General Information

What is MBLI?
The MECCA Business Learning Institute, or MBLI, is a groundbreaking public charter school created specifically for middle school students. MBLI is the first school of its kind in Maryland and only the second charter school to be successfully operationalized in Montgomery County a milestone that reflects years of hard work, vision, and dedication to expanding meaningful public school options for families.

More than just a school, MBLI is the result of a deep commitment to making education relevant, purposeful, and empowering for young people. MBLI offers a distinctive academic model that blends rigorous core instruction with business, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, leadership, and real-world skill development. As a career academy, MBLI is designed to help students build confidence, character, and practical knowledge while preparing for future academic and professional success.

Who is MBLI designed for?
MBLI is designed for students who want to learn about the world in real time, students who are curious, motivated, and ready to connect academics to real-life experiences. The school serves middle school students and is open to all eligible students. Students do not need to already know they want a career in business to thrive at MBLI. MBLI is built for students with diverse interests and learning styles who benefit from a structured, innovative, and supportive environment that helps them grow academically, think critically, and lead with confidence.

Where do students come from?
Students attend MBLI from across Montgomery County, representing diverse communities.

What are charter schools?
Charter schools are public schools that provide families with an additional tuition-free public education option. Like other public schools, they are open to eligible students and are funded with public dollars. What makes charter schools different is that they are created around a distinct educational model or vision and are given the flexibility to implement that model while remaining accountable for academic, operational, and financial performance. In that way, charter schools are designed to expand public school choice and provide families with access to innovative learning environments that may look different from a traditional district-operated school.

Are charter schools private schools? Is MBLI a private school?
No. Charter schools are public schools. MBLI is a tuition-free public charter school open to all eligible students.

What is a career academy?
A career academy is an educational model that connects strong academic instruction to real-world learning and future career pathways. It combines rigorous coursework with hands-on, project-based experiences so students can better understand how what they are learning in school applies beyond the classroom. Career academies are designed to make learning more relevant, engaging, and purposeful while helping students build important skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership.

In many public school systems, career academy models are more commonly introduced at the high school level, where students begin exploring specific career pathways or industry-focused programs. MBLI brings the same forward-thinking, career-connected approach to the middle school level giving students earlier exposure to business, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership at a stage when most students have not yet had access to these opportunities.

What is MBLI’s educational mission?
MBLI’s educational mission is to prepare students for the future now by giving them early access to the knowledge, skills, and experiences that will shape their lives beyond middle school. Through an inclusive, innovative, and supportive learning environment, MBLI equips students with essential skills in business, financial literacy, leadership, communication, and real-world problem-solving, helping them grow into confident, capable, and future-ready young people.

What makes MBLI different from a traditional middle school?
MBLI provides a rare and distinctive opportunity for middle school students to begin engaging with concepts that most students do not encounter until much later, if at all. Rather than waiting until high school or adulthood to introduce business, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, leadership, and real-world problem-solving, MBLI makes these experiences part of the middle school journey. Alongside strong instruction in core academic subjects, students participate in business-integrated, project-based learning designed to help them think critically, communicate effectively, solve problems, and understand how classroom learning connects to real life. MBLI is not simply a different school model; it is an early launch point for students to begin discovering their strengths, expanding their worldview, and preparing for the future with purpose.

Who authorizes and oversees MBLI?
MBLI is authorized by the Montgomery County Board of Education. As a public charter school, MBLI is governed by its own independent Board of Directors, which is responsible for the school’s leadership, oversight, and operation. At the same time, MBLI is accountable to the Montgomery County Board of Education and operates in alignment with applicable state, district, and charter accountability requirements.

Enrollment & Admissions

Where is MBLI located?
MBLI is located at 20261 Goldenrod Lane, Germantown, Maryland.

When did MBLI open?
MBLI opened Fall 2025.

