Beginning as a community youth organization in 1977, The Community School has grown under the leadership of founder Tom Culotta into the full four year, state certified high school program it is today. We started as a neighborhood-based effort in Remington to lower the area's high school dropout rate, but there was an evident need for a full school program.
In 1982 a one-room schoolhouse was launched in the basement of Guardian Angel Church. We used supplies donated from the community and had a single, unpaid teacher. Over time, the program grew from basic education, to a GED program, to a GED and college prep program. In 1997 we took over the building of the former Remington People's Food Co-op, a double storefront rowhouse where we remain today.
In 1982 a one-room schoolhouse was launched in the basement of Guardian Angel Church. We used supplies donated from the community and had a single, unpaid teacher. Over time, the program grew from basic education, to a GED program, to a GED and college prep program. In 1997 we took over the building of the former Remington People's Food Co-op, a double storefront rowhouse where we remain today.
Services
The Honor Code of The Community School is the foundation for our organization and the guide for all of our relations. It was written and developed by classes of students over many years. It is pledged and signed by every student each year and posted in each classroom. We will tolerate and respect individuals of different races, cultures, religions, genders, sexual orientations, disabilities and national origins.
The Community School is approved by the Maryland State Department of Education to operate as a nonpublic high school. In addition we are a federally recognized nonprofit organization with an IRS status as a 501(c)3 entity which allows for donations to be fully tax deductible. Through annual filings with the Maryland Secretary of State, we are also registered as a Maryland Charitable Organization.
Students commit to a rigorous college preparatory curriculum with an emphasis on individual and experiential learning. The Community School prepares you to be successful in college and career. Students learn in small, multi-level classrooms that encourage engagement and achievement for each student.
The Community School accepts applications from all students, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, immigration status or color, aged 13 through 16, who have completed 8th grade and are committed and self-motivated to advance their education, earn a high school diploma and prepare for college and career.
The Community School is an accessible, affordable private high school that provides a high quality, unique education. The Community School provides limited financial subsidies for students on a sliding fee scale based on income to ensure that every student who is willing to commit to his or her studies is able to attend.
Reviews (9)
Olivia Yates
Nov 06, 2018
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Kelly Robertson
Jun 10, 2018
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Aidan McIntosh
May 25, 2018
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Stacy Laumann
May 25, 2018
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What’s not to recommend about this school! Tom Culotta has made it his life’s work to better the lives of young people and it shows in his passion and commitment to teaching. The Community School provides an amazing opportunity for students committed to a rigorous academic program and high standards. The safe environment develops students to their… full potential with confidence and grit. I highly recommend TCS without any reservation. As my son prepares to graduate next Sunday I couldn’t be more thankful for all of the exposure and experience provided these past four years
Theresa Burchett
May 19, 2018
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To who it may concern, I have known Tom for over 40 yrs! He is the best! The school had helped alot of Children in the community!! He will do anyrhing to help the school and Students!! I also no alot of Students that the Community School has helped!! I failed to say that I hen Tom came to our community I worked for him!!
Thomas Culotta
Jan 15, 2017
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Holly Thompson
Mar 16, 2015
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Mikie Miller
Jun 13, 2014
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Joseph Catfish Johnson
Mar 17, 2014
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