Big Book of Education 2023-24

Everything you need to make the best choices for your kids: preschool through high school

Indian Creek School is a premier Annapolis-area independent school where KINDNESS is currency, WELL-BEING is priority, and EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION is relentlessly pursued.

VISIT TODAY

Experience the wonder of Indian Creek’s nature-based Pre-K program, gold standard Middle School Project Based Learning curriculum, prestigious AP Capstone diploma program, vibrant Arts programs, high-caliber Eagles Athletics program, and more!

Schedule a private tour or shadow day at our beautiful 114-acre wooded campus, just minutes north of Annapolis:

indiancreekschool.org

FALL OPEN HOUSE EVENTS

Lower School (Pre-K3 - Grade 5)

Thur., November 9

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Middle School (Grades 6-8)

Tue., November 14 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Upper School (Grades 9-12)

Thur., November 7

& Thur. December 14 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.

More than a School.

Key is renowned for its rigorous academic program, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary students and produces unparalleled student outcomes. But Key is more than just a school.

It’s a diverse community where students are transformed through authentic connections with their teachers and peers. It’s a training ground for winning athletic teams and talented artists. It’s a safe space where students take risks, self-advocate, and grow into ethical citizens and exceptional leaders.

Key School is one of the most sought-after college preparatory programs in Maryland because we are more than a school.

Experience the Key difference for yourself! RSVP for Key’s Fall Open Houses or Information Sessions today at keyschool.org.

Fall Admission Events

Vol

13· No. 1

PUBLISHER Donna Jefferson djefferson@jecoannapolis.com

ART Jenny Cardoza DIRECTOR artdirector@jecoannapolis.com

WEB & AD Jessica Kannegieser DESIGN web@jecoannapolis.com

EVENTS & Claire Darcy ADMINISTRATIVE clairek@jecoannapolis.com MANAGER

CONTRIBUTING Jillian Amadio

WRITERS Rebecca Kieran Mary Ostrowski

ADVERTISING Linda Benkhadra linda@jecoannapolis.com 240.277.4215

PUBLISHED ANNUALLY BY: Jefferson Communications, LLC

13 Southgate Avenue Annapolis, MD 21401 Phone: 410-263-1641

ChesapeakeFamily.com

The acceptance of advertising does not constitute endorsement by Chesapeake Family of products or services Advertisers are not given special consideration or placement in editorial content. The publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or listing that is not in keeping with the policies or standards of this publication. Jefferson Communications assumes no financial responsibility for errors in advertisements. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of Chesapeake Family, by any means without permission, is strictly prohibited. ©2021Jefferson Communications, LLC.

Your children’s education is right up there with one of the most important things you need to do. Every school, public or private, is different and influenced by staff and volunteers. School is a huge part of every family’s life. Events, friends, and often athletics revolve around school communities. It’s a big decision when you pick a school. Use this guide as a starting point for your school search, then go to the online directories at ChesapeakeFamily.com/schools for more detailed searchable information.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, attend an open house at the schools, or schedule a tour. Talk to parents and teachers at the school. Does the school seem like a good fit for your family?

We spent time with Dr. Bedell, Superintendent of Schools for Anne Arundel County. He told us the direction he plans to take schools over the next few years, and the big challenge of redistricting.

And then there are new schools coming to the area. Acton Academy Annapolis, part of the Maryland Curiosity Lab, started this year’s first group of classes, grades 1-6. They plan to expand to eighth grade next year. New Village Academy, an innovative high school, will open in the fall of 2024 for 150-250 students. You can learn about these schools and more inside this issue.

Cultivating Creativity and Learning in Preschoolers through Art

Chesapeake Arts Center Launches Innovative Arts Education Program to Nurture Early Childhood Development

Chesapeake Arts Center (CAC) is launching a free arts education program – Mini Makers – in September 2023 to fill a crucial need for high-quality early education programming in the Brooklyn Park community and the surrounding region. Mini Makers will run on Tuesday and Thursday mornings at CAC from September 12 through December 14, from 9:30 am to noon, and will serve students ages 3 ½ through 5 years of age. Applications are being accepted through CAC’s website at www.chesapeakearts. org/ minimakers.

The program was created to help meet the need for accessible arts education and enrichment programs for Northern Anne Arundel County preschool children. The program will serve a total of 36 students (18 students in the fall and 18 in the winter/spring semester). The program will be free of charge to all students and families thanks to a generous grant from the Kathy and Jerry Wood Foundation.

Mini Makers is a process art education program for preschoolage students aimed at nurturing each individual’s learning process

and instilling lifelong habits of creativity. The play-based curriculum will allow students to explore and create in a safe and supportive environment while building important skills such as idea generation, problem-solving, and social skills. Drawing inspiration from playbased methodologies such as Reggio Emilio, the program will create a safe and supportive environment for young children to explore, create, and learn. This preschool-age programming is intended to assist in preparing confident students for formalized schooling by providing a learning environment where they can embrace creativity and learn at their own pace.

Lorena Solano will be leading the Mini Makers program. A native of Baranquilla, Colombia, Lorena recently moved to Maryland to pursue a career in education. With a deep passion for teaching, Lorena has 17 years of experience and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. Lorena will be assisted by two trained teaching assistants.

For more information on the program, visit chesapeakearts.org/ minimakers or call CAC at 410-636-6597.

Dive into Celebration

Embrace the Swim & Paddle South River Benefit!

This family event promotes environmental stewardship and equal access to water for students and veterans. This is the sixth year for the Swim & Paddle South River Benefit, organized by Crossing Currents Aquatics. Scheduled for Oct. 1, the event offers a 5-mile continuous loop for swimmers and paddlers and a shorter 1/2mile loop to enjoy the South River bounties.

Recipients of the fundraising event are Arundel River Federation which focuses on protecting and promoting healthy water on the South, Rhode, and West Rivers in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and the LiveWater Foundation, whose members “Paddle with a Purpose” for environmental stewardship and equitable access to water activity for youth and veterans.“This is a fun event for the whole family,” encourages Traci McNeil, Head Coach of Crossing Currents Aquatics and a Certified Watershed Steward. “These five tributaries to the Chesapeake Bay are an invaluable resource for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.” “The Arundel Rivers Federation tracks our rivers’ health and ensures enforcement of existing protection measures for Southern Anne Arundel County,” she explains. “Our Swim & Paddle event brings the outdoor recreation community together to promote the vital work of the Federation.”

This year’s Swim and Paddle check-ins and safety briefings are staggered and begin at 7:15 AM for the 5-mile entrants. Half-mile check-ins begin at 7:45 AM. A complete Swim & Paddle South River Overview can be found on the website: crossingcurrentsaquatics.com

Playground Politics

Giving Children Tools to Solve Their Own Problems

by Mary Ostrowski

Playground politics usually involve a spat among kids that often escalates, but goes unresolved when adults step in. Here are some tips for helping kids solve their own problems. It’s natural to step in to solve a child’s problem, particularly when they’re young. But to what extent? What happens when we continue to solve problems for children without helping them learn to do it for themselves?

