On April 22, a student at Thomas Stone High School, age 16, became ill after using a vape device containing THC that was obtained from another student. The student went to the nurse and was subsequently transported to the hospital via ambulance. The student who reportedly gave the student the vape was identified and a vape containing THC was recovered. That student was issued a civil citation for possession of cannabis.

This incident follows several prior cases of middle and high school students in possession of THC vapes and cannabis. On April 21, a bag of cannabis was recovered from a student, age 13, at Mattawoman Middle School. A vape containing THC was recovered from a student, age 14, at Mattawoman Middle School on April 20. On April 16, a vape containing THC was recovered from a student, age 13, at Piccowaxen Middle School and a student, age 17, at St. Charles High School was found in possession of cannabis. On April 15, a vape containing THC was found on a student, age 14, at Davis Middle School.

The students were issued civil citations in accordance with the law and the Charles County Public Schools issue consequences in accordance with the student code of conduct. Parents are urged to talk with their children about the dangers of using vapes with THC which contain potentially harmful and mind-altering components. 

role in shaping the proposed budget. The County gathered input through surveys requesting internal and external stakeholder input, resulting in more than 650 complete surveys. Residents consistently prioritized funding for K–12 education, public safety, emergency medical services, and transportation infrastructure. Feedback also highlighted concerns about growth outpacing infrastructure, the need for school funding and classroom resources, EMS staffing, and maintaining government accountability while avoiding tax increases.

The requested fiscal year 2027–2031 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Governmental budget totals approximately $940.9 million, with $533.8 million in funded projects. It provides for county infrastructure including schools, county buildings, roads, and parks.

Highlights include:

• $246.0 million for Board of Education projects, including funding to renovate La Plata high school, a new middle school, and capacity improvements
• Continued investment in transportation projects such as road reconstruction, traffic safety improvements, and sidewalk expansion
• Funding for public safety and government facilities, including emergency services stations, communications upgrades, and detention center improvements
• Investments in parks, recreation, and community amenities, including Waldorf Park development and facility improvements

A public hearing to receive comments on the proposed fiscal 2027 budget is scheduled on Wednesday, April 29, at 6 p.m. in the Charles County Government building, 200 Baltimore St., La Plata. Commissioners will discuss additions and changes at a budget work session on Tuesday, May 5, and the Fiscal 2027 Budget is scheduled for final adoption on May 12.

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (April 22, 2026) —  Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman joined Governor Wes Moore and Treasurer Dereck Davis today for a meeting of the Board of Public Works. 

During the meeting, the Board of Public Works approved maintaining the current state property tax rate for fiscal year 2027, ensuring no increase as the state continues to meet its debt obligations. The Board of Public Works moved to indefinitely debar Andrew Seabolt from consideration for, awarding, or performing, directly or indirectly, a contract with a public body.

As previously reported, Seabolt & Sons, owned by Andrew Seabolt, received more than 120 state maintenance contracts, each under the $15,000 approval threshold, from a Maryland Department of Juvenile Services official between 2013 and 2016, totaling approximately $1.2 million in payments. In exchange, Mr. Seabolt provided the official with significant personal benefits for which the official made no payment. This arrangement was part of a broader bribery and procurement fraud scheme, to which Mr. Seabolt later pleaded guilty to multiple bribery charges.

“Debarment is one of the most direct tools this Board has to protect the integrity of Maryland’s procurement system,” said Comptroller Brooke E. Lierman.  When someone is debarred, their name is added to a list that every state agency and public body in Maryland is required to check before awarding a contract. If your name is on that list, you cannot do business with the State. Doing this protects taxpayers and the businesses that play by the rules.”

Comptroller Lierman continued, “With today's action, this Board will have debarred six individuals in roughly six months. To put that in context, the historical average for the Board was about 2.3 debarments per year. This reflects this Board's deliberate commitment to take these cases seriously and move them through the process. Honest businesses benefit from debarment because it prevents competitors from winning public contracts through fraud or bribery. Taxpayers benefit from debarment because it means state dollars are going to qualified, responsible contractors. And communities benefit from debarment because the projects that get built actually get built right. Maintaining a current, enforceable debarment list is fundamental to a procurement system that Marylanders can trust.”

