Anacostia High School

At a Glance

Anacostia High School is a public high school serving grades 9–12 in the Fairlawn neighborhood of Ward 8. Located at 1601 16th Street SE, the school operates under DC Public Schools and welcomes students from across the district without requiring a lottery for admission. Anacostia offers both a traditional high school program and a selective Early College Academy (ECA) pathway, allowing families to apply to one or both options depending on their student's goals and interests.

The school's mission emphasizes meeting the unique needs of each student through equity, excellence, and opportunity—a Capital Commitment that drives partnerships across the district. With a range of programming from Advanced Placement courses to career-focused pathways, Anacostia works to prepare students for post-secondary success whether they're headed to college, the workforce, or technical training.

What Parents Should Know

Anacostia High School requires uniforms for all students, which helps establish a focused learning environment and reduces morning decision-making for families. Because it's a DCPS neighborhood school, there's no lottery required for admission—students living in the boundary area have guaranteed access, and out-of-boundary families can apply during the My School DC application window if space is available.

The school operates two distinct programs under one roof: the traditional high school program and the Early College Academy (ECA). The ECA is a selective program with specific admissions requirements and selection criteria, meaning families interested in that pathway should research the application process separately. Students can apply to one or both programs, giving families flexibility based on their child's readiness and interests.

As a grades 9–12 school, Anacostia serves only high school students, meaning families will need to plan for the transition from middle school. Students typically enter as freshmen and remain through graduation, allowing for four years of continuity in one building and with one staff.

Ward 8 families in particular should know that Anacostia serves as a neighborhood high school option with deep community roots. The location in Fairlawn puts it within reach of families across the ward, and the school's commitment to serving every student every day reflects an understanding of the diverse needs present in the community.

Programs and Approach

Anacostia High School offers a comprehensive menu of programs designed to meet different student interests and post-graduation plans. Advanced Placement courses provide college-level academic rigor for students aiming for competitive colleges, while the Dual College Enrollment option allows students to earn college credits while still in high school, potentially saving time and money on their post-secondary education.

Career and Technical Education pathways give students hands-on preparation for specific industries and careers, an important option for students who want to enter the workforce directly after graduation or pursue technical certifications. The school also incorporates Arts Integration and Blended Learning into its instructional approach, offering varied ways for students to engage with content.

The JROTC program provides leadership development, discipline, and potential pathways to military service for interested students. Interscholastic Sports offer athletic opportunities and the chance to represent the school in competition. The Restorative Justice Program reflects a commitment to addressing conflict and discipline in ways that repair harm and keep students engaged in their education rather than removed from school.

As a DCPS school, enrollment happens through the My School DC unified lottery system for out-of-boundary students, though in-boundary families have guaranteed placement. Families should apply during the annual application window, typically in the winter, and can list both the traditional program and the Early College Academy as separate choices if interested in both.

Visiting and Contact

Anacostia High School is located at 1601 16th Street SE in the Fairlawn neighborhood of Ward 8. Families can reach the school at 202-698-2155 or visit http://profiles.dcps.dc.gov/anacostia for current information about tours, programming details, and enrollment procedures.