Scenerio

Two children play happily in the living room. You hear them chatting and hear the clickety-clack of magna tiles sticking

together. These two are architects constructing the finest towers in all the land – whose building will be taller? Then Cameron takes the last square tile out of Jordan’s hands. You hear Jordan wail, “That’s mine!”

Your instinct is to step in and solve the problem. “Cameron, Jordan was playing with that square magna tile. You can play with it next.”

The response is quick and decisive. The children are mollified, and they are safe. That’s all that matters, right? Maybe not.

The Problem

The problem with consistently stepping in and handling conflict for children is that they don’t learn strategies for depending on their own judgment. They don’t learn how to speak up for themselves. It may not seem like that big a deal when they’re little, but if an adult is always there to intervene and solve their problems as kids, how will they develop the confidence to know they even can resolve their own conflicts?

We’re seeing real-time ramifications of this out in the world. Lee is faced with an uncomfortable situation at lacrosse camp. He missed the first couple of practices due to a family emergency so when he starts, the other kids already know each other and have begun to create a bond. They laugh easily with each other and choose Lee last for teams. Lee feels left out. His mom says something to the coach about it at the end of camp one day. A few of the other kids hear and

make a joke behind Lee’s back about being a “Mommy’s boy.” Now he feels even more uncomfortable. The next morning, Lee wakes up with a stomachache and asks his mom if he can stay home. “I don’t feel good,” he complains. Lee ends up missing the rest of lacrosse camp.

Penny really likes this boy, Tom, in her class. Tom likes Penny too. They talk at school sometimes, but mostly they text and Snapchat. Weeks go by and the more they get to know each other, the more they realize how much they have in common. Trust is building and they’re both happy. Then one of Penny’s friends tells Penny she saw Tom at the mall with another girl. The friend didn’t know who the girl was but said they laughed a lot and seemed to know each other well. Penny feels uncertain and hurt. Who is this girl?

The more she thinks about it, the more betrayed she feels. When she sees Tom at lunch, she avoids him and sits in the middle of a group of friends instead of sitting with him. When he texts her, she responds with just a few words. She continues to avoid him in school, and eventually she stops responding to his texts all together, ghosting him.

When you don’t know how to handle a conflict, or don’t feel confident you can figure it out, the problem becomes scary; something to avoid. The thing is, we all know problems don’t just go away.

The Solution

The Rolling Stones famously sang, “You can’t always get what you want …” True story! In an age of instant gratification, we’re too often bent out of shape if things don’t go our way. But the song doesn’t end there. The next lines are, “But if you try sometimes, you just might find, you get what you need.” Regardless of age, what we all need in times of conflict is resolution of some sort. Moreover, we need to know how to take action towards resolving the conflict in the first place – whether we get what we want or not.

Don’t mistake me. When children are young, they need help from a trusted adult to take care of their problems. However, it makes sense that adult intervention must evolve over time. We want adult intervention to shift from problem-solver to coach to trusted supporter. After all, raising children to be confident, resilient and independent thinkers and problem-solvers is the goal, isn’t it?

Like most things worth doing, we get the most out of intervening for children when we do it with intent. You may be thinking, “Well of course. I intend to help my child solve his problem.” What if, instead, the thought process was, “I intend to help my child solve his own problem.” There’s just one additional word in that second sentence, but it makes all the difference. The intention has shifted away from you taking action and towards your child taking action.

Remember Cameron and Jordan? Cameron took the last magna tile out of Jordan’s hand just as Jordan was getting ready to use it for his own tower. Instead of telling Cameron to give it back, you could try the following:

You: “Jordan, I see you are upset. What is the problem?”

Child: “He took my piece!”

You: “What do you want?”

Child: “I want it back!”

You: “What action could you take to help Cameron understand why you want the tile back?”

Jordan could grab the tile back from Cameron. He could explain he was preparing to use it for his tower and ask for it back. There are a variety of outcomes. Your role is to help Jordan identify his problem and find a way to communicate it so he can take action to get what he needs. The point is not whether he gets the magna tile back. The point is that you empowered Jordan to tackle the problem himself.

This example may seem small, but it illustrates how to create a foundation for a more crucial lifelong skill: having difficult conversations to resolve conflict.

Janey missed a project deadline at school resulting in a failing grade. You could say, “Janey, I’m going to call your teacher to get an extension. Sit down and we’ll do that project together now!” Asking for an extension is a good idea – if Janey is the one who makes the request. The teacher may or may not grant the extension, but one thing is for sure. If she doesn’t ask, the answer is already no. (Side note to state the obvious: if Janey is repeatedly missing deadlines, receiving an extension is an unlikely outcome.)

Speaking up is hard! Coaching Janey ahead of time by role-playing how the conversation could go will help her 1) build the courage to speak to her teacher, 2) articulate why she missed the deadline in the first place, and 3) be prepared to respond appropriately whether her teacher says yes or no to the extension. She may not get what she wants, but you have empowered her to at least take action towards a final solution.

Do you see the pattern? You start off holding children accountable to small actions and slowly build them up to taking bigger actions – on their own. They’re never too old to start! Whether your child is dealing with a friendship issue at school or faced with a greater problem that requires them to take a risk and possibly even fail, creating opportunities to coach them in solving their own problems enables them to communicate and advocate for themselves.

Don’t wait for a problem to arise, practice the following steps when things are going well. Create a possible scenario or review one that has happened in the past, discuss how your child could address it.

1. Identify the problem.

2. Consider the different outcomes.

3. Take action. Do you need to speak to someone or do something?

By using these steps, you’re strengthening their ability to problem solve in difficult situations because you’re providing repeated examples for your child to archive in their memories for a later date.

You’re normalizing having hard conversations and providing strategies to resolve conflict – not avoid it. The result? A child who grows up to be a confident, resilient, and independent thinker and problem solver. That’s a win for everyone!

