Built on a Different Belief.
MASA was created to reimagine what learning can be. We combine meaningful relationships, authentic Learning Journeys, creativity, and personalized support to help every learner discover their strengths and lead with confidence.
Education has always been more than my profession—it has been my purpose.
For more than 25 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a teacher, instructional leader, principal, consultant, and author. Throughout every role, one belief has remained constant: meaningful relationships are the foundation of meaningful learning.
My work has taken me into classrooms, schools, and communities where I have witnessed both the incredible potential of learners and the challenges they face. Those experiences have shaped my commitment to creating learning environments where every child feels seen, valued, challenged, and inspired.
I believe learning should cultivate curiosity, creativity, confidence, and critical thinking. It should honor each learner's strengths while providing the support and encouragement needed to grow.
That philosophy guides everything we do at Maya Angelou School of the Arts.
My hope is that every family who joins our community feels welcomed, supported, and confident that their learner is known—not just by name, but by their strengths, interests, dreams, and potential.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about MASA. I look forward to partnering with you as we help learners discover who they are, what they are capable of, and how they can make a meaningful impact in the world.
— Dr. Yolanda Peay
Founder, Maya Angelou School of the Arts
Hi, I’m Dr. Yolanda Peay.
What We Believe
Relationships Over Control
We believe relationships are the foundation of every successful learning community. By building trust, fostering belonging, and creating meaningful connections, learners develop the confidence to explore, create, lead, and grow.
Growth Over Perfection
We believe meaningful learning is a journey, not the pursuit of perfection. Mistakes, reflection, and perseverance help learners build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.
Support Over Punishment
We believe mistakes are opportunities for growth. By responding with guidance, reflection, and meaningful support, learners develop responsibility, resilience, and the skills to make positive choices.
Education Beyond Academics
Learning should prepare children for life—not just the next test. We believe education should intentionally cultivate creativity, leadership, emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and lifelong curiosity.
The foundation of Maya Angelou School of the Arts is rooted in relationships, support, growth, and the belief that every child deserves to feel valued and empowered.
Let’s Start the Conversation
What I Want for Every Student.
What I Want for Every Student.
I want students to feel safe being themselves. I want them to develop confidence in their abilities, learn how to communicate with purpose, and discover that their voice matters.
I want students to be challenged academically while also being supported emotionally. I want them to grow not only as learners, but as leaders, creators, and critical thinkers.
Most importantly, I want students to know they are capable.
—Dr. Yolanda Peay