Kuumba Learning Center

Posted: July 19, 2019

I searched for a safe and nurturing educational environment for my son for quite some time. When I found Kuumba the school was exactly what I was looking for. I immediately enrolled my son in the Pre-K4 program. My son receives a well-rounded education that includes Language Arts, Science, Math, Social Studies, Geography and History. The students also study African languages, dance, drumming, sewing, and theater. I have enjoyed watching my child grow intellectually as well as in character. Everyday my son has a smile on his face when he enters school and when I pick him up. Kuumba is a real jewel in our community. Kuumba has given my son more self-confidence since he has been at the school. The experiences we have had together exploring our history and culture has been eye-opening as well as life changing.

Posted: July 19, 2019

Posted: July 19, 2019

Posted: July 19, 2019

Posted: July 19, 2019

Posted: July 19, 2019

Kuumba has changed my life as well as my children’s. Kuumba is full of love and welcomes you with open arms. They are so positive and always willing to lend a hand and help out in anyway. When I first saw the name Kuumba I had to know more. I was hooked. When we came for the interview I knew my kids had to attend. They were already so involved and committed. I had never seen my kids eagerly want to go to school. Kuumba has had a huge impact on my entire family. My daughter is opening up and growing up in to become a great young woman. My oldest son has changed completely from his unacceptable behavior at his previous school. My youngest twin had so many issues that I had no idea about and if it wasn’t for guidance from Kuumba I would have never known. Kuumba has shown me new ways to discipline, teach, care and feed my children and I am truly blessed and thankful.

Posted: May 10, 2018

Kuumba requires the students to practice IXL as homework

Posted: May 10, 2018

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Posted: May 10, 2018

Kuumba has changed my children's lives making them more confident and focused on what is important in life.

Posted: March 23, 2018

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Posted: March 23, 2018

This school is very close knit and intimate. Students are taught to treat each other like family

Posted: March 23, 2018

This school is a village, teaching community and collectivity. I am very surprised by the bully comment because I witnessed the above reviewing parent come into the school cursing and threatening staff members. She was so disrespectful that her child had to be expelled because the staff could not handle her foul language and unpredictable tantrums around the children. This school has tremendously helped me discipline my children and instill cultural pride and African centered appreciation into them. The staff are very personable and welcoming and are very passionate about behaviorial intervention. I very grateful for Kuumba.

Posted: February 14, 2018

I have never had a worse experience at a school in my life. The head of the school is a bully and harassing parents. They aren't trained in ANYTHING and can not resolve simple problems that parents come to the administration about. This school needs to be CLOSED immediately.

Posted: February 14, 2018

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Posted: August 15, 2016

If you notice all of the reviews that are good start in September anytime after the child has been there more than 6 months she started to see the unraveling of the school consistent educational turnovers inconsistent Health in the office and consistent communication with parents and consistently teaching children the children are not a great ready once they leave there any child attending the school after the 4th grade will not be able to compete

Posted: August 15, 2016

Pre-k through 3rd grade is run by some excellent teachers 4th grade and up the teachers are not educated nor are they able to teach on grade level

Posted: August 15, 2016

Even if the children are given homework is not follow through and the person teaching the child from fourth grade on up does not have a degree or experience outside of that school in education

Posted: August 15, 2016

And children do do lots of things together and they are like a family mostly because they want to protect each other

Posted: October 28, 2015

Posted: October 28, 2015

Posted: October 28, 2015

Kumba Learning Center has a 20 plus year track record of producing phenomenal minds out of the realities of stark poverty, hopelessness, and institutionalized racism in southeast Washington, DC. The leadership of this great institution is committed to the growth and well being of its scholars. The love, discipline and structure provided by the teachers and administration is clear and evident to the scholars, parents, guardians and visitors. I love Kumba Learning Center and I am grateful that this school was created for the education and uplifting of the youth of southeast Washington. The curriculum and small class structure has produced well read and creative scholars. Kumba Learning Center is the pearl of southeast and is an awesome space for children to learn!

Posted: September 19, 2015

I went in this school and witness Greatness! The children were great and most of all the teachers and staff was the best I experience in DC schools in years. Keep on empowering youth with knowledge of self!

Posted: September 19, 2015

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Posted: September 18, 2015

The School teaches the Children to Civil and Productive Citizens of society. It teaches them integrity, and community awareness. Even in the Children School creed they recite basic principals of being a Humane and responsible person in society. Even with the structure of learning how to focus and team building exercises, the Students still get the Arts, the Drumming, the Music, the Drama, the Languages and the Culture...So the Children enjoy going to school, and enjoy being around their class mates and teachers, and ENJOY LEARNING!!!

