.