Divine Mercy Academy was established in 2019 with the goal of infusing the virtues of truth, beauty and goodness into children's education. Since opening with 19 students, it has grown to over 80 in two short years. The school, located in Pasadena, Maryland, provides students in grades K-8 with a classical liberal arts curriculum that is anchored by faith.
The school's founder, Ali Ghaffari, a recently retired Navy fighter pilot, started the program with a deeply personal mission. After being stationed around the country with his family and having his children attend a variety of schools, he and his wife felt that there was something significantly missing from both the academic curriculum and spiritual formation that their children had experienced. Inspired by the incredible story of the turnaround of St. Jerome's Catholic School through a Classical Liberal Arts curriculum, LCDR Ghaffari decided to choose this model for establishing Divine Mercy Academy.
The classical liberal arts educational model assumes a higher purpose and a deeper meaning to life. It is faith seeking understanding. The goal of a liberal arts education is true freedom - freeing the mind so that it can understand God and the world that He created in order that we may serve Him better. This freedom brings true happiness and joy.
Instead of subjects being understood as separate, at Divine Mercy Academy they are all understood as facets of the human experience. The classical model piques our children's natural curiosity with the greatest works of Western Civilization and inspires them to joyfully explore the expanse of material without borders. The result of this method is a love of God, a love of learning and a love of school.
Kate Bellotte, a parent of two children at DMA says, “I love the school because I feel like they (my kids) are being taken care of like I would take care of them. I would never send them anywhere else…School isn’t just about education, they get above and beyond here educational-wise…but most importantly, they are becoming great people.” Phil Vendemmia, another parent with two children at DMA adds, “It’s really nice to hear them praying every time they hear an ambulance and before meals. They definitely want to talk more about morality and spirituality when I don’t bring it up. Can you imagine that? Your eight-year-old and five-year-old want to talk about doing the right thing without you initiating the conversation!”
With a class size half of that of most schools in the area, teachers at Divine Mercy Academy are able to "teach to the child", allowing each student to grow and learn at their own pace, while helping them to develop a sincere curiosity for each class, and a desire to go deeper into the subject matter by asking "why". Megan Robinson, a tutor at DMA said, “If you want your child to have a very intentional learning experience where they are able to grow and flourish, send them here!” Each day incorporates prayer, as well as academic rigors. Mornings begin with the entire student body participating in daily Mass and the Rosary. Each day ends with all students praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Students are taught Latin, as well as history, language arts, science, math, music, art and world cultures.
“I like Art and math is fun!” adds Duffy Bohlman, a 3rd grader. “I think my favorite part is the teachers. They are really supportive.” Karis Tate, a 7th grader says. Morgan Spencer, an 8th grader “You can just be yourself because no one really judges you.” Carson Moore, a 5thgrader wraps it up, “Come here, it’s extremely fun and you will learn a lot!” “
"We are incredibly proud to provide this challenging curriculum paired with a thoroughly Catholic ethos, at an affordable tuition for families who are seeking to educate and inspire their children towards a lifelong love of learning and a deep devotion to living the life that God has called them to live" says founder LCDR Ali Ghaffari.
We invite you to come and see for yourself the difference that this educational model makes in the lives of our students and their families. To set an appointment for a school tour contact Claire Horvath at administrator@divinemercy.md and for more info you may visit our website at www.DivineMercy.md.
Divine Mercy Academy 8513 St. Jane Drive Pasadena, MD 21122 410-705-0778
