The Foundation Schools

Our mission is to provide a highly specialized educational and therapeutic program for students identified with emotional disabilities, as well as those with social, emotional and learning challenges, preparing them to be lifelong learners. Our vision is "All Students Experience Success." The Foundations Schools' Core Values provide a strong foundation for our programs, inform our decisions and guide our staff and students daily. Our core values are: Teamwork, Work Ethic, Integrity, Respect and Leadership (TWIRL). For almost 50 years, The Foundation Schools’ mix of academic support and therapeutic services has given thousands of students another chance to reach their full potential. The Foundation Schools was founded in 1975 by Dr. John Meeks who believed that, “the work of children and adolescents was school.” The schools were based in the area’s leading inpatient psychiatric hospitals until 1993 when The Foundation Schools became separate day schools. Today, The Foundation Schools serve more than 300 students in the Washington metropolitan area in grades K-12 with emotional disabilities and autism at three schools located in Prince George’s and Montgomery Counties. The Foundation Schools is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education and the Office of the State Superintendent of Education in the District of Columbia.

The Foundation Schools' focus is improving outcomes for all students by providing an integrated approach addressing each student’s unique academic, behavioral and social/emotional needs in a safe and supportive learning environment. The Foundation Schools believes that every student has their own story to tell and journey to travel, and our incredible staff provides them with the tools and guidance to do so. From transitioning back to the public schools, to graduating high school, to college and career exploration, the students of The Foundation Schools demonstrate they can discover success in their futures and inspire us all.

Student volunteers can help us with achieving our goals by participating in school cleaning and beautification events. Volunteers may be asked to complete projects such as (but not limited to) painting murals or quotes on hallway and/or classroom walls, assisting with the assembly of classroom and school furniture, cleaning and/or decorating the outdoor basketball court area, cataloging and sorting of school supplies, and cataloging and sorting of donations. Volunteers will only be utilized on non-school days and will be under the supervision of school staff.