February 2026 marks a powerful moment in history. This year honors 100 years of Black history commemorationswhile the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary. Together, these milestones invite us to reflect on whose stories have been told, whose voices were once left out, and why learning the full history of our nation matters.

For more than 150 years, the accomplishments, leadership, and brilliance of African Americans were largely missing from history books and classrooms. In 1925, historian Dr. Carter G. Woodson helped change that by launching what began as Negro History Week, planting the seeds for what we now know as Black History Month. Over time, this important observance has become an essential part of how our nation—and the world—understands history.

At Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy, this work is deeply personal. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune was an educator, civil rights leader, and advisor to U.S. Presidents. As a trusted leader who worked closely with the White House, she used her voice to advocate for education, equity, and opportunity for all. Dr. Bethune believed that education was the most powerful tool for change, and her legacy continues to guide our school community today.

Through an IB PYP lens, Black History Month invites students to be inquirers, thinkers, and open-minded learners as they explore history, identity, and contributions across cultures. This month—and every day—we celebrate the values of diversity, persistence, and service, recognizing that America’s strength comes from a rich mosaic of people, experiences, and cultures.

As we learn, reflect, and grow together, we honor the past while empowering our students to shape a more just and inclusive future.

Despite ice-laden streets, below-freezing temperatures, and unsafe travel conditions across the region, Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy PCS successfully completed four days of virtual teaching and learning, ensuring that students and staff remained safe while instruction continued without interruption.

While some area schools were forced to fully close due to hazardous conditions, MMBDA activated a clear, organized virtual plan that allowed students to remain engaged in meaningful learning. Families received schedules, expectations, and communication in advance, and students continued participating in live classroom meetings, assignments, and instructional activities from home.

Our virtual model allowed students to continue using our internet-based ELA and Math curricula, supported by i-Ready and additional learning platforms. To ensure access for all learners, students also received work packets and structured assignments. As with in-person instruction, all assignments were required to be submitted to teachers in order for students to receive credit for completed work, reinforcing accountability and continuity of learning.

Students demonstrated creativity and engagement across grade levels. One example of this strong instructional practice was seen in Mr. Costons’ 6th grade Health class, where students were introduced to Padlet while learning about the human body. Students created Padlets to showcase their understanding of key facts and concepts, using digital tools to collaborate, organize ideas, and demonstrate learning in an interactive way.

The success of these four virtual days reflects the commitment, flexibility, and preparedness of our students, families, teachers, and staff. Even in challenging weather conditions, our community showed that learning can continue—safely, thoughtfully, and with purpose.

During virtual learning, 6th grade students focused on learning about the muscles of the human body in Health class. As an end-of-week assignment, scholars were asked to share workout and movement suggestions that support muscle health and physical fitness.

To complete this assignment, students used a digital platform called Padlet, a tool first widely used during the pandemic and one that encourages creativity, collaboration, and student voice. Padlet allows scholars to respond to a guiding question in engaging ways by posting ideas, images, and written reflections. The platform is easily accessible on laptops and cellular devices, making it an effective tool for virtual learning.

Attached to this message are the Padlet responses from the 6th grade class. It was wonderful to see the level of engagement and creativity scholars demonstrated while applying what they learned during the lesson.

We are excited to begin a new semester with updated schedules designed to support student growth and success. This semester includes longer instructional blocks for ELA and Math, along with expanded time for intervention.

Our new intervention block is called WIN — Whatever Is Needed. WIN time is dedicated to small-group, differentiated learning that meets students where they are and provides targeted support to build essential skills.

As we enter the final stretch before testing, WIN Intervention Time will serve as intentional preparation for:

• DC CAPE Reading and Math (Grades 3–8)

• DC Science (Grades 5 and 8)

During WIN, students will engage in:

• Test-prep questions aligned to DC CAPE and DC Science

• Explicit annotation strategies and skill-building activities

• Targeted instruction to close gaps in reading, math, and science

Effective WIN instruction will include:

• Small-group, guided test-taking with teacher think-alouds

• Read-alouds and shared analysis of informational texts

• Practice using released exam materials

With 47 school days remaining until DC CAPE Reading and Math testing, this schoolwide initiative will be supported by all teachers and coordinators. WIN is a critical opportunity to boost student success, growth, and proficiency by being focused, strategic, and intentional with every minute.

We look forward to a strong and successful semester together!

In addition to our updated second-semester schedule, we are excited to introduce two additional teachers to the Takoma campus!

In an effort to provide even more support for our students, Mr. Einstein Murillo and Mrs. Margaret Perakis will be joining our team this semester. Both are veteran teachers at MMBDA with extensive experience and a deep commitment to student learning.

• Mrs. Perakis will join the KGN, 1st, and 2nd grade team, supporting classroom instruction and small-group learning.

• Mr. Murillo will join the 3rd–5th grade team, providing additional Spanish and Math instruction to enhance learning opportunities for our students.

Families will receive individual introduction letters with more information about each teacher’s expertise, experience, and the unique strengths they bring to our Takoma campus.

We are thrilled to welcome them to our school community and look forward to a successful and supportive second semester!

We are excited to share that The Wharf has invited MMBDA’s Soaring Eagles Drumline and Purple Diamonds Dance Team to return for Mardi Gras 2026, following a fantastic performance in 2025!

Last year, the energy, talent, and spirit of our students helped make the celebration a huge success—and organizers are eager to welcome MMBDA back for another unforgettable parade.

Event: Mardi Gras 2026 at The Wharf
Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026
Parade Time: 3:30–4:30 PM
Event Time: 3:00–7:00 PM
Participants: Soaring Eagles Drumline & Purple Diamonds Dance Team

We are thrilled that our students continue to be recognized for their excellence and look forward to sharing more details with families soon.

🖤💜 Takoma PTO Merch Drop Is Here! 💜🖤

Takoma’s PTO is excited to share some fresh new school spirit gear with our community!
Introducing our black and purple crewneck sweatshirt—perfect for chilly days and showing your Takoma pride in style.

• Limited-time offer
• Cozy, classic crewneck
• School-spirited black & purple design

If you’re interested in purchasing, please follow the attached link for details and ordering information. Merch Link, https://my.cheddarup.com/c/bethune-gear-sales/items

Thank you for supporting the Takoma PTO—your support helps make a difference for our students.
Have an awesome afternoon!

Friday, February 13th will now be a regular school day. This adjustment is to make up for the snow day in January.

Please plan accordingly, and thank you for your flexibility as we ensure students receive the full instructional days needed for a successful semester.

We are excited to announce the launch of Saturday Academy at MMB’s Brookland campus this spring! This program is designed for selected students in grades 3–8 from both campuses.

Saturday Academy is a ten-week academic enrichment program aimed at strengthening student achievement and increasing readiness for the DC CAPE assessment. During the program, staff will lead small-group instruction using the iReady Teacher Toolbox or guide students in an enrichment special.

Applications and invitations will be sent to selected families this week. We look forward to supporting our students’ growth and success through this exciting new opportunity!