Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings formerly Oak Hill

The Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings is a specialized educational facility located within the New Beginnings Youth Development Center in Laurel, Maryland. Operated in partnership with the District of Columbia’s Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services (DYRS), the academy provides a structured, therapeutic, and rigorous academic environment specifically designed for youth who are involved in the juvenile justice system. The school is committed to restorative justice and personalized learning, aiming to provide students with the high-quality education necessary to successfully reintegrate into their communities upon release.

The curriculum at Maya Angelou Academy emphasizes both traditional academics and life-skills development, incorporating small class sizes and individualized instruction to meet the unique needs of its students. By integrating trauma-informed teaching practices with a focus on literacy, numeracy, and vocational training, the academy seeks to break the cycle of recidivism. The school serves as a vital bridge for its students, striving to empower them with the educational credentials and emotional stability required to pursue post-secondary education or meaningful employment.