|

|

About

our
school

Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. 

Malcolm x

|

Hello

A letter from our Head of School

Dear Parents,


You have discovered a remarkable place. Maryland International Day School is a nurturing community where everyone is easily recognizable as partners in helping children to experience excellence in their learning. MIDS is not just a school, but a diverse learning community.


The mission of MIDS informs our actions and shapes our expectations. While academic excellence across curricula resides at the center of school life, the integrated role of the arts, language learning and life skills are within a tight orbit. Our teaching and learning practices focus on helping students make connections within themes, units of study and across academic disciplines. MIDS is one the few schools in the United States to implement a full Spanish-Immersion language program to primary English-Speakers.


At MIDS we are deeply committed to ensuring that our children are prepared for this ever-changing world of ours which requires intellectual dexterity, independent thinking, social agility and responsibility as well as uncompromising character. Just as we strive to continually grow a rigorous curriculum with the flexibility to adapt to changing needs, we are committed to a program of study that challenges our students to be truly fine people and productive global citizens.


The MIDS learning experience is unique and very special. Students are nurtured, nudged and equipped to soar well beyond our doors. I invite you to visit us and learn more about the MIDS influence and how we are preparing tomorrow’s ambassadors, today.


Sincerely,



Dr. Esther Donawa


our mission

At MIDS, we're preparing tomorrow's ambassadors today.

Our mission is to inspire and empower students to become lifelong learners and responsible global citizens in an interconnected and diverse world.

In pursuit of our mission, we are committed to:


  • Delivering excellent immersion education that cultivates fluency in Spanish.
  • Offering exceptional English instruction tailored to both native and non-native speakers.
  • Providing a challenging, relevant, and thoughtfully designed curriculum rooted in international education systems.
  • Exceeding state and national standards in all areas of education.
  • Creating an intellectually, culturally, and ethnically diverse environment where differences are recognized, celebrated, and nurtured.
  • Building a safe and inclusive space where students, teachers, and staff of all backgrounds and languages feel valued and motivated.
  • Instilling a deep appreciation for the relationship between culture and language.
  • Fostering respect for the inherent value and dignity of all human beings.
  • Encouraging students to engage in service to their local and global communities.
  • Cultivating a learning community defined by support, care, and collaboration.


THE MIDS VISION

To provide an outstanding education that is both intellectually and personally challenging while embracing an international approach to people, knowledge, values, and skills.

To achieve this vision, we strive to:


  • Deliver exceptional K-8 education with a strong emphasis on second-language fluency, cross-cultural understanding, and international relations.
  • Ensure affordability and accessibility to all families.
  • Maintain a diverse student body across ethnic, socio-economic, and cultural lines.
  • Employ and support a team of highly qualified, motivated, and talented educators.
  • Offer services that promote cross-cultural understanding within the broader community.
  • Develop partnerships and collaborative relationships with other international and language immersion schools nationwide and globally.

our history

The Maryland International Day School was created to fill an unmet need in Prince George’s County for families seeking to enroll their children in early foreign language program. MIDS provides an academically rigorous international education in a stimulating and nurturing environment.


Founded by Esther Donawa in 2001, MIDS is modeled after the Washington International School which was founded by Dr. Dorothy Goodman in 1966 with three pre-school children. Dr. Goodman was also a founding board member at MIDS. The school was intended to meet the educational needs of children who live in the community, and continues to evolve into a treasured resource and community asset.


From the beginning, the vision of MIDS was clear. Informed by scientific research on the capacity of the human brain to acquire multiple languages – especially in the early years – and on models of proven success. Founders envisioned a school where students completing the program would be proficient in at least two languages. A challenging and comprehensive curriculum was established based on a synthesis of the best practices from a range of national systems, and international schools.


Native language teachers were selected from the international community such as Mexico and the Dominican Republic and on September 10, 2001, the school opened its doors in the Education Wing of the Oxon Hill United Methodist Church in Oxon Hill, Maryland. The school is currently located at 10900 Indian Head Hwy in Fort Washington, Maryland.


FAQs

Choosing the right school for your child is a critical decision that shapes their future. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from prospective parents. If you have a question not listed here, please feel free to reach out to us.

  • Where do MIDS graduates go?

    MIDS eighth-grade graduates are accepted into some of the most prominent independent, private, and public high schools in the DMV area. Our Head of School works closely with families to ensure each graduate is placed in a school that aligns with their social intelligence, learning style, and aspirations. Over the years, MIDS has built strong relationships with ongoing schools, and Directors of Admissions consistently express admiration for MIDS graduates.



  • How will MIDS communicate with me about my child’s progress?

    Parents meet with their child’s homeroom teacher for parent-teacher conferences twice a year. Additionally, in-depth report cards are provided at the end of each quarter, detailing progress across various competencies, skills, and characteristics. Teachers frequently communicate with families via email and phone calls, and parents are welcome to request meetings to discuss their child’s progress as needed.



  • What makes MIDS unique?

    MIDS stands out as the only independent Spanish-immersion school in Prince George’s County. Our diverse faculty, hailing from around the world, encourages children to lead and explore. Students also have opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, fostering a global perspective uncommon in elementary education.


    MIDS is deeply committed to equity, diversity, and community, creating a warm, respectful environment where every family feels a sense of belonging. We value children as leaders and view parents as partners in this meaningful journey toward adolescence.

  • What is the student-to-teacher ratio?

    Research shows that smaller student-to-teacher ratios contribute significantly to educational success. MIDS maintains the following maximum ratios:


    4- and 5-year-olds: 7:1

    Elementary classrooms: 8:1

    Middle school: 15 students per teacher

  • What are the school day hours?

    Drop-off begins: 8:30 a.m.

    School day starts: 9:00 a.m.


    Dismissal:

    Pre-K students: 2:30 p.m.

    All other students: 4:00 p.m.


  • Does MIDS offer aftercare?

    Yes, we provide Before and Aftercare Programs, billed daily:


    Morning care: 8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.

    Aftercare: 4:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.


    We also offer after-school activities, such as robotics, music, and sports, for an additional fee.



  • What is the difference between an independent and private school?

    While often used interchangeably, the terms have distinct meanings:


    Independent School: Governed by an independent board and funded entirely through tuition, donations, and other revenue sources.


    Private School: Often affiliated with and partially funded by another entity, such as a church, synagogue, mosque, or for-profit organization.


    MIDS is an independent school.

  • What is the ethnic background of MIDS students?

    MIDS was founded as a model of diversity, with 80–90% of students being students of color in any given year.

  • Does MIDS have a dress code or require uniforms?

    Yes, students are required to wear uniforms. After admission, parents will receive all necessary details to purchase uniforms.



  • How can I be involved as a parent?

    Parent involvement is highly valued at MIDS. Families are required to complete 30 MIDS Hours each school year, engaging in various volunteer opportunities. MIDS provides numerous ways for parents to actively support the school community throughout the year.



Still have a question?

We're here to help.