DC Education Special Edition 2016

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EDUCAT ON special special edition edition

A Resource for the Education and Enrichment of Students in Washington DC

A CAPITAL COMMUNITY NEWS PUBLICATION capitalcommunitynews.com

2016

Pre-K 3 through 4th grade For the 2016-2017 school year Bridges PCS will be in our new location:

100 Gallatin St. NE, Washington, DC 20011

Building a strong foundation for learning growing to serve Pre-K 3 to 5th grade

APPLICATIONS BEING ACCEPTED FOR THE 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR Apply for admissions at:

www.myschooldc.org or call (202) 888-6336

w w w. br i d g e sp c s. org

202.545.0515

Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Voted one of the Best Preschools in DC, City Paper Readers Poll 2013 -2016!

DC’S CHARTER SCHOOLS: LEADING EDUCATION REFORM IN THE NATION’S CAPITAL! WARD 1

Apple Tree Early Learning PCS - Columbia Heights • Briya PCS (2 campuses) • Carlos Rosario International PCS • César Chávez PCS for Public Policy – Chávez Prep Creative Minds International PCS • DC International PCS • E.L. Haynes PCS - Georgia Avenue • Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science PCS LAYC Career Academy PCS • Meridian PCS • The Next Step / El Proximo Paso PCS • YouthBuild PCS

WARD 2

BASIS DC PCS • Goodwill Excel Academy PCS

WARD 4

Breakthrough Montessori PCS • Bridges PCS (2 campuses) • Briya PCS • Capital City PCS - Lower School • Capital City PCS - Middle School • Capital City PCS - High School Center City PCS - Brightwood Center City PCS - Petworth • DC Bilingual PCS • E.L. Haynes PCS - Kansas Avenue - Elementary School • E.L. Haynes PCS - Kansas Avenue - High School • Friendship’s PCS Online - K-12 Online Learning • Hope Community PCS - Lamond • Ideal Academy PCS • Latin American Montessori Bilingual PCS (LAMB) • Paul PCS Middle School • Paul PCS - International High School • Roots PCS • Sela PCS • Washington Latin PCS - Middle School • Washington Latin PCS - High School

WARD 5

Academy of Hope PCS • Carlos Rosario International PCS • Center City PCS - Trinidad • The Children’s Guild DC PCS • DC Prep PCS - Edgewood Elementary • DC Prep PCS - Edgewood Middle • Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom PCS • Friendship PCS - Armstrong Elementary Academy Friendship PCS - Woodridge Elementary • Friendship PCS - Woodridge Middle • Harmony DC PCS - School of Excellence • Hope Community PCS - Tolson Inspired Teaching Demonstration PCS • KIPP DC College Preparatory PCS • KIPP DC - Connect Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Northeast Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Spring Academy PCS • Lee Montessori PCS • Mary McLeod Bethune Day Academy PCS • Mundo Verde PCS • Perry Street Preparatory PCS • Shining Stars Montessori PCS • Two Rivers PCS at Young - Elementary • Washington Mathematics Science Technology PCS • Washington Leadership Academy PCS • Washington Yu Ying PCS • William E. Doar, Jr. PCS for the Performing Arts

WARD 6

Apple Tree Early Leaning PCS - Southwest • Apple Tree Early Learning PCS - Lincoln Park • Center City PCS - Capitol Hill • Center City PCS - Shaw Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy - Capitol Hill • Eagle Academy PCS - Capitol Riverfront • Friendship PCS - Chamberlain Elementary • Friendship PCS - Chamberlain Middle • KIPP DC - Grow Academy PCS • Kingsman Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Lead Academy PCS • KIPP DC - WILL Academy PCS • Monument Academy PCS • Richard Wright PCS for Journalism and Media Arts • Two Rivers PCS - 4th Street • Washington Global PCS

WARD 7

AppleTree Early Learning PCS - Oklahoma Avenue • Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy - Parkside Middle School • Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy - Parkside High School DC Prep PCS - Benning Elementary • DC Prep PCS - Benning Middle • DC Scholars PCS • Friendship PCS - Blow-Pierce Elementary Friendship PCS - Blow-Pierce Middle • Friendship PCS - Collegiate Academy • IDEA PCS • KIPP DC – Arts & Technology Academy PCS • KIPP DC - KEY Academy PCS KIPP DC - LEAP Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Promise Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Valor PCS • KIPP DC – Quest Academy PCS • Maya Angelou PCS - Evans High School Maya Angelou PCS - Young Adult Learning Center • SEED Public Charter School of Washington, DC • St. Coletta Special Education PCS

WARD 8

Academy of Hope PCS • Achievement Prep Academy PCS - Elementary • Achievement Prep PCS - Wahler Place • AppleTree Early Learning PCS - Southeast Cedar Tree Academy PCS • Center City PCS - Congress Heights • Community College Preparatory Academy PCS • DC Prep PCS Anacostia Elementary Democracy Prep Congress Heights PCS • Eagle Academy PCS - Congress Heights • Early Childhood Academy PCS • Excel Academy PCS • Friendship PCS Southeast Elementary Academy • Friendship PCS - Technology Preparatory Academy • Ingenuity Prep PCS • KIPP DC - AIM Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Discover Academy PCS • KIPP DC - Heights Academy PCS • National Collegiate Preparatory PCHS • Rocketship PCS • Somerset Preparatory Academy PCS • Thurgood Marshall Academy PCHS

Visit Our Website: www.dcacps.org or email us: redelin@dcpcsa.org

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 3

Your Opportunity Begins Here Graduation and 100% College Acceptance

WE’RE CHANGING OUR NAME BUT NOT OUR MISSION I n spi r i n g DC st ud en t s to s h i n e throu g h acad em i cs & th e a rts

National Collegiate Prep PCHS

William E. Doar Jr., Public Charter School is now

City Arts and Prep Public Charter School

HONOR, SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

Accepting 9th & 10th grade students

National Prep Offers: College Preparatory and International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB) Study Abroad with Service Learning Projects 9th, 10th and 11th Grade Honors Classes World Language Studies Small Classroom Sizes Marching Band Football Basketball STEM programs

Open House Come in to enroll your student, meet staff and learn about our program

July 26, 2016 3:00-6:00pm Calling all students interested in International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement classes!

The only IBO World High School East of the River

Apply online at www.myschooldc.org

Call and enroll your child today!

705 Edgewood Street, NE Washington, DC 20017

Come tour the campus, meet faculty and administration and learn about our exciting and competitive programs.

P) 202-269-4646 F) 202-403-3222

202.832.7737

www.nationalprepdc.org

4600 Livingston Road SE Washington, DC 20032 4 •

www.wedjschool.us

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 5

DC EDUCAT ION special edition 2016

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Using DC as the Ultimate Classroom

by Christine Rushton

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What is a Charter School?

by E.V. Downey

Play-Based vs.

Academic-Based Learning

by Christine Rushton

NOW ENROLLING FOR HIGH SCHOOL (GRADES 9-11) AND THE YOUNG ADULT LEARNING CENTER (AGES17-24)

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Kids and Family Notebook

29

Resources

by Kathleen Donner

This upcoming school year includes: • College and Career Readiness

• Workforce Training

• Academic and Mental Health Counseling

• Pre apprenticeship with Homebuilder’s Institute

• Tutoring and Enrichment Programs

• Telecommunication certification program

• GED Preparation

• Beautiful Building Renovations

A C APIT AL C OM M UNIT Y NEWS PU BLI CA TI O N

Capital Community News, Inc. 224 7th Street, SE, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20003 202.543.8300 www.capitalcommunitynews.com

To apply:

Call (202) 379-4335 for High School Call (202) 289-8898 for Young Adults For more information, please visit:

www.seeforever.org

MIDCITY

F A G O N

GUIDE TO CAPITOL HILL

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Melissa Ashabranner • melissaashabranner@hillrag.com PUBLISHER: Jean-Keith Fagon • fagon@hillrag.com Advertising Sales: sales@hillrag.com Copyright © 2016 by Capital Community News. All Rights Reserved.

