News Archives - The Children's Guild

Year-End Campaign to Raise $25,000 to Unlock the Power of Possibility

by | Dec 6, 2024 | News, Success Stories

During this season of giving, The Children’s Guild (TCG) is striving to advance The Power of Possibility by raising  $25,000 to enhance special education services.

“One in ten children ages 6-14 in the United States have a disability. This statistic reflects the lives of millions of children and families navigating the complexities of special needs every day. At The Children’s Guild, we believe in the power of possibility, and we are committed to serving these children and their families, celebrating their unique gifts, and meeting them where they are,” said Jenny Livelli, President and CEO of The Children’s Guild.  “While we are grateful for the support we receive, additional resources are essential to bridge the gap and go beyond appropriate care and education to provide the individualized support every child deserves.”

One story of possibility is that of Devin, a rising 7th grader who came to The Children’s Guild (TCG) after facing significant challenges in traditional schools. Diagnosed with autism at age 3, Devin struggled to find a supportive environment. When he first enrolled at his TCG school, his mother was apprehensive, noting the classroom’s “organized chaos.” However, she soon witnessed the magic of engagement and learning happening around her. With a dedicated staff and individualized approach, Devin flourished. He gained confidence, learned to express his differences, and even graduated from social therapy due to his remarkable progress.

“On Giving Tuesday and throughout the Season of Giving, your gift can make a direct impact in the classroom. Every dollar you donate helps provide tangible resources and vital support – whether it’s classroom supplies, expanded therapies, or specialized services. With your generosity, we can do even more for children and families before the new year, so they have the tools and opportunities to thrive. Your donation will directly support the work of meeting children where they are by expanding care and services tailored to their unique needs,” Livelli added.

To support The Children’s Guild and help them reach their goal of raising $25,000 visit www.childrensguild.org/possibility.

Anne Arundel County Public Schools Renews Public Contract School Status of Monarch Academy Annapolis for Next Seven Years

by | Dec 6, 2024 | Education, News

The Children’s Guild is delighted to announce the renewal of public contract status by the Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) for Monarch Academy Annapolis for the next seven years. AACPS conducts a comprehensive on-site review of each of its charter and contract schools including interviews with parents, teachers, students, school leadership, and governing board members. This renewal signifies the continued commitment of The Children’s Guild’s charter and contract schools to provide exceptional education and opportunities for its students.

“We are thrilled to receive the renewal of our public contract school status by AACPS. This acknowledgment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, students, and the broader community who support our mission of providing a high-quality education,” said Shae Johnson, Principal of Monarch Academy Annapolis. “With this renewal, we look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and innovation in education. The school remains committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential.”

“Congratulations to the Monarch Academy Annapolis who strive for high academic standards and are accountable for student performance outcomes,” explains Pat Crain, Assistant Superintendent, Educational Options and School Climate, AACPS. “Our mission is to provide parents and the community a choice by providing innovative charter and contract school opportunities for students. We are committed to accountability and autonomy while supporting these schools to produce positive outcomes for students and families of Anne Arundel County.”

Monarch Academy Annapolis is part of The Children’s Guild, founded in 1953, and focused on helping students and families find success socially, emotionally, educationally, and developmentally through special education, school-based mental health services, treatment foster care, autism services, family mental and behavioral health services, and workforce development programs.

 

Monarch Academy Annapolis Celebrates Recent Marketing Award as Lottery Enrollment Season Continues For 2025/26 School Year

by | Nov 22, 2024 | Employee's Stories, News, Success Stories

Monarch Academy Annapolis (MAA), a public contract school operated by The Children’s Guild, is still accepting lottery applications for the 2025–2026 academic year. Known for its innovative approach to education and nurturing environment, our school offers students from Anne Arundel County a unique blend of programs that inspire lifelong learning, curiosity, and global citizenship.

