Bria Shields

For 35 years, The Fishing School has empowered over 8,500 children and families across Washington, DC, primarily in under-resourced wards. Founded by retired Metropolitan Police Officer Tom Lewis, TFS was built on the belief that children deserve to be "taught how to fish, not just given one," so they can thrive for a lifetime. Today, TFS serves 300+ elementary students annually in Title I schools in Wards 4, 5, 7, and 8 through free, hands-on afterschool and summer enrichment. Our programs blend STEM and arts instruction to reinforce math and reading while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration—skills essential for the future of work. Central to our model are loving encouragement and active parental engagement. Although STEM is one of the region’s fastest-growing, highest-paying sectors, elementary-aged children in marginalized communities rarely have quality STEM opportunities. By combining STEM with the Arts, TFS develops the skills students need to succeed in school and beyond. We bridge this gap early, using nationally recognized curricula, engaging projects, and community-building activities that spark curiosity and confidence. Our highly trained staff work alongside multigenerational volunteers from local partners to instruct, nurture, and guide students.