Friendship aspire stem academy stem academy
at bowie
school design
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math School (STEM) in a Project based environment
Grades
K-5 Elementary with K-1 in Year 1 and growing a grade each year
Class size
Small school design with max enrollment at 5th grade will be 480 students
Innovative and uniquely maryland
We understand what Maryland parents want:
The benefits of an exclusive STEM academy in a tuition-free public school.
We’re offering it.
A STEM education in earlier grades.
We’re providing it.
Extended hours, after-school programming, SPED, tutoring and mentoring.
We’re providing it.
For children to learn with new technologies and innovations like Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Coding and Robotics.
Our entire school model includes it.
For children to be apart of local and global communities.
Our curriculum is designed around it.
WE’RE BUILDING SOMETHING EXCITING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES
We’re building a new state-of-the-art STEM school entirely from the ground up! Our new facility IS PLANNED TO OPEN AUGUST 2025 AT THE SOUTHLAKE DEVELOPMENT AT HIGHWAYS 301 AND 214 IN BOWIE.
Our Temporary Location
For now, we will be excited to welcome you to our temporary location! Opening this August!
Temporary Location: (Opening Aug 2024)
9010 Frank Tippett Road
Upper Marlboro, MD
*Please note: (this is the former Excellence Christian Academy)
WHY CHOOSE A STEM SCHOOL
STEM education nurtures students’ curiosity and helps them develop creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This project-based way of teaching and learning emphasizes how students learn and what they are learning. It also allows students to understand and appreciate the relevance of their work and the world around them.
- PBL accentuates the student’s ownership of learning, provides a purposeful collaborative structure to learning together, uses authentic problems of practice using STEM, enhances engagement in and acquisition of learning goals, and improves cognitive and affective outcomes.
Most importantly, PBL can help good students show increases in knowledge, but it can also help students who have struggled with failing skills.
About Project Based Learning (PBL)
- When implementing Project Based Learning (PBL) in STEM, students face authentic and motivating problems requiring them to answer complex questions and develop successful skills needed in the professional world within their community.
Project-based learning in STEM allows new modalities of work practices, focusing the teaching process on learning, allowing students to have greater control of the time and pace of study, and allowing them to create individualized learning adjusted to their needs.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR SCHOOL
What is the name of the new school?
The name of our new school is Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie. Our website is: www.friendshipaspiremd.org
Where is the new school located?
The school will be temporarily located at 9010 Frank Tippet Road in Upper Marlboro. Our main permanent site will be located at Southlake in Bowie.
When will the new school open?
Friendship Aspire STEM Academy is scheduled to open its doors in August of 2024 at the above temporary location. Specific dates and details will be communicated closer to the opening. Our permanent location at Southlake will open in August of 2025.
What will the school hours be?
The daily school hours for Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie will be from 8 AM to 2:30 PM.
What is the school calendar?
Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie will follow the Prince George’s County Public School calendar.
Will transportation be offered?
At Friendship Aspire STEM Academy, we are committed to ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality education, including reliable transportation services. As part of our commitment to meeting the needs of our families, transportation will be offered based on need.
In July, Friendship will conduct a survey to gather information from families regarding their transportation needs. This survey will help us determine the demand for transportation services and ensure that we can accommodate all students who require assistance getting to-and-from school.
What about school uniforms?
Parents will have the ability to purchase student uniforms for their children via a secure 3rd party website. The exact pricing and web address is forthcoming and will be communicated directly to enrolled families.
What will the curriculum include for students in grades K – 1?
Our inaugural Kindergarten and 1st grade students will be taught (but not limited to) the following: English, mathematics, social studies, science, STEM and Project Based Learning, Music Arts & Physical Education
Will there be before-and-after-school programs?
Friendship Aspire also specializes in before and after-school programs. However, before deciding their availability, we will conduct surveys to gauge parent interest. Those surveys will be sent directly to enrolled parents.
What grades will the new school accommodate?
At Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie, we are excited to announce our strategic approach to growth, emphasizing quality education and personalized learning experiences for our students. Our school will deploy a slow growth model, ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining high standards of academic excellence.
Initially, Friendship Aspire STEM Academy will focus on serving students in Kindergarten and 1st grade. We believe this intentional focus on foundational years will lay a strong academic and social-emotional groundwork for our students, setting them up for success in their educational journey.
By gradually expanding our grade levels, we can provide a seamless transition for both students and educators, fostering a supportive learning environment where every child can thrive.
What is the curriculum and educational approach of the new school?
At Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie, we offer a comprehensive curriculum. Our educational approach focuses on STEM and Project Based Learning together with the regular core subjects.
STEM Education:
Our STEM-focused curriculum integrates principles from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into all aspects of learning. Through inquiry-based instruction and real-world applications, students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills essential for success in today’s STEM-driven industries. From exploring scientific phenomena to designing innovative solutions to complex challenges, students are actively engaged in authentic learning experiences that spark curiosity and creativity.
Project Based Learning (PBL):
Project Based Learning is at the heart of our instructional approach, empowering students to take ownership of their learning through meaningful, interdisciplinary projects. In PBL, students tackle authentic, real-world problems and inquiries, applying their knowledge and skills to propose solutions and create tangible outcomes. By working collaboratively, conducting research, and presenting their findings, students develop essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, preparing them for future academic and career endeavors.
Are there any extracurricular activities or programs offered at the new school?
Yes, we offer a range of extracurricular activities and programs to enhance students’ holistic development. Details about specific offerings will soon be available on our website and communicated to enrolled families.
How can I stay up-to-date on news and announcements about the new school?
To stay informed about the latest news, announcements, and events related to Friendship Aspire STEM Academy Bowie, please Subscribe to our regular emails by visiting our website (via the popup on the homepage) or send us your information at info@friendshipaspiremd.org.