Welcome to the Maya Academies
A National Model of Juvenile Justice
We believe that the powerful values, teaching standards and quality secondary school curriculum of the Maya Angelou PCS and the Young Adult Learning Center should be rightfully transferred to juvenile detainees in correctional settings. Maya Schools in secure settings are known as Maya Academies.
Our positive and purpose-filled approach to correctional education successfully mirrors an academically challenging school day – including creative outlets, clubs and team/relationship building activities. We keep students as positively engaged and productive as possible. Consistency in scholarship is critical in closing the achievement gap for all students who are temporary wards of the state. In doing so we transform the lives of our scholars as we support their mind, body and spirit during a temporary turbulent point in their lives.
Maya Angelou Academy @ New Beginnings
Address: 8400 River Rd, Laurel, MD 20724
Phone: (240) 366-6800Residents at New Beginnings are referred to as scholars, setting a tone of respect and high expectations when they first enter the facility. Throughout their time at New Beginnings, these scholars participate in therapeutic, level-based programming, designed to help them prepare to return to the community.
The Maya Academies believe that in order to teach effectively, we must:
- Work together to uplift student voices and talents
- Build trust with our students by keeping our word, and telling the truth – even when it’s hard!
- Dwell in the solutions, not the challenges
- Search for proven strategies wherever they exist, and share our findings as an industry leader of correctional education
- Partner collaboratively with each other, families, and communities
Helpful links for families of incarcerated youth attending one of the Maya Academies:
- What is juvenile detention?
- What are three types of juveniles?
- Who is considered an incarcerated youth?
- What is correctional education?
- How can I emotionally support my student? How can I improve my involvement during this process?
- What is the impact of youth incarceration on families, do you have suggestions?
- Where can I find legal resources about young offenders in DC or Maryland?