Proposal for Creative Minds Learning Center
Submitted by: Dr. Jerri L. Malone, PhD, Psychology
Credentials: PhD in Psychology, Master's in Urban Education, Master's in Psychology, Bachelor's in Human Services, pursuing Master's in Special Education

Executive Summary
I am seeking $500,000 in funding to launch the Creative Minds Learning Center, an innovative, teacher-led school designed to serve students with diverse learning needs, including dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD), Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (EBD), and other disabilities that impact grade-level academic functioning. The school will operate under a teacher-led model, emphasizing individualized instruction through small-group and one-on-one learning environments. Our holistic approach addresses academic, social-emotional, and physical development, ensuring students receive comprehensive support to achieve academic and life success.

Vision
Creative Minds Learning Center is founded on the principle that teacher-led classrooms, guided by highly trained professionals, provide the most effective, personalized instruction for students with diverse learning profiles. By prioritizing small class sizes, individualized support, and a structured yet flexible learning environment, we aim to foster academic growth, self-confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning.

Mission
Our mission is to provide an inclusive, innovative, and nurturing educational environment where students with diverse learning needs can reach their full potential. We are committed to partnering with families, community members, and educational professionals to create a collaborative ecosystem that promotes academic excellence, social-emotional development, and holistic well-being.

Educational Approach and Curriculum
The Creative Minds Learning Center will implement a comprehensive, evidence-based curriculum tailored to meet the unique needs of each student:

Small Class Sizes: Intentional small class sizes provide individualized attention and promote student engagement.

Literacy Development: Literacy instruction will include phonics, phonemes, morphemes, choral reading, TAP, and MAP assessments to build foundational reading skills.

Structured Mathematics and Science Programs: Hands-on, experiential learning and field trips will foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world application of knowledge.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): SEL principles will be integrated into daily instruction to enhance emotional regulation, interpersonal skills, and self-advocacy.

Sensory-Friendly Classrooms: Classrooms will be designed to accommodate sensory needs, promoting focus, engagement, and comfort.

Physical Wellness: Yoga, fitness, and structured movement breaks will support physical health, cognitive readiness, and overall well-being.

Nutrition and Health: A nutritious meal program will support physical and cognitive development, complementing student wellness initiatives.

Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and Due Process: All students will receive IEPs developed collaboratively by licensed teachers, paraprofessionals, and families. IEP meetings will ensure that goals are measurable, student-centered, and aligned with academic, social, and emotional needs. Families will be fully engaged in the planning process, and all special education procedures will comply with due process regulations to protect student rights and ensure equitable access to services.

Staffing Model and Budget Needs
The school will employ highly trained personnel to support academic and holistic student development while maintaining safe and operational facilities.

Notes:

This staffing structure supports a teacher-led, student-centered environment while ensuring health, safety, and holistic development.

Personnel expenses, including salaries, benefits, and training, are included in the requested $500,000 funding.

This team will ensure that the Gordon School is fully operational and ready to serve students by the Fall 2026 launch.

Support Services
In addition to academic support, Creative Minds Learning Center will provide comprehensive social and family services. These services will address non-academic barriers to learning, including mental health support, social service coordination, and family advocacy, creating a holistic framework for student success.

Funding Purpose
The requested funding of $500,000 will allow Creative Minds Learning Center to secure and renovate the Gordon School, an empty school building in North Minneapolis, Minnesota. Funding will support classroom preparation, staff recruitment and training, building maintenance, and operational readiness to ensure the school is fully functional for a Fall 2026 launch. Renovations and resources will be tailored to create a safe, accessible, and sensory-friendly learning environment that meets the needs of students with diverse learning profiles.

Impact and Outcomes
Creative Minds Learning Center will transform the educational experience for students with diverse learning needs by providing individualized instruction, social-emotional support, and holistic wellness programs. Students will develop the academic skills, confidence, and resilience necessary to transition successfully to subsequent academic levels. This model not only addresses gaps in traditional education for students with learning differences but also serves as a scalable blueprint for inclusive, teacher-led educational practices.

With Gratitude

I extend my sincere appreciation for your consideration of this proposal. Your support will make it possible to bring the vision of Creative Minds Learning Center to life, providing students in North Minneapolis with the academic, social, and emotional foundation they need to thrive. Together, we can create an inclusive, innovative, and empowering learning environment that transforms lives.

Sincerely,
Dr. Jerri L. Malone, PhD