LA PLATA — Eight Charles County Public Schools students have been named 2026 Carson Scholars, earning $1,000 college scholarships for their academic excellence, humanitarian qualities and commitment to community service.
The Carson Scholars Fund, a national nonprofit, recognizes top-performing students through a competitive nomination and selection process. Schools nominate candidates, and approximately 500 new scholars are chosen each year across the country. Recipients may renew the scholarship annually by maintaining strong academic performance and continued community involvement. This year, 11 additional CCPS students received renewals as Recognized Carson Scholars.
The new 2026 Carson Scholars from Charles County are:
• Ian Beck, fifth grade, Berry Elementary School • Natalie Betton, eighth grade, Phoenix International School of the Arts • Gabriel Bowling, fifth grade, Dr. James Craik Elementary School • Amiyah Cole, fourth grade, Malcolm Elementary School • Aaliyah Farid, fifth grade, C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School • Owen Holcomb, eighth grade, Piccowaxen Elementary School • Ava Jones, fifth grade, Billingsley Elementary School • Isabella Pacheco, fifth grade, William B. Wade Elementary School
Eleven CCPS students earned renewals for 2026. They are:
• Skylar Bearor, sixth grade, John Hanson Middle School (second recognition) • Madalynn Deavers, freshman, La Plata High School (fourth recognition) • Charlotte Fenton, sixth grade, Piccowaxen Elementary School (third recognition) • Kiley Grollman, junior, La Plata High School (seventh recognition) • James Harper, seventh grade, Milton M. Somers Middle School (third recognition) • Jayden Hill, sophomore, St. Charles High School (seventh recognition) • Aurora Larkin, sophomore, La Plata High School (sixth recognition) • Sydney Pennycooke, eighth grade, Milton M. Somers Middle School (fourth recognition) • Troy Pettersen, eighth grade, Piccowaxen Elementary School (fourth recognition) • Aaliyah Underwood, senior, North Point High School (fifth recognition) • Nya Whitney, senior, Maurice J. McDonough High School (eighth recognition)
The Carson Scholars program emphasizes not only high achievement but also character and service, qualities that align with Charles County Public Schools’ focus on developing well-rounded students. Recipients serve as role models within their schools and communities across Southern Maryland.
Charles County Public Schools officials congratulated the students on their selections, noting the competitive nature of the honor. The program provides both financial support for higher education and recognition that encourages continued excellence. Many of the recognized students have maintained the distinction for multiple years, demonstrating sustained dedication to academics and service.
The 2026 cohort includes students from elementary, middle and high schools throughout the county, reflecting broad participation across grade levels and school communities. Elementary students such as fourth- and fifth-graders alongside high school seniors illustrate the program’s reach from early education through college preparation.
Southern Maryland families and educators view the Carson Scholars awards as a significant accomplishment that highlights the strength of local public education. Charles County students consistently compete at high levels in academic recognition programs, reinforcing the district’s commitment to fostering success in a supportive environment.
The $1,000 scholarships can be renewed each year, offering meaningful financial assistance as these students progress toward college. For many families in Charles County, the awards reduce future education costs while celebrating the hard work of both new and returning scholars.
CCPS students earning the honor join a national network of Carson Scholars known for leadership and community contributions. The program continues to spotlight young people who excel academically while giving back, qualities valued in Southern Maryland’s close-knit communities.
