61 SHIP Students Experiencing Homelessness Graduate from FCPS

47 Students Will Attend College or Trade Program for Free

Frederick, MD – As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, the Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP) of Frederick County is proud to celebrate the achievements of 61 graduating seniors who completed their high school education while participating in SHIP programs and services.

SHIP supports youth who are experiencing homelessness through three core programs: New Horizons, Thrive Housing Network, and Basic Material Needs. The New Horizons program provides educational support and case management for students within Frederick County Public Schools (FCPS). Thrive Housing Network offers temporary housing placements for youth while they continue their education. SHIP’s Basic Needs program provides access to essential resources, including food, clothing, and hygiene products.

Throughout the school year, students work closely with SHIP case managers to achieve personal goals and eliminate barriers that could cause them to leave school before graduating.

SHIP supported 61 FCPS seniors in reaching the graduation stage this year.

Following graduation, students have shared their plans:

● 42 students will attend a college or university in Fall 2026

● 5 students will enter apprenticeships or trade programs

● 1 student has enlisted in the military

The Class of 2026 has also secured significant financial support to continue their education. SHIP’s dedicated FAFSA mentors worked one on one with students to ensure that every senior experiencing homelessness accessed financial aid and applied to at least two post-secondary education programs. This school year, SHIP helped the 47 college and trade-bound students receive more than $830,000 in financial aid awards through completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and scholarship opportunities.

 

All 47 students will attend post-secondary education with a $0 tuition cost, meaning 100% of the SHIP students who chose college or trades are getting that education for free.

Of those 47 students, 12 are attending a four-year institution and have received full-ride financial aid packages covering tuition, housing, meal plans, and additional educational expenses, removing many of the financial barriers often faced by students experiencing homelessness.

“This year, the SHIP team was able to help students experiencing homelessness secure a record amount of financial aid. Seeing so many incredible young people realize their dreams and continue their education after high school has been the highlight of our year.” – Melissa Muntz, Executive Director, Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership of Frederick County.

Whether pursuing higher education, entering the workforce, or exploring military service, students receive ongoing guidance and support to help them achieve their aspirations. SHIP of Frederick County congratulates the FCPS Class of 2026 and looks forward to seeing these graduates continue to pursue their goals, build successful futures, and make a positive impact in their communities.

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The Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership builds capacity in students to reduce housing insecurity, homelessness, and their impact by breaking the systemic barriers facing Frederick County youth. Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP) of Frederick County, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Information about SHIP submitted under the Maryland Charitable

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