Side by Side, Inc. - Laurel

12/29/2025

Important Message!

Side by Side, Inc., our 17-year-old Laurel-based nonprofit organization that provided elementary-school parents with ways they could help their children get a strong start in school, is sad to announce that it is shutting down the organization.

Our work inside local schools came largely to a halt when the covid pandemic hit in 2020 and, despite intense efforts after that, we did no regain enough traction to continue.

We do take much comfort in the knowledge that we, through your support, were able to equip thousands of parents with ways that they could help their elementary school children build strong foundations in reading, writing, math and behavior. Parent testimonies at our annual fundraising breakfasts provided evidence that our work together changed lives.

We also are encouraged that Side by Side could embody the compassion and concern of churches in reaching out to help local parents and children.

We take further comfort in the fact that Prince George’s County Public Schools has recognized the value of equipping parents to help their children by placing parent engagement assistants at many schools. Their primary focus is to better inform and involve parents and to enrich the school experience for the families in their communities, a purpose largely like ours at Side by Side has been.

The Board thanks its grantors, especially Prince George’s County and the County Council, hundreds of individual donors, and hundreds of volunteers for supporting Side by Side in its vital educational mission for a decade and a half.

We can not thank you enough for making this mission and ministry possible.

With gratitude,
Side by Side, Inc.

08/26/2025

Happy First Day of School!

To all the students starting a brand-new school year, we’re cheering you on. May your day be filled with confidence, joy, and curiosity as you meet new teachers, reconnect with friends, and discover fresh opportunities to grow.

And to parents, you’ve got this. 💙 Side by Side is here to walk with you throughout the year, sharing resources and workshops that help your children thrive.

Stay tuned for our 2025–2026 Great Start Calendar. It’s full of workshops designed to equip parents and strengthen families.

From all of us at Side by Side, here’s to a smooth start and an amazing year ahead.

Prince George's County Public Schools

07/09/2025

Parents, how are you holding up?

Between camps, work, meals, and maybe a little chaos, summer can feel like a lot. We know you’re doing your best, and that’s more than enough.

At Side by Side, we’re here to remind you that you’re not doing this alone. Whether you need resources, encouragement, or just a space to connect, we’ve got you.

🧡 Tell us one thing that’s bringing you joy this summer. We’d love to hear from you.

07/01/2025

June Reflections!

This month marked a big shift—school ended, summer began, and families across our community entered a new season.

While we didn’t host workshops in June, our work never truly stops. Behind the scenes, we’ve been planning, listening, and preparing for what’s next.

Every parent we serve is a reminder: support doesn’t follow a school calendar—it follows need. And we’re here for it, every step of the way.

Stay tuned—more resources, events, and family support are coming soon.
Until then, rest, recharge, and know that you’re not alone.

06/20/2025

Today we reflect—and we educate.

Juneteenth marks the day when news of freedom finally reached the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

It’s a reminder: progress isn’t always instant. But when families are informed, supported, and empowered, change moves faster.

At Side by Side, we stand with parents and caregivers—because education starts at home.

06/13/2025

Almost There!

We’re in the final stretch of the school year—and we’re cheering on every student to finish strong. 📚✨

You’ve worked hard, grown in so many ways, and we’re proud to be part of your journey. Let’s keep showing up, supporting one another, and closing out the year on a high note!

06/06/2025

💛 Friday Reminder from Side by Side Laurel 💛
Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up.

This weekend, take a moment to connect with your child. Ask them:
“What was something that made you smile this week?”
You might be surprised by what they share.

At Side by Side Laurel, we’re here to support those small moments that build strong families.
Let’s keep growing together. 🌱

05/26/2025

is a time to remember those who gave everything for our freedom.

Their sacrifice lives on in the lives we’re able to live today.

05/23/2025

Friday Check-In:
What’s one word to describe your week?

Whether it was joyful, hectic, inspiring—or just “made it”—we want to hear from you!
Drop your word in the comments and remind someone else they’re not alone in this journey.

05/21/2025

Books, smiles, and real moments of connection!

At the Main Street Festival, our Board and staff gave away free books and educational resources—helping families keep learning fun and accessible at home.

Because sometimes, a small moment can spark a big love for learning.

05/14/2025

Tonight’s the night!
Parents, let’s stop the summer slide before it starts.

Join us for our final Great Start session—6-8 PM at Scotchtown Hills Elementary.
FREE family meal, easy summer learning tips, and fun take-home activities.
Translation services available.

Register now: https://forms.gle/2tkP4CueqSPHqoxK9

‼️
¡Esta noche!
Padres, evitemos la pérdida de aprendizaje durante el verano.

Última sesión de Great Start—de 6 a 8 PM en Scotchtown Hills Elementary.
Cena familiar GRATIS, estrategias fáciles y actividades divertidas.
Habrá servicios de traducción.

Regístrese aquí: https://forms.gle/2tkP4CueqSPHqoxK9

05/13/2025

One more day!

Parents, let’s stop the summer slide before it starts.

Join us for our final Great Start session of the school year—Wednesday, May 14, from 6-8 PM at Scotchtown Hills Elementary.

Enjoy a FREE family meal, easy strategies to keep learning going all summer, and fun take-home activities.
Translation services will be available.

Let’s make this summer a season of growth and family learning.

Register now: https://forms.gle/2tkP4CueqSPHqoxK9

‼️
Padres, evitemos la pérdida de aprendizaje durante el verano.
Acompáñenos a nuestra última sesión de Great Start del año escolar, el miércoles 14 de mayo, de 6 a 8 PM en Scotchtown Hills Elementary.

Disfrute de una cena familiar GRATIS, estrategias fáciles para evitar la pérdida de aprendizaje y actividades divertidas para llevar a casa.
Habrá servicios de traducción disponibles.

Hagamos de este verano un tiempo de crecimiento, conexión y aprendizaje en familia.

Regístrese aquí: https://forms.gle/2tkP4CueqSPHqoxK9

Our flagship program is called Great Start - a series of free family nights at a central location in Prince George’s County. We partner with six local elementary schools to bring parents of students from Pre-K through 2nd grade an engaging program. Our program equips parents with skills and strate...