Houston Maharashtra Mandal (HMM) in collaboration with Bruhan Maharashtra Mandal (BMM) opened their education division called the HMM Marathi Shala(HMS) in the Houston area on October 13, 2013. The shala (school) to promote the language and culture of their ancestral Indian state of Maharashtra to children growing up in the United States. HMM Marathi Shala is a non- profit language school, run solely by volunteers.

The Shala has branches in Cypress, Katy and Sugar Land, with a total of over 100+ students. Each year, there are 30+ volunteer teachers who are dedicated to achieving the purpose of the Marathi Shala. The Shala Core Committee is made up of the Principal, Curriculum Coordinator, Secretary, and Treasurer; who are assisted by Branch Coordinators to run the HMM Marathi Shala regularly.

The Shala follows the curriculum formulated by Bruhan Maharashtra Mandal (BMM) in conjunction with Bharati Vidyapeeth, India. The aim is to empower children with the ability to communicate (read, understand, write and speak) in Marathi and also familiarize them with the rich culture of the state of Maharashtra.

At HMM Marathi Shala, students are required to complete two years in each level. HMM Shala also conducts assessments of students through semester exams in December and May. Parents are provided with feedback on how the students are progressing in their learning.

Students also learn through various cultural activities such as Diwali, Sankranti, etc. Additionally, students display their creativity and language skills through various activities such as the Annual Gathering and Talent Show.

Ongoing Initiatives

• Birthday celebrations
• Treasure box
• Library
• Reading buddies
• Diwali celebration
• Annual Day

Shala welcomes parents to enroll their children in our Marathi Shala during the registration in July-August, and also encourages the wider community to volunteer in school activities as well. Local volunteers who are fluent in Marathi are welcome to teach and assist teachers in the classroom. The school operates in accordance with the local school district calendar.