Briya Public Charter School

Briya is an amazing organization. Its leadership, staff, students, and mission are inspiring. I have come to know the organization through a volunteer consulting engagement, and Briya has been a huge source of inspiration for me. It is so much more than a public charter school. It is a community, a safe haven, that encourages personal development and empowers its community to reach its full potential.
Based on a culturally sensitive family literacy model, about ¾ of students are immigrant mothers who have an opportunity to learn English/​literacy, computer skills, and parenting skills. It is founded on a model that parents, especially mothers, are a child’s most important teacher: reading together, learning about choice, planning for the future, advocating for student needs. By also providing exceptional care for infants and toddlers, mothers are motivated to join the learning program and can earn a CDA certification.
Services are free to students. Briya has a charter through DC Public Charter Schools, but has actually existed for over 18 years and has been a national model for education. It is also co-​located with Mary’s Center that provides comprehensive health and human services.
If you can volunteer in DC, volunteer here. If you can provide financial support, provide it here. If you know someone who may be eligible, tell them to apply.