MAA recently won the American Marketing Association (AMA) prestigious Integrated Marketing Communications Platinum Award for their outstanding Internal Communications Campaign. The campaign’s purpose has been to amplify the school’s vision and values, encouraging collaborative support within the school and beyond into the Annapolis community, by celebrating the accomplishments of students and staff alike.

“We were thrilled to be recognized by the AMA for our efforts to promote a meaningful and connected environment with our school partner,” said Liesa Ross, Director of Marketing for The Children’s Guild. “This achievement reflects our shared commitment to enhancing communication and building a stronger, more connected community for Monarch Academy Annapolis. We are so proud of the messages we’ve been able to share together and thank everyone involved.” 

The school is especially proud of its International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme, designed to develop active, compassionate, and lifelong learners who understand and appreciate global perspectives. Other noteworthy initiatives include the Expeditionary Learning (EL Education) model, which emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning; Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) which is central to the school’s culture, with initiatives designed to help students build self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social skills as well as environmental programs, community partnerships, multicultural education, STEAM education, and more.

“Over the last two years as Principal of Monarch Academy Annapolis, I’m proud we have been able to implement effective programs, transform the school’s culture, and respond to the unique needs of every child, family and the entire community. It’s rewarding to be honored for these initiatives from the prestigious American Marketing Association, IB designation, and swelling support from the Annapolis community at large,” said Shae Johnson, Principal of Monarch Academy Annapolis. “Our dedicated team has made our school a truly special place, where we are committed to each child’s growth, happiness, and success.  We look forward to welcoming returning and new students in the coming year.”

Monarch Academy Annapolis is still accepting lottery applications for Anne Arundel County residents, with priority given to those in the Annapolis area. Monarch Academy Annapolis invites families interested in its innovative programs to apply for the 2025-26 school year.  Applications are being accepted through the Anne Arundel County Programs of Choice Charter School Program Application.   There is a waitlist for some of the grades, but all prospective students and families are invited to schedule an appointment to learn how to get their child enrolled and become part of the Monarch Academy family.  For more information or questions contact Miguel Vincente, Bilingual Student Recruitment & Family Liaison at 443-534-3987. 

Exciting New Leadership at The Children’s Guild!

by | Oct 28, 2024 | News, Our People

At The Children’s Guild, we’re thrilled to introduce two outstanding new leaders who are ready to make a profound impact on our mission to serve children and families across the Mid-Atlantic: Andrew “Andy” Simone as our new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Dawn RobertsMark as our new Managing Director of Program Operations.

For over 70 years, The Children’s Guild has been dedicated to providing innovative and compassionate services, including charter schools, special education, mental health services, treatment foster care, and much more. This commitment is about to become even stronger as Andy and Dawn bring their passion, expertise, and energy to our organization.

Andy Simone joins us with over 25 years of financial leadership experience across diverse sectors, including nonprofit, healthcare, and technology. His approach to finance is grounded in the belief that financial strategies should fully support our mission, helping us to serve children and families with integrity and purpose. “I’m honored to join a team dedicated to positive change,” Andy shares. “I look forward to aligning our financial operations with the heart of The Children’s Guild’s work.”

In his role as CFO, Andy will guide our financial strategy, leveraging his experience in corporate growth and high-functioning team development. Having led organizations through IPOs, mergers, and periods of record-setting growth, Andy is committed to ensuring our resources are managed effectively, driving The Children’s Guild’s impact forward.

Dawn RobertsMark, our new Managing Director of Program Operations, is equally passionate about our mission. With a background in education and extensive experience in teacher development, school leadership, and Restorative Practices, Dawn has a strong commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable learning environments. She believes in the power of nurturing student achievement and staff development, values that align beautifully with our work here at The Children’s Guild.

Dawn’s journey includes spearheading behavior management programs and equity coaching in Baltimore City and County schools. She is a certified Restorative Practices Trainer and has continually empowered staff to create welcoming and supportive spaces for students. Dawn says, “I am deeply inspired by the mission of The Children’s Guild and excited to join a team so dedicated to enriching children’s lives.”

