Shamanda Washington joined IDEA as dean of exceptional education in 2022, having previously worked in a Level 5 alternative school. She has always been drawn to working in exceptional education, understanding that everyone learns differently but should not be excluded from anything because of their circumstances.

 

What she loves most about her work is building relationships with scholars and their families and having a positive impact on their lives. The scholars at IDEA are a joy to be around, she says. Ms. Washington enjoys the family-like culture at IDEA, and the camaraderie with her fellow team members and co-workers. 

 

Prior to coming to IDEA, Ms. Washington was a special education teacher and athletic director for six years. When she first moved in the D.C. area, she worked with homeless people. She has a Bachelor of Science from Mary Baldwin University, Staunton, Virginia.

 

Ms. Washington grew up in Farmville, Virginia, and moved to the D.C. area in 2015. She currently lives in Bowie, Maryland. When she moved, she had no friends or family in the area. She stepped up to the challenge of making friends and is happy to now have a supportive circle of friends.

 

In addition to her educational experience, Ms. Washington is a licensed professional barber. Ms. Washington played basketball during all four of the years she was in college and is a huge sports fan, rooting for the Miami Heat and the Las Vegas Raiders. 

 

Her favorite inspirational quote is: Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today. - Malcolm X