SOUTHERN MARYLAND — As Southern Maryland families prepare for a new school year, The BayNet’s Back-to-School Guide is your go-to resource for local school information, after-school programs, health and wellness resources, educational opportunities and community resources—all in one convenient place.
We’re proud to partner with The Black Belt Academy, serving families throughout Southern Maryland from its Leonardtown, California, Lusby and Dunkirk locations. Through its state-licensed Before & After School Program, the academy provides safe, supervised care with transportation, homework support, martial arts training and enrichment activities that help children build confidence, discipline, respect and leadership skills. Students also learn positive strategies for handling bullying and developing the character needed to succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Be sure to check back often as we’ll continue updating this guide with the latest school announcements, local events and resources leading up to—and throughout—the school year.
IMPORTANT DATES & SCHOOL LINKS
Your One-Stop Hub For School Calendars, Registration, Bus Information And Key Dates
Find everything you need to prepare for the new school year, including school calendars, registration information, transportation resources and important links for St. Mary's, Charles and Calvert counties.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| Aug 26th First day of school | Aug 24th First day of school | Aug 25th First day of school |
| St. Mary’s County Public Schools main website | Charles County Public Schools main website | Calvert County Public Schools main website |
| 26-27 School Calendar | 26-27 School Calendar | 26-27 School Calendar |
| Student Registration/ Vaccinations | Student Registration/ Vaccinations | Student Registration/ Vaccinations |
| School Supply Lists | School Supply Lists | School Supply Lists |
| Bus Stop and School Locator | Bus Stop and School Locator | Bus Stop and School Locator |
BACKPACK GIVEAWAYS & SCHOOL SUPPLY EVENTS
Find School Supplies, Backpack Giveaways and Resources to Help Students Start the Year Strong
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| St. Mary's County YMCA- August 8th: Annual backpack, school supply giveaway and family resource day. Check back for event link! | Verizon Wireless – July 26: Wireless Zone’s 2026 School Rocks Backpack Giveaway! | Please check back towards end of July |
SCHOOL SUPPLY RESOURCES
Every child deserves a strong start to the school year. Explore local school supply drives and community assistance programs that help ensure Southern Maryland students have the tools they need to learn, grow and succeed.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| School Supply Drives: Historic St. Mary’s- Month of July- school supply drive. Bring donations to the visitors center for museum discounts. | School Supply Drives: Please Please check back in late July | School Supply Drives: Please check back in late July |
| Donation Programs: | Donation Programs: | Donation Programs: |
| Just Between Kids: Upscale clothing consignment store in Wildwood- Free Kona Ice Sat. Aug 1, and free pencil/ sticker at checkout. | Please check back in late July | Please check back in late July |
BUILDING CONFIDENCE FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR
Building confidence starts with supporting the whole child. From developing positive routines and healthy coping skills to addressing behavioral and mental health concerns, families have access to a variety of local resources designed to help students thrive both academically and emotionally. Explore the organizations and programs below that promote confidence, resilience, leadership and bullying prevention throughout Southern Maryland.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| Black Belt Academy- Leonardtown and California - Ages 4+. Every class teaches respect, perseverance, self-control and goal setting while helping students develop the confidence to face challenges both in and out of the classroom. Beyond martial arts instruction, students learn practical anti-bullying strategies, conflict resolution, teamwork and communication skills in a positive, encouraging environment. Many students also participate in leadership training, instructor development and community service opportunities that foster responsibility and strong character | Charles County Recreation, Parks & Tourism Youth Coaches: Ages: High school students (varies by sport) Command presence, teaching, and mentorship. For students who love athletics, volunteering to assistant-coach local youth sports leagues (basketball, soccer, volleyball) forces them out of their shells. They learn to direct groups, manage team dynamics, and communicate clearly | Black Belt Academy- Dunkirk- Ages 4+. Every class teaches respect, perseverance, self-control and goal setting while helping students develop the confidence to face challenges both in and out of the classroom. Beyond martial arts instruction, students learn practical anti-bullying strategies, conflict resolution, teamwork and communication skills in a positive, encouraging environment. Many students also participate in leadership training, instructor development and community service opportunities that foster responsibility and strong character |