In all, the Board of Public Works approved 118 items, representing total state expenditures of $319,037,703.71. This includes:

• Approved grant agreements for 35 recipients for 39 projects located in 11 counties and Baltimore City, with a total value of $38,310,500.
• Eleven items awarding $9,014,761.50 to certified small business prime contractors.
• Six items awarding $4,306,102.50 to certified minority business enterprise prime contractors.
• Ten items awarded with established participation goals for minority business enterprises.
• Two items awarded with established participation goals for veteran-owned small business enterprises.

Meeting documents for today’s meeting can be found here

The next meeting of the Board of Public Works will be held on Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary's County (CSMC) began their business meeting with an invocation and the pledge, followed by approval of the consent agenda.

The CSMC then presented proclamations in recognition of Administrative Professionals’ Day, National County Government Month, Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week, and Earth Day.

During County Administrator Time, the Commissioners took the following action:

• Reviewed future CSMC meeting agendas.
• Received a presentation from the Metropolitan Commission on the FY2027 (FY27) Capital Improvement Budget and FY2028-2031 Capital Improvement Plan.
• Approved the FY27 Community Partnership Agreement and Funding Availability Application on behalf of the Department of Aging & Human Services to support the Local Management Board in efforts to assist children, families, and young adults.
• Received a status update on the St. Mary’s 2050 Plan.
• Authorized the Procurement Officer to award the Southampton Neighborhood Revitalization Project Phase 1 contract to the Great Mills Trading Post.
• Authorized the Procurement Officer to award the Sheriff's Office Support Services Building Construction contract to Doyle Construction Company.
• Received a presentation from the Department of Economic Development on an initiative to engage, support, and promote foreign liaison officers in our community.

The CSMC then wrapped their business meeting with Commissioner Time.

The Commissioners reconvened in the evening for a Public Hearing on the FY2027 Recommended County Budget and related topics. Public comment on these topics will be accepted through April 28, 2026. Budget documents, recordings of all budget work sessions, and the online community feedback forum are available at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/budget.

The next CSMC business meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the CSMC Meeting Room, located on the 1^st floor of the Chesapeake Building at 41770 Baldridge Street in Leonardtown.

CSMC decisions and related documents are available on the SMCG website, by clicking Board Documents from the home page. Meetings are open to the public and can be viewed live on TV Channel 95 or at www.youtube.com/@StMarysCoGov.

For more information on SMCG programs and operations, visit: www.stmaryscountymd.gov or follow St. Mary’s County Government on Facebook, X, and Instagram for regular updates.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County (CSMC) and the Commission on the Environment are pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 St. Mary’s County Sustainability Awards:

• Student/School: Dr. James A. Forrest Career & Technology Center, Natural Resources Management Class
• Nonprofit: St. Mary’s County Garden Club
• Farm/Agriculture: Goodman LLC

The Sustainability Awards recognize outstanding students, restaurants, businesses, nonprofits,

and farms in St. Mary’s County for their environmental stewardship, resource conservation, community engagement, innovative best practices, and pollution prevention efforts. All six nominees for the 2025 calendar year demonstrated an impressive commitment to improving the local environment.

Student/School Award: Dr. James A. Forrest Career & Technology Center – Natural Resources Management Class

Students in the Natural Resources Management class at the Dr. James A. Forrest Career & Technology Center demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to protecting and restoring the local environment. They supported oyster restoration efforts led by the St. Mary’s River Watershed Association by collecting oyster shells and constructing oyster reef balls. They also contributed to oyster spat growth projects by monitoring and analyzing shell growth to assist with habitat restoration research.

