Welcome to FDHS
Welcome letter to FDHS Eagles and their families with important information for a successful school year
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About FDHS
Vision
Frederick Douglass High School strives to be a World-Class High School.
Mission
Frederick Douglass High School empowers our students to become effective communicators, globally-minded problem-solvers, and lifelong learners who realize their potential and become ethical, service-oriented citizens.
Philosophy
The staff of Frederick Douglass High School believes that each student can learn and develop as a productive member of our society, regardless of their intellectual, cultural, and socio-economic differences. We believe that a safe environment, coupled with mutual respect among all members of the Frederick Douglass Community, will create an atmosphere conducive to learning. We also believe that consistent, regular attendance will enable student the opportunity to succeed.
Instructional Program
Our complete instructional program is designed to make our students college and career-ready. All ninth and tenth-grade scholars are enrolled in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) to ensure that every FDHS scholar is expected to excel in advanced coursework by their junior and senior years. The MYP encourages students to become creative and reflective thinkers and lifelong learners, and responsible global citizens. Inquiry-based learning experiences and extended research (included in the IB MYP Personal Project in the 10th grade) help students become effective communicators, identify their learning preferences and take intellectual risks.
IB Diploma Programme
Additional academic options include the highly rigorous IB Diploma Programme that begins in 11th grade. Students may choose to pursue an IB Diploma or take one or more DP courses. Success in IB is respected by leading universities and opens the door for multiple scholarship opportunities. In addition, FDHS offers a variety of Advanced Placement classes and a Career Academy in Communication and Broadcast Technology (CBT). CBT students have the opportunity to fully explore the demands of life in television, radio, and other media forms. The course of study involves a full investigation into TV production, recording technologies, and exploration in fine arts from a production perspective.
P-TECH
Frederick Douglass High School is home to Pathways in Technology Early College Program (P-TECH). Scholars are required to enter the program as ninth grade students and are given a unique opportunity to earn a high school diploma, an industry-recognized associate's degree, and gain relevant work experience in either Health Information Management or Hospitality Services Management. P-TECH creates a seamless program for students to acquire the academic, technical, and workplace skills and knowledge employers need.
The History of Frederick Douglass High School
Our school is named after the famous abolitionist, journalist, and orator, Frederick Douglass. Born a slave, he obtained his freedom and became one of the preeminent leaders of the time.
Frederick Douglass High School (FDHS) was the first high school for African-Americans in Prince George’s County. In 1922, Mr. Doswell E. Brooks, Supervisor of schools for African-American students, along with many community leaders, planned and raised money to build a high school. Mr. Sheldon Sasscer of Upper Marlboro offered the land for this structure. In September 1923, Marlboro High School opened its doors to African-American students of Prince George’s County. The school consisted of four classrooms where grades 8-11 were taught. This school was a joy for students who had previously traveled to Washington or Baltimore for their high school education.
A new Marlboro High School was built in 1934 and was renamed Frederick Douglass High School in 1935. The present Frederick Douglass High School was opened in 1959. FDHS represents the pinnacle of the work and dedication of the parents, students, and teachers that preceded us.