| St. Mary's County Teen Court: Ages: Middle and high school students. Focusing on public speaking, consensus-building, and judicial processing. Teens serve as the courtroom attorneys, clerks, and jurors for actual juvenile misdemeanor cases. It is a powerful venue for kids to shake off stage fright, construct logical arguments, and make hard ethical choices | Lifestyles of Maryland Youth Engagement: Ages High school. Working with local non-profits like Lifestyles of Maryland or the Charles County Children's Aid Society allows teens to organize food drives, lead inventory management, and coordinate charity events. It gives them direct project-management experience | Calvert County 4-H Youth Development: Ages: 5 to 18 (Clover programs start early; leadership spikes at ages 8-18). Public presentation, civic engagement, and peer mentoring. Run through the University of Maryland Extension office in Calvert County, older teens can step up as "Teen Leaders". They direct younger youth in specialized tracks like robotics, agriculture, and public speaking competitions. |
St. Mary’s Association of Student Councils Ages: Middle and high school students. Focusing on County-wide youth voice, regional policy, and organizing local student legislation. SMASC serves as the primary governing body for student leaders in the county. Active students frequently step into executive officer spots, coordinate regional leadership summits, and directly interface with state-wide networks | Charles County Association of Student Councils Ages: Middle and high school students. This organization connects student leaders from across all Charles County Public Schools. Students can work their way up to becoming a Student Liaison, or even run for the Student Member of the Board of Education, representing the entire county youth population to school administrators | Calvert Association of Student Councils: Ages: Middle and High School students. Democratic advocacy, legislative session structure, and large-group presentation. Operating in tight coordination with the Maryland Association of Student Councils. Gives youth a direct channel to shape local policy. General Assemblies are held regularly at locations like Northern High School, allowing teens to run campaign cycles, design workshops, and lead public forums. |
| Report Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation here for SMCPS | Report Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation here for CCPS | Report Bullying, Harassment or Intimidation here for Calvert Public Schools |
Elementary School (Grades Pre-K–5)
Building Confidence, Friendships & School Readiness
Young children are learning independence, making new friends and adjusting to classroom routines. Parents can help build confidence by encouraging resilience, establishing healthy routines and creating open conversations about emotions and school experiences.
Helpful Resource:
American Academy of Pediatrics – Help Your Child Manage Anxiety: Tips for Home & School
This article helps parents recognize signs of anxiety, build healthy coping skills and support children through common school-related worries.
Middle School (Grades 6–8)
Navigating Confidence, Bullying & Social Challenges
Middle school often brings new friendships, changing social dynamics and increased independence. Parents can help by maintaining open communication, encouraging positive activities that build confidence and teaching children how to safely respond to bullying.
Helpful Resource:
American Academy of Pediatrics – Why Bullying Hurts All Children—and What Parents Can Do About It
This guide explains the warning signs of bullying, strategies for helping children build confidence and practical ways families can partner with schools to create a safe learning environment.
High School (Grades 9–12)
Managing Stress, Independence & Preparing for the Future
As students balance academics, extracurricular activities, jobs and college or career planning, stress and anxiety can become more common. Parents play an important role by encouraging open conversations, supporting healthy habits and helping teens seek assistance when needed.
Helpful Resource:
StopBullying.gov – How to Prevent Bullying
This federal resource provides guidance for parents on building confidence, encouraging healthy relationships, recognizing bullying and helping teens become positive leaders and upstanders in their schools.
A Parent's Perspective: Why Martial Arts Became Part Of Our Family's Journey
When my children, Joseph, 13, and Hannah, 11, and I walked into Master Chan Sung's Black Belt Academy in Leonardtown in 2024, I never imagined how much it would impact our lives. Nearly two years later, we're all enrolled in the Black Belt Prep Course, and the lessons we've learned extend far beyond the mat.
As a single mom, one of the greatest gifts taekwondo has given me is confidence. While learning self-defense is an important skill, it's the peace of mind that has made the biggest difference. Whether I'm taking a walk through my neighborhood, shopping at the grocery store or attending events with my children, I carry myself with greater confidence knowing I have the skills to protect myself and my family if I ever needed to. That sense of security is something I never expected but am incredibly grateful for.
Watching my children grow has been even more rewarding. Joseph has become an assistant instructor, and I've watched his leadership skills flourish. His determination, perseverance and positive attitude have grown tremendously, and those qualities carry over into both his schoolwork and our home life every day. Hannah has become more confident in herself, more willing to take on challenges and more resilient when faced with obstacles.
What has made this journey truly special, however, is the incredible support we've received from Master Chan Sung and the instructors at the academy. From the very beginning, they've believed in each of us, encouraged us through challenges and celebrated every milestone along the way. They've created an environment where students are challenged to grow while feeling supported at every step of the journey. Their mentorship has been instrumental not only in our progress through every belt, but also in helping us become more confident, disciplined and resilient as individuals.