As founding partners in the Bay Observation Box (BOBs) water monitoring project, they played a vital role in collecting environmental data and promoting watershed awareness. On land, students participated in invasive species removal, shoreline restoration, and educational outreach projects. During the 2024–2025 school year, they served as the primary workforce behind creating the Gateway Garden, a native plant pollinator garden in Lexington Manor Passive Park.

They also volunteered at the Leonardtown Library’s Front Yard native plant garden, assisting with composting, planting native species, weeding, and other landscape improvements. Their commitment to sustainability extended to composting projects that enrich soil used to grow native plants. In addition to restoration work, students educated and inspired others through exhibits at local festivals and library events, natural resource lessons for elementary students, and support for school gardens and educational programs.

Nonprofit Award: St. Mary’s County Garden Club

The St. Mary’s County Garden Club (SMCGC) received the 2025 Sustainability Award in the Nonprofit category. Its Conservation & Environmental Committee provides monthly updates on regional conservation issues and organizes civic environmental activities supported through both funding and member participation.

In 2025, their work focused on three native gardens they helped establish and maintain: the Front Yard native garden at the Leonardtown Library, a garden at the St. Mary’s County Animal Resource and Adoption Center, and the Leonardtown Parkette on Leonardtown Square.

SMCGC members also helped re-launch Leonardtown’s Butterfly Trail, hosted public presentations and displays on native plants, supported a native plant swap, and mentored natural resource management students. Their continued commitment promotes ecological awareness and sustainable gardening practices throughout the community.

Agriculture/Farming Award: Goodman LLC

Goodman LLC was selected for the 2025 Sustainability Award in the Agriculture/Farming category. Serving Southern Maryland since 2021, the company expanded to a roadside farmstand in St. Mary’s County in 2024, increasing access to native plant species.

By making native plants more readily available, the business supports pollinators, sustains niche species, promotes balanced ecosystems, and encourages lower-maintenance, resilient landscapes. Their approach is defined by expertise and environmental commitment, offering guidance on sustainable practices such as pollinator-friendly plantings, soil health improvement, and environmentally responsible land management strategies.

In addition to the award winners, three organizations received Honorable Mentions for their environmental work: the Mount Zion United Methodist Church Green Team, Friends of St. Clements Bay, and the Association of Southern Maryland Beekeepers.

Award recipients were selected based on demonstrated efforts to improve the environment and for initiatives that exceed standard practices. Awards will be presented at the annual St. Mary’s County Earth Day Celebration at Summerseat Farm on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

For more information on the Commission on the Environment, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/COE or www.Facebook.com/GreenInStMarys.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office announces they will apply for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Formula Program through the United States Department of Justice. The JAG Program provides states and units of local governments with critical funding necessary to support a range of program areas including law enforcement, prosecution and court programs, prevention and education, corrections and community corrections, drug treatment and enforcement, crime victim and witness programs, and mental health and related law enforcement and corrections programs, including behavioral programs and crisis intervention teams. 

Charles County is eligible for $48,126 through this grant program. The program allows states, tribes and local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and reduce crime and violence and to improve the administration of the criminal justice system based on their own local needs and conditions. The Sheriff’s Office invites residents wanting to make comments or review Sheriff’s JAG application to contact Karlee Adams, Grant Coordinator, at 301-609-3279. All comments should be made by May 28, 2026.

CDS Violation: 26-33245 On April 12, 2026, at approximately 2:13 a.m., Deputy McIntosh initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle for a traffic violation along Solomons Island Road near Skinners Turn in Owings. DFC Jones and his K9 partner Bane responded to the scene and conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle, which resulted in a positive alert for controlled dangerous substances. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed one yellow capsule containing approximately one gram of suspected crack cocaine. Gerald Calvin Creek, 64, of Sunderland, was placed under arrest and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. He was charged with CDS: Possession – Not Cannabis.