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“Washington Post 2011 Distinguished Educational Leadership Award Winning Principal”

Our Lady of Victory School Learn Today and Lead Tomorrow A D M I S S I O N S TO U R

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH 9 A.M. REGISTER ONLINE 4755 Whitehhaven Parkway, NW Washington, DC 20007 t | 202.337.1421 f | 202.338.4759 e | info@olvschooldc.org w | www.olvschooldc.org EDUCAT ION 2016 • 7

Using DC as the Ultimate Classroom

Expeditionary Learning puts the fun back into school

by Christine Rushton alling rain splashes against one black and one pink umbrella. Five students in grades 9 to 12 stand in front of the black slab of granite stone, studying the nearly 60,000 etched names of Americans lost in the Vietnam War. On this overcast day in May, the memorial acts as the classroom for the students Blyth-Templeton Academy (921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE).

The students in the Writers Craft class had just finished reading Tim O’Brien’s book “The Things They Carried,” and decided they wanted visual context for the war before writing their own reflection poems. So they took a trip to the memorial to see the names.

“It was emotionally and thoughtfully grounding,” one Blyth-Templeton student said.

Another added: “It’s one thing to write about something and it’s another thing to go see what that writer might have been thinking about. If we can get a visual representation of that, that’s really what we want.”

Experiential and expeditionary learning styles — like the model Blyth-Templeton uses — flourish in DC, said Blyth-Templeton Head of School Lee Palmer. These models are popular with parents who are concerned that test-focused curriculums are based more on rote-learning, and not teaching children how to think for themselves.

From visiting museums like the National Gallery of Art and the Holocaust museum;

to historic sites like the Frederick Douglass homestead; to taking a trip to the Anacostia River Watershed; or building an urban garden, students capitalize on learning from the environment in which they live.

“We know from doing brain research that it’s very important for the students to be exposed to different environments, not just sitting at a desk in a classroom,” Palmer said.

Blyth, which opened in September 2015 in the Hill Center, has around 100 high-school students in small classes with a focus on individual learning.

The expeditionary learning education (EL Education) model relies on 10 principles: primacy of self-discovery, having wonderful ideas, responsibility for learning, empathy Two Rivers PCS students visit the U.S. Capitol Building in May 2014 to meet with House representatives. Photo: Two Rivers PCS

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EDUCAT ION 2016 • 9

Blyth-Templeton students read the names on the Vietnam War Memorial wall as a part of their study of Tim O’Brien’s “The Things They Carried.” Photo: BlythTempleton Academy

and caring, success and failure, collaboration and competition, diversity and inclusion, the natural world, solitude and reflection, and service and compassion. The focus on in-depth, applicable learning has proven successful in improving students’ retention in subjects like reading and math.

“Compared with national norms for middle-school learning growth, our results suggest that EL students experience impacts that are large enough to accumulate about an extra seven months of learning growth in reading and 10 months of extra learning growth in math after three years,” according to a 2013 report from Mathematica Policy Research on EL middle schools.

the history of their own city. Teachers take the students on expeditions to the national monuments, the Capitol building and the Supreme Court. Then they venture to local sites like the Big Chair in historic Anacostia, the fish market by the Southwest wharf and the stores along H Street NE. The students break up into four research groups and focus on one of the District’s four quadrants, said Chelsie Jones, a Twin Rivers instructional guide for about five years. They become specialists on the areas’ history and share with their fellow classmates at the end of the unit.

“They take on expert roles — historians, archeologists, ecologists, anthropologists,” Jones said. “We’d come to places and be that group of kids that’s note taking and stopping in the museum and getting the quote from the guide before we leave.”

This focus gives the third graders a chance to dive deep into the history of a particular neighborhood instead of skating over the broad history of an entire city, state or country, she said. They study the relationship between the federal and local governments,

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explore the changing commerce along H Street and take in the development along the Southwest wharf.

“Parents are initially surprised by how much their students are talking about school and how much they want to learn,” Jones said. “I truly think parents are happy with the investment their children are making and the joy in learning that they feel.” When learning is an interactive adventure, students thrive.

Learning from the Environment

The History of DC: Learning from More Than 200 Years of Change

In addition to taking advantage of the museums and the presence of the federal government, students also explore the neighborhoods of DC. During a 9-12 week unit of instruction, third graders at Two Rivers Public Charter School (1227 Fourth St. NE)study

The Early Childhood learning program on a field excursion to study seasonal changes on Roosevelt Island. Photo: Capitol Hill Day School

Sixth graders at Two Rivers interviewed local farmers from Rocklands Farm in Montgomery County, Md., to learn the differences of local sustainable and industrial food systems. Photo: Two Rivers PCS

Two Rivers fourth graders dive into an ecology unit in the spring months that takes the students on a field excursion to the Anacostia Watershed. They set out to answer several questions, notebooks in tow: What’s the history of the watershed? How can the community engage to maintain the health of the river? How does an ecosystem work?

The students go on “field studies” through neighborhoods near the river to study the types of pervious road surfaces, planted trees, housing developments and green spaces that affect the runoff to the river, Jones said.

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 11

Students at Blyth-Templeton spend their Wednesday community service time building garden boxes at Potomac Gardens. Photo: Blyth-Templeton Academy

“We really task them with investigating and learning through visiting,” she said. “They’re so invested. It’s an extension of the classroom.”

At Brent Elementary School (301 North Carolina Ave. SE), students venture outside to learn about urban farming at the K Street Farm on Walker-Jones Educational Campus (111 K Street NW). The .75-acre site gives the children a first-hand look at bee keeping, livestock care and gardening, said Brent early childhood teacher Amy Harding-Wright.

“We spent a few hours finding fruits and vegetables, identifying plants,” she said. “We even hatched chicken eggs in the classroom.”

The experience-based learning helps her preschoolers — ages three and four — explore on their own. They drive their own learning on these visits, Harding-Wright said.

The classes also take trips to local famer’s markets, the National Arboretum and of course, the monuments.

12 •

In DC, public transportation and the close proximity of these sites make it easy to venture beyond the classroom, she added.

Learning from Neighbors

Once a week, second grade students at Capitol Hill Day School (210 South Carolina Ave. SE) help prepare meals for the homeless at Progress for Christ Baptist Church (501 E St. SE). They learn about the hunger facing others in the community, especially children their own age, said Lisa Sommers, Capitol Hill Day School director of field education.

She remembers one student asking what happens when school finishes for the year and students no longer have access to schoolprovided meals.

“One child asked if [the church] has a pantry with non-perishables,” Sommers said.

“So, they organized an off-school food drive for this summer pantry.”

The Day School teaches pre-kindergarten through eighth graders. The students went on nearly 400 field excursions in the 2015-2016 school year — to study business at We the Pizza and Eastern Market; the government at the Capitol Building; and religion at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation (212 East Capitol St. NE).

The school’s curriculum relies on three main categories: academic, social and philosophical benefits of learning. Academically, the teachers want to make their units applicable to the real world. Socially, they want the students to interact with people and communities outside the classroom. And philosophically, they teach students that learning can happen anywhere and at any time during their lives.

“I get feedback from parents all the time when they’re on family vacations that the kids are very engaged and comfortable asking questions of a guide,” Sommers said.

“I think this kind of a program taps into the natural curiosity that kids have.”