What grades does MBLI serve?
MBLI currently serves students in grades 6 and 7, with plans to add one grade per year through grade 12, growing to a maximum enrollment of 700 students.

Who is eligible to attend MBLI?
MBLI is open to all middle school students residing in Montgomery County, Maryland.

Is there a tuition fee for attending MBLI?
No. MBLI is a free public school.

How do I apply to MBLI?
Families may apply to MBLI by completing the application through Lotterease using the following link:
https://app.lotterease.com/cgi-bin/sl_V2_1.pl?session_id=&user_id=&account_id=1261&nav=Parents_Registration

Additional information and support are available to help guide families through each step of the process.

When is the application period?
MBLI’s application cycle generally opens in October and continues through January, in coordination with the MCPS Choice Program timeline. Applications remain open until all available seats are filled. Key dates typically include a priority application deadline in January, a lottery (if needed) in late January or early February, admission notifications in late February, enrollment confirmation in March, enrollment packet submission in April, and onboarding and orientation in June. Families are encouraged to apply early and stay connected with the school for current deadlines and enrollment updates.

Is there a lottery for admission?
If applications exceed available seats, a lottery is conducted in accordance with charter school regulations.

Are there any priority admissions policies?
Priority may be given to siblings of enrolled students, children of MBLI staff, and students residing near the facility, as permitted by law.

What happens if my child is not selected in the lottery?
Students who are not selected in the lottery are placed on a waitlist. As seats become available, families are contacted in the order established through the admissions process.

Can students enroll after the school year has started?
MBLI may accept students after the start of the school year if seats are available. Families are encouraged to contact the school directly regarding mid-year enrollment opportunities.

Will applying to MBLI affect MCPS magnet programs?
No. Applying to MBLI does not affect eligibility for MCPS magnet programs.

Can my student return to an MCPS school later?
Yes. Students may return to an MCPS school without penalty.

Academics & Student Experience

Is MBLI academically rigorous?
Yes. MBLI maintains high academic expectations for all students. The program is designed to challenge students through rigorous coursework, critical thinking tasks, and real-world applications of learning, while also providing the support they need to succeed.

What does a typical academic day look like at MBLI?
Students participate in a structured daily schedule that includes core academic instruction, M-Core courses, and Encore classes. The day also includes a dedicated Flex period featuring Academic Power Hour for targeted support, enrichment, and extended learning opportunities. This structure ensures students receive both rigorous instruction and the time needed to build mastery.

What is MBLI’s academic program like?
MBLI offers a dynamic, structured academic program aligned with the Maryland College and Career-Ready Standards while going well beyond a traditional middle school model. Although MBLI does not use the MCPS curriculum verbatim, instruction is standards-aligned and enriched through project-based, business-integrated learning experiences that help students connect academics to the real world.

Students engage in a strong core program in math, English language arts, science, and social studies, while also participating in MBLI’s distinctive M-Core courses in business, communication, and technology. In addition, students currently take Mandarin as part of MBLI’s Global Languages program and participate in art, music, physical education, and health. Students also benefit from an Academic Power Hour during Flex period, which provides dedicated time for academic support, skill-building, reinforcement, and extended learning.

At MBLI, the goal is not simply to cover content, but to build confident, capable, and well-rounded students who are prepared to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead.

Does MBLI offer advanced or accelerated learning?
Yes. MBLI offers advanced math placement based on readiness and performance, along with embedded enrichment and targeted supports across all subjects.

Do students read full novels?
Yes. Students engage with full-length novels and informational and nonfiction texts to build comprehension, analytical thinking, and communication skills.

How does MBLI assess student learning?
MBLI uses a balanced assessment approach that includes unit assessments, end-of-module evaluations, project-based learning, and ongoing feedback to monitor progress and ensure mastery.

Does MBLI participate in standardized testing?
Yes. MBLI participates in all required state assessments, including MCAP. Additional benchmark or diagnostic assessments may be used to monitor student progress. Results are shared in accordance with state reporting guidelines.

