LEONARDTOWN, Md. – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Recreation & Parks (R&P) is celebrating Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week from April 21-25, 2025, along with the National Afterschool Association, to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours.
Over 170 children participate in the department’s School Age Care program in five public elementary schools serving grades K-8. Every young person deserves quality afterschool experiences that positively impact their development. It takes skilled professionals to create these experiences. Because of the important role afterschool professionals play in kids’ lives, they deserve recognition and support!
Recreation & Parks School Age Care staff are skilled individuals who work with children in diverse school settings to provide various positive developmental relationships and experiences during out-of-school hours. The dedicated staff consists of 18 professionals who have met state licensing requirements and have over 100 years of combined experience working with children.
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week is a time to recognize, appreciate and advocate for those who work with young people during out-of-school hours. The week is marked by celebrations, public relations, and advocacy efforts encouraging appreciation and support for afterschool professionals who make a profound difference in the lives of young people.
School Age Care registration is now open for the 2025-26 school year and can be completed online at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/sac or at the R&P main office in Leonardtown. For questions or assistance, please contact R&P at (301) 475-4200 ext.1800 or via email to webtrac@stmaryscountymd.gov.
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