Your free digital guide to all things Annapolis and surrounding areas. Our quarterly magazine is chock-full of information about Annapolis this spring. Including outdoor dining, the NEW Annapolis Blues FC Women's team, and features 200+ local businesses!
The Motherlode VOLUME 2 / ISSUE NO. 2 | APRIL 2025 QUARTERLY MAGAZINE
Your Home School Resource Guide
Annapolis Blues Women's Team - Everything you need to know!
Comprehensive Outdoor Dining List!
APRIL 2025 | 1
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2 | THE MOTHERLODE
Letter From the Publisher
CELEBRATE
The Motherlode articles are always written about two months before the magazine is published. So, as I’m preparing for this magazine issue on a 34-degree day in February, I realize just how much I love springtime in Annapolis. The winter months can feel long for a community as eventful as ours. For many of us, daylight saving time and the warmth of spring can’t come soon enough! As I read through the article titles for this issue of The Motherlode , I couldn’t stop smiling. Articles about gardening with kids, pickleball in Anne Arundel County, how to get into sailing, and celebrating May Day reminded me just how lucky we are to live in this incredible area. We celebrate so many things—Bands in the Sand, Paca Girlfriends, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Pride Parade, and more—during the spring. We love our parades and festivals, and this season will surely increase that sentiment! Perhaps our love for spring is rooted in our love for celebrating and spending time with one another. So here’s to a season of celebration and cherishing everything our community has to offer. Let’s all get out there and do our part to uplift Annapolis and make it better every day!
Photo courtesy of DANIE Photography
Lisa Peri, MSW, Founder & Publisher
APRIL 2025 | 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
6 ...............Home & Retail 20 ............Education 36 ............Sports 40 ............Cover Story 46 ............Entertainment 58 ............Community 72 .............Health & Beauty 84 ............Food & Dining
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The Motherlode Part of Annapolis Moms Media Group | Volume 2 Issue 2 | April 2025
Strength Through Community
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The Motherlode ™ is published quarterly by Annapolis Moms Media LLC™ (AMM) and locally printed. The Mother of All Summer Camp Guides™ is published annually and updated regularly. Reproduction without express permission is strictly prohibited in whole or in part. Any opinions expressed by writers and advertisers are not necessarily opinions of the Publisher or the publication. The information provided is subject to change with or without notice. AMM makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. It is your responsibility to verify and investigate providers and services. AMM does not purport to be a substitute for health, legal, financial or any other professional advice. In no event will AMM, its employees, or contractors be liable for any loss or damage, including, without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from the information provided in this publication. Total print and/or digital circulation is estimated at 40,000 quarterly. Annapolis Moms is a woman-owned local media company established in 2011 that employs and contracts local Annapolitans and our neighbors in Anne Arundel County and surrounding areas. All rights reserved. © Annapolis Moms Media LLC 2025
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HOME & RETAIL
Photo Credit: Danielle Lawrance of DANIE Photography
6 | THE MOTHERLODE
Parenting in Style: Spring Wardrobe Staples by Gianna Nucci
Put away the puffer coats and snow boots because spring has finally arrived! Spring is a wonderful transitional season that allows you to integrate fresh colors, layered looks, and clothing stored for the winter back into your outfits. As a personal stylist, here are the top items I recommend you check off your shopping list as you step into the new season in style. LIGHTWEIGHT JACKET Although we’re not quite done with jackets, we can definitely say goodbye to the bulky styles. Some of my favorite spring jacket options include a classic trench coat, a quilted puffer, a leather moto, a denim jacket, and a structured blazer. I also recommend having a raincoat in your closet for those spring shower days. I tend to have a mix of these styles in my closet but try to opt for one that truly fits your aesthetic and aligns with most of your outfits. For example, if your wardrobe leans more classic, a trench coat would be a better choice than a leather motorcycle jacket. Local pick: South Moon Under LOAFER A loafer is the perfect transition shoe between a boot and a sandal. While I love a good sneaker, a loafer adds a touch of formality to an outfit, giving it a more polished look. If a loafer doesn’t match your style, try the trending ballet flat or a slip-on mule. Aside from a sneaker, a good flat shoe will pair with everything from pants to dresses, providing maximum versatility in your closet. Local pick: Wrabyn
BASIC TOPS Like the fall season, spring is a great time to dress in layers given the varying range of temperatures. You can avoid feeling stuck when styling looks by having basic wardrobe items like quality t-shirts and tank tops to wear under sweaters and light jackets. Local pick: Anthropologie KNITWEAR
Photo courtesy Amy Jackson of fashionjackson.com
Lightweight sweaters and cardigans are great to have on hand for spring. Not only are they essential to keeping you warm during those breezy days, but they can also be thrown over your shoulders or wrapped around your waist to add some dimension to your look. This is a fun way to create a more stylized look while having something on hand to wrap yourself in when those winds pick up. Local pick: tyler böe DRESSES Dresses for spring? Groundbreaking. You’ve most likely been dressing in separates during the colder months, so now’s a great time to break out the one-and-done pieces. A dress is an effortless piece you can wear alone or layer under sweaters and jackets. They also style well with a variety of shoes—boots, flats, and sneakers—giving you plenty of outfit options. Local pick: 3 Sisters DENIM A quality pair of jeans is a great anchor to outfits in any season. However, spring is a fun time to try a new trend that piques your interest. Try incorporating lighter washes and whites back into your outfits as we embrace the more
vibrant colors of the season. Local pick: Mason-Mayes
Spring is a season of newness and a breath of fresh air after winter has passed. It’s a wonderful time to reassess your wardrobe to ensure it’s supporting your lifestyle, feels authentic, and enables you to feel confident every day.