CDS Violation: 26-33351 On April 12, 2026, Cpl. Plant conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation in the area of Main Street and Vianney Lane in Prince Frederick. During the stop, M/DFC Idol and his K9 partner, Benji, responded to the scene and conducted a free-air sniff of the vehicle. K9 Benji positively  alerted to the odor of controlled dangerous substances. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the recovery of three metal push rods. A search of the passenger yielded two glass smoking devices containing suspected cocaine residue. Kevin Andre Alleyne, 33, of Prince Frederick, was arrested and transported to the Calvert County Detention Center. He was charged with CDS: Possession of Paraphernalia.

Theft: 26-31509 On April 7, 2026, at approximately 6:50 a.m., Deputy Robey responded to the area of Rousby Hall Road and HG Trueman Road in Lusby for a reported theft. The complainant advised that an unknown black male with a beard, wearing jeans, a gray hoodie, and a blue hat with stars, stole a bottle of Peach Paul Masson liquor from the Exxon located at 11805 HG Trueman Road. The estimated value of the stolen property is $30.

Theft: 26-31693 On April 7, 2026, Deputy R. Contic responded to the Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, located at 30 Church Street in Prince Frederick, for a reported theft. The complainant reported that an unknown suspect stole the front and rear license plates from the victim’s vehicle while it was parked at 874 Keith Lane in Owings. The estimated value of the stolen property is $50.

Theft: 26-31341 On April 10, 2026, Deputy McIntosh responded to the 3800 block of Bonnie Court in Chesapeake Beach, for a reported theft. The complainant advised an unknown suspect(s) stole a silver Werner 32 ft. ladder from the victim’s vehicle. The estimated value of stolen property is $500.

St. Mary’s County Health Department (SMCHD) is suspending wet season perc testing effective Friday, April 17, 2026. The suspension is due to declining groundwater levels, made clear by observing conditions within a network of monitoring wells in the county.

All perc test applications that were not scheduled and evaluated will be prioritized for scheduling when groundwater levels are adequate for the next wet season, expected in 2027. Applicants may also request a refund; however, they must then reapply when the wet season returns and will lose their place/priority for scheduling during the next perc testing season.

For more information, please contact the SMCHD Environmental Health Division at (301) 475-4321.

For additional information on perc testing, please visit smchd.org/perc-testing.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are seeking applications from specialized medical professionals to serve on the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board. The purpose of this Board is to review and make recommendations to the court regarding the continuation, modification, or termination of public guardianship of adults with disabilities.

"Serving on the Adult Public Guardianship Review Board is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of some of our most vulnerable community members,” said Lori Jennings-Harris, Director of the Department of Aging & Human Services. “We are seeking compassionate, qualified medical professionals who can lend their expertise to help ensure these individuals receive the care and dignity they deserve.”

Board members meet in person semi-annually, typically in January and July, to discuss individuals under public guardianship. Applicants must be qualified medical professionals with experience in prescribing or overseeing mental health medications, such as psychiatrists or psychiatric nurse practitioners.

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards to complete the online application. All applications must include a resume. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

Interested residents can complete the online application at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards or call Diane Gleissner at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1707 for more information.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – The Commissioners of St. Mary’s County are seeking applications from residents who are interested in serving on a local Board, Committee, or Commission. Volunteering to serve as a member of these groups is an excellent way to meet new people while contributing to the successful operation and development of our community!

Visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards for board descriptions and to complete the online application. All applications must include a resume and be submitted by May 15, 2026.

Current vacancies:

• Agriculture Seafood & Forestry Board (meets at noon)
• Airport Advisory Board 
• Animal Control Advisory Board
• Commission for People with Disabilities
• Commission for Women
• Commission on the Environment
• Human Relations Commission
• Local Management Board
• Police Accountability Board
• Social Services Board

Please note the following additional vacancies have special requirements:

• Building Code Board of Appeals – must have experience in the building field.
• Historic Preservation Commission – must have disciplines of architecture, architectural history, history or archeology.
• Metropolitan Commission – must reside in the 1^st district.
• Plumbing Fuel Gas Board – must be a licensed plumber.

Interested residents can complete the online application at www.stmaryscountymd.gov/boards or call Diane Gleissner at (301) 475-4200 ext. 1707 for more information.

