Our Founder

Chizarra D., born and raised in Baltimore, with roots in Baltimore County spanning over 40 years, has a deep and abiding connection to the community. Her educational journey began at Bedford Elementary, continued through Pikesville Middle School, and culminated at Milford Mill Academy, where she focused on cosmetology. This strong local foundation is further reflected in her family's continued investment in Baltimore County; a niece eagerly anticipates attending Carver Center for Arts and Technology, while a nephew currently attends Wellwood International School.

Chizarra's commitment to service began early. At the age of 13, her mother instilled in her the importance of giving back, leading her to volunteer in the summer program at Campfield Elementary School. This early experience sparked a lifelong dedication to community engagement, which continues to this day as a current resident of Baltimore County.

Over the past year, Chizarra's dedication to community service and educational development has been particularly evident through her involvement in impactful initiatives. She has played a key role in the Black Children's Book DMV+ initiative, promoting literacy and cultural awareness among Black children across the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region, and contributing to the distribution of over 500 culturally relevant books as a volunteer coordinator. Additionally, she is actively involved in planning a school-based mental health clinic at Puzzle Pieces Learning Academy PCS, reflecting her deep understanding of the importance of holistic student well-being. These projects directly connect to her extensive background in special education, applied behavior analysis and entrepreneurial skill sets.

Chizarra’s professional experience demonstrates a significant focus on behavior support services within special education and leadership. As a department head at Eagle Academy PCS, she led efforts in providing comprehensive behavior support to students with diverse needs. Furthering her expertise in culturally responsive practices, she regularly led professional development at Cedar Tree PCS, focusing on addressing behaviors in a culturally sensitive and effective manner. Her expertise is recognized beyond the school setting; she was contractually selected to provide behavior support services to both Calvert County and St. Mary's County and is an approved vendor with Prince George's County Public Schools as a consultant. She previously served as the Director of Special Populations and Curriculum Development at Grow & Give Learning Corporation, where she spearheaded initiatives focused on inclusive practices. Currently, she is the Founding Executive Director of Puzzle Pieces Learning Academy PCS, providing a platform to further develop and implement innovative educational strategies and community programs.

Her academic pursuits further enhance her expertise. Chizarra pursued undergraduate studies in Health Science Management, post graduate Early Intervention certification from Georgetown University, graduate studies in Applied Behavior Analysis and MA in Organizational Development and Leadership at Fielding University. 

Beyond her professional and academic commitments, Chizarra remains deeply engaged in community-oriented missions. She actively contributes to the Parent Community Advisory Board for Baltimore City Schools as an alternate board member and policy committee member. She was nominated for the prestigious Annie E. Casey Foundation fellowship, a testament to her unwavering dedication to community empowerment and the pursuit of educational excellence.