Project Graduation, a substance-free celebration for graduates of the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) Class of 2026, is held on the night of each school’s graduation.

CCPS staff is seeking support of volunteers and donations from community members, local businesses and organizations in ensuring the event is a success.

“The support and donations send a powerful message to our graduates,” Jennifer Conte, CCPS student intervention coordinator, said. “It says, ‘Your community believes in you and is cheering you on.’ Every contribution — large or small — helps make Project Graduation a positive and memorable experience for our seniors.”

Donations of themed gift baskets, items that can be used as raffle prizes and monetary donations are being accepted. Popular items for gifts baskets and raffle prizes are Visa gift cards and gift cards for gas and to stores such as Walmart and Target, and for services like Uber and Lyft and Netflix.

Other ideas include small appliances like air fryers, blenders, microwaves and Keurig machines; tech and accessories such as AirPods, Bluetooth headphones and laptops; dorm and apartment essentials like mini fridges, bedding, desk lamps and vacuums; and travel and lifestyle items such as backpacks, travel bags, water bottles and wearable blankets.

Cash donations via check can be made payable to Charles County Public Schools with Project Graduation on the memo line. Mail checks to Charles County Public Schools, Attn: Jenn Conte, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646.

For more information or to volunteer, contact Conte at 301-934-7335 or jconte@ccboe.com.

About CCPS

Charles County Public Schools provides 27,904 students in grades prekindergarten through 12 with an academically challenging education. Located in Southern Maryland, Charles County Public Schools has 38 schools that offer a technologically advanced, progressive and high quality education that builds character, equips for leadership and prepares students for life, careers and higher education.

The Charles County public school system does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or disability in its programs, activities or employment practices. For inquiries, please contact Dr. Mike Blanchard, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (students) or Nikial M. Majors, Title IX/ADA/Section 504 Coordinator (employees/ adults), at Charles County Public Schools, Jesse L. Starkey Administration Building, P.O. Box 2770, La Plata, MD 20646; 301-932-6610/301-870-3814. For special accommodations call 301-934-7230 or TDD 1-800-735-2258 two weeks prior to the event. 

CCPS provides nondiscriminatory equal access to school facilities in accordance with its Use of Facilities rules to designated youth groups (including, but not limited to, the Boy Scouts).