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – April 20, 2026 – The Calvert County Department of Community Services, Office on Aging, advises residents the Calvert Pines Senior Center will be closed Thursday, April 30 and Friday, May 1, 2026, for renovations. The center is located at 450 W. Dares Beach Road in Prince Frederick.

During the closure, staff will move furniture, equipment and materials while the center is unoccupied.

Seniors who receive home-delivered meals will continue to receive them as scheduled. Congregate meals will be available at the following locations:

· North Beach Senior Center, 9010 Chesapeake Ave., North Beach

· Southern Pines Senior Center, 20 Appeal Lane, Lusby

For more information on senior centers and programs offered, contact the Office on Aging at 410-535-4606 or visit www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/Aging.

Find information on Calvert County Government services online at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov. Stay connected with Calvert County Government through the mobile app, newsletters, social media and more at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/StayInformed.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Emergency Services (DES) urges community members to be prepared for the next Atlantic hurricane season, which starts on June 1, 2026, and goes through November 30, 2026. While severe weather can happen outside of this timeframe, it is the most active for hurricane and tropical storm activity.

In effort to support community preparedness, the Department of Public Works and Transportation (DPW&T) will provide self-service sandbag pickup for residents on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the St. Andrews Landfill located at 44837 St. Andrews Church Road.

Residents are encouraged to stock up on sandbags now so that they are prepared before a storm strikes our area. Sandbags are not pre-filled and are limited to 10-25 bags per person, while supplies last. Community partners and DES will also be onsite distributing free hurricane preparedness supplies and information.

“Preparedness is one of the most important ways we can protect ourselves, our families, and our community,” said Commissioner President, Randy Guy. “By offering sandbags and sharing emergency planning resources ahead of time, we’re helping residents take proactive steps before a storm is on the horizon. I encourage everyone to get ready now—don't wait until it's too late.”

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

• Make emergency kits: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/kit
  • Home Kit: include a flashlight, batteries, blankets, spare clothing, a battery-operated radio, hygiene supplies, medication, a first aid kit, food that is easy to open and prepare, and clean drinking water. 
  • Be sure to consider the needs of your family, including infants and children, the elderly, those with functional needs, and pets.
• Have a plan: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/plan
  • Know Your Zone and plan your evacuation route ahead of time. Identify a safe place to go, and a way to get there, if an evacuation is ordered by local officials.  Keep your gas tank full in case you need to evacuate quickly.
• Discuss with loved ones how you will communicate before, during, and after a potential emergency or severe weather event.
• Sign up for local emergency notifications at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/alert.
• Hurricane preparedness basics:
  • Secure or bring indoors all outdoor toys, furniture, and items that could be moved by heavy winds; de-clutter drains and gutters; and consider hurricane shutters.
  • Check on your neighbors, friends, and family members, especially if they are elderly and/or have functional needs. 
  • Bring your pets indoors during severe weather.
  • Know where the main valves and switches are for gas, water, and electricity – and ensure someone you trust can operate them in case you need to shut them off.
  • Follow the instructions of local emergency management officials.

Knowing what to do before, during, and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference, when seconds count.

Learn more about and prepare for potential emergencies at: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/em.

Thursday, April 16, 2026] The Department of Community Services' Housing Authority Division is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity for low-income homeowners in Charles County who need essential home repairs for health & safety purposes. Funding for this new initiative is provided by the Maryland Department of Housing & Community Development to address urgent repairs that help Maryland families remain safe, healthy, and secure in their homes.

Some examples of eligible home repairs include, but are not limited to: mold removal; well/septic/plumbing issues; foundation water problems; removal of excess waste & debris; installing ramps or rails for accessibility; improving ventilation and air quality within the home; reducing fire hazards such as gas leaks or electrical problems; remediating lead, asbestos, or radon; window repair or replacement for health, safety, security, and thermal improvements; and pest treatment for rats, roaches, and mice.

