Frequently Asked Questions
Academic Program & Curriculum
What curriculum does Creative Minds International use?
Creative Minds uses globally recognized International Curricula developed by the International Curriculum Association to meet diverse learning needs and promote a global perspective. Specifically, we use the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC), the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), and the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). These curricula incorporate international projects and arts-based approaches to foster an understanding of one’s nationality and culture while encouraging respect and appreciation for other cultures. Our curriculum carefully aligns with Common Core Standards for English and math to ensure students meet essential academic benchmarks while enjoying a rich, globally informed education.
What enrichment classes does Creative Minds International offer?
Our students enjoy a comprehensive weekly enrichment program that includes art, music, physical education, Spanish, and Mandarin. In addition, our curricula place a unique emphasis on arts integration to support and enhance learning; by tapping into students’ visual, kinesthetic, and auditory strengths, arts-based lessons deeply engage students and foster creativity alongside academic growth.
Are there extracurricular activities available?
Yes, Creative Minds International offers a range of extracurricular activities through a partnership with Flex, our before- and after-school provider, which provides fee-based enrichment opportunities for ages 3 to 14. These may include yoga, mindfulness, chess, piano, and artistic drawing. In addition, we offer free Creative Clubs exclusively for middle school students, with options like soccer, basketball, flag football, cheer/dance, debate, Girls Who Code, yearbook club, student government, Glow (Girls Leading Others Wisely), and the One World Club.
Does Creative Minds International offer other languages? Is it an immersion program?
While we don’t offer a full language immersion program, all our students are exposed to Spanish and Mandarin through weekly enrichment classes. This regular exposure helps students build foundational language skills and develop cultural awareness.
Does the school have resources and programs to support students with special needs?
Yes, Creative Minds International is committed to supporting students with special needs. We provide a range of services tailored to individual learning needs, including dedicated support staff, personalized learning plans, and accommodations for diverse learning profiles. Our team works closely with families to ensure students receive the support and resources needed for a positive educational experience.
What is the average class size?
Creative Minds intentionally maintains small class sizes to foster close teacher-student relationships and individualized attention. Our average class size is designed to enhance learning outcomes and classroom engagement; please get in touch with us directly for our latest class size information, as it may vary slightly by grade level.
Does Creative Minds International have a feeder high school?
Creative Minds does not have an official feeder high school. However, our students transition successfully to various public, charter, and private high schools. Creative Minds graduates enroll at  Archbishop Carroll High School, Benjamin Banneker High School, Bases, Charles Herbert Flowers High, Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School, and DC International. To support families during this process, our teachers and counselors work closely with students and their families to identify appropriate high school options and assist with applications.
Logistics & Day-to-Day Operations
What is the school’s daily schedule, and is there a before and aftercare program?
Our school day for PreK3 through fourth-grade students runs from 8:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and for fifth through eighth-grade students, it runs from 8:45 a.m. to 3:40 p.m. Through our partner Flex, we offer a fee for both before-care and after-care for all grades. The before-care program operates from 7:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m., and the after-care program runs from the end of the school day until 6:00 p.m.
Does the school provide transportation, or are there arrangements for carpools?
We do not provide school bus transportation. We encourage families to connect through our school community networks to arrange shared transportation solutions.
Does Creative Minds International have a meal program that accommodates dietary restrictions?
Yes, Creative Minds partners with Top Spanish, a local minority-owned catering company, to provide healthy meals for our students. We offer free breakfast to all students every morning, and lunch is available at free, reduced, or full price based on each family’s financial status. Our meal program accommodates dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, dairy-free, and gluten-free options. Please get in touch with us if your child has specific requirements.
Is the school moving to a different location?
At this time, we are not moving. We appreciate the safety, accessibility, and beauty of our current site, but we are aware that we are reaching our space limits. We are exploring the possibility of a long-term move. Given the challenges of securing and developing a new space in the District, this process could take four to five years. We are committed to informing our community as we explore potential new locations.
Can families use the playground on weekends?
Yes, families can access our large, natural playground for weekend playdates through our Family Engagement team. Families interested in scheduling on-site playdates are encouraged to coordinate with the Family Engagement team to arrange a time.