Posted: September 17, 2015

The teachers have small classrooms, and have more time for even one on one because they also get support. The teachers are very passionate about teaching and really care for these Children.

Posted: September 17, 2015

Our son loves to show off what he learned during homework time, he tells me Mommy this is Easy Peasy, and dives right in. I love the confidence the school instills in the Children :) He is doing school work a grade ahead of his age group.

Posted: September 17, 2015

Our son who is now 6 has been going here the past 3 years! Initially we had our son when he was 3 at a public charter! As a Parent you have to be Open Minded to African centered Curriculum. Being from East Africa it was important for me to find a school that teaches African History, African American History, World History, The Real American History, Native American History, the Caribbean etc.... I love that my son has small class rooms, I love how his Phenomenal teachers have him at a Excellent reading and Writing Level and their STEM program, their focus on Maths and Sciences, their Arts programs, the Positive Music and Culture they expose my son to. I love the fact he is learning how to grow his own food, how to be responsible for his community. The School cooks Vegan food everyday for the Children, has activities for parents such as Personal trainers boot camp, how to cook healthy at home! This is a Gem in South East DC....It is unfortunate we have some Parents of African Decent who find African Centered Education odd...their Children would Flourish Here just as the Rest of these Amazing Bright Children! We need more schools like this in Black communities!

Posted: July 15, 2015

Posted: July 15, 2015

Posted: July 15, 2015

The owner as well as some of the staff I have had direct contact with are often not pleasant and unprofessional. I am uncomfortable asking questions because the response is usually not given in a way that makes me feel comfortable.

Posted: July 15, 2015

Posted: February 2, 2014

the bestt i learn on a collage level and my grades inproved tremendouslyyy.the scholl prevent dumness and provotes to know thy self

Posted: January 30, 2014

My name is Mia S. and my child goes there. I do nit agree with some of the other posts because this school is great! From Mama Maja and Baba M, Jason in the admin part of the school, ansd the teachers! They are patient with those children and care VERY much and it is not fake! It shows in their actions! I say to KUUMBA to KEEP doing what you are doing! That school has has a POSITIVE impact in my daughter's life and I am hopeful that my son will be able to attend also.The vegan diet is actually the best diet for the children, especially with everything that the FDA is allowing to be put in meats! I am wondering if the people who are posting these negative comments educated on why the diet is the way that is is and that the curricullum is set up the way that it is. It is a proven fact that the public schools are failing the children that is what make KUUMBA so great because they are not like the public schools! These children are confident, intelligent, and proud!! I would DEFINITLEY reccomend this school!! KUUMBA YOU ARE DOING A GREAT JOB! I AM THANKFUL AND GRATEFUL TO ALL OF YOU for your DEVOTION in helping me guide my daughter in the right direction!!!

Posted: December 27, 2013

My child's school has small classroom sizes. The teachers at Kuumba care about the students and focus on character building. Students learn about many different cultures and languages. 90% of the staff speaks more than one language. I ate lunch with the students and noticed that mostly all the students asked for seconds. Most of the students are not vegetarians but enjoy eating the vegan lunch which is unusual but excellent to know and attests to the fact that they have one of the best cooks in the city. Teachers work with students on their level, offer extra help, and grant extensions to ensure assignments are completed thoroughly.

Posted: November 23, 2013

I happened to pick up my friends kids ,from school one day .The 1st thing I noticed was they had no books. Me being a career Teacher I just thought they were joking.Until they told me they don't use Pencils,paper, or books. HOW COULD THAT BE? Will these students be able to hang with other Public School Students on a Statewide basis. This school is doing a Disservice at this time; I do see a Great Need for Improvement in All Areas; especially from the Top Down...

Posted: November 14, 2013

Hi my name is justyce I want too right a review about kuumba learning center because I go to that school we learn about new things every day like:math literacy GK that is a private school and I think you should know that kuumba has lots of strick and nice teachers That school goes from 12months-high school. -justyce 10 years old,

Posted: November 7, 2013

I really love the family oriented setting that focuses on education and good character. The learning atmosphere is a very positive and a pleasant setting. They truly care about their students. My son comes home at tells us the great things he learns on a daily basis. My son is really hey he found Kuumba. I highly recommend.