Together, Andy and Dawn join an exceptional team here at The Children’s Guild, ready to amplify our impact. Their leadership will support our wide range of programs, from Monarch Academy schools to our mental health clinics, foster care services, and so much more.

As we welcome Andy and Dawn, we also celebrate the bright future ahead for The Children’s Guild, as we continue to transform lives and communities through education and care.

To learn more about our programs and how we make a difference, visit The Children’s Guild website.

TCGDC Receives Grant and Hosts Beautification Day for Students

by | Oct 8, 2024 | Education, News

On a bright September day, The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School students rolled up their sleeves for an exciting project—Beautification Day, a hands-on initiative to create a community garden on their school grounds. Thanks to a generous grant from the Scott’s GroMoreGood Grassroots Program, the students are not only helping to beautify their school but are also planting the seeds for a healthier, greener future.

TCGDC is proud to have received the GroMoreGood Grassroots Grant, a national program aimed at bringing the joy and benefits of gardening to communities across the United States. The partnership between The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation and KidsGardening provides garden grants, kits, educational curriculum, and training for youth gardens and Head Start programs. This support aligns perfectly with TCGDC’s vision of creating a safe, green space where students can thrive.

The new garden, part of the school’s Project Sunflower, is the brainchild of Molly Fleder, LMSW, Elementary Social Worker, and Horticultural Therapist at TCGDC. “We are excited to receive this grant from Scott’s GroMoreGood Program to create a new garden at our DC school,” said Fleder. “The youth in our community face many challenges due to the social and economic hardships of Washington, D.C.’s 7th and 8th wards. This grant will help provide safe, accessible green spaces, offering students opportunities for outdoor recreation, physical activity, and connecting with nature.”

The mission of Project Sunflower is to create a nurturing and inclusive environment where students can achieve their individualized educational goals while fostering social, emotional, sensory, cognitive, and imaginative growth. The garden will serve as more than just a place for plants to grow—it will become an outdoor classroom, therapy space, and hands-on learning lab for the students.

Principal Frank Medley of TCGDC expressed his pride in the students’ enthusiasm during Beautification Day. “It warms my heart that students are giving 110% and showing they really love their school,” said Medley. “In our district, a lot of students do not have any green space, so this garden represents a huge opportunity for them. After planting, students will manage the garden, water the plants, measure how high they grow, and integrate the program into their science lessons.”

The involvement of the students extends beyond planting. They will actively engage with the garden throughout the year, working with their social worker or teacher to learn about plant life cycles, pollination, and how ecosystems function. The school received donations of seedlings from the local Arboretum, including a variety of vegetables like broccoli, kale, and collard greens, as well as herbs and flowers such as rosemary, thyme, echinacea, sunflowers, and catmint. These plants not only beautify the garden but will also attract pollinators, contributing to the local ecosystem.

Therapeutic and Educational Benefits for Students

The garden will offer numerous therapeutic benefits, especially for students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs). The program supports students in achieving social and emotional milestones, including enhanced mood, self-accomplishment, and decision-making skills. For students on the Autism Spectrum or with ADHD, the sensory aspects of gardening—touching soil, seeing colors, and smelling herbs—will help with focus, endurance, and occupational therapy goals.

Cognitively, the garden encourages focus and memory retention, while discovery and imagination are nurtured as students explore the changing seasons and the life cycles of plants and animals. From watching caterpillars transform into butterflies to planting and harvesting crops, students will connect what they learn in the garden to their classroom studies.

A Holistic Approach to Education

Throughout the year, the garden will be a central part of TCGDC’s educational approach, providing a space where students can apply lessons from science, math, and even special education in real-world, hands-on activities. Weekly visits to the garden will include group therapy sessions, classroom projects, and individual therapy tailored to each student’s IEP.

As the garden grows, so will the students’ knowledge, confidence, and sense of accomplishment. The project represents a holistic approach to education—one that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit while connecting students to the natural world.

