84 Homeless Students Graduate from Summer School Program
Record-Breaking Graduation Marks Success of SHIP-FCPS Partnership
Frederick, MD– On Thursday, July 23 at 11:00am, Student Homelessness Initiative Partnership (SHIP) of Frederick County partners with Frederick County Public Schools for a record-breaking graduation of 84 students experiencing homelessness from the New Horizons Academy at Frederick High School.
“We are so proud to see a record number of students starting the new school year on track to graduation. The program is such a unique and impactful partnership between SHIP and Frederick County Public Schools. We couldn’t do this without the support of our education community.” – Melissa Muntz, Executive Director, SHIP of Frederick County
Throughout the five-week New Horizons Summer Academy, students remained on track for graduation by completing credit recovery courses and participating in life skills instruction through a partnership between SHIP of Frederick County and Frederick County Public Schools. This year’s course offerings included Art, Career & College Preparation, Engineering & Design, English 11 and 12, Environmental Studies, and Modern World History, providing students with both the academic support and practical skills needed for success beyond the classroom.
Students receive credit for courses required to graduate and are awarded a $600 stipend for completing the program. The program is open to all students experiencing homelessness and attending a Frederick County Public High School in the fall of 2026. All students graduating from the program will also receive a $4,000 scholarship to Hood College.
According to the US Department of Education, there are over 1.5 million public school students nationwide who experience homelessness each year. As of July 2026, there were over 900 homeless youth enrolled in Frederick County Public Schools. SHIP works to improve the lives of Frederick County’s most vulnerable youth who are experiencing homelessness, helping them achieve stability before entering adulthood. Those who do not graduate from high school are 3.5 times more likely to experience homelessness as adults.
For media inquiries, please contact: Melissa Muntz, Executive Director
Email: melissa@shipfrederick.com