Photo courtesy Jessica Camerata of anindigoday.com
Photo courtesy Kat Jamieson of withlovefromkat.com
APRIL 2025 | 7
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APRIL 2025 | 9
Make Every Day Earth Day: Backyard Composting – A Simple Step for a Healthier Planet
by Janet Buck Johnson
• Water – Moisture, like a wrung-out sponge, keeps microorganisms active. • Air – Turning the components prevents anaerobic, smelly conditions. Dennison recommends a 3:1 or 2:1 brown-to-green ratio. “Adjust as you observe your compost pile,” Dennison advised. While the right balance helps compost break down efficiently, Laura Kelm, an environmental scientist and "lazy composter," doesn’t worry about ratios. “I just put it all in,” she said. “It may not break down as fast as someone paying close attention, but for me, it's mainly about keeping food scraps out of the trash.” BENEFITS OF COMPOSTING Dennison and Kelm emphasize composting's environmental benefits. Beyond soil enrichment, it significantly reduces waste. “Instead of sending scraps to landfills, where they create methane, composting repurposes them,” Dennison explained. Other benefits: • Healthier Soil – improves structure, moisture retention, and microbial diversity • Less Need for Chemical Fertilizers – acts as a slow- release natural fertilizer • Lower Trash Volume – reduces landfill waste • Environmental Impact – cuts greenhouse gas emissions GETTING STARTED WITH COMPOSTING Starting is simpler than most think. “You don’t need fancy equipment—just the right mix of materials,” Dennison said. She suggests considering these factors: • Location – Pick a spot convenient for regular use. If your bin is too far, you’ll use it less. Also check your HOA guidelines before starting. • Available Materials – No trees? Use shredded paper (non-glossy), cardboard (no wax, tape, or glue), plant stalks, twigs, sawdust, or wood chips. Coffee drinkers can add used grounds for nitrogen. • Compost Bin or Pile? – Piles, bins, and tumblers all work. Dennison prefers ground-based bins for better microbial activity.
As Earth Day approaches, seek simple ways to reduce waste and help the planet. One of the most impactful is backyard composting. Join the Composting Workshop at Quiet Waters Park on Saturday, April 26, for a live demonstration at noon on the Wildwood Trail. Learn how to turn food scraps into nutrient-rich soil and reduce waste. Can’t make it? No worries—this guide covers all the basics to get you started at home. WHAT IS COMPOSTING? Composting breaks down organic materials into a nutrient- rich soil amendment. Pam Dennison, Master Gardener and certified Master Composter, has taught composting workshops in Anne Arundel County since 2009. “Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi do most of the work, breaking down material with oxygen and moisture,” she explained. The final product is dark, crumbly, and pH- neutral, perfect for enriching soil. Compost requires four key ingredients: • Carbon (browns) – Leaves, shredded paper, cardboard, and even dryer lint provide structure and energy. • Nitrogen (greens) – Fruit, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and fresh grass clippings add nutrients.
