Families across Southern Maryland will gather for free games, treats and carnival-style activities at the College of Southern Maryland La Plata Campus on Saturday, March 28, 2026, during the Kids and Teen College 40th Anniversary Bash and Summer Program Fair.
The event runs from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. in Parking Lot 3 at the La Plata Campus. In case of rain, activities will move indoors to the Francis P. Chiaramonte, M.D. Center for Science and Technology, also known as the ST Building Atrium. The bash is open to the public and designed to celebrate four decades of the popular youth enrichment program while giving families a chance to explore summer 2026 offerings.
Kids and Teen College has offered engaging courses for students ages 5 to 17 for 40 years. The program features classes in music, theater, dance and STEAM fields including science, technology, engineering, art and math. Topics range from cooking, drawing and sculpting to LEGO building, coding and algebra. Courses are grouped by age: Early Learners for ages 5 to 7, and up to Young Adult for ages 14 to 17.
Program Manager Teyana Carroll highlighted the milestone. “For four decades we’ve seen students grow, learn, and build confidence through Kids and Teen College. The event gives families a glimpse into what we have to offer, and the difference the program can make to our students, while giving families a fun and engaging afternoon.”
Flexible scheduling helps families balance summer demands. Classes last from a few days to eight weeks and are offered in morning, afternoon or full-day formats. Community groups will also attend the bash to share information about local summer camps and programs.
Jim Love, a former participant who later returned as a school counselor, shared his experience with the program. “It’s hard to imagine a better way to spend weeks during summer. Every week, getting a new group of excited students, making great friends with the other counselors, and still learning something new in every class, it continued to be the highlight of my summers for years.”
Attendees can learn about enrollment for summer 2026 sessions and speak with staff about program details. The free event includes family-friendly activities aimed at showcasing the fun, hands-on learning environment that has defined Kids and Teen College since its start.
The College of Southern Maryland continues to expand community education opportunities across Charles, Calvert and St. Mary’s counties. The La Plata Campus serves as the main hub for many youth programs, providing accessible enrichment that supports academic growth and personal development during summer months.
More information about Kids and Teen College, including the full list of summer programs, is available on the program webpage at the College of Southern Maryland website. Families interested in registering or learning specifics can visit during the bash or explore options online.
This 40th anniversary celebration underscores the program’s lasting impact on generations of Southern Maryland students. From building confidence through creative classes to fostering new friendships and skills, Kids and Teen College has become a summer tradition for many local families. The bash provides a lively preview of what the upcoming season holds.