Blyth-Templeton students also give back through community service, said Palmer. They do attend three periods a day for 45-day quarters each year, but most Wednesdays the students participate in a local project. In March, they helped build planting boxes for urban gardening at the Potomac Gardens (1225 G St. SE). And when an elderly resident needs help with yard work, they step up.

“We are intentionally committed to staying in the neighborhood,” Palmer said.

Blyth-Templeton has a partnership with the William Penn House (515 East Capitol St. SE), which is how they find projects around the Hill, Palmer said. Whether it’s for academic or social learning, her students draw upon their own curiosities to direct their curriculum.

“We say that what we want for our students is for them to be prepared for any door they want to walk through — astronaut, filmmaker, no matter what,” Palmer said. /

you saw them in

The Capital Community News Education Issue

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 13

What is a Charter School?

by E.V. Downey harter schools have been a part of the educational landscape of our city for two decades, educating nearly half of publicly educated students in Washington, DC today.

However, many parents, especially those of young children, are uncertain of what a charter school is and whether a charter school education is right for their child.

Charter schools are independently managed schools that receive public funds to educate children. In Washington, traditional public schools are run by the Chancellor of District of Columbia Public Schools whereas charter schools are run by the DC Public Charter School Board.

All are tuition-free and open to all, by lottery if demand exceeds available space.

Over 114 charter schools, operated by 62 nonprofit organizations, educate approximately 44% of the public school students in the District.

From their advent, charter schools have offered alternative approaches to education.

Progressive programs such as expeditionary learning and Montessori are popular as well as language immersion (Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese, and Hebrew are all offered in Washington). Many families prefer structured, intense environments that assist students with social and emotional challenges in addition to providing homework assistance and extended school hours. Others take advantage of free homeschooling support through the online home school charter program.

With public, charter, private, and parochial educational choices available in Washington now, many children are getting to high school having attended schools from

Fourth graders at Friends Community School (FCS) present their Problems Solvers projects. The projects, part of the math curriculum, require students to choose a problem, propose two possible solutions and evaluate both solutions using data they have collected. Students select one of the solutions and prepare a poster to display their work.

more than one of those categories. Capitol Hill mother Jen DeMayo’s two boys have attended both DCPS and charter schools.

DeMayo says she “feels so fortunate to have been able to find schools that worked” for her kids. Another Hill mother, Molly Pannell, echoes those thoughts: “I have six children with six different personalities, learning styles, and educational needs.

Having options through public, private, and public charter schools has allowed our family to enroll our children in schools that are the best fit for each of them.” Pannell’s children have attended two different charter schools, two different private schools, and a DCPS school.

Learning About Charter Schools

As with most research projects these days, the best place to start your charter school search is the internet. MySchoolDC.org, the lottery application portal, has information about each school that participates in the lottery and links to further information on other sites.

Each school generally has its own website and the DC Public Charter School Board has one that includes charter schools that are not in the Common Lottery as well. Parents can use these resources to find statistics such as demographics and test scores as well as schools’ histories, educational philosophies, biographies of administrators and teachers, and other bits

Charter schools are independently managed schools that receive public funds to educate children.

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EDUCAT ION 2016 • 15

Students enjoy music class at Washington Yu Ying PCS, which has a Chinese immersion program. Students learn all subjects in both Chinese and English.

of data that can help them assess the school.

Evaluating charter schools is similar in approach to any school search. Location and convenience are essential considerations. The best school on earth is not going to be right for your family if you cannot get there and back every day without completely disrupting your lives. Focus your school search on schools that are near work and/or home and are accessible via your chosen mode of transportation. School hours and availability of before- and after-care options are also important.

Educational approach is also of prime importance. Charter schools generally have a very specific focus such as language immersion or Montessori. Parents should do the research to understand what these different models are and whether they feel prepared to support their children in them. The written mission of a school should align as much as possible with your goals and interests as parents, as well as the specific strengths and weaknesses of your child.

Diversity: Charter schools can provide a unique opportunity for economic and racial diversity since they draw students from across the city as opposed to primarily from a neighborhood catchment area. Such diversity 16 •

draws many to charter schools, as is the case with Capitol Hill mother Colleen Cancio’s daughters, who attend a popular language immersion school which “offers students of diverse backgrounds the tools and strategies needed to develop mutual understanding.”

Such diversity is not found in every charter school, so checking out demographics for charter schools of interest is a key step.

Class Size: Smaller class sizes and more intimate student-teacher relationships are other draws of some charter schools. While studies have shown that smaller class sizes do not necessarily lead to higher test scores, for many parents test scores are not the only consideration. Smaller class sizes can give teachers more of an opportunity to get to know their students and help them better reach their academic, and personal, potential.

Test Scores: Most parents take test scores into consideration when evaluating any school. This can be more complicated when it comes to charter schools. Many have not been operating long enough to have kids at the testing ages who started at the earliest grade of the school, potentially skewing one’s ability to see how students would do after multiple years in that school. Other factors such as

alternative educational approaches and intensive foreign language teaching can bring test scores down below where they might be with a more traditional approach. In other words, test scores are important, but they must be considered in a broader context.

Leadership: Because charter schools are independently operated, the individual leadership of each school or set of schools is of particular concern when comparing programs.

In traditional public school systems, there is a broad hierarchy to deal with issues beyond the immediate administration. As nonprofits, charter schools have their own boards and the DC Public Charter School Board can handle complaints, but ultimately the school leadership is very important. A strong leadership team can create a school environment that allows the educational mission to be achieved.

A strong history of fiscal responsibility on the part of the charter operator, or a solid financial plan in a newer program, can be important to the overall future health of the school. A record of low enrollment can be a sign of an unhealthy charter that could end up closing, leaving your child without a school.

Any Downsides?

Charter schools have not come into being without controversy. Critics point to funds, buildings, and students going to charter schools as taking resources away from the traditional public school system. Complaints range from mishandling of special education

Bridges PCS students conduct a study of playgrounds in the community.

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 17

Cesar Chavez PCS young women scholars in grades 6 to 12 asked UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova questions about her experiences as a female diplomat, and the challenges she has had to overcome in her career. Bokova’s visit to Chavez Schools was co-hosted by The Wilson Center’s Women in Public Service Project.

to perceived discrimination against certain categories of students.

Neighborhood public schools must take students who leave a charter school mid-year, despite the fact that the charter school retains the per pupil funding while the public school educates those children.

Charters are subject to the same kinds of problems that can plague any school. Inexperienced or burned-out teachers sometimes have inadequate classroom management skills. Students who lack requisite skills to achieve the charter’s goals can make it necessary to provide extra support not in keeping with the school’s mission. Charters serve the same sets of students needing special education and English as a Second Language services and have approximately the same percentage of economically disadvantaged students as DCPS.

The Big Picture

Charter schools brought muchneeded variety and reform into 18 •

the domain of publicly funded education across the United States and continue to do so today. The rise of charters has spurred innovation in neighborhood public schools and attracted families who might otherwise have chosen private schools or a move to the suburbs. After 20 years, many of these schools have become wildly sought after with hundreds of students on their wait lists. Chosen carefully, a public charter school can provide a fantastic education option for many District families.

E.V. Downey is the principal educational consultant at Downey School Consulting, helping families navigate the public, charter, private, and special needs educational landscape. After completing a certificate program in Autism Studies, E.V. has recently started working as a behavioral therapist wtih kids with developmental delays. E.V. lives on Capitol Hill with her husband, Charles, and her two children. /

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 19

Play-Based vs.

Academic-Based Learning From Reggio Emilia to Every Child Ready

by Christine Rushton hree and four year olds at Brent Elementary (301 North Carolina Ave. SE) dabble with watercolors and magic markers. No teacher tells them how to uncap the marker or explains the correct ratio of water to paint – they learn through their own trial and error.

