Capitol Hill Christian Academy

“Faith, Virtue, and Knowledge”

At a Glance

Capitol Hill Christian Academy is a parochial school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade on Capitol Hill in Ward 6. As a classical Christian school, it operates with a faith-based educational philosophy aimed at developing students academically, morally, and spiritually. The school's K-12 configuration means families can potentially keep their children in one school community from early elementary years through high school graduation, providing continuity in both educational approach and Christian formation throughout their entire pre-college education.

What Parents Should Know

As a private parochial school, Capitol Hill Christian Academy operates independently from DC Public Schools and does not participate in the My School DC lottery system. Families interested in enrollment will need to apply directly through the school, which typically involves completing an application, providing academic records, and demonstrating alignment with the school's Christian mission and values. The application process for faith-based schools often includes family interviews and may ask about church membership or commitment to supporting the school's religious education.

The K-12 grade span is relatively uncommon in DC and offers both advantages and considerations for families. Students can build long-term relationships with classmates and teachers while avoiding multiple school transitions that often come with moving from elementary to middle to high school. However, families should inquire about grade-level cohort sizes, especially in upper grades, and what that means for course offerings, extracurricular activities, and social dynamics as students progress through the school.

The classical Christian education model typically emphasizes a structured, content-rich curriculum rooted in the classical liberal arts tradition, often including study of ancient languages, logic, rhetoric, and Western civilization alongside standard academic subjects. This approach differs significantly from both progressive and traditional public school models, so parents should research what classical education entails and whether its methods align with their educational priorities and their child's learning needs.

Located on Pennsylvania Avenue SE, the school sits in one of DC's most historically significant neighborhoods. Capitol Hill families will find the location highly accessible, though parking can be challenging in this densely developed area. Families commuting from other wards should consider transportation logistics, as private schools do not provide the bus service available through DCPS.

Programs and Approach

As a parochial school, Capitol Hill Christian Academy integrates Christian teaching and values throughout its academic program and school culture. Religious instruction and faith formation are central to the daily experience, with biblical principles woven into lessons across subject areas. Families should expect regular chapel services, prayer, Bible study, and religious observances as part of the school calendar and routine.

The school describes itself as dedicated to nurturing "wise, virtuous, and skilled students through faith, virtue, and knowledge," language that reflects the classical Christian education movement's emphasis on character formation alongside academic achievement. This philosophy generally prioritizes cultivating intellectual and moral virtues through engagement with time-tested great books, ideas, and traditions.

Private parochial schools like Capitol Hill Christian Academy charge tuition to cover operating costs, and families should contact the school directly to inquire about current tuition rates, payment plans, and any financial assistance programs that may be available. Some faith-based schools offer tuition assistance based on financial need or provide discounts for families enrolling multiple children.

The K-12 configuration means the school must serve the very different developmental needs of five-year-olds and teenagers within one institution. Prospective families should ask how the school structures its program across these levels and what resources, facilities, and specialized teachers are available for different age groups.

Visiting and Contact

Capitol Hill Christian Academy is located at 229 Pennsylvania Avenue SE in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Ward 6. Families interested in learning more about the school's classical Christian approach, admission requirements, and tuition should visit the school's website at https://www.capitolhillchristianacademy.org or call (909) 706-7806 to arrange a tour and get current information about enrollment.