ANNE ARUNDEL

A Giants Preschool

Edgewater, 443-764-1217

agiantspreschool.com

6 weeks–4 years

Anchors-A-Wee Preschool

Annapolis, 410-757-6556 aawpreschool.com

2 years–Pre-K

Annapolis TALS Education Program

Annapolis, 410.849.7039 Talspreschool.com

Age 3 - Grade 2

Arundel Christian School

Hanover, 410-859-8573 arundelchristianschool.org

Infants-12th grade

Asbury Community Christian Preschool and Clubhouse

Arnold, 410-757-7113 asburychristianpreschool.org

2 years-12 years

Bay Country Learning Center

Annapolis, 410-974-6700 baycountrylc.com

Infants-PreK-4

Beth Shalom Preschool

Arnold, 410-757-0552 annapolistemple.org

2 years–PreK

Bright Beginning

Children’s Learning Center

Crownsville (license #130684), 410-923-3192

Glen Burnie (license #160256), 410-768-4526

bright-beginning.com

2 years–PreK-4

Calvary Baptist Church Academy

Glen Burnie, 410-768-5324 cbcaknights.org

3 years–12th grade

Calvary Center Preschool

Annapolis, 410-268-3812 calumc.org/calvary-center-school

Calvary Center Preschool is in Annapolis, close to the heart of

town. Classes are taught by teachers with college degrees. Weekly specials: music, physical education, and chapel. Extended care options. Please call for a tour.

See our ad on page 24

Chesapeake Montessori School

Annapolis, 410-757-4740 chesapeake-montessori.com

18 months–8th grade

Colonial Nursery School

Annapolis, 410-266-8064 colonialnurseryschool.org

2 years–PreK-5

Community Christian Preschool

Pasadena, 410-255-9250 ccpspasadena.org

2 years – PreK-4

Community United Methodist Child Care Crofton, 410-451-1010 cumcdc.com

3 years–PreK-4

Creative Beginnings Preschool

Arnold, 410-647-9224

collegeparkwaybaptist.net/cbp

2 years–PreK-4

Creative Garden Nursery School and Kindergarten

Crofton, 410-721-7711

creativegardenschools.com

2 years–Kindergarten

Crofton Children’s Centre

Gambrills, 301-261-0599

croftonchildren.com

2 years–PreK-4

CrossRoads Child Development Center

Davidsonville, 410-798-5790

crossroadscdc.com

2 years-PreK-4

Edinboro Early School

Severna Park, 410-544-2476

edinboroearlyschool.org

2 years - Kindergarten

Faith Baptist Child Development Center

Glen Burnie, 410-761-9112

welcometo.faith/cdc

2 years–Kindergarten

Grace Pointe Child Development Center

Severn, 410-987-6777

gpccn.org, 6 weeks–PreK-5

Granite Baptist School

Glen Burnie, 410-761-1118 granitebaptistschool.org

3 years–12th grade

Grannie Annie’s Child Care & Learning Center

Pasadena, 410-255-0478 granniecare.com

Infants- 5th grade

Harundale Presbyterian Weekday School

Glen Burnie, 410-766-4338 Myhpws.org

3 years – PreK

Heritage Learning Center

Annapolis, 410-263-5153 preschoolannapolis.org

2 years-PreK-4

Indian Creek School

Crownsville, 410-849-5151 indiancreekschool.org

PreK 3-12th grade

$19,800 - $30,900

Indian Creek is the premier school in the Annapolis area, where kindness is currency, well-being is priority, and excellence in education is relentlessly pursued.

See our ad on inside front cover

Joy Kids Learning Center Edgewater, Mayo, 443-837-6001 joykidslearning.com

2 years–PreK-5

Keenan Christian Learning Center Pasadena, 410-544-3107 keenanchristianlearn.com

2 years–PreK-4

Key School Annapolis, 410-263-9231 keyschool.org

2.5 years–12th grade

Before & after care

Tuition Costs: $9,355-$31,980/yr

Key School engages children in a progressive, coeducational,

college-preparatory, day program on its picturesque 15-acre campus. Key emphasizes experiential learning, interdisciplinary studies and global perspectives. Key graduates are independent thinkers, creative innovators, effective collaborators, tenacious problem-solvers, and articulate leaders.

See our ad on page 4

Kiddie Academy of Arnold Arnold, 410-315-7552 kiddieacademy.com/arnold Infants–5th grade

Kneseth Israel Preschool

Annapolis 410-263-3924 x8 knesethisrael.org/pre-school.html

2 years–PreK-5

London Towne Academy

Edgewater 410-798-5128 londontowneacademy.org

3 years–Kindergarten

Magothy Cooperative Preschool

Pasadena, 410-360-0292

magothycooperative.org

2 years–PreK-4

Monsignor Slade Catholic School

Glen Burnie, 410-766-7130 msladeschool.com

2 years - 8th grade

Before & after care

$4,132 - $8,987

Our Mission: Rooted in Catholic faith and committed to academic excellence, Monsignor Slade Catholic School is dedicated to forming the whole child to know, love, and be disciples of Christ. See our ad on page 12

Montessori International Children’s House

Annapolis, 410-757-7789

montessoriinternational.org

18 months–6th grade

Naval Academy

Primary School

Annapolis, 410-757-3090

napschool.org

3 years-5th grade

Play and Learn

Annapolis, 410-263-4029

Crownsville, 410-987-3312

playandlearnmaryland.org

Infants to 5 years

Right Start Academy

Gambrills, 410-923-7575

rightstartacademy.org

2 years–5 years

Saint Andrew’s Day School

Edgewater, 410-266-0952

school.standrewsum.org

3 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition $10,160 - $14,860

Saint Andrew’s intentionally small classes allow our experienced faculty to provide an engaging classroom environment that challenges all students. Our integrated curriculum and educational foundation ensures continued academic success. See our ad on page 21

schooloftheincarnation.org

PreK 4 - 8th grade

Severn School

Arnold, 410-647-7700

severnschool.com

PreK 3 – 12th grade

Tuition: $9,260 - $31,190

Severn School is a day school

enrolling boys and girls in preschool through grade 12. The School strives to meet the needs of young learners as well as collegebound students while challenging them to realize personal excellence. Students are provided varied opportunities to demonstrate scholarship, leadership, citizenship, and sportsmanship.

See our ad on page 14

Ss. Constantine & Helen School Annapolis, 410-573-2078 sschschool.org, 3 years–PreK-4

St. Andrew by the

standrewbythebay.org

2 years–PreK-5

St. Anne’s School of Annapolis

Annapolis, 410-263-8650 st.annesschool.org

2 years–8th grade

St. John the Evangelist School

Severna Park, 410-647-2283 stjohnspschool.org

4 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $5,322 - $8,870

St. John the Evangelist School offers a stimulating, dynamic and challenging academic program in a nurturing environment. Our faculty have the knowledge, experience and love for teaching that guides and inspires every student. Contact us today to see how we merge faith, technology and academics to create good citizens and future leaders. See our ad on page 21

St. Margaret’s Day School

Annapolis, 410-757-2333

stmargaretsdayschool.org

2 years–Kindergarten

St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School

Severna Park, 410-647-7055

stmartinsmd.org

3 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $3,800 - $14,700

We are an independent school educating students from early childhood to 8th grade. At St. Martin’s, we encourage students to stretch their thinking and discover their unique potential, while learning with confidence, serving with compassion, and leading with character.

