Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) will launch the Charles County FACE Academy this fall, a program designed to strengthen ties between families and schools for elementary students’ parents. Starting with an in-person session at Billingsley Elementary School, the academy aims to connect 50 Charles County families with resources to boost their children’s academic success and community involvement.
Program Details and Application
The Charles County FACE Academy opens its doors to parents of CCPS elementary students, with priority for two families per school. Applications are due by August 29, 2025, and can be submitted online. The program kicks off with an in-person session from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Billingsley Elementary, followed by virtual sessions on October 15, November 12, and December 16. Meeting links will be shared with participants beforehand. Families can also win iPads and gift cards as incentives for participation.
Building on a Successful Pilot
Last year, the Charles County FACE Academy piloted at Eva Turner Elementary School, engaging 15 families. The program provided parents with tools to reinforce classroom learning at home. “Parents will love the FACE Academy experience because it allows an opportunity for you to participate in your child’s school community away from the report card, away from the testing,” said Latosha Singh, a Turner parent, in a video feature. “This is an opportunity to come and build relationships, connect with the community and have fun.”
The pilot’s success has paved the way for this year’s expanded Charles County FACE Academy, offering a model for fostering collaboration between parents and educators across Charles County’s elementary schools.
Engaging and Varied Content
Each Charles County FACE Academy session offers unique content to support parents. One meeting might focus on teaching children to listen and adapt to structure, while another could involve preparing healthy recipes together, using math and teamwork to follow instructions. These activities aim to empower parents to play a larger role in their child’s education. “The commitment to strengthen our partnership with families is the overall goal of the academy,” said Traci Chappelear-Thomas, director of the Department of Community Engagement and Equity. “We want families to be empowered to take a bigger role in their child’s success.”
Future Expansion
The Charles County FACE Academy plans to extend its reach to families of middle and high school students in spring 2026. This expansion will further CCPS’s mission to build stronger school-family connections across all grade levels, enhancing academic outcomes and community ties in Charles County.
For Charles County parents, the FACE Academy offers a chance to engage directly with their child’s school community. By providing practical resources and fostering collaboration, the program supports student success while strengthening the bond between home and school. With limited spots available, families are encouraged to apply early to join the Charles County FACE Academy and take part in this innovative initiative.