Posted: October 30, 2013

Kuumba Learning Center develops the artist and the scholar! We love this school, it is not cookie cutter, and understands learning should interest and challenge the child and enhance their creativity. Our Son was in public school, and we are so happy we pulled him out and put him in Kuumba!

Posted: October 30, 2013

I thank Kuumba Learning Center for giving me the opportunity to work there they are working everyday to make sure their staff and children are satisfied. Their always trying to do more for the children I hope they get the help they deserve and need to go further.

Posted: October 29, 2013

Kummba is a great school because we explore the african philosophy. I have learned so much about history, forgein languages like French, Spanish, and African languages. Kuumba has a vegan diet witch has amazing food. I've been attending Kuumba for a long time and the past years has been out standing. All of the staff are very loving and generous. They teach us the Importance of education, and the value of life. The school expects an educational greatness for all their students. I love Kuumba

Posted: October 29, 2013

The school environment at Kuumba is peaceful and calm for a learner. I've experienced school environments in the past where the classroom was full of chaos most of the time. I'm more motivated now to be an excellent student. The teachers always encourage us to do our best and strive for excellence. I really enjoy the education the teachers provide me. As an African-American male I am also taught that I must be committed and be obligated to my people and community to do my best. I think when we as kids get older we will take on the knowledge they teach us to pass on to our own kids/children.

Posted: October 29, 2013

Hello my name is Frederick Johnson Sr. my son Frederick Johnson Jr. Attends Kuumba Learning Center since he's been there I've seen such and improvement in speech reading skills and interacting all together.I really love the staff there they go above in beyond for the students keep them on the right path and I would recommend them to anyone thanks an god bless

Posted: October 28, 2013

Kuumba Learning Center (KLC) gave my both of my daughters their strong academic foundation. They have both been honor roll (A) students their entire academic careers. Diamond graduated from Bowie High School in 2012 with a 4.275 GPA in the top 5% of her class. She was accepted into her dream college, Hampton University (HU). She received an academic scholarship from HU and several local scholarships totaling $60,000.00. Diamond is majoring in Broadcast Journalism and is currently doing the weather for HU's radio station WHOV 88.1. My daughter Aja graduated from Bowie High School in 2013 with a 4.275 GPA in the top 5% of her class. She was accepted into the college of her choice, Old Dominion University. She received an academic grant from Old Dominion University and several local scholarships totaling $20,000.00. Aja is majoring in Fashion Merchandising and will be the CEO an upscale boutique catering to tall women. KLC has nontraditional teaching methods. They do not allow a child s age to determine the academic challenges that they are given. The meals were nutritional, I breastfed both of my girls and KLC helped me to continue this long after returning to work.

Posted: October 21, 2013

Kuumba Learning Center is a year around, non-traditional school with a goal of developing student s as scholars and artists. At Kuumba, a brain-based learning approach is used to allow the students to connect learning to the world around them. Kuumba Learning Center follows the Common Core Standards. Varies curriculums are used interchangeably to provide students with the skills necessary to compete globally. The arts are also used to stimulate and encourage learning as the student matriculate through the rigorous curriculum. If you are looking for a small school that sets no limits on learning, Kuumba Learning Center is the school for you.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I have taught at Kuumba Learning Center for many years. Kuumba is not like most other private schools. It has a unique culture and atmosphere. The school teaches a wide variety of cultures and perspectives to the children which helps to expand the students educational experiences. Kuumba is a great school that I would recommend to any parent looking for a unique and diverse learning experience.

Posted: October 20, 2013

This school is always emphasize "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" in word and in deed. Since the very first time, I have been a part of the KLC Staff, Mama Maja already made it clear to me that I don't need to be another person. She wants me to be proud of my FILIPINO Heritage even though the school setting is 100% AFRICAN Heritage. She encourages me to wear our FILIPINIANA clothes which really makes me feel one of the very important persons in the school particularly in my PRESCHOOL CLASS. Just recently, she asked me to teach the big children (Elementary Grades) about my country, PHILIPPINES. It gives me an honor and pride to share a little of our History, Geography, and most of the common Filipino words like the greetings (Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening...Magandang Umaga/Tanghali/Gabi) respectively. Using "PO and OPO", the courteous words of saying YES." SALAMAT PO", means "THANK you". Our school is really engaging in a MULTICULTURAL learning styles which I have seen in the big children the curiosity and great enjoyment of learning my native land.

Posted: October 20, 2013

Kuumba Learning Center provides a unique blend of cultural and academic experiences. There is a structured/disciplined atmosphere that does not come at the cost of a family centered approach. I honestly think that the instructors and administrators genuinely care about their students and SE DC as a whole.