See our ad on page 8

Weems Creek Nursery School

Annapolis, 410-266-5522

weemscreeknurseryschool.com

We strive to provide a safe, playbased setting that recognizes each child’s uniqueness and inherent curiosity that develops a love of learning. Weems Creek Nursery School is your quintessential nursery school. We offer half-day programs taught by outstanding early education teachers and assistants who balance individual freedom, daily routines, and guidance. Our teachers encourage creative selfexpression, development of selfconfidence, and constructive selfdiscipline. This is what preschool was meant to be.

See our ad on page 23

Woods Child Development Center

Severna Park, 410-647-9168 woodscdc.org, 2 years–PreK-4

BALTIMORE AREA

Archdiocese of Baltimore

Catholic Schools

Baltimore, 410-547-5369 archbalt.org/schools

2 years–12 th grade

See our ad on page 25

Bryn Mawr Little School

Baltimore, 410-323-8826 brynmawrschool.org

2 months–Kindergarten

Friends School of Baltimore Baltimore, 410-649-3211 friendsbalt.org

4 years–12th grade

See our ad on page xx

The New Century School 724 S. Ann Street Baltimore, 410-929-4113 thenewcenturyschool.com

2 years - 8th grade

Before & After Care

Tuition: $15,100-$16,000

The New Century School is a recognized, independent, private school located in the Fell’s Point neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland. Our mission is to challenge students to realize their richest individual potential through progressive, multilingual education and meaningful participation in the world community.

CALVERT COUNTY

Calvert Nursery School

Prince Frederick, 410-535-0577 calvertnurseryschool.com

3 years–PreK-4

Imagine Nations Early Learning Center

Owings, 410-286-3300 imaginenationselc.com

2 years–PreK-4

HOWARD COUNTY

Columbia Academy

Columbia, Ellicott City, Fulton columbiaacademy.com 410-992-0484

Julia Brown School

Laurel, 301-498-0604 juliabrownschools.com 18 months–3rd grade

Joy in Learning

Columbia, 410-740-2999 joyinlearningchildcare.com

Infants–PreK-5

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

The Daisy Lane School at Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School

Glenn Dale, 301-464-3215 htrinity.org, 3 years–8th grade

Fairhaven School

Upper Marlboro, 301-249-8060 Fairhavenschool.com

4 years - 12th Grade

Tuition: $12,880

Grades K-12 create their own edu cational paths. Their innate desire to learn and explore flourishes. Students have full access to a beau tiful 12-acre campus with towering trees and open fields.

See our ad on page 12

Leal Angels Bilingual Child Development

Bowie, 301-850-4934 lealangels.com, 2 years–PreK-

St. Matthew’s Early Education Center

Bowie, 301-464-1813

stmatthewseec.org

2 years-Kindergarten

QUEEN ANNE’S COUNTY

Christ Episcopal Church Day School

Stevensville, 410-643-8248 cecds.org, 3 years–Pre-K

Little Lamb Preschool

Grasonville, 410-827-6022

wyebiblechurch.com

2 years-Kindergarten

Kiddie Academy of Kent Island

Stevensville, 410-643-3932 educationaldaycare. kiddieacademy.com

2 years–PreK-4

TALBOT COUNTY

Christ Church Day School

Easton, 410-822-2677

christchurchdayschool.org

2 years–PreK 4

A Journey of Impact: Tracing Dr. Bedell's Path to AACPS Leadership

A Look At Dr. Bedell’s First Year As AACPS Superintendent

by Jillian Amodio

July marks an important milestone for Dr. Mark Bedell. It has now been one full year since he accepted a four-year term as Superintendent of Anne Arundel County Public Schools. We sat down for an interview to reflect on what this year has looked like and what Anne Arundel County Public Schools can expect to see moving forward. Dark clouds rolled in as we began our interview, and an urgent weather alert blared on the radio. Thunder rumbled in the distance, and before long, lightning danced across the sky. Inside Dr. Bedell’s office, it was calm, peaceful, and welcoming. He has that effect, calmly and efficiently addressing any situation that arises.

Passion For Education

Dr. Bedell has a deeply rooted passion for education and believes that education without equity is a disservice to all. When asked where this passion began, Dr. Bedell says it’s simple. “It comes from lived experience.” He recalled when a second-grade teacher called him dumb and ugly and said he would never amount to anything. Years later, those words still sting, but from that experience, Dr. Bedell says he learned the value of having someone advocate for you and believe in your potential. He recalled another experience where a tenth-grade teacher pulled him aside, told him that he was academically talented, and encouraged him not to throw it all away just because he was mad at the world.

After that conversation, Dr. Bedell says he opened up to the teacher about all of the struggles he was facing. “That teacher, along with another history teacher of mine, both said ‘You’re going to teach one day.’ They planted the seed. That was probably the defining moment for me. My experience allows me to advocate and fight for all children. I’m relentless in that pursuit. I’m out here trying to make the best decisions that I believe will impact children. My value system is truly aligned with doing the right thing for children and not ever succumbing to a political or adult-centered agenda.”

The Path To AACPS

He began his career in 1999 as a substitute teacher in the Nashville Metro School System while earning his Masters. From there, he began teaching full-time in Houston, Texas. He then became an

assistant principal at an alternative school, followed by serving as an assistant principal, then principal in a high school setting. At that time, he says, he could apply his passion for educational equity to solving systemic problems in the educational institutions he worked for. “I turned a failing school completely around, and then I got promoted into the central office,” he says with well-earned pride. After these accomplishments, Dr. Bedell moved his family to Anne Arundel County when he was recruited to work in Baltimore County Public Schools. While he did move to Kansas City to fill the role of superintendent a short while later, the love of Maryland had its grip, and it wouldn’t be long before the Bedell family was back.

When the superintendent position opened up for AACPS, Dr. Bedell knew it was the right fit. “When we got the opportunity to come back to Anne Arundel County, we were excited. We really loved it as parents. We thought it was a high-quality school district and an awesome community to live in. By this point, we had accomplished everything we went to Kansas City to do.” During his six-year tenure in Kansas City, Dr. Bedell led the school system to full accreditation in 2022 after a 22-year absence. It was the first school system in the United States to lose its full accreditation status back in 2000.

Coming Back From COVID

Stepping into any new position will inevitably have its fair share of challenges, but coming into a new position while also trying to rebound from the implications of a global pandemic is unprecedented.