Across the Hill, preschoolers at AppleTree Early Learning Public Charter School (138 12th St. NE) sit in small groups to learn new songs and read aloud. A teacher guides them through the lesson – still allowing them to engage their own curiosities – but leading a structured session.

DC parents have access to free or paid preschools for their pre-kindergarten-aged children. But with several teaching philosophies available, parents need to consider what type of program their child will thrive in: a play-based program like Brent’s or an academic-based one like AppleTree’s.

The District offers a good mix of each program type, said E.V. Downey, an educational consultant and owner of Downey School Consulting. Every preschool will include some form of play because children in school from roughly 8 a.m. to 3 or 4 p.m. need that fun engagement. But how much free-form learning and how much structure depends on a school’s philosophy.

At AppleTree, students learn in the Every Child Ready program; at Brent, the Reggio Emilia; at Capitol Hill Learning Group (433 Ninth St. NE), a hybrid of play and teacher-directed; and at several other DC Public Schools (DCPS) and private tuition-based schools, Creative Curriculum, Montessori, Tools of the Mind, Waldorf and Dual Language.

Reggio Emilia

The basis of the Reggio Emilia learning model, founded by Loris Malaguzzi after World War II, is to help a child explore and learn through their own curiosity.

“What children learn does not follow as an automatic result from what is taught, 20 •

Preschoolers at Capitol Hill Learning Group work together in the classroom. Photo: Capitol Hill Learning Group

rather, it is in large part due to the children’s own doing, as a consequence of their activities and our resources,” Malaguzzi in the book “Hundred Languages of Children.”

Brent Elementary relies on this childdirected learning, said Brent early childhood teacher Amy Harding-Wright. There is the student, the teacher and their environment.

At Brent – in mixed three and four year old classrooms with a total of 17 students – they use provocation through materials to let each child explore through trial and error.

“We might put a new material out on the table and just let the kids come in and we observe what they’re doing – what they see, what they say, letting them explore,” Harding-Wright said. “We’re really letting them work with materials and figure out how they can be used.”

In a more directed classroom, a teacher may immediately show the child how the toy works, and while in both situations the children learn how it functions, allowing them to figure it out on their own builds their problem solving skill set, she said.

“If you’re allowing children to explore on their own, it’s going to foster their creativity

and their imagination,” she said.

Teachers pay close attention to what each child shows interest in, though, she said. That way when they talk with their students, they can ask specific questions about what they learned from one toy or one exploration in the classroom. They push them to actively use their new knowledge.

Harding-Wright took her class last year to the Wonder exhibit at the Renwick Gallery (1661 Pennsylvania Ave. NW). Her students loved the bug room, which was filled with artwork made from real insects. Then, they took their interest back to the classroom, got cardboard refrigerator boxes and created their own bug exhibit.

“We’re taking them on these field trips, but we’re trying to be as child directed as we can,” she said.

Every Child Ready

AppleTree students spend their day in a series of planned, structured components. In the morning, they learn language and reading, and in the afternoon, math and science, said AppleTree Chief of Schools Anne Zummo Malone. The school relies on a more academ-

SHINING STARS MONTESSORI ACADEMY, PCS 1240 RANDOLPH ST NE 20017 • (202) 723-1467

A C C E P T I N G A P P L I C AT I O N S F O R A L L G R A D E S : P K 3 - 5 T H A P P LY AT W W W. M Y S C H O O L D C . O R G

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 21

The structured learning helps students who thrive in routine-based environments, Malone said. Many preschoolers need that predictable schedule each day, especially because preschool is likely their first introduction into a school setting.

A Hybrid of Child and Teacher Directed

AppleTree students spend their day in a series of planned, structured components, a more academic-based program called Every Child Ready.

ic-based program it developed and piloted – Every Child Ready. Classrooms of 20-22 preschoolers at a given AppleTree school learn through 10, three-week long theme-based topics during the year.

Students can learn about archeology one theme and weather another, she said. But every component during the day – reading, science, math, etc. – touches on the theme.

The journaling component helps the children go from little to no writing ability to writing short letters or drawings by the time they enter the four-year-old group.

“It’s a structured day but students are engaged all day long,” Malone said. “There are lots of opportunities for hands-on learning; there is a lot of socialization between students and teachers.”

Students can choose one of several parts of the room to play in, like the construction area the art and easel area and the investigation location, she said. But the teacher will visit each part and pull the children into 10 to 12 minute small group, focused instruction. It’s a mix of allowing them to explore, but then engaging them into teacher-directed learning.

Last year during the dinosaur theme, students spent the first week in a basic, guided introduction to the history and science during their regular components. In week three, though, students could tell the teacher or their friends all about dinosaurs – all on their own.

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In the last 20 to 30 years, parenting has shifted from more hands-off to fixing every problem or directing every hour in the day for their children, said Capitol Hill Learning Group (CHLG) Program Director Martha Herndon.

“Kids didn’t learn to be resilient, they didn’t learn to adapt to things because parents shifted and adjusted and fixed things for their kids,” she said. “We’re trying to bring that resilience back.”

CHLG relies on a mix of both directed and play-based learning models. At the independent preschool, which operates out of the Washington Community Fellowship church, they teach their students through an eclectic model based on fiver predictors of student success: connectedness and accountability; possessing adaptability and resilience; developing emotional intelligence; targeting a clear outcome; and making good decisions.

In the classroom, a teacher at CHLG will explain a project or activity to the students and then allow them to add in their own ideas based on their experiences, Herndon said. A teacher may plan a lesson on dolphins and require her students to focus on that lesson as she teaches – a structured approach.

But she won’t give the answers to all the questions she later asks, forcing the children to think for themselves.

“Look at CEO’s of startups,” Herndon said. “It took them a long time--adaptation, resilience, understanding what the market would bare, dealing with interference from competitors--to succeed on their own.”

And when it comes to emotional development, expecting children to take responsibility

for their actions teaches them accountability.

Free-form play feeds creativity, and keeping rules and routines also gives them the skills they’ll need to interact in elementary, middle and high school, she said.

“Allowing children time for free play encourages adaptability and resilience and provides opportunities for children to learn to make good decisions and grow in their emotional intelligence,” Herndon said.

Other Options

Expeditionary Learning – EL learning started in 1991 at Harvard Graduate School of Education, with the help of Outward Bound USA. It is based on applying learning to real life experiences and using exploration of the students’ own environment to fuel lessons, according to EL Education. EL schools in DC include Two Rivers Public Charter School (1227 Fourth St. NE), Capital City Public Charter School (100 Peabody St. NW), Mundo Verde Bilingual Public Charter School (30 P St. NW), and more.

Montessori – This preschool style focuses on child-centered learning and developing the “whole child”: physical, social, emotional and cognitive, according to the American Montessori Society. It is structured play that arranges tools and materials around the classroom for students to explore, while teachers engage and observe. Montessori schools in DC include the Capitol Hill Montessori at Logan (215 G St. NE), Lee Montessori Public Charter School (200 Douglas St. NE), Aidan Montessori School (2700 27th St. NW) and more.

Tools of the Mind – Tools of the Mind focuses on children mastering their own behavior to control what they learn in the future, according to toolsofthemind.org. Using make-believe play and interacting with other children, students in this program learn about literacy, math and science through structured activities. The teachers direct the focused learning. Tools of the Mind schools in DC include Payne Elementary (1445 C St. SE), Garfield Elementary School (2435 Alabama Ave. SE), and more. /

MUSIC & ART PLAYGROUP

NEW THIS FALL!

