La Plata, Md., July 18, 2025 – A vibrant artwork by Orianna Smith, a rising sophomore at Maurice J. McDonough High School, will welcome visitors to the 2025 Charles County Fair as the cover of the official fair guide. Selected by the Charles County Fair Board and Charles County Public Schools (CCPS), Smith’s creation stood out in the annual art contest, which celebrates the imagination of students across all grade levels.
Each year, the Charles County Fair invites CCPS students to submit artwork that captures the spirit of the event. For the 2025 fair, students from kindergarten to high school showcased their talents, with winners selected for their grade levels based on submissions from the 2024-2025 school year. The following students earned top honors:
- Kindergarten: Piper Moore, Walter J. Mitchell Elementary School
- First Grade: Carlie Lancaster, T.C. Martin Elementary School
- Second Grade: Payton Lancaster, T.C. Martin Elementary School
- Third Grade: Charlotte Broglie, Arthur Middleton Elementary School
- Fourth Grade: Milan Hewlett, Arthur Middleton Elementary School
- Fifth Grade: Meagan Jones, Arthur Middleton Elementary School
- Sixth Grade: Cameron Barber, Piccowaxen Middle School
- Seventh Grade: Ujini Joshi, Mattawoman Middle School
- Eighth Grade: Cason Specht, Piccowaxen Middle School
- Sophomore (High School): Kayla Cruz-Flores, North Point High School
- Sophomore (High School): Sophia Pierce, Maurice J. McDonough High School
- Senior (High School): Payton Atwell, Maurice J. McDonough High School
These young artists demonstrated exceptional skill, bringing the Charles County Fair’s community spirit to life through their work.
Behind these achievements are dedicated CCPS art teachers who nurture creativity. Clarissa Roper (Walter J. Mitchell), Alaina Galope (T.C. Martin), Rebecca Franch (Arthur Middleton), Gayle Kraus (Piccowaxen), Patrice Thompson (Mattawoman), Susan Stazetski (McDonough), and Teri Alo (North Point) guided their students to success. Their efforts strengthen the Charles County Fair’s role as a platform for local talent.
A Community Tradition Set for September 11 to 14 at the La Plata fairgrounds, the 2025 Charles County Fair will feature agricultural displays, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Smith’s cover art will greet attendees, highlighting the fair’s commitment to youth and creativity. Visitors can explore the full schedule and details on the official website.
The Charles County Fair art contest connects education and community pride. By showcasing student artwork, the fair not only celebrates young talent but also reinforces its role as a cherished tradition in Charles County. The 2025 fair guide, adorned with Smith’s design, symbolizes this enduring legacy, inviting all to join in the celebration.
