During the 2025-2026 school year, Maryland Business Roundtable for Education (MBRT) proudly celebrated 757 students across five Next Generation Scholars school districts who earned their “ABC“ certificate, a significant achievement demonstrating a student’s commitment to Attendance, excellent Behavior, and academic success in their Courses.
Through Maryland’s Next Generation Scholars program, MBRT works alongside school districts, educators, families, and community partners to help students stay on track for graduation and post-secondary success. These celebrations reflect not only student achievement, but also the power of collective support and mentorship.
To earn MBRT’s ABC award, students achieved:
- 93% attendance or better
- No behavioral infractions
- A minimum 2.5 GPA
Throughout the year, these scholars demonstrated what it means to stay committed to their goals while balancing academics, personal growth, and engagement within their schools and communities. Students were recognized during celebrations held within their districts alongside peers, educators, families, and MBRT on-site staff who have supported them throughout their journey.
“The ABC recognition celebrates consistency, resilience and the positive habits that help prepare students for future success,” says Latisha Coates-Young, MBRT Chief Program Officer. “We are proud to celebrate their determination and accomplishments.”
In addition to ABC completers, each MBRT Next Generation Scholars team selected one Shining Scholar per grade level recognizing exceptional engagement and achievement during the 2025–2026 school year. These students not only met their ABC goals, but also stood out among their peers for their active participation, leadership, and dedication to the MBRT Next Generation Scholars program. Congratulations to the 2025-2026 Shining Scholar recipients:
Allegany County
- 10th Grade: Romello P.
- 11th Grade: Gretchen R.
- 12th Grade: Madison E.
Caroline County
- 10th Grade: Rodriguez R.
- 11th Grade: Khalia T.
- 12th Grade: Liam W.
Dorchester County
- 10th Grade: Edwin F.
- 11th Grade: Da’Zhier P.
- 12th Grade: Sohaila D.
Kent County
- 10th Grade: Eden J.
- 11th Grade: Bjorn B.
- 12th Grade: Juliana C.
Wicomico County
- 10th Grade: Jaqueline A.
- 11th Grade: Sheraz A.
- 12th Grade: Lorelie K.
The Rising Star awardees who demonstrated meaningful growth and improvement throughout the school year while meeting all ABC goals follow below.
Allegany County
- 10th Grade: Jaylen T.
- 11th Grade: Miliana H.
- 12th Grade: Jaden E.
Caroline County
- 10th Grade: Josue D.
- 11th Grade: Israel M.
- 12th Grade: Paris B.
Dorchester County
- 10th Grade: Cayden J.
- 11th Grade: Tevonte C.
- 12th Grade: Matthew B.
Kent County
- 10th Grade: Lamine D.
- 11th Grade: Noree C.
- 12th Grade: Ava D.
Wicomico County
- 10th Grade: Shaheen S.
- 11th Grade: Jaden W.
- 12th Grade: Jah’Mir J.
Congratulations to this year’s ABC completers, Shining Scholars and Rising Stars. Your hard work inspires all who interact with you and gives us all confidence in a bright future for Maryland.
