Enhancing the quality of life in southern Maryland is part of SMECO’s mission. The Co-op sponsors events for students to encourage them to excel in math, science, and technology. These events include the local MATHCOUNTS competition, the annual Southern Maryland Regional Computer Bowl, and the Elementary Math Challenge. In 2018 more than 1,200 students in SMECO’s service area have participated in educational events supported by the Co-op. We also honor the work of the region’s educators by recognizing teaches with SMECO STEM awards each year. SMECO awards college scholarships to four high-school seniors every year. We also support the annual Elementary Mathematics Challenge in Calvert, Charles, and St. Mary's counties.