10 | THE MOTHERLODE
• Turning the Pile – Speeds up decomposition. Turn at least monthly; twice a month is better. • Vermicomposting – If you live in an apartment, consider worm composting. Red wiggler worms break down food scraps, producing excellent fertilizer. WHAT TO AVOID While simple, composting has a few don’ts: • No Meat, Dairy, Fats, or Animal Waste – Attracts pests and creates odors. • No Chemically Treated Grass – Herbicides and pesticides can harm plants. • No Diseased or Invasive Plants – Spreads pathogens or takes over the pile. • Avoid Anaerobic Conditions – Neglected piles turn smelly. Turn regularly for aeration. • No Fireplace or Charcoal Ash – Wood ash alters pH and charcoal ash contains chemicals.
Keeping the pile moist and aerated deters unwanted visitors. “Dry piles attract skinks and sometimes snakes, so moisture is key,” Dennison warned. LOCAL COMPOSTING RESOURCES In Anne Arundel County, the local recycling office provides free compost bins to residents. Composting workshops at Quiet Waters Park begin in April, coinciding with Earth Day. The University of Maryland’s Home & Garden Information Center also offers online guides on composting. Whether improving your garden, reducing waste, or trying something new, composting is a rewarding habit. “Don’t be intimidated….Start small and don’t overthink it,” Kelm advised. As Dennison reminds us, “It doesn’t have to be perfect—just start, and nature will do the rest.” Source(s): Traunfeld, Jon. 2024. “How to Make Compost at Home.” University of Maryland Extension. https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-make- compost-home/
APRIL 2025 | 11
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12 | THE MOTHERLODE
Gardening with Kids: Cultivating Responsible Veggie-Eating Nature Lovers
by Janet Buck Johnson
With kids glued to screens more than ever, getting them outside can feel like a challenge. Earth Day is the perfect excuse to swap tablets for trowels and introduce them to the magic of gardening. Beyond being a fun activity, working with plants teaches patience, responsibility, and an appreciation for the environment—all while letting them play in the dirt. “Being outside, whether digging in the soil or just exploring, teaches our kids so many important lessons that may not be possible through traditional learning,” said Hayley Bush, marketing manager at Homestead Gardens in Severna Park. Christy Little, a master gardener and owner of A Little Farm and Nursery, also believes reconnecting kids with nature is important. “We’ve lost a lot of that with kids—getting outside and doing things with their hands,” she explains. “This lets them get messy, feel the earth between their fingers, and see life happen right in front of them.” MORE THAN JUST PLANTS Whether tending to a backyard garden or a few potted herbs, kids quickly learn that plants need attention— regular watering, weeding, and care—to thrive. This sense of responsibility can carry over into other areas of life. Patience is another big lesson. A tomato does not ripen overnight, and flowers do not bloom on command. Watching tiny sprouts push through the soil helps children understand that good things can take time. Gardening also nurtures environmental stewardship. Bush emphasizes the deep connection between people and plants. “No matter what your gardening project is, whether it’s planting seeds or cutting flowers, children are learning about the resources the earth provides when we partner with it, and how we need plants and they need us,” she explained. Working with plants also encourages curiosity about larger environmental issues. By developing an interest in nature, kids will be more motivated to explore how plants contribute to the economy, climate change, habitats, weather, and other important issues.
GETTING KIDS EXCITED TO GROW Introducing children to gardening does not have to be complicated. Bush suggests starting with projects that hold their attention. For toddlers, something simple like painting a pot and planting a petunia can spark excitement. For children ages 5 to 12, Bush recommends planting three to five native perennials, shrubs, or trees to create a mini sanctuary for butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. “Even if space is limited, native plants in pots can still bring in pollinators,” she noted. “Once they see their first hummingbird, they will be hooked!” At Little’s nursery, one of the most popular activities is planting strawberries in special jars. She noted that the kids are often eager for the strawberries to grow and ripen. Little recalls a young boy who initially showed no interest in plants—until she pointed out the caterpillars on a dill plant. “At first, he didn’t care, but after watching them turn into butterflies, he was [invested],” she said. “The next year, he came back to check on the dill plants again.” According to Bush, research has shown that children who take part in growing vegetables are more likely to eat them. For older kids, she suggests growing food they actually like to eat such as pumpkins, carrots, potatoes, green beans, and strawberries.
APRIL 2025 | 13
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Gardener Program has a Just For Kids section with helpful tips. At the end of the day, it is not just about growing plants—it is about growing curiosity and awareness, and cultivating a love for nature and the environment all while providing a chance to connect with your child through a shared passion.
