Extreme School Makeovers
1 John 4:4: “The one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.”
Meet Ragland, Jr.
The Neighborhood Hero
For more than 30 years, I’ve been dedicated to the craft of lawn care and landscaping, a passion passed down from my father, Ragland Powell Sr. What began as a family trade has grown into a lifelong mission: restoring pride, beauty, and integrity to our public schools.
Through Extreme School Makeovers, I’ve had the privilege of beautifying over 50 schools, transforming neglected grounds into inspiring spaces where students, staff, and communities feel a renewed sense of pride.
Now, I’m taking that mission further by offering specialized training for custodial staff and grounds crews. These men and women are the backbone of our school systems. Their work is the first impression visitors see, and their care directly reflects the character of the school itself. By giving them the tools, skills, and knowledge they need, we ensure that every school can maintain an environment of excellence, safety, and dignity.
At its heart, this program is about more than beautification...it's about restoring character, integrity, and respect to the spaces where our children learn and grow. Sharing my expertise is what I love, and together, we can create lasting change that strengthens schools and communities for generations to come.
“Let all things be done decently and in order.” –
1 Corinthians 14:40
Continuing Legacy...
My story is not just my own...it’s the legacy of my family, one I proudly carry forward. This journey began with my great-grandfather and was passed down through my father, Ragland Powell Sr., who instilled in me the values of entrepreneurship, knowledge, and giving others a second chance at life. Working side-by-side with him in the business, I learned that leadership is not just about skill, but about service.
My uncle, Thomas Powell, even while fighting his own battles with addiction, taught me the basics of lawn care and landscaping. From him I learned resourcefulness, adaptability, and the importance of finding solutions in the middle of challenges.
My aunt, Maria Powell, a devoted educator and counselor in the District of Columbia Public School System, showed me what commitment looks like. Through her work empowering youth, creating programs, and partnering with political leaders, her life is a shining example of consistency and community impact.
And the heartbeat of it all...my mother, Sandra Powell. She instilled in me the power of love, self-love, love for the work you do, and love for the people you serve. Her lessons taught me that true fulfillment comes from pouring your heart into making lasting change.
So, when you see The Neighborhood Hero, you’re not just seeing me...you’re seeing them. You're seeing their sacrifices, their lessons, and their love. Keeping this legacy alive is not just my responsibility, it’s my mission...for the world to see, feel, and be inspired by.
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6 (ESV)