POMFRET — Maurice J. McDonough High School held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2026 on June 2 at Regency Furniture Stadium, where 304 seniors received diplomas.
Valedictorian Cynclair Wilson, who plans to study engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park, addressed the global context of education access. She noted that many children and teens worldwide lack guaranteed schooling due to war, violence or cultural barriers. “When we think about high school, we should remind ourselves that our experience attending school and learning is an ability not everyone is afforded,” Wilson said. “Although school can be frustrating and even flawed, it is someplace that many children wish to attend. As we celebrate today, please let us also honor those who are actively denied the opportunity to learn like us.”
Wilson encouraged graduates to apply their education by voting conscientiously, tracking public spending and thinking critically and kindly.
Salutatorian Joseph Ojukwu, who will study electrical engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park, reflected on personal development during high school. He highlighted lessons learned outside the classroom and expressed hope that classmates would remember their time at McDonough as a period of growth into more confident, understanding, mature and loving individuals.
The Class of 2026 secured $22,979,851 in scholarship offers, with additional offers expected.
The ceremony marked the start of Charles County Public Schools graduation events for the week. Thomas Stone High School graduated at 1 p.m. and North Point High School at 5 p.m. on the same day. Additional ceremonies continue through June 4 at the stadium, with live streaming available.
McDonough High School serves students in southern Charles County. Graduates pursuing engineering fields at the state’s flagship university represent one pathway from local high schools to higher education and technical careers. The scholarship total reflects financial support available to Charles County seniors continuing their studies.
CCPS graduations recognize completion of required coursework across the district’s high schools. Individual school events allow communities to celebrate specific classes while sharing a common venue and schedule.