Busy Bees Group

Buzzing Bees Group

Ages 20 months - 36 months in September 2016

Ages 30 months-40 months in September 2016

Flexible schedule from 1-5 mornings/week; 9 am-1 pm (aftercare available till 3 pm)

Set schedule of 3-5 mornings/ week; 9 am-1 pm (aftercare available till 3 pm or 6 pm)

An introduction to group learning with plenty of structured free play, music, art, Spanish, outdoor time, and fun!

An introduction to a school environment based on Creative Curriculum with music, art, Spanish, outdoor time, and fun!

More info and registration at:

www.BusyBeesDC.com 1453 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Second Floor, Washington, DC 20003 dcbusybees@gmail.com

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 23

Kids and Family Notebook

by Kathleen Donner

The Little Mermaid at Imagination Stage

In this faithful re-telling of the Hans Christian Andersen original, the Little Mermaid falls in love with a human Prince, and longs to join him in his world above the waves.

Despite the warnings of her Mer-family, the Little Mermaid seeks out the Enchantress who trades her pair of legs for the mermaid’s beautiful singing voice. A follow-up to the highly acclaimed “The Lion, The Witch & the Wardrobe (2012),” this collaboration between Imagination Stage and The Washington Ballet features dance, puppets, music and singing in a highly theatrical and epic style of performance. Best for ages 5 and up.

Tickets are $15 to $35. The show runs through Aug. 14 at Imagination Stage, 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD. 301-280-1660. imaginationstage.org.

The Little Mermaid, a collaboration with The Washington Ballet, is playing at Imagination Stage through Aug. 14.

Newseum Summer Fun Deal

Indian. Traditional hula teacher Melissa Mokihana Scalph shares Hawaiian stories, dance, song, games and crafts. Visitors have the opportunity to learn the basic movements of hula. Discover how the dance is used to tell a story.

Recommended for ages 5 and up. Seating is limited and first come, first served.

The Children’s Hawaiian Program is on Aug. 9 and 14; Sept. 13 and 25; at 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. nmai.si.edu.

Arena Stage Family Fun Pack

Anacostia Fall Family Festival

Through Labor Day, the Newseum waives admission for visitors age 18 and younger. Up to four kids visit for free with each paid adult or senior admission or Press Pass membership.

The regular admission price for ages seven to 18 is $13.95. Kids six and under are free. Newseum is at 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. newseum.org.

Arena Stage’s Family Fun Pack offers four seats for only $125. Orders must include a minimum of two patrons between ages 5 and 17 per Family Fun Pack and cannot be combined with any other offer or applied to previously purchased tickets.

Family Fun Packs must be purchased by phone or in person. Family Fun Packs are available for Born For This, through Aug. 28; Carousel, Oct. 28 to Dec. 24; and Moby Dick, Nov. 18-Dec. 24. arenastage.org.

Children’s Hawaiian Program

This is an entertaining and educational program about Hawaiian traditions and culture at the national Museum of the American 24 •

On Saturday, Sept. 10, noon to 4 p.m., enjoy live entertainment, face painting, mask making, storytelling and art activities for the kids at this annual, free Anacostia Museum event. Enjoy the sounds of Sylver Logan Sharp and Band, GoGo Fitness and the Savoy Players, Savoy Elementary performing scenes from the Broadway musical Hairspray. Anacostia Community Museum is at 1901 Fort Pl. SE. anacostia.si.edu.

Adventure Theater’s Jumanji When Judy and Peter find a mysterious old board game, they play it, hoping to alleviate their boredom.

One live lion, an erupting volcano and a dozen destructive monkeys later, the children are no longer

Music Store Instrument Rentals Private Lessons Group Instruction Summer Camps Providing the tools and expertise for musicians and music lovers of all ages

202.733.3158 info@musiconthehilldc.com www.musiconthehilldc.com

801 D Street, NE EDUCAT ION 2016 • 25

tour (12:30 or 2:30 pm) of the special exhibition Turquoise Mountain Then head to the ImaginAsia classroom to get creative with family and friends. All ages are welcome with adult companions. asia.si.edu

Will Peter capture the wily Old Lupus in time to save his friend Natasha?

Photo: Christopher Piper

The First Tee Offers Golf

Peter and the Wolf at Glen Echo

Staged with half life-size marionettes, Peter and the Wolf is one of the Puppet Co.’s best-loved stories.

Over a million children and adults have seen this one-man show, based on Prokofiev’s popular tale of good versus evil, performed by Puppet Master Christopher Piper. An introduction to the instruments in the orchestra precedes this story of the attempts

by Peter and his animal friends to capture wily Old Lupus. On stage at Glen Echo, through Aug. 28.

Recommended for ages 4, up. Running time is 40 minutes. Tickets are $12. thepuppetco.org. bored. Will they ever finish this mysterious magic game and claim Jumanji? On stage at Glen Echo through Aug. 28. Best enjoyed by ages 4 and up. Purchase tickets at adventuretheatre-mtc.org.

Open Studio: Welcome to Murad Khani

On Saturdays, Aug. 6 and 20, noon to 4 p.m., discover how artists from Afghanistan are transforming their lives and their country during an afternoon of free family-friendly activities at the Sackler Gallery on the Mall. Take a 26 •

The First Tee is an international youth development organization introducing the game of golf and its inherent values to young people. Through after school and in school programs, it helps shape the lives of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing values like integrity, respect and perseverance through the game of golf. The First Tee’s mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices. The First Tee programs in DC are at Langston, East Potomac and Rock Creek golf courses. Read more at thefirsttee.org.

into hope, of beauty discovered in unlikely places, the power of the child’s imagination and the wisdom that accompanies growing up. On stage at Shakespeare Theatre, Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. shakespearetheatre.org.

Volcanoes: Tales of El Salvador

In Mayan, volcano is ixcanul (fire mountain).

A volcano’s fire is hot, alive, and beautiful, like the stories and folktales from El Salvador. A fun-filled, bilingual, musical spectacle for children 5 to 10, “Volcanoes: Tales of El Salvador” combines past and present, myth and stories of everyday life. Volcanoes is at GALA, Oct 8 to 22. Tickets are $12 for ages 15 and older; $10

The Secret Garden at Shakespeare Theatre

When 10-year-old Mary Lennox loses her parents to a cholera epidemic in the British Raj of India, she travels to England to stay with Archibald Craven, her remote and morose uncle, still grieving the death of his wife. Terrified of every nook and cranny of the haunted Craven Manor on the Yorkshire Moors, Mary seeks refuge in her late aunt’s mysterious walled garden, where she discovers amazing secrets.

Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s Drama Desk and Tony Award-winning musical based on the beloved children’s book, The Secret Garden, is a story of hardship turned

Giant Panda Bao Bao Celebrates Her First Birthday at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on Aug. 23. Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Giant Panda Birthday Celebration at the Zoo

On Saturday, Aug. 20, come celebrate the birthdays of giant pandas Bao Bao, Bei Bei and Tian Tian. Visitors can watch as the giant pandas devour frozen birthday “cakes” and see animal demonstrations. The National Zoo is at 3001 Connecticut Ave. NW. The zoo is free but parking is $22. nationalzoo.si.edu.

201 8TH ST NE | 202 .544.5469

for ages 2 to 14. Infants one year and under are free. GALA Hispanic Theatre is at 3333 14th St. NW. galatheatre.org.

Race for Every Child 5k and Kids’ Dash

The Race for Every Child 5k is one of the largest community events focused on children’s health in the Washington region. The event raises critical funds to help kids grow up stronger. The race is on Oct. 1, 7 a.m., at Freedom Plaza. Registration for the 5k is $50. Registration closes Sept. 27. The Kids’ Dash is $15. childrensnational.donordrive.com.

ARTLAB+Teen Studio

ARTLAB+ is an inclusive digital media drop-in studio for local teens at the Hirshhorn Museum.

