Rising eighth graders in Charles County Public Schools can now apply for two specialized Career and Technical Education pathways: Project Lead the Way Engineering and Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science. The application process opens this fall for students entering high school in the 2025-2026 school year, marking a shift to regionalized programs aimed at providing stronger resources and opportunities.
The Charles County CTE pathways, previously available at every high school without an application, are now concentrated at specific locations to offer specialized instruction and expanded hands-on experiences. This change ensures students receive high-quality education in engineering and biomedical fields, preparing them for college and careers through real-world learning.
For the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science pathway, students zoned for La Plata, Henry E. Lackey or Maurice J. McDonough high schools will attend La Plata if selected. Those zoned for North Point, St. Charles, Thomas Stone or Westlake high schools will go to Westlake. In the Project Lead the Way Engineering pathway, students from the La Plata, Lackey or McDonough zones will attend Lackey, while those from the other zones will go to Thomas Stone.
Starting with the 2025-2026 school year, there is no enrollment cap for these Charles County CTE pathways, though future years may limit spots based on applicant numbers. Current high school students in the programs will continue at their existing schools.
The application process for Charles County CTE pathways begins after career exploration lessons in September and October, where eighth graders develop individual career plans. Middle schools host information sessions for parents in October, followed by open houses before the application window from October 23 to November 13. Students complete interest surveys in December, with acceptance notifications, including waitlist or denial status, issued in February.
These Charles County CTE pathways are part of a broader array of options available to students. Other programs include Business Management and Finance, Computer Science, Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps, ProStart Food and Beverage Management, and Teacher Academy of Maryland, as noted in prior district announcements. Specialized offerings at North Point High School encompass 16 programs such as automotive technology, cyber security and welding, requiring applications for eighth graders. Maurice J. McDonough High School features the Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education and dance programs, while the Robert D. Stethem Educational Center provides half-day options for juniors and seniors in areas like barbering and HVAC.
The regionalization of Charles County CTE pathways addresses the need for better-equipped facilities and instructors, enhancing the delivery of curriculum that includes industry certifications and college credits. Project Lead the Way programs emphasize problem-solving and innovation; the engineering pathway covers topics like introduction to engineering design and principles of engineering, while biomedical science explores human medicine, bioinformatics and medical interventions.
Students in these Charles County CTE pathways benefit from internships, apprenticeships and leadership development, increasing graduation rates and scholarship opportunities. The programs align with industry needs, offering lower starting costs for careers and higher earning potential. For instance, past recognitions highlight students excelling in Project Lead the Way, earning white coats in biomedical programs and participating in competitions.
Charles County, with about 27,000 students across seven high schools, serves a growing Southern Maryland community focused on education and workforce development. The district’s CTE initiatives support local economies tied to defense, agriculture and technology, providing pathways that keep talent in the region. Virtual showcases and videos from previous years, such as those detailing program highlights, remain accessible for families.
For more details on the changes to these Charles County CTE pathways, view the informational video. Additional resources are available on the district’s CTE site.
This evolution in Charles County CTE pathways reflects ongoing efforts to optimize resources amid increasing interest in technical education. As applications open, middle school counselors play a key role in guiding students toward suitable options, ensuring alignment with career goals. The programs not only fulfill graduation requirements but also foster skills in teamwork and critical thinking, essential for future success in Southern Maryland and beyond.
In recent years, application windows have varied, with past cycles starting in late October or November and including virtual sessions for parents. The 2025-2026 adjustments build on this foundation, prioritizing quality over widespread availability.