Looking back, taekwondo has become much more than an extracurricular activity for our family. It has strengthened our confidence, deepened our perseverance and given us skills that reach far beyond self-defense. The lessons we've learned on the mat continue to shape how we approach school, work and everyday life, and for that, we'll always be grateful.
— Sophia Blackwell, The BayNet
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Quality after-school programs provide more than supervision—they foster confidence, leadership, academic success and character development. Discover programs throughout Southern Maryland that support students long after the school day ends.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| Black Belt Academy- Leonardtown Before and after school care: Transportation to school in the am and from school to the studio. Included: Martial arts classes, Homework support and reading time. Games, fitness activities, and enrichment and afternoon snacks provided | The Department of Community Services’ Child Care Program, provided by AlphaBEST Education, offers a Before and After School Program at Charles County Elementary Schools and an OnSite all day Child Care Program and Before and After School Program located at the Department of Community Services Building in Port Tobacco | Black Belt Academy- Dunkirk Before and after school care: Transportation to school in the am and from school to the studio. Included: Martial arts classes, Homework support and reading time. Games, fitness activities, and enrichment and afternoon snacks provided |
| Boys and Girls Club of Southern Maryland- Launches August 1st. After school transportation to Carver Recreation center. Read more here | Charles County Parks and Recs- Beyond The Bell: An afterschool club for middle school-aged teens looking for a safe environment to do homework, make new friends, and enjoy various STEM projects while engaging in fun physical activity | Calvert County Public Schools Before and After School. Pre-K through 5th grade |
| YMCA St. Mary’s- all 6th graders will have a free membership! More information to come! Planned opening date is Aug 6th | YMCA St. Mary's- Servicing Nationwide membership- all southern maryland residents in tri-county are welcome | YMCA St. Mary's- Servicing Nationwide membership- all Southern Maryland residents in tri-county are welcome |
| Parks & Recreation | Parks & Recreation | Parks & Recreation |
| Boys & Girls Club | Boys & Girls Club | Boys & Girls Club |
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Every student learns differently, and sometimes a little extra support can make a big difference. Below you'll find local tutoring services, library programs, reading groups and specialized academic resources to help students succeed throughout the school year. This section will continue to grow as additional educational resources become available leading up to the start of school.
Check this guide often, as it will be updated and opportunities for families across Southern Maryland.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| Local Tutors: Tutoring with Josh: Josh Williamson, a former chemist and member of the high-IQ society Mensa, has more than a decade of tutoring experience. He teaches math and science from third grade up to the university level, as well as test prep. Serving all counties-online tutoring available | Local Tutors: Tutoring with Josh: Josh Williamson, a former chemist and member of the high-IQ society Mensa, has more than a decade of tutoring experience. He teaches math and science from third grade up to the university level, as well as test prep. Serving all counties-online tutoring available | Local Tutors: Tutoring with Josh: Josh Williamson, a former chemist and member of the high-IQ society Mensa, has more than a decade of tutoring experience. He teaches math and science from third grade up to the university level, as well as test prep. Serving all counties-online tutoring available |
| Mathnasium: Serving kids of all ages and skill levels, whether they’re struggling in math, doing okay but could be doing better, or are already excelling but need more of a challenge | Mathnasium: Serving kids of all ages and skill levels, whether they’re struggling in math, doing okay but could be doing better, or are already excelling but need more of a challenge. | Mathnasium: Serving kids of all ages and skill levels, whether they’re struggling in math, doing okay but could be doing better, or are already excelling but need more of a challenge. |
| Local Library Reading Programs/ Events: St. Mary’s County Public Library - offering summer reading, summer snacks, story time, summer performances and more | Local Library Reading Programs/ Events: Charles County Public LIbrary- offering story time, homework help, summer learning challenge, language learning and more | Local Library Reading Programs/ Events: Calvert County Public Library- offering summer reading challenge, story time for kids, tween events and more |
| SMCPS SMART CARD for students Library access card for students | CCPL library card for students Library access card for students | C.R.A.B. Library card for students Library access card for students |
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Keeping Southern Maryland Students Healthy, Safe and Ready to Learn
From immunizations and sports physicals to mental health resources, nutrition and wellness tips, this section connects families with trusted local resources to help students start the school year healthy and prepared for success.
