Celebration Days
We’re excited to announce that the Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day will now take place on Friday, May 9th, 2025, from 8 AM to 2 PM! This year, we’re combining the celebration into one powerful day to honor our students and mentors. The registration form will open in early April, so be sure to check back soon for more details and to sign up!
For those interested in specific leadership roles, please email mdmentorcorps@umd.edu for more information.
Stay tuned for more updates and get ready for an unforgettable Celebration Day!
History of Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day
History of Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day
For years, Maryland Mentor Corps has hosted two distinct events to celebrate the impact of its literacy and math tutoring programs—Maryland Reading Day and Maryland Math Celebration Day. Both programs are rooted in the University of Maryland’s commitment to supporting youth education, and they have long served as highlights of the academic year.
Maryland Reading Day is a celebration of the Maryland Reading Program (formerly America Reads), a literacy tutoring initiative dedicated to providing first and second grade students in Prince George’s County Public Schools with extra support in reading and writing. University of Maryland mentors work one-on-one with students, offering personalized instruction and using proven tutoring methods. Volunteers participate in activities focused on a selected book, such as reading sessions, literacy activities, and creative exercises that bring the story to life. Past books have included The Good Egg by Jory John and Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña. The theme for Maryland Reading Day is Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev.
Maryland Math Celebration Day celebrates the Maryland Math Program (formerly America Counts), which aims to ensure that all children in the U.S. master foundational math skills by the end of fourth grade. Established in 1996 with the support of former University of Maryland President William E. Kirwan, this program has impacted thousands of students over the years. Maryland Math Celebration Day invites students from Prince George’s County elementary schools to engage in fun and educational math activities while also experiencing a taste of college life through campus tours.
Exciting Change for 2025: One Combined Celebration Day!
In 2025, these two beloved events will be combined into one Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day, scheduled for Friday, May 9th, 2025, from 8 AM to 2 PM. This unified event will celebrate both the Maryland Reading and Maryland Math programs, bringing together mentors, volunteers, and students for a day of engagement, learning, and celebration. A registration form will open in early April for those interested in participating.
Stay tuned for more details on how you can get involved and join us for this exciting new chapter of Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day!
Frequently Asked Questions About Celebration Days
What is Maryland Mentor Corps?
The mission of Maryland Mentor Corps, a partnership between the University of Maryland and Prince George's County Public Schools, is to provide a high quality mentoring program that enriches learning opportunities for both college and elementary school students. University of Maryland students work in local elementary schools to provide additional support and instruction in subjects of reading or mathematics.
What are the special events?
Our special event days bring our students and families to campus for a day of interactive and educational activities. These events allow our students to celebrate their participation in our programs, interact with college students, experience college life, and engage in fun, hands-on activities. In 2025, Maryland Mentor Corps Celebration Day will be combined into one exciting day on Friday, May 9th, 2025, from 8 AM to 2 PM. The event will celebrate both the Maryland Reading and Maryland Math programs, creating an unforgettable experience for students and mentors alike.
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What does a volunteer do for an event?
Depending on the event and volunteer shift, you may work with students in reading/mathematics activities or assist with logistical set-up and clean-up. The online sign-up form provides more information about duties associated with each day and shift.
How do I get credit for my organization for volunteering?
When you sign up to volunteer online, you can enter your group on the form so we can give you credit. If you need a letter verifying your participation, you must request it within 30 days after the event.
What is my time commitment?
You will register for specific shifts for the events. You are expected to commit to the full-time of the shift you sign up for. All shifts are 2-3 hours long.
Are there any requirements to volunteer?
You must be a University of Maryland student or staff/faculty to volunteer.
What should I wear?
We suggest wearing jeans and a light shirt with closed-toe shoes. We request that you not wear flip flops, sandals, inappropriate or revealing clothing.
If I sign up with a friend, can we work together?
You may be signed up for different shifts and different stations, so we cannot guarantee you will be able to work together. However, you will have many volunteers to work with at your station!
If I sign up with a group, can we work together?
If you are signing up as part of a student group, you are able to list the name of your student group on your sign-up form. We will do our best to place student groups together.
Do I have to pack my own food?
We would suggest eating before your time shift as you will be engaging with students in activities throughout the day. If you are volunteering during the lunch shift, we will have lunch available. If you are not a volunteer for the lunch shift, you should bring a small snack for the day.
How long is each shift?
Shifts are two to three hours. You are able to sign up for individual or multiple shifts. We expect you to commit to the complete time of the shift you sign up for.
Where do I go at the beginning of my volunteer shift?
You need to first check in and sign in for your shift. At check-in, you will receive your volunteer shirt, a schedule, a map of campus, and your assigned school and their color. Check-in locations for the combined Celebration Day will be shared in April. Stay tuned for more information on the exact check-in locations and procedure.
How will I recognize other volunteers?
Volunteers will be given Celebration Day certificates. Elementary students and their chaperones will wear colored shirts that designate their school.
How do I know what jobs I need to do? 
Each shift has a different set of expectations. The primary jobs are set-up, greeting, literacy or math activities with the children, lunch set-up, and departure. You will be given an information sheet for your shift with expectations for your particular job.
If I finish one job, where do I go to get another one?
If you have completed your assigned task and are still at the same station, you should ask an office staff or team leader if there is anything else you can assist with.
What should I talk about with the students?
Start by introducing yourself to the students. Ask them about their name, the school they attend, and how their day is going. If you're not occupied with an activity, you can ask about their favorite hobbies, TV shows, movies, books, or school subjects! Keep the topics general, show enthusiasm, and engage in age-appropriate conversations. Feel free to share your experience as a college student at UMD!
What do I do when I complete my shift?
Sign out sheets will be available at each event. Remember to sign out before leaving.