PLANTING THE SEEDS FOR THE FUTURE Many independent nurseries and garden centers, like Homestead Gardens and A Little Farm and Nursery, run workshops and activities designed to spark children's interest in gardening. Online resources, such as KidsGardening.org, provides craft ideas and project inspiration, while the Anne Arundel County Master
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16 | THE MOTHERLODE
Mother’s and Father’s Day Guide: Top Requested Gifts and Where to Buy Them
by Jillian Amodio, LMSW
With Mother’s Day and Father’s Day just around the corner, we did a deep dive into the most requested gifts from moms and dads. Whether your parents are the sentimental type, the practical type, the adventurous type, or anything in between, we’ve created a list of categories sure to please the mother and father figures in your life, or maybe just to give you some ideas on what you should be asking for on your big day. Recent polls and data from various surveys in 2023 and 2024 show that for many consumers, quality time wins out over tangible gifts more often than not when it comes to celebrating mom and dad. For those who love to give or receive heartfelt (or practical) items, other popular gifts include clothing, electronics, books, tools, jewelry, and flowers! Annapolis Moms Facebook polls and posts, as well as consumer surveys, have provided an array of opportunities to make sure you get and give what is really wanted this year! Check out our categories below featuring local businesses to help make this year’s holidays extra special.
• *Blue Crab Cupcakes • The Cottage • Park Books • Severna Park Flowers and Gifts • Sweethearts Patisserie • Wildflower Stem and Sundry • Wyrd Books See the spas listed under services for skincare items and gift sets. Wearables Wearing something special that a loved one gifted is a great way to carry the sentiment wherever you go. Birthstone jewelry, handwriting jewelry (like Pandora’s custom in-store engravable line), custom sweatshirts and tees as well as athletic wear are popular items.
Top Gifts For Moms Handmade/Sentimental Items
Handmade gifts, especially those made by their children, are highly requested by moms. This includes handmade cards, baked goods, poems, stories, drawings, dinners, crafts, and beaded jewelry. Sentimental items such as framed photos and digital photo frames are also popular requests. Local suggestions: • ArtFarm • Artsy Partsy
• Blended Essentials • Pic N Paint Pottery • Providence of Maryland Pottery Studio • Taste Buds Kitchen Indulgent
Local suggestions: • NautiTown Design & Embroidery • Kendra Scott • Stellaluna Raine Boutique • Whimsicality • Zachary’s Jewelers
Many moms love to receive indulgent items like beautiful floral arrangements, good books, mouth-watering meals, a nice bottle of wine, bath products, and skincare sets. Local suggestions:
• *BD Provisions • Blooms Florist
APRIL 2025 | 17
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Services Services such as a day at the spa, a massage, a facial, or a mani and pedi are frequently requested and gifted. House cleaning services, car detailing, and family photo packages are also high on the list. Local suggestions: • *Even Keel Wellness • Great American Car Wash • *ProMD Health
• Severna Park Golf Center • Terrapin Adventures • Top Golf • Crofton Go Kart Raceway Services Car detailing and carwash memberships are two popular service gifts appreciated by dads. Local suggestions: • APC Detailing Equipment Many dads say you can’t go wrong with a practical gift. Grills are one of the most popular purchases around Father’s Day. Other popular items include outdoor equipment, golf equipment, tools, fishing gear, and pocket knives. Local suggestions: • Golfdom • Pro Shop at Severna Park Golf Center • Ski Haus Annapolis No matter what you ask for, or what you give this Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, remember that the best gifts are the ones given with love. Happy celebrating!