Posted: October 20, 2013

Kuumba is a very family oriented place. My daughter was easily taken in as a part of the Kuumba family. At first I wasn't sure if my daughter would be able to adjust to the vegan diet. But she made an easy transition into the diet and she just loves the vegan food! As far the education given to my daughter I just love it the teachers they have so much patience in working with my daughter. Kuumba also has programs for parents. I am currently enrolled in the parent fitness boot camp. I just love how they educate and embrace the student and the parent. I really appreciate Kuumba Learning Center. If you want the best for you child send them to Kuumba Learning Center!!!

Posted: October 20, 2013

This is the best school ever! It is like it's just made for my child. It's unique. My child enjoys coming to school NOW and she actually learns a lot about her history, how to exercise and to eat properly, and things that she wouldn't really learn at other schools. The school is so good that I have recommended other family members to attend. I love Kuumba learning center!

Posted: October 20, 2013

As viewing Kummba's site I am greatly appreciative of the work that they are doing with our children. As a grandmother I see the great work that they have done with grandson. He only 2years old and when he comes home from Kuumba he grabs books to read. He's doing really well with alphabet recognition and his motor skills. I would like to see Kuumba continue to do great work in the future. I also work for a school system I know how important it is for your children to have a head start.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I like Kuumba because of the principals they follow, like having a vegan diet and having an active lifestyle and healthy eating habits. Kuumba has a great school community that is respectful of others and parents. The kids are very respectful as well. The students learn a lot and I can see a great change in my child's development. I would recommend Kuumba to any parent looking for a school that really excels in early childhood development.

Posted: October 20, 2013

Kuumba is a great school for young Black kids. This is great opportunity for young Black kids to get a good start at learning.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I am very pleased with this school. My child's language has expanded greatly and has become very articulate for such a young age. He is learning and developing a personality and behaving well. Kuumba is a great learning experience with accredited and professional faculty and staff and has a great structured plan for each grade level. Kuumba is a great school and I would recommend it to any person looking for a unique educational experience that exposes student a wide variety of perspectives.

Posted: October 20, 2013

This school is exceptional. The staff is superb and the learning environment is a rare and unique one. From multiple world languages to embracing African History and the Arts, Kuumba is an oasis in the world of education today.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I am a proud father of a Kuumba learning Center student. I appreciate the work ethics and effort that the Kuumba family puts forth in educating my daughter.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I am a proud mother of a young reader. I have watched my daughter grow to have a love for reading at Kuumba. The environment is very family oriented. As a parent I've learned a lot about my heritage from my daughter coming home and sharing with me all that she learned. She continues to amaze her family on her level of character as a young girl. I intend for my daughter to stay at Kuumba until she reaches the highest grade that's offered.

Posted: October 20, 2013

I've had the pleasure of attending and filming a number of classes and programs at Kuumba Learning Center. For a person of African decent like myself and who is also an artist, I find it refreshing that there is an institution that intertwines both education and the arts into one learning experience. Kuumba emphasizes the African way of learning which I feel enhances children's sense of self and motivation for learning. The children are not burdened by conformity to traditional European ideologies and styles of learning that is most common in American schools. Kuumba also has and welcomes people of all nationalities who support this style of education. They have a great staff who seem to genuinely love and care for the students.

Posted: October 9, 2013

My school is Kuumba Learning Center. Since the the first day of school, I have felt very welcomed and important. We have a variety of subjects and also have a vegan diet. Anyone and everyone is welcome to come enjoy Kuumba Learning Center. I love Kuumba Learning Center!

Posted: October 8, 2013

KUUMBA LEARNING CENTER Their academics are top-notch and the teachers are excellent. One of the best parts of the school is how nurturing and close-knit the community is. The school feels safe and they are concerned about the kids health and well being.

Posted: October 7, 2013

I love Kuumba. Along with giving students a great education. They focus on teaching good character. Which is very important in today's society. I highly recommend.

Posted: September 29, 2013

Iv'e known about Kuumba Learning center for over 8 years and have always admired their unique approach to education students. I've had the opportunity on several occasions to visit them and to see first hand the work that they do, and have interacted with Staff, Students and Parents and have always received positive feedback on the important and functional and effective role that the school plays in the daily lives of children and parents by providing a challenging and stimulating curriculum that has constantly evolved over the years. I have admired their attention to details and the attention given to each student and their families, and how they have met the needs and challenges of those who use their services. I wish to commend them for their hard work, and for their Mission and delivery of that Mission. I have no hesitation in recommending them as an outstanding institution.