“Every superintendent who has experienced leading during COVID will tell you it’s arguably some of the worst years of our careers,” Dr. Bedell says. Besides the logistics and health

concerns, Dr. Bedell says that one of the greatest struggles that school systems have had to recover from is the division that has been created. “Whether you mask or not, whether you do virtual schooling or not, whether you do synchronous or asynchronous learning, whether you are in a community where you are Wi-Fi privileged, or if you are trying to park in parking lots somewhere so your kids can access Wi-Fi. It didn’t matter what school district you were in.” He continues, “Fifty percent of the people were going to be happy with your decisions, and fifty percent weren’t.”

Coming back from COVID, Dr. Bedell says that his goal for the county was trying to get back to a “new normal.” In some ways, Dr. Bedell says that the global pandemic was a catalyst, albeit unwelcome, to innovate how we approach public education. While AACPS is a top-ranking school system, Dr. Bedell says there is always work to be done, and he is eager to show us all just how great we can be. “When it comes to innovation, we need to restore and bring joy back to teaching and learning.”

Looking To The Future

With a full year behind him, Dr. Bedell says he and his staff have big plans to look forward to. He says that his number one goal as superintendent is to build a five-year strategic plan. He is determined to engage with the community and get their input directly.

This plan is set to be built around four main areas: equity; innovation; social emotional, and academic growth for all students; and adherence to The Blueprint For Maryland’s Future. Regarding equity, Dr. Bedell wants to ensure that every student in this county is exposed to the same opportunities for growth and development. This includes low, average, and high-achieving students.

The focus on intervention will help ensure that all students, no matter where they fall in academic performance, will be given the resources and guidance needed to continue expanding their educational goals. “Most people would think we are going to redirect resources to help only the kids who are at the bottom, assuming that that’s how we close gaps. I don’t operate like that.” He says, “I expect the top to move and I expect the bottom to move. I expect that we do what we need to do to accelerate the kids who are behind so that we are closing the gap while we are also moving the top performers as well.”

Academics are important, but Bedell says that education cannot exist in a vacuum and that tending to students’ social and emotional needs will be critical to continued growth as a school system. When looking at The Blueprint For Maryland’s Future, Dr. Bedell says that to truly measure success and forward motion, plans and assessment tools to monitor the efficacy of interventions will help ensure that the school system is actively achieving the plan’s goals. “Interventions should be prescriptive. What are we going to focus on, and how do we monitor progress? There should be no surprises by the time we get to the end of the school year if we have been actively assessing along the way. Hope is great, but you don’t leave success up to hope. I love hope! But hope is not a plan.”

Another goal, says Dr. Bedell, is to continue to inspire staff and community members. “I believe in giving people space to utilize their crafts to move our system forward. I don’t micromanage. I let everybody know about my shortcomings. I let people know that I’m not a perfect leader. And I think that inspires people because they know I am not sitting up in my office hiding and running away from problems. I am human, but I face problems head-on.” Dr.

Bedell also hopes to inspire more community involvement. While we have a quality school system, he says that it is also important to recognize that family involvement is what will propel us forward. Dr. Bedell says this is why the school system introduced the #BePresent initiative.

Redistricting

Before we ended our interview, Dr. Bedell said it was imperative that we discuss the topic of redistricting. He says that while this has been a tense topic of discussion, it is important to understand. AACPS will be moving forward with redistricting, which will be done in two phases. He says that redistricting cannot be avoided and is mandated by policy.

For those who wish to understand more about the redistricting process, Dr. Bedell encourages them to read the information that is posted on the AACPS website. “Here’s the most important part about redistricting,” says Dr. Bedell. “People need to know that this is a good problem to have. We are growing, and we have to balance the system. While it’s a good problem to have, it is not a fun process to go through. This is policy-driven, it has to be done, and there is no way around it. But this is going to be a communitydriven process. Once we balance the system, we can make sure that all kids are in an environment where teachers can give them the attention that they deserve.”

Dr. Bedell believes strongly that a school system is only as strong as the sum of its parts, and one of the most valuable parts of that system is the community as a whole. He welcomes comments and questions from families and is eager to see just how far the school system can go with a combined effort from staff, students, families, and the community.

PRIVATE SCHOOL DIRECTORY

Our comprehensive Private School Directory serves as your roadmap to finding a school that resonates with your lstudents earning style, interests, and aspirations. Every student’s academic journey is distinct, and selecting the right private school can set the stage for a successful educational experience. Our directory empowers you to explore a variety of school options, ensuring a seamless fit for your academic goals and individual preferences.

To delve deeper into each school’s offerings and make an informed choice about your education, visit ChesapeakeFamily.com/directories today. Embark on an exciting voyage to find the perfect private school that aligns with your potential and ambitions at every stage of your educational journey!

ANNE ARUNDEL

Acton Academy

Annapolis

303-909-4958

Marylandcuriositylab.org

Grades 1 - 6

Annapolis Area

Christian School

Annapolis, Severn

410-519-5300

aacsonline.org

Kindergarten–12th grade

Archbishop Spalding High School

Severn

410-969-9105

archbishopspalding.org

9th grade–12th grade

Calvary Baptist Church Academy

Glen Burnie

410-768-5324

cbcaknights.org

3 years–12th grade

Chesapeake Montessori School

Annapolis

410-757-4740

chesapeake-montessori.com

18 months–8th grade

Edinboro Early School

Severna Park

410-544-2476

edinboroearlyschool.org

2 years – Kindergarten

Indian Creek School

Crownsville

410-849-5151

indiancreekschool.org

2.9 years–12th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $19,800 - $30,900

Indian Creek is the premier school in the Annapolis area, where kindness is currency, well-being is priority, and excellence in education is relentlessly pursued.

See our ad on inside front cover

Key School

Annapolis

410-263-9231

keyschool.org

2.5 years–12th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $9,920 - $33,900

Key School engages children in a progressive, coeducational, college-preparatory, day program on its picturesque 15-acre campus. Key emphasizes experiential learning, interdisciplinary studies and global perspectives. Key graduates are independent thinkers, creative innovators, effective collaborators, tenacious problemsolvers, and articulate leaders.

See our ad on page 4

Monsignor Slade Catholic School

Glen Burnie

410-766-7130

msladeschool.com

2 years - 8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $4,132 - $8,987

Our Mission: Rooted in Catholic faith and committed to academic excellence, Monsignor Slade Catholic School is dedicated to forming the whole child to know,

love, and be disciples of Christ.

See our ad on page 12

Montessori International Children’s House

Annapolis

410-757-7789

montessoriinternational.org

18 months–6th grade

Before & after care

Naval Academy Primary School

Annapolis

410-757-3090

napschool.org

3 years-5th grade

Rockbridge Academy

Crownsville

410-923-1171

rockbridgeacademy.org

Kindergarten - 12th grade

Tuition: $7,800 - $17,800

Education is more than imparting knowledge. Rockbridge Academy is devoted to teaching students how to think critically and wisely with a Christian worldview, instilling heartfelt joy for learning, while

encouraging lives of character and leadership.