• *The Robert Andrew Salon & Spa Collection • *Synergy Bodywork, Massage & Skin Care • The Point Aesthetic • *Varuna Salon and Spa • *Wow Your Closet • *Youthful Obsession Experiences
Many moms want to experience the fun and adventurous opportunities that life has to offer. Frequently requested experiences include day trips, classes or workshops, brunch cruises, a day at a winery, and an indulgent night away at a hotel to catch up on sleep and relaxation. Local suggestions: • *Ballet Theatre of Maryland • *Rams Head On Stage • Maryland Hall • Great Frogs Winery • *Watermark Journey (They have a Mother’s Day Cruise!) • Naptown Tiki Club Top Gifts For Dads Experiences Many dads enjoy a day of excitement as well. Local breweries, distillery tours,
and historical outings are top contenders. Playing at a golf driving range, fishing charters, power boat classes, go-karting, sailing lessons, and hiking are also high on the list. Local suggestions:
• Annapolis School of Seamanship • Broken Hammer Forge (Enjoy blacksmithing and knife-making classes!) • Chesapeake Boating Academy • *DodgeArrows Annapolis
Sources: “Father’s day 2024: Popular gifts, average spending and origins.” The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/international/us/fathers-day-2024- popular-gifts-average-spending-and-origins/articleshow/111027158.cms?from=mdr “Mother’s Day 2024 is all about the classics”. NRF. (n.d.). https://nrf.com/blog/mothers- day-2024-all-about-classics
APRIL 2025 | 19
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EDUCATION
20 | THE MOTHERLODE Photo Credit: Summer Borrelli Photography
Student Clubs & Organizations: How Teens Are Making a Difference
by Piper Langenfeld
In schools across Anne Arundel County, students are making a difference through clubs and service organizations that give back to their communities and the families in them. Between hosting hoodie drives and donating huge amounts of food to those in need, these teens are putting their best foot forward to make Anne Arundel County
STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING LEADERSHIP TEAM In a fantastic show of collaboration, the Student Service Learning Leadership Team (SSL Leadership) connects multiple representatives from different high schools all around Anne Arundel County to promote service projects that benefit the community. To become a representative for their school,
students must apply and partake in a short interview. With the team’s leadership meeting twice a month, the students hone in on issues specific to their communities. This past winter, the organization focused on “Spreading Smiles,” where these students helped create dental hygiene packs for kids in need. The campaign not only improved dental care for adolescents but also helped improve their mental health and self-confidence.
the best that it can be. By encouraging their students to engage in similar service acts and providing a ride when needed, parents can motivate their teens to get out of the house and uplift others. UPPER SCHOOL ONYX CLUB AT ANNAPOLIS AREA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
The Upper School Onyx Club of Annapolis Area Christian School performing in their Black History Month celebration. Photo courtesy of Susan Hall
Upper School Onyx Club, a Black student union from Annapolis Area Christian School, is making waves in their community. Formed in the 2022-2023 school year, the student club focuses primarily on cultural unity and equity between students. Not only do they organize and participate in their annual Black History Month celebration, which includes dancing, music, educational artifacts, and spoken word, but they also dive deep into charities to help those in need. Over the holidays, the Upper School Onyx Club hosted their first-ever Thanksgiving food drive. The students raised and donated over 100 pounds of non-perishable food items to the Anne Arundel County Food Bank. Joi Jackson, the vice president of the club, reflected, “Onyx Club has been a great [developmental] source for me individually. I have been able to grow in ways I wouldn't have imagined, as well as stepping outside of my comfort zone and providing the ability to serve and do something for the greater good as opposed to myself.” With a focus on improving the community’s cultural enrichment and intellectual growth, the Upper School Onyx Club gives back to their community through charity and art-based celebrations. The club also focuses on children’s education by offering different learning opportunities, such as listening to guest speakers like Billie Keyes, a World War II Army veteran who was a part of the historic 761st Tank Battalion, and by sharing Black history facts at their weekly assemblies during Black History Month.
Upon finding that many girls were using menstrual products longer than suggested due to a lack of accessible pads and tampons, SSL Leadership also helped raise thousands of period products with global and local non-profits, a project called, “Go With the Flow.”
The Student Service Learning Leadership Team at one of their monthly meetings. Photo courtesy of Lori Fowler.
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A group of Broadneck High School Habitat for Humanity students raising an interior wall built for a home in Easton, MD. Photo courtesy of Jack Rimel.
SSL Leadership also helps improve upon service projects already in the works. For example, the team helped promote Whole Lotta Love’s hoodie drive for the Annapolis Angel Tree. With SSL Leadership’s help, the organization collected hundreds of hoodies to donate to underprivileged children and teens for the coming winter. “The AACPS Student Service Learning Team unites to spread joy, advocate for those in need, and empower students to serve,” said Maryam Mustafa, a member of the Student Service Learning Leadership Team. “From preparing 1,000+ dental kits to coordinating county- wide impact projects, we uplift our community with passion and purpose, because if not us, who else?” HABITAT FOR HUMANITY AT BROADNECK HIGH SCHOOL The Habitat for Humanity Club was created 20 years ago at Broadneck High School (BHS). Originally, students formed the club to aid in the rebuilding of New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Today, Habitat for Humanity is still working to better the lives and living conditions of families in need, this time just a little closer to home.
