The Early English Language Arts (EELA) project, a sister initiative to the Office of Teaching and Learning's (OTL)2018 large-scale effort, focused on transforming literacy programs for both elementary and high school students. This project aimed to innovate teaching methods and enhance the presentation of information to younger students, versus its counterpart that focused strictly on middle and high school level students.

A key aspect of this initiative was developing a brand that celebrated reading comprehension from an early age. MMD created the "Passport to Learning" brand, designed to frame reading as an exciting journey of discovery. The brand featured a unique color palette and minimalistic iconography inspired by travel and exploration, with elements such as stamps, luggage, letters, and blimps. This travel-themed approach was woven throughout all collateral materials, reinforcing the concept of reading as a gateway to new worlds.

A standout element of the project was MMD's hands-on collaboration with the Office of Teaching and Learning. By working directly alongside DCPS staff at their Central Offices, MMD was able to set up and fine-tune the template documents in real-time. This close collaboration provided valuable insights, allowing MMD to offer immediate technical—and emotional—support, ensuring the brand's successful implementation and adoption.