7 Shocking Ways Imagine Foundations At Morningside Is Redefining K-8 Education For The 2025-2026 School Year
The educational landscape is constantly shifting, but few schools have embraced innovation and real-world preparation quite like Imagine Foundations at Morningside. Located in Morningside, Maryland, this tuition-free, open-enrollment public charter school has been a beacon of progressive K-8 education since its founding in 2010. Its unique approach, centered on a restorative environment and a powerful student-led MicroSociety model, is setting a new standard for how young scholars are equipped for future success, making it a highly sought-after option for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.
As of today, December 22, 2025, the school continues to build on its foundation of academic rigor and character development. The core mission is not just to teach subjects but to establish a restorative environment where all stakeholders live out the school’s Shared Values, ensuring every student can "imagine a picture of success, plan action steps, and achieve their goals." This deep commitment to both academic and social-emotional learning is what truly sets it apart from traditional public school settings in the Prince George's County Public Schools District (PGCPS).
The Complete Profile of Imagine Foundations at Morningside
Imagine Foundations at Morningside (IFAM) operates as a public charter school, meaning it is tuition-free and open to all students, but it is managed independently under the umbrella of Imagine Schools, a prominent charter management organization. This structure allows the school to implement unique and innovative educational models that might not be possible in a standard district school.
- School Type: Public Charter School (Open-Enrollment, Tuition-Free)
- Location: Morningside, Maryland
- Grades Served: K-8 (Kindergarten through Eighth Grade)
- Founding Year: 2010
- Management: Imagine Schools (Charter Management Organization)
- Core Mission: To establish a restorative environment and equip scholars with the skills to succeed through a rigorous, character-based curriculum.
- District Ranking: Ranked 43rd among 136 ranked elementary schools in the PGCPS District (as of 2025 data).
The Governing Board: Leadership and Oversight
The school’s direction and adherence to its charter are overseen by a dedicated Governing Board (Board of Managers). Their commitment ensures the school maintains its rigorous standards and unique educational focus. Key members providing essential oversight include:
- Levonia Wiggins Jr.
- Ebonnie Clark
- Ivan Douglas
- Dr. Angela Glymph
- Nolan Boseman
- Thaviny Shaipitisiri
1. The MicroSociety Model: A Real-World Economy in the Classroom
The most compelling and unique feature of IFAM is its integration of the MicroSociety Model. This is not just an extracurricular activity; it is a fundamental, transformative component of the student experience. Rooted in the belief that students learn best when their education feels meaningful and connected to the real world, the model transforms the school environment into a vibrant, student-led society.
For one period each day, classrooms become businesses, government agencies, and cultural institutions. Students take on real-world roles—they are entrepreneurs, bankers, civil servants, and journalists. They earn a currency, pay taxes, and elect leaders, such as the "Morningside Mayor," creating a fully functioning, miniature economy.
Seven MicroSociety Strands
The entire system is structured around Seven MicroSociety Strands, each intentionally designed to connect societal activity and real-world application to the academic curriculum. This hands-on, experiential learning is crucial for developing 21st-century skills like financial literacy, civic responsibility, and collaboration.
2. The Dual-Pillar Curriculum: Common Core Meets Core Knowledge
While the MicroSociety provides the practical, real-world context, the academic foundation is robust and carefully selected. IFAM’s curriculum is built upon two powerful pillars: the state-mandated Common Core standards and the content-rich Core Knowledge framework. This combination ensures students receive both the necessary skills and the broad body of knowledge required for academic advancement.
The staff at Imagine Foundations at Morningside utilize a variety of instructional programs to meet these high standards, ensuring a diverse and engaging learning experience across all grade levels.
3. Academic Rigor: The Power of Eureka Math and Balanced Literacy
The school employs specific, research-based programs for its core subjects, demonstrating a commitment to structured, effective instruction:
- Mathematics: IFAM has adopted Eureka Math, a highly-regarded, comprehensive curriculum that focuses on deep conceptual understanding and procedural fluency. This program is instrumental in helping students not just memorize formulas but truly grasp the *why* behind mathematical principles.
- Reading and Language Arts: Reading is taught using the Balanced Literacy approach. This method combines phonics, whole language, and guided reading to create proficient readers. The specific programs used are Journeys for students in K-5 and Collections for students in grades 6-8.
This academic framework ensures that scholars are not only prepared for standardized testing—a historical challenge for many charter schools—but are also equipped with the critical thinking and communication skills necessary for high school and beyond.
4. Cultivating Character Through Shared Values and a Restorative Environment
Imagine Foundations at Morningside places a strong emphasis on character development, which is woven into the fabric of the school culture. The school’s mission is fundamentally tied to creating a Restorative Environment. This approach focuses on building strong relationships, resolving conflicts peacefully, and holding students accountable in a way that promotes learning and growth, rather than simply punishment.
The school’s Shared Values serve as the moral compass for the entire community. These values guide interactions between students, teachers, and parents, fostering a supportive and positive atmosphere that has been praised by parents who have seen significant growth in their children over the years.
5. Beyond the Bell: Comprehensive Before and After School Programs
Recognizing the needs of working families and the importance of continued enrichment, IFAM partners with providers like Innovation Learning to offer comprehensive before and after school programs. These programs are designed to extend the learning day in a fun, engaging, and safe environment.
The focus is on discovery and innovation, providing opportunities for students to engage in activities that encourage critical thinking and exploration outside of the core curriculum. This holistic approach ensures that the learning journey continues seamlessly from the classroom to the extended day program.
6. The Open-Enrollment Advantage and the 2025-2026 Lottery
As a public charter school, IFAM operates on an open-enrollment basis, meaning it accepts all applicants regardless of previous academic performance or background. Enrollment is typically determined through a lottery system when the number of applications exceeds the available seats. The high interest in the school, evidenced by discussions and lottery notifications for the 2025-2026 school year, underscores its growing reputation as a top-tier educational option in Prince George's County.
7. A Strong Community Focus in Morningside, Maryland
Imagine Foundations at Morningside is deeply embedded in the local Morningside, Maryland community. Its success is a testament to the strong partnership between the school, the Governing Board, and the families it serves. By providing a tuition-free, high-quality K-8 education that combines academic rigor with real-world application (the MicroSociety), IFAM is not just educating students; it is actively shaping future civic leaders and entrepreneurs, ensuring a positive impact on the community for years to come.
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