Members have the opportunity to volunteer at their local Habitat ReStore. These stores sell high-quality items, new or gently used, at a fraction of the cost, such as furniture, appliances, and home goods. The sales from all donated items go to Habitat for Humanity, and this money is used to fund building projects. Habitat ReStore also takes salvageable building materials out of area landfills, allowing students to repair and improve houses sustainably. Another volunteer opportunity students have is to work in groups at Habitat construction sites on “build days”, where students can work on homes that will eventually go to people in their community. Just this year, BHS’ Habitat for Humanity Club has worked on six different homes. The club also educates peers and neighbors on home ownership and finances. Once the houses are completed, they will be offered to families with low monthly payments who have completed financial literacy classes through the National Habitat for Humanity organization or the local affiliate. They must also complete “sweat equity” hours, which is the required time the recipient of the house must put into working on a home.
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“Habitat helps students put our lives in perspective by showing us harsh realities in our community and gives us a platform to help those in need,” said Acadia Ashdown, a student in Broadneck High School's Habitat Class of 2025. At the end of each year, students in the club take a week- long camping trip to work on other, similar building projects. This year the Habitat for Humanity Club will travel to Elk Neck State Park and work on a home for four days side by side with Habitat of the Susquehanna. These trips foster a sense of community within the club and ensure that no matter what background students come from, they’ll be able to empathize and connect with the people they’re helping. BLACK STUDENT UNION AT ANNAPOLIS HIGH SCHOOL Originating as the Black History Club at Annapolis High School, the Black Student Union (BSU) currently has over 60 active members, all striving to educate students about African American history, culture, and contributions to the United States and beyond. By rebranding the club to BSU in 2022, students and advisors were able to expand the club’s purpose. Now the members focus on speaking out against gun violence, promoting mental wellness, and discussing how the African diaspora is affected by local and global causes. The faculty members in charge of the club, including Davesus Omosun, Brea Ewing, Jazmine Ifill, and Tinesha McNeill, all dedicate their time, resources, and expertise to creating memorable experiences for club members while working in collaboration with student leaders. Zoe Williams, BSU student president, prides herself in creating and fostering a space where students can feel heard, seen, and appreciated. The club meets once a week, serving as a place for students of color and allies to connect in a safe environment and participate in various activities. “[The Black Student Union] has given me the chance to come out of my shell,” said Kaden Barrow, a junior at Annapolis High School who has been in the club since his freshman year. “I’ve made new friends, discovered new passions, and learned to embrace who I am. It is a really beautiful environment.” Due to the work of their advisors, BSU members also have access to many opportunities. These opportunities have included college visits, educational field trips, the chance to listen to guest speakers, and even going to New York City to see The Wiz, a historic Black Broadway musical.
The Black Student Union of Annapolis High School at the Banneker-Douglass- Tubman Museum greeting esteemed poet and Civil Rights activist, Nikki Giovanni.
For the last three years, BSU has also hosted its signature Black History Month celebration, “Beautifully Black Expo”, where students can showcase their talents and educate attendees on African American history. Past celebrations engaged over 200 students and corroborated the importance of art and self- expression to the union. The Black Student Union works in tandem with organizations like the Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum, No Harm VIP, One Annapolis, Annapolis Juneteenth Committee, The Blacks of the Chesapeake, and the Anne Arundel County Chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., along with many others that offer their support. Working with the Fashion Club at Annapolis High School, BSU helped put together and donate more than 150 blessing bags, which were filled with hygiene and health supplies, made to help out those in need in the Annapolis community. Holding close to their motto of “We are more than a club…we are a community,” the Black Student Union of Annapolis High School continues to promote leadership, empowerment, and community outreach with every meeting. These students are making a momentous difference for Anne Arundel County residents through philanthropy, education, and the safe spaces they create. These organizations allow students to service others while navigating their own growth as they move through school and into young adulthood.
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The ABCs of Homeschooling in Anne Arundel County
by Julie Buchwald Jeffers, Esq.