How are students graded, and how is progress shared with families?
Student progress is monitored through a combination of assignments, assessments, and project-based learning. Families receive regular updates through progress reports, report cards, and ongoing communication from teachers and school staff.

How does MBLI support students with IEPs, 504 plans, or learning differences?

MBLI is committed to supporting students with IEPs, 504 plans, and diverse learning needs with the same expectations of access, service, and support that families would expect in their MCPS neighborhood school, working to meet or exceed those standards. The school provides services in accordance with applicable federal and state requirements and ensures that students receive the accommodations, specialized instruction, related supports, and coordinated staff collaboration necessary to meet their individual needs and support their success.

How does MBLI support English Language Learners (ELL)?

MBLI provides language development supports, in-class accommodations, and trained staff to support multilingual learners academically and socially.

How does MBLI support students who need additional academic help?
MBLI provides built-in academic support through its Flex period and Academic Power Hour, where students receive targeted instruction, small-group support, and individualized attention. Teachers use data to identify student needs and adjust instruction to ensure all students are progressing.

How does MBLI prepare students for high school and beyond?

MBLI builds academic readiness, career awareness, and essential skills, including communication, problem-solving, and leadership. High school programming will include internships, dual enrollment, and industry certifications.

School Life & Supports

What is the school culture like at MBLI?
MBLI promotes a positive, structured, and student-centered environment where students are expected to be engaged, respectful, and accountable. The school emphasizes professionalism, leadership, and community, helping students build both character and confidence.

Are uniforms required?
Yes. Students are required to wear uniforms to promote unity, reduce distractions, and reinforce a professional school culture. Uniforms help create a consistent, focused school environment while fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the MBLI community. MBLI provides each student with one uniform shirt and one physical education set. Families may purchase additional uniform items through the school store.

What are class sizes at MBLI?
MBLI’s target student-to-teacher ratio is 20:1 to support personalized learning. Class sizes may vary, but the school works to ensure they do not exceed 25:1.

What are homework expectations?
Homework is purposeful and aligned to classroom learning. Many assignments are completed during the school day through Flex and extended learning time, helping students build strong habits while maintaining balance.

Do students use Chromebooks or other devices?
Yes. Students are assigned school-issued devices to support instruction, research, assignments, and digital learning throughout the school day. Technology is an important part of the MBLI learning environment and supports both core academics and career-connected learning experiences. Families are required to sign a device agreement acknowledging responsibility for the care, appropriate use, and return of school-issued property.

Do students bring devices home?
Students may be expected to take their school-issued devices home based on grade-level expectations, instructional needs, and assigned work. Families are provided with guidance regarding device care, daily responsibility, and appropriate use.

Do students have lockers?
Yes. Students have access to lockers to help store personal belongings and organize materials during the school day. Families are also required to sign a locker agreement acknowledging expectations for appropriate use and responsibility for school-assigned property.

What kind of physical education do students receive?
Students participate in regularly scheduled physical education classes, with activities designed around what can be safely accomplished indoors. Additional opportunities for movement and physical activity are also built into the school day.

Do students have recess or outdoor time?
MBLI does not currently have a dedicated outdoor space on-site. However, students are provided with structured breaks during the school day, along with opportunities to move and be active within the building. The cafenasium space is used to support indoor recess and student activities, ensuring students have time to recharge and engage with peers.

Are there sports teams?
As a growing school, MBLI is continuing to develop its athletics programming. Because the Goldenrod Lane facility was not designed to accommodate traditional indoor sports, MBLI is currently focused on identifying and implementing nontraditional athletic opportunities that better suit the space and the school’s model. Athletic offerings are expected to expand as the program develops.

Are there extracurricular clubs?
Yes. MBLI offers a range of extracurricular activities, including student-led and teacher-sponsored clubs in business, STEM, arts, and leadership.

