Family Leadership Eligibility

The Family Leadership School is a three-year (minimum) program for single mothers and who are 18 years or older.  Onsite apartments accommodate families with up to three children.  Children living with their mothers must be under the age of five to participate in the early childhood education program.  Applicants must have completed high school or have a GED (work experience in lieu of a high school diploma will be considered).

To enter the program, you must be committed to the challenging work of setting and working toward personal goals and family goals that improve your family's quality of life.  Are you willing to:

• Live onsite for a minimum of three years?
• Commit to your education through Life Skills seminars and community activities (two evenings a week with child care provided)?
• Work with a Life Skills Advisor/Case Manager?
• Maintain employment, improve career opportunities, and/or pursue further education?
• Obtain POC/WPA  and Section 8 vouchers from Montgomery County or pay child/ren's tuition and rent?
• Earn enough income to pay the POC/WPA co-payment, Section 8 rent co-payment, utilities, and household expenses?
• Manage your living independently: housekeeping, meal planning, family hygiene and health?

If you can answer yes to all of these questions, call 301-929-2505 to register for orientation.

FLS Admissions

1. The Admissions Process begins with an interested person.  To get started, call 301-929-2505 and register for an orientation.  Orientation is held once a week.  No childcare is provided. 
2. If you remain committed after the orientation, you will set-up a two-part Family Interview. 

• Part 1:  Meet with the Admissions Team to discuss your family history, personal and family goals, and why you are committed to making your family's future brighter.
• Part 2: Bring a parent or other significant family member to meet with the Admissions Team.  When possible, the father of your child/ren is encouraged to participate in this process.  This is an opportunity to learn more about the program and to get your family involved in supporting your commitment.    

3. Once you have been admitted to the program, you and your children will attend a meeting with Crossway Community Montessori School (CCMS) staff to learn about the children's education program and to register your child/ren.

4. Before you move in, you will need to provide all required verifications and apply for a Section 8 voucher (if needed).  A list of requirements is provided at orientation.

5. Read your handbook; sign your lease; and you are ready to move in.

FLS Graduation

The last six months of the program include preparation for graduation and transitioning into offsite living.  An annual graduation where students receive a certificate of completion is held to celebrate families who succeed in the program. 

FLS Alumnae

Family Leadership School graduates are eligible for continued support and resources for five years.  Interested families receive holiday baskets and are invited to continue their participation in community activities. 

Community Resources