Maryland law, Education Article, §7-301, Annotated Code of Maryland, Compulsory Attendance, and COMAR 13A.10.01 requires that every child residing in Maryland who is 5 to 18 years old must attend a public school regularly during the school year. Homeschooling programs provided by either a parent or guardian, any Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) approved nonpublic school or institution, or other online school are an exception to this statutory requirement. Homeschooling has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional school enrollment for many parents in Anne Arundel County. As of March 2020, there were 2,779 homeschool students in Anne Arundel County. To no surprise, that number significantly increased amid the nationwide COVID-19 shutdown, with 4,895 registered homeschoolers as of March 2021. Over the last few years the number of Anne Arundel County homeschoolers has remained relatively steady, coming in at 4,050 as of March 2025. Whether you’ve been homeschooling your children for some time or are simply considering it, here’s what you need to know: GETTING STARTED To start homeschooling in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, parents must comply with the state's home instruction regulations. The instructor does not need teacher certification in order to deliver home instruction. However, thorough instruction must be given on a regular basis. A parent or guardian who chooses to provide a home instruction program for their child must sign a form prescribed by the Maryland State Department of Education, agreeing to home instruction requirements. The form must be submitted to the local superintendent or designee at least 15 calendar days prior to beginning home instruction. MODEL OPTIONS While the characteristics of each program may vary, all homeschooling must be overseen by either Anne Arundel County Schools, an MSDE-approved nonpublic school, or, under certain conditions, an online program that is neither a Maryland public school nor MSDE-approved private school. A parent or guardian may choose to provide the education personally or may arrange for the instruction to be delivered by another person or organization. Some families have opted for a co-op arrangement, in which the group of guardians divides teaching duties among themselves or collectively contract a tutor. Families who select this option must be careful that this model is used only as a supplement to regular daily instruction. If it becomes the primary mode
of instruction, it could be subject to termination as an unlicensed or unapproved nonpublic school. REQUIREMENTS & COMPLETION All homeschool program providers must maintain a portfolio that demonstrates compliance with statutory requirements. Most importantly, homeschooling must occur on a regular basis during the school year and must include instruction in English, mathematics, science, social studies, art, music, health, and physical education. Homeschoolers may participate in the public school’s standardized testing and United States Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) programs; however, current law does not require that the public schools provide any additional services to a homeschooled student. As a result, the parent or guardian has the freedom to select the curriculum and instructional materials used, provided certain educational benchmarks are satisfied. Each homeschool program is evaluated yearly for compliance with state and county requirements. If the program is deemed deficient, the provider of the program has thirty days to provide evidence that the deficiency has been corrected. If the deficiency is not adequately corrected during that time, the child must enroll in a public or other MSDE-approved nonpublic school. If a homeschooled student wishes to return to a public school, the parent/ guardian must contact the local school system and arrange for credit transfer and placement evaluation. This process may include standardized testing and interviews. While a homeschooled student cannot earn a Maryland High School Diploma, any student over the age of 16 may obtain a General Educational Development (GED) certification by successfully completing the GED test. Further information about homeschooling programs in your area or protocol for operating your own is available through the MSDE Student Services and Strategic Planning Branch, Division of Student Support, Academic Enrichment, and Educational Policy at 410-767-0784 . RESOURCES FOR SUCCESS To support homeschoolers, Annapolis Moms Media has curated a list of Anne Arundel County businesses offering educational, creative, and athletic programs and outlets for families like yours. Source(s): Anne Arundel County Public Schools. "Home Instruction." Anne Arundel County Public Schools. Accessed March 12, 2025. https://www.aacps.org/page/home-instruction. Maryland Division of State Documents. "Title 13A State Board of Education: Subtitle 10 Home Instruction." Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR). Accessed March 12, 2025. http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/SubtitleSearch.aspx?search=13A.10.01.
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Homeschooling & Enrichment Resources
by Charissa Wiltshire
International Elite Acrobatics - Home School Tumbling and Acro | Crofton
ATHLETICS/SPORTS For homeschoolers, finding athletic outlets that are open to the public can be especially challenging. Sports are a great way to socialize and challenge your child while giving them more responsibility. Take a look at what options your child may have when it comes to sports. Crossing Currents Aquatics (CCA) | Millersville, Glen Burnie, & Riva Encourage your homeschooler’s interest in swimming while also building their teamwork and personal achievement with this non-competitive homeschool swim team. CCA’s programs include Swim Team Prep For Homeschoolers (3-7) and Homeschool Hurricanes, an intramural non-competitive swim team (5-18). *East Coast Martial Arts | Annapolis & Edgewater Our homeschool martial arts program builds confidence, discipline, and leadership while teaching self-defense and physical fitness. Kids develop focus, perseverance, and essential life skills in a structured and supportive environment. Email Support@EastCoastMartialArts.com for more information.
