Who We Are
The Beginning
In 2004, the clergy association in Laurel, Md., launched an initiative to help local children and families by supporting the area’s Prince George’s County public schools. It paired individual schools and churches with the idea that the churches could furnish the schools with volunteers and other aid. In 2007 that initiative took on a more formal shape as a nonprofit organization, Side by Side, Inc. After more than a year of planning and research, the group launched its first program in 2009, also obtaining tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) status that year.
The Challenge
Prince George’s County elementary schools in the Laurel area face major challenges including high rates of low-income families, substantial limited-English populations, and high rates of student turnover. All but one of the local public schools fell below the state average in standardized third-grade reading tests, and all were below in standardized third-grade math tests.
The Vision
Schools and homes where children reach their full potential.
The Mission
Side by Side engages, equips and encourages parents to partner with schools to promote their children’s success in the classroom.
The Values
To undergird all that we do with prayer, seeking guidance and support.
To treat all children, parents, teachers and school administrators as precious gifts.
To work tirelessly to recruit school families to our programs.
To constantly heighten the effectiveness of our programs through critical self-assessment.
To use our resources carefully and efficiently.
