***PLEASE SEE THE NEW BEGINNINGS 2015-2016 CALENDAR*** Download Calendar Here
New Beginnings has received a Certificate of FULL APPROVAL on the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) Specialized Education Nonpublic Schools and Programs List! Certificates of Approval (COA) are issued to nonpublic schools and programs that meet federal and state standards and are regularly monitored to ensure the educational needs of DC students are supported by highly trained professionals in safe, learning environments.
At New Beginnings Vocational Program, we offer powerful and effective solutions to the educational and developmental challenges of students with special needs and learning disabilities.
Our mission is to be Washington, D.C.’s go-to provider of special education and vocational services for students age 13 to 21. Our certified and licensed staff teaches hands-on programs in a wide range of academic, vocational and life skills subjects. We nurture and instill in students self-sufficiency, transition skills, entrepreneurship and professionalism (S.T.E.P.) that encourages their achievement of personal goals beyond the program.
Founded in 2007 by Donte Davis, New Beginnings has helped more than 150 students realize their potential and pursue their dreams.
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New Beginnings offers specialized, expert instruction to meet the needs of each student. We custom-designed the school building with small classrooms, workshops and simulated real work environments—such as a hair salon and auto shop—to enhance students’ experience.
Class sizes are small to ensure a low student-to-teacher ratio to help students stay engaged and learn better. Our caring staff gives students the right amount of stimulation and personal attention while accommodating their individual learning needs.
Students are supported in every way, but also challenged to do their very best. Every student has support from a staff mentor as well as partners like Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
Students receive an education based on state standards as well as vocational training that targets their interests and prepares them to become certified or licensed for their chosen career field. All of our students graduate with a high school diploma, GED or certificate of completion.
But New Beginnings doesn’t stop there…
When students graduate, they receive individual transition assistance, including help with job interviews, job placement, securing housing and other services. Each young person can continue getting our support for one year after they leave the school, to help them successfully transition to the working world.
New Beginnings offers a comprehensive range of courses, including:
Our unique educational environment is designed specifically for special needs students. The children who come to New Beginnings receive specialized, expert instruction, and they leave with the academic or vocational and life skills they need to succeed. New Beginnings provides a comprehensive and focused solution—one that embraces students’ interests, talents and needs—and gives them the best chance to develop and fulfill the very best in their potential both academically and in life.
Our school gives those who represent, counsel or advocate for D.C.’s special needs youth and their families an alternative solution:
The D.C. Public School System covers all school funding, so there is no fee to apply for admission or to attend the school. New Beginnings does require an application process, which we will help you complete.
Prospective students who are considered most likely to benefit from enrollment are scheduled for a campus visit and interview. This is the final and most influential step in the admissions decision making process. Prospective students spend an entire day in the program interacting with peers and staff, and have the opportunity to convey their choice to attend New Beginnings.
We will make a final admissions decision within 24 hours of the interview and notify all involved parties of the outcome.
How high can your student go? How much can your student achieve? Learn how!