About Us
A School Built on Purpose. A Future Built on Faith.
About Joshua Academy
At Joshua Academy, we believe that every child deserves a safe place to grow — not just academically, but emotionally, spiritually, and socially. We are a Christian-based boarding school located in Maryland, created to serve African American male youth in the foster care system.
Rooted in love, structure, and unwavering faith, Joshua Academy offers more than an education — we offer stability, belonging, and purpose. Our mission is to eliminate the chaos and instability that so often defines the foster care experience, and replace it with a nurturing, home-like environment where young men can thrive.
Through small class sizes, individualized support, spiritual mentorship, and a rigorous curriculum, our students develop the confidence, character, and skills they need to succeed — not just in school, but in life.
Our Commitment
From 6th grade through postsecondary transition, Joshua Academy walks with our students every step of the way — providing housing, mental and physical health resources, college and career guidance, and a network of lifelong support.
Our Core Values
These principles guide everything we do at The Joshua Academy, from our educational approach to our community engagement.
Integrity
We believe in honesty, transparency, and ethical behavior in all our interactions.
Community
We foster a sense of belonging and mutual support among our students, staff, and partners.
Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in education, service, and personal development.
Compassion
We approach our work with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to help others.
About Our Founder
Samantha Ashford
Founder & Executive Director
Samantha Ashford is a passionate advocate for educational justice and the founder of Joshua Academy — a Christian-based boarding school dedicated to transforming the lives of African American male youth in the foster care system.
With a background spanning education, social work, and faith-based leadership, Samantha has spent her career creating spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and spiritually grounded. Her commitment to healing-centered education was born out of firsthand experience working with children who were navigating instability, trauma, and systemic neglect. She saw the gaps — and decided to build something bold enough to close them.
Guided by a deep sense of purpose and faith, Samantha envisioned Joshua Academy as more than a school — a refuge. A place where boys who have often been left behind could find brotherhood, structure, academic challenge, and the unconditional belief that their lives matter. Under her leadership, the school is designed to serve students from 6th grade through postsecondary education, offering holistic support that extends far beyond the classroom.
Samantha's work is grounded in the belief that when you change the trajectory of a child's life, you impact generations. Through Joshua Academy, she is creating a model for what's possible when love, faith, and equity are at the center of education.
Join Our Mission
Whether you're interested in enrolling a student, supporting our work, or joining our team, we invite you to become part of The Joshua Academy community.
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." - Proverbs 22:6