ARTLAB+ programs give youth access to professional technology and art, connecting them to artist mentors who support teens in building their own creative community. The program develops critical thinkers and engaged citizens who have the marketable technological skills needed to lead the next generation of innovators. ARTLAB+ teens choose their own activities and projects to produce with professional video and photo gear, music and recording equipment, video games and graphic design resources. Inspired by the collection and temporary exhibitions, a staff of artist mentors serve drop-in teens after school, during the academic year and summer. Teens can hangout, plan events, and join production teams. They welcome all teens, 13 to 19, regardless of experience.

Visit artlabplus.si.edu for more information.

Saturday Mornings at The National Theatre

Parents and children are invited to the National Theatre on select Saturday mornings for free programs that engage and inspire the young mind. Saturday programming is best suited for children 4 to 10 years. Siblings and friends of other ages are always welcome.

Performances take place Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. in the Helen Hayes Gallery. The National Theatre is at 1321 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. Tickets may be reserved one week prior to the performance. The reservation system closes at 10 a.m. on the Friday before the performance but walkins are welcome if there is room.

Register and get more information at thenationaldc.org.

FREE SCREENINGS DETAILED ASSESSMENTS SCHOOL AND PARENT CONSULTATIONS SOCIAL LANGUAGE GROUPS PHONEMIC/READING THERAPY ARTICULATION/LANGUAGE THERAPY ORAL-MOTOR/FEEDING THERAPY

www.capitolkidstherapy.com leslie.humes@capitolkidstherapy.com

Kids Run the Bases at Nat’s Park

Kids ages 4 to12 can run the bases after select Nationals games. “Kids Run the Bases: begins immediately following the game, weather permitting. Remaining dates are Aug. 7, 14 and 28; and Sept. 11. One adult must accompany each runner to the field. Starting at first base, kids run around the bases as the adults continue along the warning track and meet the runners near home plate. Participants exit the ballpark through the Right Field Gate. The line forms along First Street SE. washington.nationals. mlb.com.

Olympic Celebration Family Day

The Olympics may be in Rio de Janeiro, but parents and kids can join the festivities at the Smithson-

Two Convenient Locations: Arlington and Capitol Hill

405 8th St. NE WDC 20002 202.544.5439 Serving children from birth through 13 years of age and specializing in gross and fine motor delays, visual perceptual/motor problems, and sensory processing disorders. We provide individual and group therapy, evaluations, screenings, consultations, and school observations

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 27

ian American Art Museum on Saturday, Aug. 20, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy an afternoon of crafts, games and music that celebrates the culture of Rio and the athletes competing in the 2016 Olympic Games. Cheer on the red, white and blue of Team USA. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Eighth and F Streets NW. americanart.si.edu.

Building Museum Family Days

Drop by the National Building Museum’s free, long-running Family Days to celebrate the built environment. Learn from professionals. Try out fun, handson activities that the whole family can enjoy. “The Big Build” is on Saturday,

Oct. 15. It is an interactive, fun-for-all-ages celebration of the built environment. Learn from construction and building arts professionals while hammering nails, sawing logs, applying join compound, hopping aboard real trucks and more. “Discover Engineering Family Day” is on Saturday, Feb. 17. Kick off “National Engineers Week” with a fun-filled day at the Museum. Drop in to meet real engineers and to test out ideas with over 20 hands-on engineering activities. Launch rockets.

Meet an astronaut, make slime, popcorn and more. nbm.org.

Boeing Learning Center ReSource Room

Drop in during a National Archives visit to participate in hands-on activities and programs based on documents, images, maps, posters and more from the inestimable holdings.

The ReSource Room is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and reservations are not required. archives.gov.

Choose Your Own Story Family Day

Photo: Teresa Wood

On Saturday, Aug. 27, noon to 3 p.m., use the whole building to create your story. It begins at the museum entrance and from there participants are in control. This is a free, drop-in program. Daughters of the American Revolution, 1776 D St. NW. 202-628-1776. dar.org.

Flowers Stink at the Botanic Garden

When you live in a big city sometimes it’s hard to appreciate the great outdoors.

That’s definitely the case with one middle school girl, who’s struggling with writing a nature-themed poem for school. Giving up, she tweets: “#poetryisstupid #natureisborings #flowersstink.” Suddenly, two zany and loveable plants magically come to life in her room, encouraging her to open her eyes, ears and mind to the beauty all around her. Pointing to her own family history, the girl’s newfound friends transport her imagination to the flora of a desert, a volcano and a rain forest to help unleash her creativity. Mixing plenty of singing and dancing with folk, bluegrass, blues, and gospel, this colorful world premiere musical by the Helen Hayes Award-winning creators of Dizzy Miss Lizzie’s Roadside Revue shows that one can find the best of nature in the most unlikely places.

Flowers Stink is on Saturdays, Sept. 24, Oct 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, at 11 a.m. It’s free. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Flowers Stink is performed outdoors on the Amphitheatre stage at the US Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. In case of rain, the show will be performed inside the Conservatory in the West Gallery. usbg.gov.

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New Season at Imagination Stage

Subscriptions to Imagination Stage’s 2016-2017 Season are now on sale. Priced at $60, subscribers attend all five productions for the best in value. Flex Packs are also now available for seven or more tickets. Subscribe online or by calling the Box Office at 301-280-1660. Here’s the lineup: “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane,” Oct. 8 to 30; “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” Nov. 9 to Jan. 25; “The Freshest Snow Whyte,” Feb. 11 to March 28; “The Jungle Book,” April 22 to May 28; “Wonderland: Alice’s Rock & Roll Adventure,” June 21 to Aug. 13. Imagination Stage is at 4908 Auburn Ave., Bethesda, MD. 301-280-1660. imaginationstage.org.

Family Dances at Glen Echo

On Sundays, Sept. 11, Oct. 9, and Nov. 13, 3 to 5 p.m., the Folklore Society of Greater Washington hosts an afternoon dancing with children to live music and called dances. Bring your entire family, neighbors, a birthday party, and girl or boy scout troop. All ages are welcome. Admission is $5 for ages 4 and older. Glen Echo Park is at 7300 MacArthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Maryland. 301-634-2222. glenechopark.org. /

Claster Educational Services guides students and families step-by-step so they are well-prepared and confident as they navigate the college admissions process.

(202) 368-1888 www.clastereducation.com Facebook.com/ClasterEducation

RESOURCES SCHOOLS Aidan Montessori School • www.aidanschool.org Since 1961, Aidan Montessori School has offered an authentic AMI-standard environment to enable children to realize their richest potential for learning and to become independent, self-motivated, and contributing citizens of the world. Aidan serves 200 children from 18 months to 6th grade and supplements its Montessori core with classes in Mandarin, Spanish, Art, Music, and more. Schedule your visit today!

Archbishop Carroll High School • www.achsdc.org Archbishop Carroll High School is a Catholic, college preparatory, coeducational school that welcomes young people and empowers them in an academically rigorous, diverse, and supportive learning environment. The school prepares young men and women to make meaningful and positive contributions to their communities and to continue their journey as lifelong learners.

The Auburn School • www.theauburnschool.org The Auburn School, an integrated program built for student success, weaves together our social skills program and a challenging academic curriculum. Our schools serve intellectually curious students with challenges in socialization, communication, and organization. Auburn integrates art, music, social learning, occupational therapy, study skills, and organizational techniques into core academic subjects. We have campuses in Virginia, DC and Maryland.

BASIS, Washington D.C. ™ • www.basisdc.org BASIS charter schools are consistently ranked among the top K–12 schools in the United States. Through BASIS.ed’s revolutionary liberal arts program, BASIS students are inspired to love learning and the pursuit of deeper understanding, so they are prepared for success in every aspect of their future lives.

