History

From a Junkyard Into a School

Since 2001, we have been dedicated to creating educational and inspiring experiences for children and adults alike. Driven by our passion for building community and nurturing creativity, we've offered diverse programs, including weekend events, summer camps, and after-school activities.

Our journey began with Operation Junk, inspired by the popular TV show Junkyard Wars (known as Scrapheap Challenge in the UK). We crafted exciting, educational challenges for children, including launching machines, rocket-powered egg drops, racing devices, and DIY waterwheels. Just like on the show, we even invited judges to evaluate the innovative creations! These engaging experiences provided not only fun but also meaningful learning opportunities, inspiring countless participants over the years.

In 2013, we rebranded as Camp IO (Inner Science + Outer Science), expanding our focus by incorporating yoga into the curriculum. Our families embraced this addition, as yoga offered valuable tools to help children reduce anxiety, enhance mindfulness, and achieve emotional balance. Initially held at the Kahler Hall Community Center in Columbia, MD, our summer camp soon moved to our dedicated facility at Hillside Court. This transition allowed us to create a more immersive, enriching environment, fostering deeper connections and growth among our students.

In 2020, we started The Mandala School. We received State approval for our school one day before the COVID-19 shutdown. After five successful years, we've now relocated to a beautiful, 31-acre wooded campus in Bowie, MD—marking an exciting new chapter in our ongoing journey to inspire learning, creativity, and community.