Posted: September 29, 2013

As an educator at the Kuumba Learning Center I can really see how much passion the teachers, faculty, and staff have for each student, their overall success as a student, and their growth as a person. As a small school, its small class sizes help to facilitate student-teacher interactions that add to Kuumba's unique overall learning experiences. From renowned guest instructors teaching African dance and drumming to field trips to local rooftop green gardens where students interact with college students from around the city, Kuumba students learn from a wide variety of methods and gain a diversity of perspectives.

Posted: August 21, 2013

I am an Alum of Kuumba Learning Center, but my time atteneding (6 grade) was great. They help to broaden my outlook on education and life. They helping me to understand my roots and created ways through theatre for the students to express themselves. I LOVE what Kuumba has help me to become today an AMBITIOUS, DEDICATED, PASSIONATE,OPTIMISTIC, STRONG MINDED INDIVIDUAL, who is a Junior in college and shriving to achieve greatness. Thank YOU KLC

Posted: August 21, 2013

My children attended Kuumba Learning Center for the summer, and all I can say is the school was amazing with my kids. They learned so much and did a lot of learning actives, My children had nothing but good things to say about camp everyday..I really wish I didn't miss the scholarship fund, because if they didn't they would be attending kuumba learning for the 2013-2014 school year. But we will see them next year for sure...Keep Up The Good Work Mama...

Posted: August 20, 2013

I love Kuumba because it emphasizes a balance between academic achievement and artistic expression. While maintaining a diverse academic environment, Kuumba pushes its students to develop their inner artist through drumming, dance, yoga, writing, step, and other activities. By encouraging this balance, Kuumba cultivates the whole student. I am proud to call myself a teacher at Kuumba because I know I am making an essential and lasting impact on our little artists and scholars!

Posted: August 19, 2013

I attended this school from the age of 18 mo to 5 yrs, and returned as a young adult to give back to this community by teaching during the in my twenties. I can say that the warm, friendly atmosphere hasn't changed over the many years that Kuumba has been around. The staff are all well-equipped and experienced, they are stellar role models, and the children are taught respect, self-confidence, and love for their rich history and culture above all else. This is also the only school in the district I am aware of that has an all-vegan diet and cultural exercises (African dance, yoga, African drums, etc,), which promotes active and healthy extracurricular activities. I would highly recommend this school to anyone. This school as a lot to offer and a lot to gain, both in regards to academia and multiculturalism. Many of my Kuumba graduating class were skipped after leaving and entering grade school. One thing to note however: Because the director is always looking to expand and improve on the free space of the children, please be aware that the infant's playground is currently being expanded, and as such will be under construction for a short time.

Posted: August 18, 2013

I am a former student and current teacher at Kuumba Learning Center. Some of my earliest memories were made at Kuumba, and the things that I learned there have continued to help me in life. I came back to teach at Kuumba because the teachers and staff there strive to provide the highest quality of education to their students. I was always encouraged to do my best, be curious and inquisitive, and learn all I could about the world while I was a student at Kuumba. Now that I am a teacher there, I am honored to be providing the same opportunities to others. Kuumba is a wonderful institution, and I am happy that I have been able to continue to be a part of it.

Posted: August 18, 2013

Working at Kuumba, I have learned a lot so far. I have learned more about African-American culture, I am learning how to speak new languages. I also love the fact that they teach the children about diversity at such a young age. I wish I had the experience to go here when I was younger, because it seems that being in a bigger class I got lost in the crowd. But at Kuumba, with its smaller class sizes, you get that one-on-one attention that you need.

Posted: April 9, 2013

My son atteded Kuumba for two years. If I didn't find new employment my son would have remained at Kuumba. Kuumba was more than a place to learn it was a 2nd home for my son. To see the facility grow from when my son attended brings us joy. I wish them much success.

Posted: September 25, 2011

My son has been attending Kuumba for the past three school years and it has been one of the best experiences of his young life. The school nourishes my son's young mind and body! It has truely been an experience for both of us as we both learn new things about the world around us! The teachers are great with the students and welcome you into their classrooms to see exactly what is being taught. Their open door policy is awesome! The ENTIRE staff is professional and I appreciate EVERYTHING they have done for my son as he grows into a scholar! We were on the waiting list to get him into this school and it was well worth the wait because I feel he now has a better chance at becoming a great young man! Kuumba keep up the good work! All of the staffs hard work in educating these students is greatly appreciated.