Funds are only available to eligible low-income homeowners in Charles County & 7 other underserved jurisdictions in MD, on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible people must be the owner-occupants of their private home and meet other state & federal program guidelines to apply. Proof of owner-occupancy will be required.

For additional information, eligibility criteria, and to receive application assistance, please contact Ms. Barbara Farmer, Community Development Supervisor at 301-934-0124 or via email at farmerb@charlescountymd.gov, or Ms. Jill Hodges, Community Development Coordinator at 301-934-0120 or via email at hodgesj@charlescountymd,gov.

Thursday, April 16] On Tuesday, April 14, the Charles County Commissioners held a brief meeting due to a lack of quorum. Commissioners met to present April proclamations, vote on approval items, and hold one public hearing on proposed Bill 2026-02 Animal Matters Board (Member Compensation). The bill proposed amending the Charles County Code regarding compensation for the members of the Animal Matters Hearing Board, based on a recommendation from the 2025 Charles County Compensation Commission. The bill passed unanimously.

LEONARDTOWN, MD (April 16, 2026) – On April 14, at around 1:14 a.m., deputies from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office responded to a residence in St. Inigoes for a reported assault.

Upon arrival, the victim reported that following an argument, a male subject allegedly pointed a firearm at him.

Following an investigation, the suspect was identified as Jordan Charles Danford, 26, of California, Maryland. Danford was taken into custody, and deputies recovered an unserialized polymer 9mm semi-automatic handgun and a fully loaded magazine containing 25 rounds of ammunition.

The suspect was transported to the St. Mary’s County Detention and Rehabilitation Center and charged with six offenses, including first-degree assault, use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence, unlawful possession of an unserialized firearm, possession of a regulated firearm while prohibited due to an out-of-state protective order, possession of ammunition while prohibited, and use of a high-capacity magazine in the commission of a felony.

Following a District Court appearance, Danford was released on personal recognizance pending trial.

LEONARDTOWN, MD – St. Mary’s County Government’s Department of Aging & Human Services (DAHS) is inviting older adults, caregivers, and all residents of St. Mary’s County to share their perspectives on services for older adults by completing the Area Plan Survey.

The Maryland Department of Aging requires each planning and service area to develop a comprehensive four-year Area Plan, with updates completed during each cycle. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for St. Mary’s County, DAHS is responsible for preparing and implementing this plan.

The Area Plan outlines the scope of programs and supports available to older adults in the community. This plan serves as a roadmap for program development, service delivery, advocacy, and resource allocation throughout the 2027–2030 planning period.

The plan aligns with the principles of the Older Americans Act, which focus on assisting individuals aged 60 and older live independently, safely, and with dignity in their homes or communities for as long as possible.

Community input is a vital part of this process. Feedback gathered through the survey will help identify service gaps, evaluate current programs, and establish priorities to better serve older adults and their families.

The plan also incorporates the Longevity Ready Maryland approach, which outlines the following key goals:

• Building a Longevity Ecosystem
• Promoting Economic Opportunity
• Preparing Marylanders to Afford Longevity
• Optimizing Health, Wellness, and Mobility

Community members are encouraged to learn more about the 2027–2030 Area Plan and complete the questionnaire by visiting: www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Aging/AreaPlan.

The survey will be available from Thursday, April 16, 2026, through Thursday, April 30, 2026.

For those unable to access the online survey, print copies are available at the Garvey, Northern, and Loffler Senior Activity Centers.

To learn more about Maryland’s vision for aging services, visit the Longevity Ready Maryland initiative at https://lrm.maryland.gov.

For additional information on DAHS, please visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/aging.

tudent Found in Possession of Handgun at Glymont Middle School: On Wednesday, April 15, school administrators at Glymont Middle School were notified that a 13-year-old seventh-grade student was in possession of a handgun. The student had reportedly shown the firearm to another student, who informed additional students. The information was ultimately reported to school administration and a school resource officer.

The student was removed from class and during a search, a handgun was located concealed on his person. The handgun had a loaded magazine, but the gun's chamber was not loaded.

