MD Two Fifty Commission and Maryland Humanities Launch Youth Engagement Initiatives for Middle and High School Students

(Baltimore, MD) – As part of Maryland’s 250th anniversary commemoration, the MD Two Fifty Commission, in partnership with Maryland Humanities, is excited to launch Civics Moonshot: A MD Two Fifty Youth Engagement Initiative.

This initiative will provide unique educational opportunities for Maryland students by offering programs for middle and high school students:

The goal of this program is to help middle school students connect with Maryland’s rich and complex history through firsthand experiences that bring learning to life. We will be offering funding to support middle school (6th-8th grade) field trips to museums, historic sites, and parks across the state. Funding may be used to support transportation and admission costs for eligible field trips.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, subject to available funding. Approved schools or organizations will receive funds directly and will be required to submit a brief post-trip report, including reflections following their visit.

We are calling on the next generation to add their voices to this milestone moment by describing the next chapter of Maryland’s story. Through a new statewide essay competition, high school students across Maryland are invited to share their vision for the state’s future over the next 50 years by explaining the changes, opportunities, or values that will shape the lives of future generations, along with their own personal connection to that future.

The deadline for essay submissions is Friday, October 16, 2026, and awards will be offered to student winners.

“Our 250th anniversary is an opportunity to ensure that young people see themselves as an important part of our nation’s ongoing story. Through these field trips and essay contest, Maryland students can explore the people, ideas, and experiences that have shaped our state and our country, while reflecting on what the next 50 or 250 years might look like,” says Alexandra Cenatus, Director of Programs at Maryland Humanities. 

“We’re excited to partner with MD Two Fifty to create meaningful opportunities for students to engage with history, think critically about our shared civic life, and envision the future they want to help build.”

To learn more about our Civics Moonshot youth engagement initiatives, visit Maryland Humanities’ website. Questions about these programs may be directed to Emily Ross at Maryland Humanities by emailing eross@mdhumanities.org.

MD Two Fifty leads Maryland’s official commemoration of the United States Semiquincentennial, coordinating statewide programs and partnerships to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Maryland Humanities creates and supports bold experiences that explore and elevate our shared stories to connect people, enhance lives, and enrich communities. Maryland Humanities is generously supported by the National Endowment for the Humanities, the State of Maryland, the Citizens of Baltimore County, private foundations, corporations, small businesses, and individual donors. Connect with Maryland Humanities on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, and YouTube.