Maryland Summer Indigenous Archaeology Program

The Maryland Summer Indigenous Archaeology Program provides Indigenous middle and high school students with hands-on archaeological fieldwork, cultural learning and mentorship experiences that connect heritage, science and community stewardship across the Chesapeake Bay region.

“ All of our history is in the land, and now we get to have a voice, and we have a future as we move forward. ”

Francis Gray, Tribal Council Chair, Piscataway Conoy Tribe

Program Goals

  • provide Indigenous middle and high school students with hands-on archaeological field and laboratory experience grounded in ethical, community-centered practice

  • strengthen connections between students, their cultural heritage and the landscapes of the Chesapeake Bay through place-based learning

  • introduce participants to archaeological science, environmental stewardship and heritage preservation as potential academic and career pathways

  • center Indigenous perspectives and knowledge through collaboration with Tribal educators, cultural practitioners and community partners

  • build transferable skills such as teamwork, leadership, critical thinking, communication and problem-solving

  • foster confidence and a sense of belonging in higher education and STEM-related fields through mentorship from university students and professionals

  • encourage stewardship of cultural and natural resources through responsible research practices and public engagement

  • support youth voice and creativity by integrating storytelling, interpretation and community-focused projects into the program experience

The 2026 Summer Maryland Indigenous Archaeology Program will run from July 13-31 in Indian Head, Charles County, Maryland. All Charles County Public School grades 6-12 may apply.

Apply to the 2026 Program Request Information (Email)

Frequently Asked Questions

Program participation is free! Additionally, lunch is provided for program participants.

The archaeological site that students will be working on is located at 6145 MD-210, Indian Head, MD 20640, just across Indian Head Highway from Chapman State Park. Classroom activities will be held at Matthew Henson Middle School in Indian Head, MD. There will be field trips to Piscataway Park and the Maryland Archaeological Conservation Laboratory in Jefferson Patterson Park.

Transportation from the program location for field trips and to and from the archaeological site is provided.

Students may be dropped off and picked up directly at the program location at Matthew Henson Middle School in Indian Head, MD or they may be dropped off and picked up at two other schools in Charles County. Students will be transported from the drop off points to the program location in 10-passenger vans. 

Students should arrive at Matthew Henson Middle School by 8:00 am daily. Each day will start with 30 minutes of anticipation activities, followed by a field trip, archaeological field work or hands-on-activity.

Lunch will be provided on site at Matthew Henson Middle School 11:30-12 p.m. Afternoons will be spent on archaeological field work, and hands-on-activities with Piscataway knowledge keepers, and time working on students' Living Knowledge Portfolio project.

 All meals and materials will be provided by us!