No threats toward any individuals were made. Preliminary findings indicate the handgun belongs to a family member of the student.

The student was taken into custody by a school resource officer, and the incident is being reviewed with the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) for further action. The investigation is ongoing, including follow-up regarding the circumstances of the student’s access to the firearm.

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) was accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) in 2001 and has since earned the highest rating of Excellence. Established in 1658, the CCSO is one of the oldest law enforcement agencies in the United States. For more information, visit www.ccso.us.

Charles County Crime Solvers offers rewards of up to $1,000 for information that leads to the arrest or indictment of a person responsible for a crime in Charles County. For murder cases, the reward can be increased. All individuals who provide tips through Crime Solvers will remain anonymous. Anyone with information about an unsolved crime or the location of a fugitive may contact Charles County Crime Solvers by calling 1-866-411-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted online at www.charlescountycrimesolvers.com or by using the P3Intel mobile app, which can be found in the Android Store and Apple Store by searching P3tips. For more information about the P3 program, click on this link: www.p3intel.com. 

St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) will implement a 2-hour early dismissal for all students today, Thursday, April 16, in response to continued excessive heat. 

Our school buildings are equipped with commercial heating and cooling systems that operate differently from residential (home) systems. Most homes can switch between heating and cooling with the touch of a button. However, our schools utilize a two-pipe system, which requires a deliberate, multi-day process to transition from heating to cooling and vice versa. This process is essential to ensure the system operates efficiently throughout the season.

When forecasted daily temperatures are consistently above 68°F and daytime temperatures exceed 72°F for two to three consecutive days, SMCPS initiates the two-day process to switch from heating to cooling mode, typically by April 15th. This changeover may also be delayed based on actual weather conditions.

Last week, our region experienced frost warnings and low overnight temperatures that required heating. As a result, many of our buildings are still in heating mode. Because the changeover to cooling is a multi-day process and cannot be completed immediately, some classrooms and hallways were experiencing higher-than-normal temperatures during this sudden heat event.

The early dismissal will allow us to minimize exposure to high indoor temperatures while we continue our seasonal changeover. After-school activities will not be impacted. 

We are currently planning to return to normal school hours on Friday, as temperatures are forecast to be more seasonal. While it won't be 90 degrees on Friday, it will be in the low 80s. We encourage families to ensure students are dressed in lightweight clothing and to send water bottles, if possible.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding. For updates and additional information, please visit the SMCPS website or follow our official communication channels.

[Wednesday, April 15] Charles County is pleased to announce that the 2025 Annual Report, Turning Plans into Progress, is now available online for public viewing. The Annual Report provides a comprehensive overview of the County’s work in 2025, highlighting key accomplishments and milestones.

“Charles County’s 2025 Annual Report reflects the real progress we are making by working together—leveraging partnerships, driving innovation, and creating opportunities that strengthen our community, from expanding critical infrastructure to enhancing quality-of-life amenities for our residents,” said Commissioner President Reuben B. Collins II. “As we build on this momentum, we remain committed to ensuring every resident can see themselves in our shared future and benefit from the growth and investments happening across our county.”

The report highlights key focus areas including economic development, emergency preparedness, infrastructure investments, sustainability, and quality of life. It also features photos, charts, and data visualizations that illustrate the County’s progress throughout the year.

Visit www.CharlesCountyMD.gov/AnnualReport to view or download a Portable Document Format (PDF) version of the Annual Report. Adobe Reader is required to view PDF files.

To request a printed copy of the report, email PressRoom@CharlesCountyMD.gov or call 301-885-2779. Citizens with special needs may contact the Maryland Relay Service at 711 or Relay Service TDD at 800-735-2258.

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Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) 2026 summer school program starts Tuesday, June 30. The schedule includes a mix of make-up and original credit courses. All make-up credit courses will be taught in person and original credit courses will be virtual through the Apex Learning and Zoom online platforms.