To learn more about The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School go to www.tcgdc.org

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School: A New Kind of Charter

by | Oct 8, 2024 | Education, News

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter SchoolThe Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School (TCGDC), founded by The Children’s Guild, opened its doors in Washington, D.C. in 2015 with a mission to provide a unique and personalized educational experience for every student. As we gear up for the new school year, we’re excited to reintroduce our school and highlight what makes TCGDC a standout choice for families in the District of Columbia.

A Student-Centered Approach

At TCGDC, Every Student Matters, and Every Moment Counts. Our approach is centered around the belief that education should be about more than just academics; it should be about developing caring, committed, and contributing young people who are prepared to engage in a cause bigger than themselves.

Our curriculum is designed to celebrate the unique talents of every child, offering a personalized learning environment that adapts to each student’s needs. By focusing on each student’s strengths and interests, we foster a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.

Admissions Made Easy

The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School is a tuition-free, publicly funded charter school open to all students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Our admissions process is fully online, making it convenient for families to apply and join our community. We welcome all students, without the need for testing or screening, ensuring that every child can benefit from our innovative educational programs.

Apply Now for the 2024–2025 School Year!

For more information, connect with our Admissions Team:

Meal Programs and Free Transportation

TCGDC is committed to supporting our students’ well-being in and out of the classroom. We offer three different types of transportation options to ensure all students can attend school without barriers:

  • School Bus Transportation: Convenient and reliable for students in all grades
  • Special OSSE Bus Transportation: Tailored for children with special needs to ensure safe and comfortable travel
  • Bus Cards for Metro Public Transportation: Free Metro bus cards for students who prefer using public transportation

We are also proud participants in the National School Breakfast Program, the National School Lunch Program, and the After-School Snack Program. Our school is part of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), which means all meals are free of charge for every student.

Meal Programs Include:

  • Breakfast: Offered in the classroom during in-person learning
  • Lunch: Served in the cafeteria
  • After-School Snacks: Provided as part of our extended day program

Additionally, TCGDC participates in the Fresh Food and Vegetable Program (FFVP), providing students with access to fresh produce and nutritious meals daily.

A Family-Oriented School

TCGDC stands out as a family-oriented school that serves students in grades K-8. We provide rigorous and supportive settings for all students, from general education to self-contained special education. Our broad-spectrum approach allows families to educate all K-8 students in one school, making us a truly unique educational option in the District.

Best Practices in Education

The Children’s Guild combines the most effective educational and behavioral practices to create a unique hybrid model that defines our schools. Our educational model is built on five foundational practices:

  1. TEACCH Structures: Developed at the University of North Carolina, these structures provide a framework for supporting students with autism and related disorders, ensuring an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
  2. Project-Based Learning: We integrate strategies and tools that engage students in real-world problems, encouraging critical thinking and collaboration.
  3. Character Development: Our multi-dimensional approach emphasizes the development of strong character traits, helping students become responsible and ethical members of their communities.
  4. Arts Integration: We believe in the power of the arts to enhance academic rigor. By integrating arts into our curriculum, we support students in expressing their creativity and understanding complex concepts.
  5. Diagnostic and Evaluation Center: Our state-of-the-art center uses highly skilled professionals to identify the programs and services each student needs to reach their optimal academic potential.

Join Us at TCGDC

As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain committed to providing an exceptional educational experience for every student. We invite new and returning families to join us for the 2024–2025 school year and become part of our vibrant school community.

Together, let’s inspire a love for learning and prepare our students to make a positive impact on the world.

Connect With Us Today!

Visit our website or contact our Admissions Team to learn more about how The Children’s Guild DC Public Charter School can be the right fit for your family. Don’t forget to follow us on social media @TCGDC on Instagram, Facebook,  X, and  The Children’s Guild YouTube. We look forward to welcoming you!

The Children’s Guild District of Columbia Public Charter School

2146 24th Place NE
Washington, DC 20018

202.774.5442

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]