Are there after-school or extended learning opportunities?
MBLI offers opportunities for extended learning through its Flex period and is continuing to expand after-school programming, including clubs, enrichment, and student support activities as the school grows.

What is MBLI’s approach to student behavior and discipline?
MBLI uses a structured, supportive approach to student behavior that emphasizes clear expectations, consistency, and accountability. The school incorporates restorative practices and social-emotional learning to help students develop responsibility, problem-solving skills, and positive relationships.

What student support services are available?
Students have access to academic counseling, guidance services, tutoring, social-emotional supports, and mentoring.

How does MBLI support social-emotional well-being?
MBLI integrates social-emotional learning (SEL), restorative practices, and access to counselors and support staff to promote student wellness.

Operations & Logistics

Does MBLI follow the MCPS calendar?
Currently, MBLI aligns with the MCPS calendar for holidays and major breaks, with any school-specific adjustments communicated in advance. However, MBLI was designed with an extended school day, and its full program model includes a calendar structure that differs from the traditional MCPS schedule to reflect additional instructional time. MBLI will continue to advocate for the implementation of its extended-day model, including the corresponding calendar needed to support the school’s full design.

What are the school hours?
MBLI’s current hours are 8:15 AM - 3:00 PM. The school was intentionally designed with an extended day to provide additional academic support, enrichment, and student services. At this time, that extended-day model has not yet been implemented due to operational constraints related to staffing and scheduling alignment. MBLI will continue to advocate for the necessary agreement framework to fully implement its intended program design.

Is transportation provided?
No. Families are responsible for daily transportation. MBLI continues to evaluate transportation options as the school grows.

Will transportation be offered in the future?
MBLI continues to assess transportation feasibility and may expand options as enrollment and resources grow.

How do arrival and dismissal work?
MBLI has structured arrival and dismissal procedures to ensure student safety and efficiency. Specific details, including drop-off and pick-up expectations, are shared with families to support smooth daily operations.

Are meals provided at MBLI?
Yes. Food services are provided through MCPS, not directly by MBLI. Families use the same meal payment systems, processes, and platforms used for other MCPS schools. Students have access to meal service, including hot options, and the school shares the monthly menu with families.

What health services are available during the school day?
Students have access to health services during the school day. Additional information regarding health procedures and supports is provided to families.

How is MBLI funded?

As a public charter school, MBLI is funded primarily through per-pupil public funding. The level of that funding is tied annually to MBLI’s official September 30 enrollment count, consistent with the enrollment-based funding structure used for all Maryland districts, including MCPS.

What is per-pupil funding?

Per-pupil funding is the public funding allocated for each enrolled student. As with all other public schools, funding follows students and helps support the cost of instruction, staffing, school operations, and student services.

How is MBLI’s per-pupil funding calculated?

MBLI’s per-pupil funding is based on the number of students officially enrolled as of September 30 each year and is calculated using the per-pupil formula established by MCPS. That enrollment count is used to determine the school’s annual public funding level, consistent with the enrollment-based framework applied to MCPS schools.

What happens if enrollment is lower than projected?

As with other public schools, MBLI monitors enrollment closely because public funding is tied to student count. If enrollment is lower than projected as of September 30, MBLI takes responsible steps to align spending with actual revenue. These steps may include not filling vacant positions, delaying nonessential purchases, adjusting discretionary spending, and prioritizing staffing, instruction, and student supports. This approach helps ensure sound financial stewardship while maintaining continuity for students and families.

Does MBLI receive the same type of public funding as other public schools?

Yes. As a public charter school, MBLI receives public funding tied to student enrollment. Like all other public schools, the school’s ability to operate and plan effectively is closely connected to the number of students it serves.

Is MBLI funded only through per-pupil revenue?

No. While per-pupil public funding is the school’s primary source of operating revenue, MBLI also seeks grants, contributions, and other allowable funding sources to help strengthen programming, support school development, and provide additional opportunities for students.