See our ad on page 27

Saint Andrew’s Day School

Edgewater

410-266-0952

school.standrewsum.org

3 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $10,160 - $14,860

Saint Andrew’s intentionally small classes allow our experienced faculty to provide an engaging classroom environment that challenges all students. Our integrated curriculum and educational foundation ensures continued academic success.See our ad on page 21

School of the Incarnation

Gambrills

410-519-2285

schooloftheincarnation.org

4 years–8th grade

Severn School

Arnold 410-647-7700

severnschool.com

PreK 3 – 12th grade

Tuition: $9,260 - $31,190

Severn School is a day school

enrolling boys and girls in preschool through grade 12. The Schoo strives to meet the needs of young learners as well as collegebound students while challenging them to realize personal excellence. Students are provided varied opportunities to demonstrate scholarship, leadership, citizenship, and sportsmanship.

See our ad on page 14

St. Anne’s School of Annapolis

Annapolis

410-263-8650

stannesschool.org

2 years–8th grade

St. John the Evangelist School

Severna Park

410-647-2283 stjohnspschool.org

4 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $5,322 - $8,870

St. John the Evangelist School offers a challenging academic program in a nurturing environment. Our faculty have the knowledge, experience, and love for teaching that guides and inspires every student. Contact us today (lfish@stjohnsp.org) to see how we merge faith, technology, and academics to create good citizens and future leaders.

See our ad on page 21

St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School

Severna Park

410-647-7055

stmartinsmd.org

3 years–8th grade

Before & after care

Tuition: $3,800 - $14,700

We are an independent school educating students from early childhood to 8th grade. At St. Martin’s, we encourage students to stretch their thinking and discover their unique potential, while learning with confidence, serving with

compassion, and leading with character. See our ad on page 8

St. Martin’s Lutheran School

Annapolis

410-269-1955

stmartinsonline.org

PreK3 - 8th grade

St. Mary’s Parish and School

Annapolis

410-990-4236, 410-990-4135

stmarysannapolis.org

PreK 4 - 12th grade

St. Paul’s Lutheran School

Glen Burnie

410-766-5790

stpaulslutheranschoolgb.org

3 years–8th grade

St. Philip Neri Catholic School

Linthicum

410-859-1212

st.philip-neri.org

4 years–8th grade

Serving bright students with dyslexia and other learning differences

Why Summit?

• Students are engaged in active multisensory learning, using researchbased teaching strategies.

• Faculty is trained to use methodologies specifically designed for students with learning differences.

• Small classes grouped by skill level allow for differentiated instruction for each student.

• Measurable outcomes are achieved through continuous progress monitoring and benchmark testing.

• Summit addresses the whole child by teaching self-advocacy, confidence, and social-emotional wellness.

• Life-changing impacts are made possible through students gaining the strategies, skills, and tools they need to succeed.

Now using the iTero Light Scanner. The iTero Scanner eliminates the mess and gagging of traditional impressions

STEVEN SIEGEL, DMD SARA BATOULI, DDS, MS

The Summit School

Edgewater

410-798-0005

thesummitschool.org

1st grade-8th grade

Tuition: See Website

The Summit School serves bright students with dyslexia and other learning differences in grades

1-8. Highly-trained teachers maximize students’ strengths and support areas of weakness through research-based instruction. Learning outcomes are monitored and measured. Impacts can be life-changing!

See our ad on page 22

BALTIMORE

Archdiocese of Baltimore

Catholic Schools

Baltimore

410-547-5369

archbalt.org/schools

2 years–12 th grade

See our ad on page 25

Baltimore School for the Arts

Baltimore

443-642-5165

bsfa.org, 9th grade–12th grade

Calvert School

Baltimore

410-243-6054 calvertschoolmd.org

Pre K - 8th grade

The Catholic High School of Baltimore

Baltimore

410-732-6200

thecatholichighschool.org

9th–12th grade

Roland Park Country School

Baltimore

410-323-5500

rpcs.org

Infant-12th grade

The New Century School

Baltimore

410-929-4113

thenewcenturyschool.com

2 years - 8th grade

Before & After Care

Tuition: $15,100-$16,000

The New Century School is a

recognized, independent, private school located in the Fell’s Point neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland. Our mission is to challenge students to realize their richest individual potential through progressive, multilingual education and meaningful participation in the world community.

The Park School of Baltimore Baltimore

410-339-7070

parkschool.net

Pre-K – Grade 12

Before & After Care

St. Paul Lutheran School Catonsville

410-747-1924

stpaulcatonsville.org/school

18 months–5th grade

CALVERT

Cardinal Hickey Academy Owings, 410-286-0404 cardinalhickeyacademy.org

Montessori PreK 3-4, Traditional Kindergarten - 8th grade

The Calverton School Huntintown

410-535-0216

calvertonschool.org

PreK 3–12th grade

Tidewater School Huntingtown 410-257-0533

thetidewaterschool.org

2.5 years–5th grade

HOWARD

Bethel Christian Academy Savage

301-725-4673

bethelchristianacademy.com

3 years–8th grade

Trinity School

Ellicott City

443-498-5040

trinityschoolmd.org

3 years-8th grade

Where Roots Grow Strong:

For 50 years, we've been nurturing growth through play and providing a safe community for young learners.

PRINCE GEORGE’S

Bishop McNamara High School

Admissions Open House

Forestville, 301-735-8401

bmhs.org, 9th–12th grade

Divine Peace Lutheran School

Upper Marlboro, Largo 301.350-4522

divinepeace.org

Kindergarten-8th Grade

DeMatha Catholic High School

Hyattsville, 240-764-2200

dematha.org

9th–12th grade

Elizabeth Seton High School

Bladensburg, 301-864-4532

setonhs.org

9th–12th grade

Fairhaven School

Upper Marlboro, MD 301-249-8060

Fairhavenschool.com

4 years - 12th Grade

Tuition: $12,880

Fairhaven School students in grades K-12 create their own educational paths. Their innate desire to learn and explore flourishes. Students have full access to a beautiful 12-acre campus with towering trees and open fields.

See our ad on page 12

Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School

Bowie, Glenn Dale, 301-464-3215 htrinity.org

3 years–8th grade

Our mission is to help students become “The Best You.” We offer strong academics and provide opportunities in visual arts, athletics, technology and help students become leaders of tomorrow.

See our ad on page 6

St. Vincent Pallotti High School

Laurel, 301-725-3228

pallottihs.org

9th–12th grade

Tuition: $20,600

St. Vincent Pallotti High School is a coeducational, Catholic, secondary, college preparatory school in the Archdiocese of Washington. Pallotti offers students the best of both worlds. We are large enough to boast a wide-ranging curricu-

lum, cutting-edge technology, and diverse extracurricular activities. We are also small enough that each student is treated as an individual, possessing unique talents and abilities. We also offer spiritually enriching retreats, service opportunities, and over 20 interscholastic sports teams.