Beauvoir, the National Cathedral Elementary School www.beauvoirschool.org At Beauvoir, the National Cathedral Elementary School, we provide an extraordinary early childhood education in a diverse community that values every individual. Beauvoir’s program encourages creative, courageous learners and builds an enduring foundation for a lifelong spirit of inquiry and joy in learning.

Blyth-Templeton Academy – Hill Center • blythtempleton.org Blyth-Templeton Academy is a college-preparatory, private, non-sectarian, co-educational high school serving grades 9-12. Academically rigorous small classes averaging eight students allow students to learn outside of the classroom as well as within it. The school is located at the Hill Center at Old Naval Hospital. Join us at an open house or schedule a meeting and tour to learn more.

Bridges PCS • bridgespcs.org Bridges Public Charter School is an expanding elementary school growing to serve students in grades Pre-K through 5th by the 2017/2018 school year.

The school’s developmentally appropriate, student- and family-centered educational approach includes small classroom sizes, a well-trained staff,

EDUCAT ION 2016 • 29

individual planning for each student, and handson and project-based learning. For the 2016/17 school year the school will serve students in grades Pre-k to fourth and will be located at their new campus at 100 Gallatin St. NE. British International School of Washington • www.BISWashington.org British International School of Washington is a vibrant international school that offers a highquality education for children ages two years old through the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Internationally acclaimed curricula, energetic teachers, and a student community from Washington and around the world ensure that a global perspective is at the heart of each student’s experience.

Burgundy Farm Country Day School www.burgundyfarm.org Burgundy Farm County Day School provides an inclusive, creative, and nurturing learning environment on a 26-acre “hidden gem” campus.

The school features a brand new Outdoor Classroom and Discovery Playground. Its innovative, hands-on approach to education cultivates excellence, instills respect for diversity, and teaches responsibility for self, for others, and for the natural world.

Busy Bees Music & Art Playgroups www.BusyBeesDC.com Busy Bees Music & Art Playgroups provide a drop-off preschool environment for kids ages 20-40 months old. For the younger kids, choose from 1-5 mornings/week with optional aftercare until 3 pm. Older kids attend from 3-5 mornings/ week with optional aftercare until 3 pm or 6 pm.

Program includes structured free play, music, art, Spanish, and plenty of fun!

Capitol Hill Day School • www.chds.org Capitol Hill Day School serves 215-225 students, prekindergarten through eighth grade. Since 1968, passionate and professional educators have offered a progressive education that sparks joy in learning, encouraging curiosity, exploration, creativity, and play. We connect the classroom to the larger world with over 300 field education experiences annually. We draw strength from our diverse community, and support each child’s social, emotional, and academic growth, building a strong foundation for high school and for a life of purpose and value. Rich and varied after school and summer camp programs are available, as well as need-based financial aid.

Center City PCS • www.centercitypcs.org City PCS teaches a broad liberal arts and humanities curriculum to students in Pre-Kindergarten-Eighth Grade. We believe, teach, and live Character, Excellence, and Service. We commit to the intellectual, physical, moral and emotional well-being of each scholar and believe every child can learn, lead and serve. We are a network of six neighborhood-based schools that provides a high quality, well-rounded education that prepares students for success.

Cesar Chavez PCS for Public Policy www.chavezschools.org Chavez Schools is a network of innovative college preparatory public charter schools that focuses on cultivating the next generation of civic leaders to create a more just, free, and equal world. With four campus locations, Chavez Schools currently serves 1,400 students in grades 6-12.

30 •

City Arts and Prep PCS • www.wedjschool.us City Arts and Prep Public Charter School blends rigorous academics with world-class arts instruction by accomplished artists from renowned dance, musical, theatrical, and visual arts institutions. We are the only public school in Washington, DC to provide professional-caliber arts training for students in preschool through eighth grade at no cost to families.

Eagle Academy PCS • eagleacademypcs.org Eagle Academy Public Charter School employs a variety of educational, technological, physical, and sociological tools to transform its students into active learners. Offering pre-k to third grade instruction, the school has a myriad of programs including STEM, arts, music, foreign language, and adventure activities that encourage student curiosity, which is the key to successful learning. The school has two conveniently located campuses at 1017 New Jersey Ave. SE and 3400 Wheeler Rd. SE. The Children’s Guild District of Columbia Public Charter School • www.tcgdc.org Serving students in grades K-8, this tuition-free school is open to all D.C. residents. If you are looking for a nurturing school with excellent academics tailored to meet the unique learning needs of your child(ren), then The Children’s Guild DC Charter is your choice. Come see for yourself!

DeMatha High School • www.dematha.org DeMatha High School offers a college preparatory curriculum serving the talents and interests of students from diverse economic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. DeMatha’s outstanding academic program includes extensive AP and honors courses, opportunities for Christian service, an acclaimed music program, co-curricular activities, and a nationally recognized athletic program.

District of Columbia International PCS www.dcinternationalschool.org DC International Public Charter School inspires inquiring, engaged, knowledgeable, and caring secondary students who are multilingual, culturally competent, and committed to proactively creating a socially just and sustainable world.

Applications are open for grades 6-9. DCI is an authorized IB MYP World School offering Spanish, Chinese, and French.

Elizabeth Seton High School • setonhs.org ESHS is leading the way in preparing young women to succeed in college, career, and life.

Seton cultivates a learning culture where interaction with diverse people and ideas, a challenging curriculum, extensive activities, and professional mentoring will prepare graduates to develop successful personal and business relationships in the 21stcentury.

Friends Community School www.friendscommunityschool.org Experience the joy of an extraordinary education!

Friends Community School is a kindergarten-toeight Quaker School that nurtures lifelong learners, courageous risk-takers, and joyous peacemakers. It welcomes students of all backgrounds and is just 15 minutes from the Hill. Its students love to learn, know how to learn, and succeed in leading high schools area-wide.

The Hill Preschool • www.thehillpreschool.org The oldest preschool on Capitol Hill, now in its 45th year, is a cooperative preschool at the

Church of the Brethren for children two through five years old. The Hill Preschool teaches through play and socialization. Children are provided rich opportunities to engage in hands-on explorations in their classrooms as well as the larger Capitol Hill community. The school seeks to nurture each child’s social-emotional, cognitive, language, and physical development.

KIPP DC • www.kippdc.org KIPP DC is a non-profit network of high-performing, college-preparatory public charter schools. Outstanding educators and staff, more time in school, a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum, and a strong culture of achievement and support help its students make significant academic gains. KIPP DC currently operates 16 schools serving students in PreK3-12.

Kingsman Academy • kingsmanacademy.org Kingsman Academy embraces students who have experienced varying challenges. Kingsman provides instructional supports that prepare scholars for success and responsible citizenship.

Scholars build knowledge and skills through a rigorous and engaging curriculum, hands-on electives, and real-world career and technical learning pathways developed in collaboration with employers and community partners.

IDEA Public Charter School • www.ideapcs.org IDEA Public Charter School prepares scholars for college and career success with committed, experienced teachers and small class sizes, a positive culture emphasizing leadership and achievement, and our Academy of Construction and Design, which teaches practical skills including construction, architecture, electrical, carpentry, sustainable design, plumbing, HVAC, and more.

Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools www.seeforever.org Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools create learning communities where all students, particularly those who have not succeeded in traditional schools, can reach their potential and prepare for college, career, and a lifetime of success. Maya’s students see the school as their first choice for a second chance, where they develop the academic, social, and employment skills they need. This is achieved through a demanding academic program, socio-emotional learning support, a blended learning model, and tiered interventions that focus on the whole child.