| St. Mary's County | Charles County | Calvert County |
| Health Department Resources main website | Health Department Resources main website | Health Department Resources main website |
| Free Summer Meals | Free Summer Meals | Free Summer Meals |
| Vaccination Clinics | Vaccination Clinics | Vaccination Clinics |
| School Based Health Clinics: Medical Care Made Easy for All of St. Mary's. Located at Margaret Brent Middle School and Spring Ridge Middle School- Watch Youtube Video here | School Based Health Clinics: Located at the campus of Indian Head Elementary School and is designed to increase access to health services for all Charles County Public Schools students. | School Health Program: Calvert County does not have a school care clinic. Instead, the Calvert County Public School District works closely with the Calvert County Health Department to provide health and mental health services in the school setting. |
| Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) | Parent/Child Connection Group: The Parent-Child Connection is an 8 week evidenced based program that provides parents with strategies, encouragement and support while making parenting an easier and more enjoyable experience. (scroll down to middle of website for this info) | Behavioral HealthMental Health Clinic |
| Behavioral Health Resources | Behavioral Health Services | Local Support Groups |
| Suicide Prevention | Suicide Prevention | Suicide Prevention |
| Military Family Support | Military Family Support | Military Family Support |
| Building Bridges: A local nonprofit providing youth mentoring, tutoring, behavioral and mental wellness resources, after-school enrichment, and family support services designed to help students thrive both academically and emotionally. | ||
| Stella’s Girls Inc.: nonprofit empowering youth ages 8-24 to become social change agents and leaders. We provide free, culturally relevant mentoring and leadership programs that have served over 6,000 youth since 2016 | Stella’s Girls Inc.: nonprofit empowering youth ages 8-24 to become social change agents and leaders. We provide free, culturally relevant mentoring and leadership programs that have served over 6,000 youth since 2016 | Stella’s Girls Inc.: nonprofit empowering youth ages 8-24 to become social change agents and leaders. We provide free, culturally relevant mentoring and leadership programs that have served over 6,000 youth since 2016 |
| The Parents' Place of Maryland: Empowering families as advocates and partners in improving education and health outcomes for ALL children with disabilities, special healthcare needs and those impacted by behavioral health challenges. | The Parents' Place of Maryland: Empowering families as advocates and partners in improving education and health outcomes for ALL children with disabilities, special healthcare needs and those impacted by behavioral health challenges. | The Parents' Place of Maryland: Empowering families as advocates and partners in improving education and health outcomes for ALL children with disabilities, special healthcare needs and those impacted by behavioral health challenges. |
EDUCATION CHOICES IN SOUTHERN MARYLAND
Finding the Right Learning Environment for Your Child
Every child learns differently. This section highlights the educational options available throughout Southern Maryland, helping families explore schools and programs that best fit their child's learning style and needs.
St. Mary's County
- Bay Montessori School- A private, non-religious Montessori school offering hands-on, child-centered education for students from preschool through middle school.
- St. Mary's Ryken- A private Catholic college-preparatory high school offering academics, athletics, arts and leadership opportunities.
- Little Flower School- A private Catholic school serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, offering a faith-based education focused on academic excellence, spiritual growth and character development.
- Chesapeake Public Charter School- A public charter school emphasizing environmental literacy, project-based learning and hands-on educational experiences.
- Father Andrew White School- A private Catholic school serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade with a faith-based academic curriculum.
- St. Mary's County Homeschool resources
Charles County
- Archbishop Neale School- A private Catholic school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, offering faith-based academics, leadership development and a strong sense of community.
- Grace Christian Academy- A private Christian school providing a college-preparatory education with a biblical worldview for students in elementary through high school.
- Southern Maryland Christian Academy- A private Christian school focused on academic excellence, character development and preparing students for lifelong success.
- St. Peter's School- A private Catholic school serving preschool through eighth grade with a faith-based curriculum that emphasizes academic achievement and service.
- Phoenix International School of the Arts- A public charter middle school that integrates arts education into a rigorous academic curriculum while serving students in grades 6-8
- Charles County Homeschool resources
Calvert County
- The Calverton School- An independent, coeducational college-preparatory school serving students from preschool through 12th grade with a focus on academic excellence and character development.
- Calvert Country School- A private school serving students with language-based learning differences through individualized instruction and specialized academic support.
- The Goddard School of Prince Frederick- A private early childhood education program offering play-based learning and school readiness for infants through pre-kindergarten.
- Our Lady Star of the Sea School- A private Catholic school serving pre-kindergarten through eighth grade with a faith-centered education and strong academic foundation.
- Calvert County Homeschool resources
Other Guides
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