See our ad on page 13

QUEEN ANNE’S

The Gunston School Centreville, 410-758-0620

gunston.org, 9th–12th grade

Wye River Upper School Centreville, 410-758-2922 wyeriverupperschool.org

9th–12th grade

Tuition: Please visit website Wye River engages bright students with learning differences in a challenging educational experience, preparing them for college, career, and life. Our students gain knowledge and independence through an inquiry-driven, multi-sensory, multi-modal pedagogy. To support this approach, project-based learning, outcome-based goals, and applied experiences outside of the classroom highlight our courses.

See our ad on page 24

TALBOT

The Country School Easton, 410-822-1935 countryschool.org

5 years–8th grade

Radcliffe Creek School Chestertown, 410-778-8150 radcliffecreekschool.org

5 years–8th grade

Saints Peter & Paul Parish and School Easton, 410-822-2275

ssppeaston.org

PreK-12th grade

Please visit us online for a complete directory at ChesapeakeFamily.com.

Pioneering Holistic Education and Innovation in Annapolis

New Village Academy Receives National Innovation Grant

New Village Academy, a new non-profit proposing to open a small public charter high school in Annapolis in Fall 2024, has received a prestigious national grant to foster public school innovation. NewSchools Venture Fund, a venture philanthropy, has included New Village Academy in its Launch 2024 Venture Portfolio – one of 18 new public and

charter school teams around the country showing promise in seeking to meet community needs and provide a holistic approach to student learning by expanding the definition of student success.

NewSchools bridges the gap between those with capital and those with the courage to put that capital to work on the frontlines of education, especially for student populations that have been traditionally underserved or overlooked.

New Village Academy has submitted a proposal to Anne Arundel County Public Schools to operate a charter high school in Annapolis. If approved, the school plans to begin operating in Annapolis in Fall 2024 with 150-250 young people seeking “high school done differently.”

The school’s name calls forth the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child,” and asks the community to come together to “launch all its youth into thriving careers, strong character, and active civic engagement.” The Mayor and City Council have heeded that call – offering the partnership of the City of Annapolis. The Annapolis community’s support also seems strong, with community leaders like Carl Snowden, Laura Gutierrez, Will Rowel, and Pam Brown on its Advisory Board, and Letters of Support from a broad range of community organizations and individuals. The school declares that students will use “Annapolis as their classroom.”

Members of the school’s Youth Advisory Board were at the recent

Annapolis Juneteenth Festival to let families know about the new high school option, which focuses on building student agency - the “will” and the “skill” to be ready for their future through personalized learning, community-based interdisciplinary projects, college coursework, internships, and apprenticeships. According to Youth Advisory Board member Nakiyah Lewis, currently an Annapolis High School student, “Students’ lack of interest in school has a lot to do with them not being in control of their decision-making process. Connecting to students’ personal interests will have a better outcome for their future.”

New Village Academy intends to reengage disconnected students by drawing on well-established research about what makes people willing to work hard at something, summarized in the popular book, Drive: The Surprising Truth about What Motivates Us, by Daniel Pink. Their brochure promises to meet four conditions to rebuild student enthusiasm for school - ensuring that every student is “known as a unique individual, connected to real-world learning and networks, empowered to take charge of their education and future, and accountable to meaningful quality work.”

If approved at the August 23rd AACPS Board meeting, their lottery-based enrollment process – intentionally weighted to favor students from low-income communities in Annapolis – will begin on the AAPCS website on October 1st. There will be no selective admissions– all high school students who choose the school’s approach are welcome. New Village Academy would be free to all Anne Arundel County residents as a charter school.

The purpose of the Maryland Charter School Program is to establish innovative learning opportunities to improve the education of Maryland students. New Village Academy founder Romey Pittman suggests, “Our small size will enable us to be more nimble than a larger school system and provide an incubator for new strategies to inspire and challenge students who are not thriving in larger traditional high schools.”

If approved, New Village Academy will pioneer some of the most talked-about innovations in education across the nation: a focus on work-based learning, strong advisory and relationship-building, and competency-based learning – where students are awarded credit based on their skills, not on seat time, culturally responsive curriculum, and personalized learning where students can move forward at their own pace.

The school proposes to tackle urgent needs in the Annapolis community, addressing the racial, ethnic, and economic opportunity gap, the Maryland Blueprint’s call for career and technical education pathways, and the shifting educational and workplace demands of the 21st century.

New Village Academy is in conversation with Westfield Annapolis Mall to lease space within the Mall itself, contributing to Westfield’s strategy of strengthening the Mall’s role as a community hub. This innovative location allows students to learn from the “real world” businesses and organizations in and around the Mall, and to take advantage of its location as the endpoint of many public transit routes.

Solving Problems and Making Connections

Perspective: A Modern Teen’s Guide to Overcoming Adversity

By Rebecca Kieran

There are many challenges and adversities facing teens in today’s society, many of which stem from the online world of social media. Teens often struggle to disassociate from the negativities and peer pressures that are linked to social platforms. The many fads, trends, and social identities portrayed online are often unrealistic in the real world. However, many teens hold themselves to those fake standards they see online, which can often lead to personality complexes, anxiety, or depression, among other consequences. Knowing how to navigate social media safely is so important for our youth today.

Colton (Cole) Fidelman, an 18-year-old high school senior, has figured this out for himself and even turned it into a business. Having struggled with depression and weight loss as a young adult and witnessing the harmful effects of social media firsthand, Cole has learned how to turn his challenges into positive encouragement. He has interviewed a handful of successful entrepreneurs, and with their guidance and insight, he wants to share all that he has learned with other teens. Cole has already written a book, entitled The Teenage Guide to Success, to be released in October, that outlines his many findings on teenage resources for success.

Growing up, Cole didn’t always fit in with other kids. He had unique interests and was raised with different values than most kids his age. Cole joined social media later than most of his friends in middle school, but he noticed personality shifts amongst his friends as they used more social media platforms.

“It was subtle and not all at once, but I noticed a lot of their attitudes and interests changed. Even the way they spoke to me

was different,” said Cole of his middle school friends. “I think that was my first step to noticing the impact that social media had on them. I had to change how I acted with them which became tiring and led to a divide in our friendships.”

In addition to the negative growth of social media, Cole was teased a lot as a child. He struggled with his weight and never liked the image of himself that he saw in the mirror. Cole also watched his parents go through a bitter divorce, which reflected poorly on his mental health. Cole was suffering from childhood depression as a product of the many rejections in his life. He eventually decided he wanted to make a change.