National Collegiate Preparatory PCHS www.nationalprepdc.org Be a part of a wonderful academic community!

National Prep is a college prep high school located in Washington, DC. It offers small class sizes and an international study focus with a rigorous curriculum to prepare students for college. Space is available for ninth and 10th graders. Contact us about our exciting program.

Northeast Stars Montessori Preschools (NES) www.nestars.net Northeast Stars Montessori Preschools are fully licensed preschools in Old Town Alexandria and Capitol Hill. They provide individualized, personal educational opportunities for the whole child.

Their teachers deliver “Montessori and More!” through mixed-age (two to five years) classrooms, carefully planned lessons, and incorporation of music and arts. NES schools offers before care, extended day learning from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m., space share and part-time spaces.

Our Lady of Victory School • olvschooldc.org Our Lady of Victory School is a dynamic, diverse Catholic school in Washington, D.C. with 200 students in Nursery through Grade 8. Recognized as a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence by the U.S. Department of Education, the teachers and staff of the school are committed to providing a learning environment that promotes scholarly excellence while fostering students’ moral and spiritual growth.

Randolph-Macon Academy • www.rma.edu Randolph-Macon Academy, grades 6 to 12, is America’s oldest coed boarding school with Air Force JROTC. The school provides small classes, mentoring, supervised study, AP and college courses, sports for all grade levels, a flight program, music, art, and drama. One hundred percent of graduates are accepted to four-year colleges or universities. The school is affiliated with the United Methodist Church.

Richard Wright PCS www.richardwrightpcs.org Richard Wright Public Charter School for Journalism and Media Arts provides a strong, academically enriching and rigorous program while providing hands-on learning of fundamental concepts and skills essential in the fields of Journalism, Broadcast Journalism, Film, Graphic Design, Visual Art, and Music Production. The school innovative curriculum elevates literacy levels for all its students.

Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS www.shiningstarsdc.org Shining Stars Montessori Academy PCS (SSMA) is DC’s only public Montessori school accredited by the American Montessori Society. The school’s mission is to offer a quality Montessori education infused with culturally inclusive principles to guide children to develop to their fullest potential. SSMA serves students from PreK-3 to 5th grade.

St. Peter’s School • www.stpeterschooldc.org At St. Peter School, a National Blue Ribbon school on Capitol Hill, students take part in a rigorous Pre-K - Grade 8 academic program, learn to be contributing members in a global society, and are prepared for the future with a foundation for lifelong intellectual growth and spiritual formation. Open house dates: Friday, Nov 4th 9-10:30am & Friday, Dec 2nd 9-10:30am.

Two Rivers Public Charter School www.tworiverspcs.org Founded 12 years ago by a group of Capitol Hill parents, Two Rivers serves preschool - 8th grade students across two campuses in Northeast D.C. A high performing network, its mission is to nurture a diverse group of students to become lifelong, active participants in their own education, develop a sense of self and community, and become responsible and compassionate members of society.

Washington Yu Ying PCS washingtonyuying.org Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School combines Chinese language immersion with the inquiry-based curricula of the International Baccalaureate Organization. It serves pre-k and third to fifth graders. Washington Yu Ying accepts applications through second grade.

The school has a structured aftercare program.

Apply online and attend an information session to learn more.

SERVICES AND RESOURCES American Youth Chorus www.americanyouthchorus.org Congressional Chorus www.CongressionalChorus.org AYC is a weekly after-school program, hosted at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, for students ages 8-14. AYC encourages youth through a performance/music theory based education that encourages vocal development, creativity, and self-esteem in a fun, supportive environment!

Past performance venues have included: the White House, The Kennedy Center, Nationals Ballpark and Atlas Performing Arts Center. To join AYC, email: AYCManager@CongressionalChorus.org, or call 301-502-4952.self-esteem in a fun and supportive environment.

Boy Scouts • www.NCACBSA.org/Join National Capital Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, is comprised of 23 districts serving 10 counties in northern Virginia, six counties in Maryland, the District of Columbia, and the US Virgin Islands. They serve over 55,000 youth in traditional Scouting, coed outdoor adventure, and career-education programs. Join the action.

Capitol Kids Therapy LLC www.capitolkidstherapy.com Capitol Kids Therapy LLC’s therapists offer therapies to address articulation, developmental delays, language delays, auditory processing, and pre-reading/phonemic awareness skills.

They are PROMPT-trained and have experience implementing oral-motor and feeding therapy.

Capitol Kids therapists work with children in a variety of settings including clinics, schools, daycares, in-home, and through the DC Strong Start program. Ask about their social skills groups for a variety of ages and abilities.

Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW) • chaw.org Creativity, confidence, and community are the guiding principles of the new Youth Arts Program at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop (CHAW).

Diverse and dynamic classes in dance, theater, music, visual art, ceramics, and photography help students develop a unique artistic voice as they explore and create while working in community with their peers. Tuition assistance, payment plans, and transportation options are available for all. Additionally, CHAW provides special middle school classes focusing on deeper dives into a variety of artistic disciplines. Private music instruction is also available for all ages.

Claster Educational Services www.clastereducation.com Claster Educational Services guides students step-by-step so they are well-prepared and confident as they navigate the college admissions process. Services include guidance on course selection, extracurricular and summer activities, standardized testing, campus visits, college lists, comprehensive application and essay support, interview prep, financial aid, gap years, and transition to college.

Community Educational Research Group The Community Educational Research Group’s philosophy is that education should teach children the basic skills to think, solve problems, and cultivate their natural curiosity. Their mission is to develop the child’s social and cognitive skills so that he or she can succeed at the next level of learning. The group also provides

parents with early intervention information that gives students the support needed to reach their highest potential in the education process.

DC Association of Chartered Public Schools www.dcacps.org The mission of the DC Association of Chartered Public Schools is to increase opportunities and outcomes for students by supporting the development, growth, and sustainability of quality charter schools in Washington, DC. The association was created by and for DC public charter school leaders to serve as their collective voice.

Higher Achievement www.higherachievement.org Higher Achievement is a 40-year-old afterschool and summer program that provides caring role models for middle school students in DC. We are looking for volunteers to teach small groups of 5th- 8th graders in a core academic subject (either math, English, or a seminar such as public speaking or robotics) one night per week at any of our 8 locations. No teaching experience is required and mentors receive significant support, including curricula, orientation, and regular training.

Music on the Hill www.musiconthehilldc.com Music on the Hill is a family-owned and -operated full-service music store dedicated to bringing high-quality tools and education to musicians of all levels. New and used band and orchestra instruments are available for rent.

Private and group lesson offerings are taught by highly qualified and experienced instructors.

The store sells instruments, sheet music, and accessories.

Skills on the Hill LLC www.skillsonthehill.com Skills on the Hill offers pediatric occupational therapy to children from birth to teenage years. The practice has experience working with motor-skill delays (visual, fine, and gross motor), hypotonia, dyspraxia, sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorder, and trouble with social and play skills. It works closely with families using a team approach.

There are two convenient locations in Arlington and Capitol Hill.

Tippi Toes Dance® www.TippiToesDC.com Tippi Toes DC provides high energy, engaging, FUN dance classes for boys and girls 18 months to 12 years. Children learn positions, terminology and choreography while exercising their bodies, imagination and singing voices. Join us for Fairytale Dance Camps during school holidays and summer vacation or hire us for your next birthday party!

The Washington School of Ballet www.washingtonballet.org The Washington School of Ballet’s Southeast campus at the Town Hall Education Arts Recreation Campus, TWB@THEARC, provides dance programming for youth and adults. Ballet is offered for ages 4 – 18. Adult classes include African, Ballet, Yoga and Zumba, with discounts for Ward 7 and 8 residents. /