LEONARDTOWN, Md. — St. Mary’s County Department of Recreation & Parks is marking Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week from April 20 to 24, 2026, in partnership with the National Afterschool Association to honor those who support children during out-of-school hours.
The week recognizes professionals who contribute to young people’s academic, social and emotional growth through before- and after-school programs. St. Mary’s County Recreation & Parks joins the national effort to highlight their role in providing safe, enriching environments.
More than 10 million children participate in before- or after-school programs nationwide each year, according to the National Afterschool Association. In St. Mary’s County, more than 185 children in grades K-8 take part in the department’s School Age Care program at six locations. The program relies on a team of 15 professionals who meet state licensing requirements and bring decades of combined experience working with children.
These staff members deliver structured activities that promote safety and development during non-school hours. The department’s School Age Care sites operate from 6:30 a.m. until the start of school and from the end of school until 6:30 p.m., with service available on planned early dismissal days for afternoon care.
As part of the appreciation week, the Commissioners of St. Mary’s County issued a proclamation recognizing April 20-24 as Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week in the county. Local Recreation & Parks leaders attended the April 21 commissioners meeting to highlight the contributions of the School Age Care team.
Registration for the 2026-27 School Age Care program opens to the public on Monday, May 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. Families can register online through the department’s CivicPlus platform or in person at the Recreation & Parks main office in Leonardtown.
To register online, visit www.stmaryscountymd.gov/Recreate and select Online Registration. A one-time $60 family registration fee applies and is non-refundable. Monthly tuition rates for the 2026-27 school year are as follows: AM Care at $280 for the first child and $265 for each additional child; PM Care at $290 and $275; AM & PM Care at $405 and $385; and the Inclusive Package, which adds select out-of-school camps, at $440 and $400. Teens pay $305 or $290 for additional children.
Payments begin monthly in August through April. Families registering before August 5, 2026, pay only the $60 fee initially. Later registrants must pay the fee plus the first month’s tuition. All participants undergo a two-week wait before starting, and mid-month enrollments receive prorated tuition.
The program holds a Level 1 rating from Maryland EXCELS and is licensed by the Maryland State Department of Education Office of Childcare. Objectives include fostering social interactions, improving physical and emotional well-being, building leadership skills and expanding interests through developmentally appropriate activities.
For questions or assistance, contact Recreation & Parks at 301-475-4200, extension 1800, or email RPinfo@stmaryscountymd.gov or schoolagecare@stmaryscountymd.gov. Additional forms and details are available on the department’s website.
This announcement comes at a key time for Southern Maryland families planning for the next school year. The School Age Care program serves as a reliable option for working parents seeking quality supervision and enrichment close to local schools. With registration opening soon, families are encouraged to secure spots early, as availability is limited at each of the six sites.
The timing aligns with broader community efforts to support families and recognize the professionals who keep children engaged and safe after the school bell rings. Southern Maryland parents can use the May 18 opening to review options and prepare for seamless care starting in August 2026.
Afterschool Professionals Appreciation Week provides an opportunity for the community to express thanks to the dedicated staff who make these programs possible. Their daily efforts help strengthen families across St. Mary’s County by ensuring children have positive experiences during critical out-of-school time.