His dad encouraged him, and he eventually settled into a strict workout regimen. With much guidance and persistence, his dad kept him motivated to keep working. It took many tries and a lot of hard work to learn the discipline needed to succeed, but eventually, Cole lost 60 pounds and saw a huge boost in his confidence. He realized he was settling for good, not great. When he worked hard enough to achieve greatness, he really saw success.

“It is so important to have someone helping you. I couldn’t do it without my dad,” Cole said of his successful weight loss journey. “He held me accountable and removed immediate pleasures so I could focus on long-term success. Something internal told me to get through it. When things are super difficult in the trenches, you have to keep on going. Generating momentum is the hardest part.” Losing weight gave Cole hope, and he soon realized that his depression only lasted as long as the negative experiences. Confidence, a positive mindset, and discipline helped him overcome his obstacle. He learned that these can be applied to any field. “As long as you have a plan and a way to carry it out, anyone can

be disciplined,” he said.

In his book, Cole discusses his personal journey and those of the many successful entrepreneurs he learned from. Becoming an author is only Cole’s first step toward entrepreneurial success. Not only did he want to help others with his insight, but hopes to create a platform for himself to grow. His main passion is aerospace engineering, and wants to start his own company one day. He also talks about teens and social media. He believes that expectations are a large part of what makes platforms so unhealthy. “Social media is a plethora of expectations and ideology,” Cole said. “We see beautiful people, happy families, successful stories –you always want to be like them.”

In reality, we don’t see all the work and hardship it takes to get to those successful places in life. Social media highlights the best attributes of people. We only see what they want us to see. Setting expectations with this in mind would help teens gain a healthier perspective when using social media.

Cole utilized others whom he felt were successful and relied on their knowledge to help him grow and reciprocate success. He also learned that “it’s not about following your passion when you’re young. It’s about finding opportunities and profiting from them.” He feels that since dreams are a future achievement, it’s more important to focus on things to do in the present that can build a resume and a platform to reach those goals down the road. With big dreams of his own, Cole is passionate about working hard and sharing knowledge to help more teens achieve greatness. For more information on pre-ordering Cole’s upcoming book, visit Teenage.Guru to sign up.

Empowering & Supporting Educators

4 ways to help lighten the burden for educators

Teachers are more than leaders in their classrooms, they are leaders in the communities they serve, committed to educating the leaders of tomorrow, and their value cannot be overstated. To provide an optimal learning environment that equips their students for success, teachers often go above and beyond, sometimes at great personal expense.

In fact, an analysis by My eLearning World estimates teachers will spend an average of $820.14 out of pocket on school supplies during the 2023-24 school year, the largest

amount ever, which doesn’t include all of the hours dedicated beyond the traditional school day.

To help alleviate some of the burden, consider how parents, guardians, and community members can contribute and support the efforts of educators.

Volunteer in the Classroom

One of the easiest ways to learn what life is like in the classroom and truly understand the needs is to spend some time there helping out. Many school districts could use volunteers to assist with one-on-one tutoring, organizing library books, chaperoning field trips, speaking to classes about career paths, and more. Start by checking with your child’s teacher or calling the front office to see what opportunities might be available.

Assist with Classroom Registries

Well-equipped classrooms are essential to student success, but teachers need help to do it. To help educators reduce out-of-pocket expenses for classroom supplies, Walmart’s Classroom Registry allows teachers to create personalized lists of items they need, making it easy for the community to contribute to and support their efforts. Tailored to educators with personalized creation flow and recommended classroom items unique to each grade level – including popular items such as stationery, classroom decorations, art supplies, classroom treats, and rewards such as stickers and “edutainment” items – teachers can share their lists quickly and easily through direct links to their custom registries. Registries are also discoverable via the Walmart registry search using the teacher’s last name and state.

Work with Your Student at Home

Not all learning takes place in the classroom. In fact, you can model the importance of your child’s education at home and create good habits such as doing homework at a certain time each night, getting a good night’s rest before school and using lessons learned in the classroom during family time. Contact your child’s teacher to learn more about the lesson plan and what you can do at home to assist with your student’s education.

Attend School Board Meetings to Voice Support

Because important decisions that impact teachers are often made by those not in the classroom every day, keeping tabs on the issues impacting teachers and local school districts can help you advocate for educators if the need arises. Start by attending a few school board meetings to learn how they operate and get a handle on issues directly impacting teachers. Then make your voice heard – or run for the school board – to support policies and actions that serve teachers’ best interests.

Find customized classroom wish lists and more resources to support teachers at Walmart.com.

The Wonders Within

Exploring the Magic of DMV's Interactive Museums

Embark on a journey of wonder and discovery as we delve into the vibrant world of Washington, D.C.'s interactive museums. From immersive language experiences to espionage adventures, these captivating institutions offer a myriad of engaging exhibits and hands-on activities that ignite curiosity and spark creativity in visitors of all ages. Get ready to unleash

your imagination and dive into a world where words come alive, secrets are unveiled, and learning becomes an exciting adventure. Join us as we explore the enchanting realms of the Planet Word Museum, Spy Museum, National Children's Museum, Museum of Illusions, and the National Building Museum, where the boundaries of reality are stretched and unforgettable memories are made.

UP FOR A DAY TRIP?

Planet Word Museum

planetwordmuseum.org

The first voice-activated museum located at the historic Franklin School in Washington, D.C. Ideal for all ages, interactive galleries and exhibits bring words and language to life in all sorts of fun ways.

Spy Museum

spymuseum.org

Test your spy skills at 17 different digital and physical interactives through the Museum’s permanent exhibition. You’ll be challenged to remember your cover identity and join in undercover activities.

National Children’s Museum

Interactive exhibits and programs that explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math—and STEAM focused exhibits.

National Building Museum

nbm.org

Visitors are invited to work individually to reimagine their small-scale structures created into oversized structures using supersized foam blocks or to work in groups to design and build.

Museum of Illusions

moiwashington.com

More than 50 visual and educational exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms that are designed to tease the senses and trick the mind.

National Museum of Natural History

naturalhistory.si.edu

Engage with interactive displays that allow you to unravel the mysteries of the universe, learn about ecosystems, and more.

Take a drive to The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia is an engaging and interactive science museum that offers visitors a hands-on experience with a wide range of over 14 exhibits, encouraging active participation and exploration of scientific concepts.

Disney100: The Exhibition has arrived at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Experience 10 imaginatively themed galleries featuring moving stories, a rich musical score and intriguing behindthe-scenes glimpses into the creation of the company’s most popular characters, films, shows and attractions.

Additional Interactive Experiences here include:

Tech Studio

Fels Planatarium

Electricity

Your Brain

The Air Show

The Train Factory

Sports Zone

The Giant Heart

Sir Isaac's Loft and more!