Maya Angelou Academy at the DC Department of Corrections
The Maya Angelou Academy @ DC Jail (MAA) is an alternative school for young adults remanded to DC Department of Corrections (DOC) custody. This alternative school, made possible through a partnership between the DC Department of Corrections and the Maya Angelou Schools/See Forever Foundation, enables eligible incarcerated men and women between the ages of 18 and 22 who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to access a free, restorative, high-quality education and pursue their high school diplomas.
About the Partnership
Launched in October 2021, the partnership operates within both DOC facilities and is staffed by certified educators, classroom aides, counselors, and support personnel. Instruction takes place in a dedicated educational unit at the Correctional Treatment Facility (CTF). For students who cannot leave their assigned housing units due to security or classification, teachers deliver instruction directly on the unit.
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Serves both men and women
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Classes are offered five days a week
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Academic calendar spans approximately 190 instructional days, with additional supports available year-round
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Courses include core academics, literacy, math, elective enrichment, and tutoring support through partners such as the Petey Green Program
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Students also have access to programs like Free Minds Book Club and other enrichment services
Eligibility
Residents are enrolled in MAA@DCJ if they meet the following criteria:
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Ages 18–22
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Previously enrollled in DC Public Schools or a DC public charter school
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Have a current Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
Service Impact
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Since its launch, the program has steadily expanded access and outcomes for incarcerated students.
|
Fiscal Year |
Number of Students Enrolled | Number of Students Earned Diplomas | Percent of Students Who Earned Credit Towards a Diploma |
|---|---|---|---|
| FY22 | 72 | 13 | 100% |
| FY23 | 79 | 6 | 100% |
| FY24 | 119 | 13 | 100% |
| FY25 | 103 | 28 | 100% |
| Total | 373 | 60 | 100% |
Post-Graduation Support
Graduating scholars receive guidance in planning for:
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Postsecondary education
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Employment and workforce credentials
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Continuing education through Maya programs (including the Young Adult Learning Center)
For residents who transition to the Federal Bureau of Prisons mid-enrollment, staff coordinate academic records and connect students to appropriate educational services to support continuity.
Partnerships & Enrichment
MAA@DCJ collaborates with organizations that expand learning and engagement, including:
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Free Minds Book Club
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Petey Greene Program
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Additional enrichment and Career and Technical Education offerings through the Maya Angelou network
Contact & Referrals
For enrollment inquiries or student support, the attorneys representing eligible/enrolled residents or parents/guardians may contact program staff:
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Jason McCrady, DOC Education Program Manager - [email protected]
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Russell Waller, MAA@DCJ Principal - [email protected]
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Shanon Redman, MAA@DCJ Assistant Principal - [email protected]