She Built a Whole School From Scratch — and Baltimore Will Never Be the Same

What happens when a Black woman from Baltimore decides her city's children deserve better — and then actually builds it?Chizarra Daishell is the Founding CEO and Executive Director of Puzzle Pieces Learning Academy, a community-rooted charter school opening in Baltimore County in 2026. She joins Craig Aaron Martin for a conversation that's equal parts vision and grit.Chizarra breaks down the whole-child model behind Puzzle Pieces — project-based learning, personalized learning plans, a school-based health clinic, home economics, arts integration, and deep parent partnership. She also gets real about what it meant to get a "no" from Baltimore County, rebuild her approach, and come back with the strength of the Maryland Charter Alliance and a community ready to back her. Whether you're a parent, a school leader, or a dreamer holding an idea you haven't launched yet — this episode is for you.🧩 In this episode:• What the delay from 2025 to 2026 actually taught her about leadership• How her special education and ABA therapy background shapes PPLA's model• Free, everyday strategies for parents to support young learners at home• Why she says "a no now doesn't mean a no forever"• How to get connected with Puzzle Pieces Learning AcademyLearn more: https://www.pplapcsacademy-bcps.com/our-founderConnect with Chizarra: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cdashiellpplapcs/Subscribe & follow Brave Voices: https://bravevoicespod.comInstagram: https://instagram.com/bravevoicespod