MAFI BOUCLE

At Maya Angelou French Immersion, the safety and well-being of our students are our top priorities. Recently, we have observed unsafe drop-off and pick-up practices, including cars stopping away from the curb, children exiting on the driver’s side, and parents leaving vehicles unattended. These actions not only slow down the process but also increase the risk of accidents.

To keep everyone safe and ensure a smooth, efficient flow of traffic, please remember:

• Pull up to the curbside before allowing students to exit.

• Have students exit on the passenger (right) side only.

• Do not leave your car unattended in the carpool lane.

• Ensure students are ready to exit with backpacks and belongings before entering the circle.

  • Last-minute grooming or organizing in the carpool lane delays others and creates unsafe conditions.

• If you need to enter the building, park in a designated space and walk safely on the sidewalk.

Thank you for doing your part to keep our arrival and dismissal times safe, efficient, and positive for all. Together, we make every day at MAFI start and end with excellence!

On September 18, 2025, we reviewed students’ rights and responsibilities with all students. To keep families informed, we have attached:

• The presentation reviewed with students

• The PGCPS Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook [English, Spanish]

• The Publicity Release Form for media release.

Please review these documents and complete the Electronic Acknowledgement Form.

Thank you for your prompt attention to this important process.

The application window for Immersion program testing is now open and will close on March 13, 2026. Please review the important information below to ensure your child is ready:

• Online Application: Each student candidate must complete an online application by March 13, 2026. Apply here: PGCPS Immersion Program Application.

• Testing Window: Testing will occur between April and June 2026.

• Student ID Requirement: Students must have a PGCPS Student Identification number before taking the test. More information on registering can be found on the PGCPS website.

• Testing Availability: If there are no available seats at your assigned school or grade, testing will not occur.

• Lottery Process: If more students pass the test than available seats, a lottery will determine placement for all eligible candidates.

• Eligibility: Students must demonstrate:

  • Language proficiency equivalent to the grade level they are seeking.

  • English proficiency suitable for the grade level.

• Assigned Schools: Immersion school placement is determined by boundary/address. To see your child’s assigned French or Spanish Immersion school, visit SchoolFinder and scroll to the bottom of the page.

Be sure to submit your application before March 13, 2026, to give your child the opportunity for testing and placement.

On Friday, October 10, 2025, students and staff gathered in the gymnasium to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, honoring the rich cultural traditions and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. This celebration is part of our school’s commitment to multiculturalism and the diversity of cultures, which are central to our language immersion program and International Baccalaureate curriculum.

The event was led by our Coordinator of Multiculturalism, Mme. Owona, and supported by Mme. Martinez and Mme. Padilla, who have been strong advocates for parent involvement and cultural engagement. Students actively participated in showcasing Hispanic heritage through song, dance, poetry, music, and food, creating a joyful and immersive experience for the entire school community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all students, staff, and parents who contributed to making this celebration a success. Your energy, creativity, and dedication help Maya Angelou French Immersion honor diversity and foster a welcoming environment where every culture is celebrated.

On September 24, 2024, we are honored to have welcomed Consul Générale Caroline Monvoisin from the French Embassy of France and her team to the Maya Angelou French Immersion IB World School (MAFI).

The visit included a meet-and-greet with stakeholders from the PGCPS Immersion Office, International Baccalaureate Programs, Area 2 Office, Human Resources, and our dedicated PTSA and parents.

Our student ambassadors and the 8th grade chorus set the stage with hospitality and excellence, while scholars in grades 4–8 impressed with a thoughtful Q&A session. Classroom visits further showcased the daily commitment of our teachers and staff to rigorous and culturally relevant instruction within a global context.

This visit was a powerful acknowledgment of the unique work at MAFI, where our French Immersion, International Baccalaureate, and Talented and Gifted programs come together to build a vibrant, inclusive, and multiliterate community.

We extend heartfelt thanks to our students, staff, families, and partners for embodying our theme, “Élevons l’excellence” (Elevating Excellence). Together, we continue to develop globally minded learners, leaders, and citizens.

Dr. Oates and our staff recently led an exciting field trip to the rodeo for students in grades 4 through 8. Students enjoyed a full day of thrilling rodeo events and hands-on learning about the sport’s history and culture. We are grateful to the three wonderful parent volunteers who helped make the trip safe, smooth, and fun for everyone. It was truly a memorable day filled with laughter, learning, and school spirit!

On Monday, October 6, 2025, we hosted a PSAT 8/9 meeting for 8th grade parents to discuss test preparation, what the test covers, and specialty school opportunities. If you were unable to attend, the presentation is linked above. To support student preparation, PSAT 8/9 practice problems for Math 8 and Reading 8 are being incorporated into daily lessons, morning announcements, and lunch activities. Thank you to Dr. Tracy Oates and Dr. Michele Robinson for hosting this informative event and supporting our students’ success!

Starting October 20, 2025, we’re excited to roll out a Comprehensive Recess Plan designed to make recess safe, structured, and engaging for all students! Recess isn’t just play—it’s essential for physical health, social-emotional growth, and building positive behaviors. Here's what’s changing:

What’s New?

• Designated Play Zones by Class: Reduces crowding and promotes safer play

• Expanded Activities: From jump rope and flag football to dance zones and quiet spaces

• Enhanced Supervision: More adults, clearer zones, and real-time communication tools

• Positive Behavior Focus: Using SOAR expectations and ClassDojo points to reinforce safe, respectful behavior

Zone Highlights

Each grade will rotate weekly through exciting play areas like:

• SEL Play & Quiet Zones

• Dance Zones & Relay Courses

• Kickball, Flag Football, Jump Rope, and more!
  Indoor options (like the gym and Eagle’s Nest) available when needed.

Who’s Watching?

Supervision teams include:

• Fully released teachers

• Rotating homeroom teachers

• Parent volunteers

• Admin floaters for extra support

Each adult is assigned to a specific zone, with clear communication tools and safety protocols in place.

Behavior & Rewards

Our SOAR expectations—Safe, Organized, Accountable, Responsible—will guide all recess behavior. Students can earn ClassDojo points in real time to unlock individual and class rewards!

Why It Matters

This plan will lead to:

• Fewer behavior incidents

• More student engagement

• Consistent expectations and adult presence

• A fun, positive environment for every child

Principal

Email: kenneth.barrie@pgcps.org
Website:https://www.pgcps.org/schools/maya-angelou-french-immersion
Location: 2000 Callaway Street, Temple Hills, MD 20748
Phone: (301) 702-3950