How do grants support MBLI?

Grants help supplement the school’s core public funding by supporting areas such as startup needs, program enhancement, school development, student supports, and other strategic priorities. Grant funding helps MBLI expand opportunities for students while continuing to build and strengthen the school’s model.

How does MBLI ensure financial sustainability?

MBLI’s core operations are supported through public funding. In addition, grants, fundraising, and strategic partnerships help strengthen programming, support school development, and position the school for long-term growth. This includes support for future expansion and continued investment in the school’s full model and vision.

Safety & Wellness

How does MBLI ensure student safety?

MBLI maintains secure entry systems, established safety protocols, regular drills, and an emergency response plan. The school also employs full-time security staff to support campus safety and help maintain a secure learning environment. Anti-bullying policies and restorative practices further promote a safe, respectful, and supportive school community.

How are visitors managed at the school?

All visitors must check in through the main office, present identification, and follow established entry procedures. Access to the building is controlled to help ensure student safety at all times.

How are families notified in the event of an emergency?

MBLI communicates with families through established communication systems, including email, phone, and other notification methods, to provide timely updates during emergencies or urgent school situations.

What health services are available?

Students have access to on-site health services, wellness programming, and partnerships with local providers.

How are student health needs managed during the school day?

MBLI follows established procedures for student health support and medication administration and works with families to help ensure student needs are appropriately addressed during the school day.

Is there a school safety report available?

Because MBLI is in its inaugural year, the school does not yet have a formal public-facing safety report of the kind that may be available for longer-operating schools. However, MBLI maintains internal safety procedures, protocols, and documentation and is committed to sharing additional information with families about school safety and security practices.

Family & Community Engagement

Is there a PTA or family organization?

MBLI is creating structured opportunities for family engagement, including meetings, volunteer opportunities, and school-based initiatives that support collaboration between families and staff.

How can families get involved?

Families are encouraged to participate in school events, workshops, conferences, and volunteer opportunities. MBLI fosters an active and engaged school community where families are valued as important partners in the educational experience.

How does MBLI communicate with families?

MBLI maintains regular communication with families through weekly newsletters from MBLI’s Principal, along with additional periodic correspondence from MBLI Executive Leadership. Families also receive updates through the parent portal, school meetings, and direct communication from teachers and staff, helping ensure they remain informed and connected.

How does MBLI incorporate family feedback?

MBLI values family voice and provides opportunities for feedback through meetings, surveys, and direct engagement with school leadership. Family input plays an important role in shaping the school community and student experience.

Can we speak with current families?

Yes. MBLI is happy to connect prospective families with current families to learn more about their experiences and perspectives.

Does MBLI have a parent ambassador or family connection program?

MBLI is developing a family ambassador program to help connect new and prospective families with current families and strengthen the school community.

How does MBLI engage the community?

MBLI partners with local businesses, colleges, and organizations to support mentorship, service learning, and career exploration opportunities for students.

Supporting MBLI

Is financial support required from families?

No. Financial support from families is entirely optional and never required. MBLI is a public school, and no student’s experience is dependent on a family’s ability to give.

How can families and supporters help MBLI grow and succeed?

There are many meaningful ways to support MBLI. Families and community supporters can help by spreading the word about the school, encouraging other families to learn more, attending school events, volunteering when opportunities are available, and serving as ambassadors for the MBLI mission. Supporters can also share positive experiences, invite others to visit the school, and help expand awareness of MBLI as a unique public school option in Montgomery County.

How can families advocate for MBLI?

Families and supporters can play an important role in advocating for MBLI by speaking up in support of the school and its mission. This may include contacting members of the local Board of Education and other public officials to express support for strong public school choice, fair treatment of charter schools, and continued opportunities for innovative educational models like MBLI. Community advocacy helps ensure that families’ voices are part of the larger conversation about educational access and opportunity.