Need to get your homeschooler moving? Students age 6 and older will work on tumbling and acrobatic skills based on their level. The class will also include strength and conditioning elements. Jing Ying Institute of Kung Fu: Homeschool Kung Fu Program | Arnold In this well-structured and dynamic program for homeschoolers (ages 5 and older), students will improve their strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, and endurance while learning effective self-defense techniques in a non-aggressive environment. *KidStrong Annapolis Looking for a gym credit that fosters cognitive and character development for your child? Join KidStrong Annapolis to level up your homeschooler's developmental milestones! Their goal is to teach kids to believe in themselves and show them what it feels like to reach their fullest potential. During their 45-minute class sessions, students focus on activities that include developing confidence, teamwork-building exercises, competing to develop grit, and celebrating the hard work and dedication put into each session. Walking toddlers through children up to age 11 are welcome. *Lee’s Taekwondo | Annapolis Your child (ages 5+) will have fun while learning structure, discipline, self-confidence, and traditional Tae Kwon Do. When private and public schools are closed during the school year for holidays and vacations, Lee’s offers an all- day camp starting at 7 am with field trips and extended training through 6:30 pm. Saturday morning classes are also available. Severna Park Lanes: In-School Bowling | Severna Park In-School Bowling is a program designed to introduce kids of all ages to a lifetime sport that is fun and can be enjoyed by everyone! This is a complete curriculum that includes 13 instructional lesson plans, interdisciplinary activities for all subject areas, and loads of fun activities to enhance the instruction of each lesson.
Photo courtesy of East Coast Martial Arts
Glen Burnie Bowl | Glen Burnie Children of all ages will learn about and enjoy duckpin bowling in a safe, fun environment. Youth leagues run from September to April, with independent short summer sessions from May to August.
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B&O Railroad Museum | Baltimore For small homeschool groups or individual homeschool families, B &O offers Homeschool Days throughout the school year. The museum offers free or reduced pricing for Maryland homeschool groups. Baltimore Museum of Industry: Homeschool Days | Baltimore This museum offers several Homeschool Days each school year featuring tours and hands-on activities for various ages and stages of learning. Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum | Annapolis The Banneker-Douglass-Tubman Museum is the State of Maryland’s official home for learning about African- American heritage. This is a great resource to utilize, especially during February, Black History Month. Allow this museum to take your homeschooler on an educational ride to learn about the great historical figures who have Discover the fascinating science behind your favorite handmade products in our monthly Creative Science Class! These sessions are perfect for curious minds of all ages, especially homeschool students looking for a hands- on, educational experience. Looking for an arts program? You and Me at BE classes offer opportunities for creativity, exploration, and fun! Join them each month for a themed experience designed to spark imaginations and bring joy to kids of all ages. made an incredible impact on our world! The Blended Essentials | Severna Park Calvert Marine Museum: Homeschool Days | Solomons Offering fun, hands-on experiences in a beautiful setting, there are two Homeschool Days, one in the spring and one in the fall. The museum is a wonderful classroom away from home for homeschooled families. Diverse virtual program opportunities for student and youth groups and customized programming are also available. Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum | St. Michaels Homeschool students and their adults are invited to come to CBMM’s Homeschool Day, selecting either a morning or afternoon program to focus on the history, culture, and environment of the Chesapeake Bay region. College Park Aviation Museum | College Park Enjoy a variety of educational tours to take learning to new heights! Through hands-on interactives, special exhibits, stories, artifacts, events, and educational programming for children, families, and adults, the museum strives to celebrate historic innovations and ignite curiosity and confidence in future generations around S.T.E.M.
TGA lesson, photo courtesy of Maya Oudemans.
*TGA of Greater Annapolis | Annapolis, Bowie, & Kent Island TGA arranges small group lessons, and private instruction, for homeschool families throughout Anne Arundel County, Bowie, and Kent Island for pickleball, golf, tennis, and flag football. Warrior Academy of Gymnastics: Homeschool Classes | Glen Burnie This academy provides gymnastics instruction for ages 2-18, teaching life lessons such as respect, determination, and perseverance while building strength, flexibility, and coordination in a positive fun environment. Offering daytime classes and special homeschool classes. Wheels Skate Center: Homeschool Skates | Odenton Enjoy the snack bar and roller skating fun and games during this special session for homeschoolers. Check the calendar for upcoming Homeschool Skates. EDUCATION There are many educational resources that can be used to support and further the education of your child while homeschooling. From museums to workshops, you’d be surprised at how many local resources and activities are available! Anne Arundel County Free School Museum | Davidsonville Homeschooling families can explore the Free School Museum to experience how education evolved. The museum features interesting displays, including historical artifacts found on-site, textbooks used over 150 years ago, and colonial-era toys. This site offers a hands-on look at early American education.
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