As we gear up for our 2026 Day of Service, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the meaningful impact of volunteerism, not just in terms of the projects we’ll work on, but in the lives of those we’re serving. This year, we’re excited to work with Shining Stars Montessori Academy, a public Montessori school in Washington, D.C., that provides a culturally affirming, bilingual education to children in historically underserved communities.
Shining Stars is not just a school; it’s a community rooted in equity, empowerment, and connection. The Day of Service offers an opportunity for volunteers to be a part of that community, giving back to a place where children are supported to grow, learn, and thrive in an environment that embraces their diverse identities. Let’s take a closer look at the incredible work Shining Stars is doing and how our efforts will contribute to their mission.
About Shining Stars Montessori Academy
Shining Stars Montessori Academy was founded in 2010 with a mission to provide high-quality Montessori education that is culturally relevant, bilingual, and grounded in the values of equity and social justice. Serving approximately 190 students from Pre-Kindergarten through 6th grade, the school is deeply committed to nurturing the academic, social, and emotional growth of every child.
What makes Shining Stars unique is its dedication to serving the diverse communities of Washington, D.C., with a focus on families from historically underserved backgrounds. Many of the students come from Black and Latino households, and a significant number are emergent bilingual learners. In a city as diverse as D.C., the school is intentional about creating a learning environment that honors each student’s identity, language, and lived experience.
The founders of Shining Stars saw a gap in educational opportunities for children, particularly those from marginalized communities, and wanted to create a space where every child felt known, valued, and empowered. Montessori education, with its emphasis on individualized learning, social responsibility, and hands-on discovery, was the perfect model to nurture children’s natural curiosity and potential—especially in a public school setting
The Projects: Giving Back to the School Community
During the Day of Service, volunteers will have the opportunity to work on several important projects that directly support Shining Stars’ mission of creating a nurturing, enriching environment for its students. These projects are designed to help maintain and improve the school’s facilities, allowing teachers to focus more on fostering academic and social growth.
Here’s an overview of the projects you can look forward to:
- Beautifying the Children’s Garden
The school’s garden plays an important role in the children’s education, offering a hands-on learning space where they can engage with nature. Volunteers will help expand and refresh the garden by planting flowers, herbs, and vegetables. This work is crucial in creating a vibrant, inspiring outdoor environment where students can grow their own understanding of ecology, responsibility, and teamwork - Supporting the School’s Library
The school’s library is a vital space for students to discover new worlds through reading. Volunteers will help organize and refresh the book collection, creating themed book baskets, and making it easier for students to find books that resonate with their interests and identities. This project is an opportunity to help spark a love of reading and learning that can last a lifetime. - Enhancing Montessori Learning Spaces
Montessori classrooms are built around tactile, hands-on learning materials. Volunteers will support the teachers by preparing new learning materials, repairing shelves, and polishing existing resources. This project ensures that the classrooms remain dynamic and inspiring spaces where children can engage deeply with their work and ideas. - Whole-School Peace Project
At the heart of the Montessori philosophy is the value of peace—both within the classroom and in the wider community. During the Day of Service, volunteers and children will collaborate on a peace project that could include painting a Peace Pole, creating kindness rocks, or assembling care kits for a local shelter. These collaborative acts symbolize the shared commitment to peace, kindness, and community that defines Shining Stars.
Why Service Matters at Shining Stars
The Day of Service is an opportunity to make a tangible difference, not just by helping improve the school’s physical spaces, but by supporting the values that Shining Stars Montessori Academy holds dear. The school is a beacon of social justice, equity, and community partnership, and the work that volunteers do during the Day of Service directly contributes to these values.
By volunteering, you’re becoming a part of the larger community that supports these students. You’re helping create an environment where children can thrive—where they feel safe, respected, and empowered to explore the world on their own terms.
How to Get Involved
We hope you’ll join us for the Day of Service at Shining Stars Montessori Academy on Thursday, March 19th. The event will run from 8:15 AM to 1:00 PM, and participants will travel by charter bus from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center to the school. The cost of $65 covers transportation for the day. Lunch is on your own after the event.
This is more than just an opportunity to volunteer, it’s a chance to connect with a community of people dedicated to social justice and equity. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone looking to give back, your involvement will have a lasting impact on the lives of the children and families at Shining Stars Montessori Academy.
Final Thoughts: Why Your Presence Matters
At Shining Stars Montessori Academy, the goal isn’t just to educate; it’s to create a community where every child feels empowered, respected, and valued. The Day of Service isn’t just about completing projects; it’s about building relationships, connecting with others, and deepening our collective commitment to creating a more just and inclusive society. By participating in the Day of Service, you’ll be helping to create a ripple effect of positive change that will resonate far beyond the school’s walls.
We look forward to seeing you there and working together to make a lasting difference.