New Marine Science, AP Courses Could Open New Paths For St. Mary’s County Students

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — From studying the waters that surround Southern Maryland to learning how to stop hackers or manage money in the real world, St. Mary’s County Public Schools may soon offer students new and exciting ways to shape their futures.

On Jan. 8, 2026, during the St. Mary’s County Public Schools Board of Education meeting, school officials previewed several proposed updates to the High School Program of Studies, highlighting new courses designed to spark student interest, build real-world skills and create clearer pathways to college and careers.

One proposal would expand Global International Studies beyond Leonardtown High School to include Great Mills and Chopticon high schools, giving more students access to a program focused on global issues, leadership and civic engagement.

Another standout addition is a new half-credit marine science course. Surrounded by waterways, officials said the county is a natural place for students to explore marine life, ocean systems and environmental careers. The course could also help students balance their schedules while opening doors to future opportunities in science, engineering and environmental fields. Partnerships with the College of Southern Maryland and St. Mary’s College of Maryland would help support the course.

Math students could also see a change, with AP Precalculus proposed to replace honors precalculus. The new course would follow College Board standards and give students another advanced option as they work toward college and career readiness.

Perhaps the most career-focused proposals are two new AP Career Kickstart courses: AP Business with Personal Finance and AP Cybersecurity. These hands-on classes would allow students to earn potential college credit while also working toward industry-recognized credentials — a combination not currently offered through traditional AP courses. The courses would be piloted at Chopticon High School during the 2026–27 school year.

For students worried about access, Superintendent Dr. J. Scott Smith said opportunities would not be limited by school boundaries. “Students may request a transfer if a course they want to take is not offered at their current school,” Smith said.

District leaders said the proposed changes are part of a broader effort to expand academic, career and technical opportunities for students across the county, giving them more flexibility and more ways to explore their interests before graduation.

The proposals were presented to the Board of Education by Katie Kortokrax and Donna Thorstensen in accordance with district policy. Additional information is available in an addendum document posted on BoardDocs.

A first reading of the proposed changes is scheduled for Jan. 21, when the public will have an opportunity to comment. School officials are expected to return Feb. 4 with revisions based on feedback and seek final approval.

Course proposals are submitted twice each year and reviewed by a districtwide committee made up of educators, administrators, parents, students and representatives from the College of Southern Maryland.

You can watch the full meeting below.

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