Anacostia Early College

At a Glance

Anacostia Early College High School operates as a selective program within Anacostia High School in the Fairlawn neighborhood of Ward 8. This public DCPS school offers a unique opportunity for ninth-grade students to begin a rigorous academic pathway that allows them to simultaneously earn both a high school diploma and an associate's degree in engineering from the University of District of Columbia (UDC). As one of nine DCPS selective high schools and programs, Anacostia Early College maintains specific admissions requirements and selection criteria rather than relying on the standard lottery process.

The program serves students starting in ninth grade who are prepared to take on college-level coursework while completing their high school requirements. This accelerated dual enrollment model is designed to give students a head start on higher education, particularly in the engineering field, while providing the structure and support of a high school environment.

What Parents Should Know

Anacostia Early College requires a uniform, which helps establish a focused academic environment for students balancing high school and college coursework. Because this is a selective program, families should be aware that admission does not go through the standard My School DC lottery process—instead, students must meet specific admissions requirements and go through a separate selection process.

The program's focus on ninth-graders means families are looking at the entry point of a multi-year commitment. Students accepted into this program will be working toward both credentials simultaneously, which requires strong academic preparation, self-discipline, and time management skills. This is not a typical high school experience; it's an early college pathway that asks students to operate at a college level while still in their teens.

The Ward 8 location in Fairlawn means the school serves a community that has historically had fewer educational options compared to other parts of the District. For families in this area, Anacostia Early College represents an opportunity to access rigorous academic programming and college credentials without leaving their neighborhood. The partnership with UDC, a public university in the District, means students earn legitimate college credits that can transfer or count toward further education.

Parents should understand that the engineering focus is specific and intentional. This program is designed for students interested in STEM fields and engineering careers, so it's important that applicants have both the interest and aptitude for this type of technical coursework.

Programs and Approach

As a DCPS selective program, Anacostia Early College operates differently from traditional neighborhood schools. While most DCPS schools participate in the My School DC lottery system, selective programs like this one have their own application and admissions processes. Families interested in this program should research the specific requirements and deadlines, which may include academic prerequisites, recommendations, or other selection criteria.

The dual enrollment model means students take a combination of high school and college courses, with the college portion delivered through the partnership with UDC. This approach allows motivated students to complete significant college work—an entire associate's degree in engineering—before graduating high school. The STEM focus and engineering concentration align with growing career opportunities in technical fields and can position students for further study in engineering, technology, or related disciplines at four-year universities.

The structure of starting in ninth grade allows for a full four years (or potentially more) to complete both the high school diploma requirements and the associate's degree coursework. This timeline gives students room to adjust to college-level expectations while still receiving high school support services.

Visiting and Contact

Anacostia Early College is located at 1601 16th Street SE in the Fairlawn neighborhood of Ward 8. Families interested in learning more about admissions requirements, visiting the school, or understanding the full scope of the program should visit the school's profile page at https://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/Anacostia+High+School or call 202-698-2155 for current information about tours and the application process.