There is no cost for make-up summer school courses this year and transportation will not be provided. Students can take one make-up course or one original credit course during summer school. There is a $300 fee due at registration for an original credit course.

All courses run June 30 through July 30, Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to noon. A graduation ceremony for students completing high school credits in summer school will be Friday, July 31.

Registration information

School-based counselors will work with parents and students to indicate summer school courses a student is eligible to take. An email from the school counselor will be sent to parents whose children are eligible for summer school with the recommended course. Students can contact their school counselor with questions and/or course recommendations. Registration is not through Synergy (ParentVue) this year but through school counselors. Click here for a list of school counselors. The registration process runs from May 4 to June 18.

Make-up course information

Regular make-up courses will be taught June 30 to July 30, Monday through Thursday. The courses are free.

Instruction for high school make-up courses will be in person at Thomas Stone High School for students who attend Stone, La Plata and St. Charles high schools. In-person make-up courses for students who attend Henry E. Lackey, Maurice J. McDonough, North Point and Westlake high schools will attend classes at Westlake.

Instruction for middle school students will be held at Benjamin Stoddert Middle School. Middle school. Middle school students must take two classes. If only one class is required, students will be placed into a tutoring session.

While students will attend classes in person Monday through Thursday, Fridays are set aside during summer school for students to complete course work at home. For students to receive credit, they must attend all class sessions and pass all assigned work, quizzes and assignments.

Students may bring snacks and their lunch. Free bagged lunches will be offered to students in the cafeteria. Students are not permitted to leave campus during or in between their registered classes.

Available make-up courses

High school

· Algebra I and II.

· Algebra with trigonometry and statistics.

· Art I.

· Biology.

· Chemistry.

· Earth systems.

· English I, II, III and IV.

· Exploring Computer Science.

· Foundations of Technology.

· Geometry.

· Heritage and Native Spanish (HNS) I, II and III.

· Introduction to Advanced Math.

· Local, State and National (LSN) government.

· Spanish I and II.

· U.S. history.

· World history.

· Personal Financial Literacy/Health II (half credit).

· Fit for Life/Health I (half credit).

Middle school

· Language Arts.

· Math.

· Science.

· Social Studies.

Original credit course information

Instruction for original credit courses will take place using Apex and Zoom. Students may take one original credit course. Teachers will provide live instruction virtually through Zoom from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Fridays are set aside during summer school for students to complete asynchronous work, and will not meet with teachers via Zoom on Fridays.

All Zoom meetings are mandatory. For students to receive credit, they must attend all Zoom meetings and pass all assigned work, quizzes and assignments in Apex. There is a $300 fee due at registration for original credit courses this summer. Original credit courses taken during summer school may not meet the standards of the NCAA Eligibility Center, the organization that certifies if prospective student-athletes are academically eligible to play Division I or II college sports.

Available original credit courses

· English III — This course is for students who have met all the requirements to graduate at the end of their junior year and have an approved graduating junior application on file with their home school.

· English IV — This course is for students who have completed four years of high school and are not in their graduation cohort, or class. Students must get approval to enroll in this course from the supervising school counselor.

· Exploring Computer Science. (This is a technology education credit).

· Fit for Life/Health I. (Semester one is June 30 through July 14. Semester two is July 15 through 30).

· Geometry.

· Personal Financial Literacy/Health II (Semester one is June 30 through July 14. Semester two is July 15 through 30).

· Spanish I.

Additional information

Students must maintain excellent attendance at Summer School, which will last for 19 days. Credit will not be given to students who miss more than two class periods, and they cannot be excused from school for dental appointments, camps, sports or vacations. Students who cannot commit to attending Summer School should not enroll.

Students are also required to be on time for every class. Those who arrive late or leave early may not earn course credit. Suspension days are considered absences. For more information and rules about Summer School 2026, go to www.ccboe.com.

Stone is at 3785 Leonardtown Road, Westlake is at 3000 Middleton Road and Benjamin Stoddert is at 2040 St. Thomas Drive. All three schools are in Waldorf.